Winter 2015 UNCPAlumni & Friends of The University of North Carolina Pembroke

INSIDE THIS ISSUE Tribute to Kyle R. Carter (pages 22–26)

At 40, GPAC is going strong (pages 20-21)

UNCP TODAY WINTER 2015 1 CONTENTS

PUBLISHER | Sandy Briscar EDITOR | Scott Bigelow 9 / University News ART DIRECTION | David Ybarra The Carnegie Foundation is the last word on higher DESIGN & PRODUCTION | Bevel Design education classification. In early 2015, Carnegie CONTRIBUTING WRITER | Todd Anderson PHOTOGRAPHERS bestowed the prestigious Community Engagement Willis Glassgow and Raul Rubiera Jr. label on UNCP. Only 240 colleges and universities in ALUMNI NEWS | Morgan Jones ‘06, ‘13 the nation were so honored. EDITORIAL REVIEW ASSISTANT Dena Bolles

EDITORIAL OFFICES 16 / Athletics UNCP Today Braves wrestling has taken off under Othello Johnson. University Communications and Marketing P.O. Box 1510 Johnson burst onto the scene, coaching two national Pembroke, NC 28372-1510 champions in his first three years as head wrestling (910) 521.6533 coach. You’ll be surprised to know there is a lot more [email protected] to him than meets the eye. www.uncp.edu/ucm

CLASS NOTES Office of Alumni Relations 22 / Tribute to a Leader With several top charting hits (including No. 1, P.O. Box 1510 Kyle R. Carter put his mark on every aspect of The classic tale brought to life Pembroke, NC 28372-1510 university life. Everything he touched, he improved. “Carolina”), Parmalee is quickly becoming one (910) 521.6252 by Montana Repertory Theatre Despite a challenging economic and budgetary of the hottest acts in country music! [email protected] www.uncp.edu/alumni environment, he marshaled resources to the places SATURDAY, APRIL 25 - 8 PM where it counted most, and he got outstanding results. SATURDAY, MAY 2 - 8 PM CHANCELLOR Kyle R. Carter, Ph.D. 30 / Alumni News VICE CHANCELLOR OF ADVANCEMENT Wendy A. Lowery ‘99, ‘07 Alumni Association President Rudy Locklear not only talks the talk, he walks the walk. In this edition, he finds BOARD OF TRUSTEES himself in the Class Notes for another outstanding Dr. Wiley Barrett ‘69, Chair Lorna Ricotta ‘01, ‘08, Vice Chair accomplishment. Join us in congratulating Rudy, and Kellie Blue ‘91, Secretary join him in walking the walk as a proud UNCP graduate. Biruk Kassaw, SGA Representative Bob Caton Michael Holmes ‘72 More... Dr. James Jones Gary Locklear ‘70 Brad Allen ‘94 has risen all the way through the ranks Don Metzger to become an NFL head official. He made the jump Dr. Dwight Pearson ‘77 from college to the pros last season. See page 32 for Newy Scruggs ‘94 more about Allen and other great UNCP alumni. Caroline Williamson ‘89, ‘94 Paul Willoughby ‘74

UNCP TODAY EDITORIAL BOARD Givens Performing Arts Center Scott Bigelow COVER STORY: Kyle and Sarah Carter sat for University Photographer Sandy Briscar Willis Glassgow to make their final formal portrait. As the university commu- CONNECT WITH GPAC COMING THIS SUMMER Robert Canida nity bids farewell to its first couple, UNCP Today’s editorial staff examined Dena B. Evans the outstanding record that Chancellor Carter left behind. As readers will For tickets call 910.521.6361 or visit www.uncp. Willis Glassgow see, he left no stone unturned in the pursuit of excellence. What is it we For tickets: 910.521.6361, or www.uncp.edu/gpactickets George B. Harrison liked about the Carters? Everything! Join our Email Club online at: www.uncp.edu/gpacedu/gpactickets Morgan Jones Wendy A. Lowery Follow us on Instagram, Facebook and Twiiter: David Ybarra UNCP Today magazine is published twice a year for alumni and friends of the university by the Camp! Office of University Communications and Marketing. UNCP is a constituent institution of the University of North Carolina system. 21,000 copies of this document were printed at a cost of Summer Theatre Camp $0.61 each. This publication is available in alternative formats upon request. Please contact the Accessibility givensPAC July 20 - July 25 Resource Center, D.F. Lowry Building, Room 107, or call (910) 521.6695. 1st grade - 12 Check website for details! UNCP TODAY WINTER 2015 1 ALUMNI | UNIVERSITY OF NORTH CAROLINA PEMBROKE Commencement FULL HOUSE

The main gym is OVER THE PAST COUPLE OF YEARS, we at packed to the rafters as UNC Pembroke have been working hard to increase commencement begins. our circle of influence and to enhance the campus itself. I’m happy to say that our efforts have brought about some notable developments—and you’ll read all about them in this issue of UNCP Today. Over the past several months, UNC Pembroke has enjoyed some outstanding accomplishments, including structural changes; and recognitions among our programs, faculty and students; and a celebration of one of our most notable buildings. Dr. Weston F. Cook Jr. (Below) This issue of UNCP Today will update you on our sustainability efforts with the addition of solar panels. We also cut the at the renovated auditorium in Moore Hall, and we broke ground on the many great mentors at UNCP, sought to mentor you when you Entrepreneurship Incubator in downtown Pembroke. More than 500 and Mr. Fennebresque was came into my small world. I In addition to these structural changes, this issue my mentor on the Board of hope I did a good job.” celebrates the success of UNCP programs, faculty and Governors,” Nunnery said. They A historian, Dr. Cook was students. You’ll read that the Department of Social receive degrees met for a photo with Chancellor the Winter Commencement Work, under the leadership of Dr. Sherry Edwards, Carter before the ceremony. speaker by virtue of winning and Dr. Ben Bahr were each awarded generous at Winter In his charge to the grad- the 2014 UNC Board of Gov- federal grants; that former professor and poet uates, Chancellor Carter also ernors for Teaching Shelby Stephenson was named the North Carolina talked about the importance of Excellence. Besides being a poet laureate; and that some alumni have made Commencements mentors, saying, “You know you compelling storyteller, he is a some professional achievements. This issue also The university staged one of makes this year’s graduates are here because someone in mentor, advisor and role model includes a celebration of our award-winning Givens the largest Winter Commence- the best-educated and hard- Performing Arts Center, which turns 40 years old this ments in history on December est-working class in university year. Indeed, UNC Pembroke’s accomplishments over 12–13. history.” “The best-educated and the past season have touched not only our campus Givens Performing Arts Fennebresque did not stop itself, but also our academics, faculty scholarship, Center was the setting for there in his praise for UNCP and hardest-working class in student achievements, alumni activities and Athletics the awarding of 65 graduate Chancellor Kyle R. Carter. “In program. degrees. Four hundred seventy my opinion, your chancellor, university history.” In addition to all that has happened over the past one undergraduate degrees Kyle Carter, is one of the preem- few months, this issue also covers some big changes were conferred in the Main inent leaders of higher educa- our faculty took time to go the to his students. In 20 years at that lie ahead for our university. In November, Gym of the English Jones Health tion in the nation,” he said. extra mile with you.” he said. Pembroke, Dr. Cook has won Provost Kitts announced that he would be leaving and Physical Education Center. There was one other historic the outstanding teacher award UNCP to become the president of the University of It was UNCP’s 150th com- reason that brought the Board three times and the Adolph Dial Chancellor’s North Alabama. Shortly after that, I announced my mencement, according to of Governors’ chairman to Award for Community Service. impending retirement this summer. While the timing university historians, and one of Pembroke. He was invited by Dr. Cook urged the gradu- is unfortunate—and unintended—I know that the UNC the largest winter ceremonies Robert Nunnery, who graduated ates to become engaged, voting Pembroke community will pull together to find the in university history. It was also on Saturday. Nunnery was citizens, to take leadership posi- right people to fill Ken’s and my shoes and will make the first time that the chair of UNCP’s first student in history tions, to engage in charity–“soul Welcome them feel welcome. In the meantime, read on to learn the UNC Board of Governors to be elected president of the work,” he called it–and to more about all that UNCP has done recently and what attended a commencement UNC Association of Student remain involved in education. lies ahead. in Pembroke. Governments and the first In interviews before and Chairman John C. Fenne- student to hold a seat on the after commencement, students All the best, Kyle. bresque explained. “The chair 32-member Board of Governors. Commencement speaker Dr. eagerly recognized the value of the Board of Governors gets “Robert Nunnery is my Weston F. Cook Jr. also talked of mentors on UNCP’s faculty first choice of the university to friend, and it will be a thrill about being mentored and the and beyond. attend for commencement. I to shake his hand when he importance of being a mentor. The crowd poured out of chose Pembroke. receives his degree,” Fenne- “You’ll be amazed at how many the English Jones Health and “Your university is on fire,” bresque said. Nunnery, who re- lives you’ll touch when you Physical Education Building Fennebresque said. “UNCP has ceived a degree in social studies leave here,” Dr. Cook said. Saturday into the bright sun- raised admission requirements education on Saturday, thanked “Everything I’ve become is be- shine looking forward to CHANCELLOR KYLE R. CARTER and toughened the standards the chairman. cause somebody took a chance bright futures. for staying in school. That “I was fortunate to have on me. As I was mentored, I

2 WINTER 2015 UNCP TODAY UNCP TODAY WINTER 2015 3 UNIVERSITY OF NORTH CAROLINA PEMBROKE | NEWS NEWS SCIENCE KNICK VIDEO RESEARCH TAKES TOPS At the 17th An- Senior Marcus nual Native Ameri- A University UNIVERSITY Sherman’s medical can Indian Film and bioinformatics re- Video Festival of the COMMUNITY search earned one Southeast, an entry of Choice EXCELS IN of 11 awards at the by Dr. Stan Knick Annual Biomedical and the Museum of PROFESSIONAL Research Confer- the Southeast Amer- UNCP’s Growth in Size and ENDEAVORS ence for Minority Students in November ican Indian (formerly Native American 2014. There were more than 1,700 entries. Resource Center) won an award for Best Stature Is Getting Noticed Sherman, who is a veteran, worked in Regional Film. Dr. Ben Bahr’s biotechnology lab with Dr. “Knowledge Wisdom and the Tradition- Conner Sandefur, a computational biolo- al Mind: The Nottoway in the 21st Century” It has been a milestone year in UNC U.S. News & World Report, the premier Best Value Schools, a national online gist who came to UNCP through a postdoc- is a 36-minute video about surviving tradi- Excellence is contagious Pembroke’s history in many ways. college rating service, has long rating service, ranked UNCP’s program toral teaching program of UNC-Chapel Hill. tional ways of the modern tribe located in at Pembroke, as the university recognized the university as the most number five in the nation. coastal Virginia. The tribe, whose language university’s success is on display in some community demonstrated in Sherman is a RISE Scholar, a grant was Iroquoian, is state recognized. They very important places, perhaps allowing diverse in the South and one of the most GI Jobs and Military Advanced Educa- 2014. As the university has grown, program of the National Institute of Health, were near the front line of the first English it to relinquish its claim as the hidden diverse in the nation. U.S. News also recog- tion publications have rated UNCP as “mil- faculty, staff and students have and a member of the Esther G. Maynor settlements in Virginia. gem among the state’s public universities. nizes UNCP for its economic diversity. itary friendly” for many years. U.S. News, made their mark in North Carolina Honors College. He is interviewing for Instead, the university is laying claim to With rising admission standards and which just began evaluating universities and beyond. a spot in a doctoral program at several Dr. Knick, director of the museum, Chancellor Carter’s mission to become high-impact academic programs, the that are focused on vets, found UNCP to be Great things have happened universities, including UNC-Chapel Hill, has been producing and directing videos a university of choice. university keeps pushing higher in U.S. a “Best College for Veterans.” here, and people have made great Michigan, Kansas and Johns Hopkins. profiling tribal issues and traditions of the UNCP’s state and national reputation News’ overall ranking. In the 2015 rank- A flood of eteransv are transitioning out things happen, like Dr. Olivia Southeast for 15 years. has been getting a lot of polish lately from ings, Pembroke ranked 42nd among its of the military, and UNCP, with its prox- Oxendine ’70, who is serving on REVERE prestigious places. As the university grows peers–Southern, master’s-granting public imity to Fort Bragg, is in a good position to the State Board of Education. AWARD ‘VOICES’ and matures, the spirit of Pembroke is universities. That’s a happy change from serve them. Military Times examined De- UNCP faculty continue to make WINS AWARDS catching fire, and many diverse groups the time the university fell into unranked partment of Education data on student-vet- their mark with scholarship and in Biology profes- have beaten a path to Pembroke. territory. eran success and placed the university leadership positions in state and sor Dr. Rita Hagevik, Mass Case in point: the UNC Board of Gov- Also, U.S. News ranked UNCP’s graduate in its top 100. The publication national organizations. UNCP To- director of the Communication ernors recently held a quarterly meeting elementary education program 22nd for hundreds of institutions, and 11 percent of day is dedicated to sharing these Science Education professor Dr. in Pembroke. It was an opportunity to veterans and 78th overall. As U.S. News them qualified as “Best for Vets.” stories, and here are a few more. Program, and a Jason Hutchens showcase the university to the state’s lead- and other publications look at the nation’s Biology professor Dr. team of collabora- and English ers in higher education. In the past year, universities from different perspectives, Maria Santisteban is currently tors found a way to professor Dr. president-elect of the North the university has hosted several meetings Pembroke keeps getting noticed. The U.S. help schoolchildren Michele Fazio won two awards last fall Carolina Academy of Sciences; of influential groups, including the State News short list put the university in its top discover the natural world in their school- for “Voices of the Lumbee,” an hour-long School Counseling program Board of Education, the North Carolina 10 most affordable schools in the nation for yards utilizing new technologies. documentary about Lumbee experiences coordinator Dr. Jeffrey Warren is Their article, published in the March 2013 in the post-World War II economy. Commission on Indian Affairs, UNC’s com- in-state students. president of the North Carolina issue of Science and Children, a journal of The documentary took first-place bined Student Government Association and On another U.S. News short list, UNCP’s Counseling Association; the National Science Teachers Association honors in the faculty competition for the North Carolina Academy of Sciences. master of public administration program Mental Health Counseling (NSTA), was honored with the REVERE District II of the Broadcast Education UNCP’s resurgent athletic programs are ranked third for affordability. The popular program coordinator Dr. Angela getting noticed too, in national rankings MPA program is flexible and available McDonald was appointed by Award (Recognizing Valuable Educational Association. The filmmakers were also and in postseason play. This winter, entirely online, in the classroom or in Gov. Pat McCrory to the board of Resources) by the Association of American awarded the Brown-Hudson Award from both wrestling and men’s basketball were hybrid format. UNCP’s online classes are directors of the North Carolina Publishers. The national award identifies and the North Carolina Folklore Society. ranked in the top 20 nationally. At this routinely taught by full-time faculty, unlike Board of Licensed Professional honors excellence in educational materials. The award recognizes individuals who writing, the basketball team had surpassed the online education mills. Counselors; physics professor make significant contributions to the 20 wins, and the wrestling team was get- The nursing program, which often leads Dr. Bill Brandon is president of UNCP HISTORY AWARD transmission, appreciation and observance ting ready to host the super regionals in North Carolina universities for the passing the North Carolina section of the of traditional culture and folk life in North Lawrence Locklear ’05, ’12, coordinator Pembroke. The baseball team was ranked rate of its graduates on the national nurs- Association of Physics Teachers; Carolina. The Folklore Society held its of Southeast American Indian Studies, Dr. number three in the nation by one poll. ing exam, is also getting noticed. School of Education professor annual meeting at the university in late Linda Oxendine, professor emeritus of Dr. Sara Simmons is a member 2014. of the executive committee of American Indian Studies, and the late Dr. Sandra Torres, a student who worked the North Carolina Association of David Eliades, professor emeritus of the (Top) In a first for UNCP, the UNC Board of Governors met in Pembroke in April 2013. Here, Gov. Pat McCrory on “Voices,” presented her research at the Colleges and Teacher Educators. In History Department, have been awarded delivers his first address on higher education. Did UNCP take advantage of the opportunity to show its best side? annual IMPACT National Conference for You bet! February, the Counseling Center’s the 2014 Willie Parker Peace History Book Community Service, Service-Learning Lyndee Horne was elected Award from the North Carolina Society of (Right) The university has focused on the military community, and national publications, including the leading member-at-large to the American Historians for their history of UNCP, “Hail and Civic Engagement in Los Angeles in collegiate rating service U.S. News, have taken notice. Here, Chancellor Carter congratulates Andrew Wheeler College Counseling Association. to UNCP: A 125-Year History of The Univer- February. on his upcoming graduation during a special Veterans Recognition Ceremony, held twice each year. sity of North Carolina at Pembroke.”

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CLASS PHOTO Renovated Moore The class of 2018, 1,074 strong, stream across the bridge on their way to First-Year Convocation. Hall Auditorium lauded at opening cellor Carter said. Transfer ing on campus. More than 2,000 The renovated Moore Hall Auditorium, students set an all-time record, students have taken up occu- which has been a haven for great music a year-over-year increase of 93 pancy in university housing, for more than 60 years, was reopened and students. UNCP admitted 589 and many more live in three celebrated on August 26. transfer students this fall. adjacent off-campus apartment Over the summer, the 204-seat “This success is most grat- complexes. auditorium was stripped to its bones and The freshman class en- ifying because of the amount Dr. Melissa Schaub, asso- renovated with new surfaces, seating, Enrollment, rollment is 1,074, a gain of 24 of effort spent by so many over ciate vice chancellor for the lighting and a fresh coat of honey-colored students compared to last year, the last 18 months,” Chancellor Office of Enrollment, said, paint. It is home to approximately 100 retention are according to the official census. Carter said. “Enrollment is a truly inte- events annually and countless practice It is the third-largest freshman Retention also contributed grated team effort from every sessions for the university’s musicians, a growing class in UNCP history. to the success story. Retention person at the university, from choral groups and ensembles. Despite graduating more from freshman to sophomore the intensive planning that “Several of us here have very strong success story than 1,300 students last year, year was 68.2 percent and has went into our enhanced trans- feelings about this performing arts space, total enrollment grew to 6,269, increased for three consecutive fer recruitment to the efforts and I am one,” said Chancellor Carter. “I ALL DRESSED UP – The newly renovated Moore Hall shows off its new colors. at UNCP an increase of 47 over fall 2013. years. of faculty members who took have been wanting to renovate Moore Hall Freshman, transfer and There were 759 graduate students. Another bright spot for the the time to help a struggling since I arrived on campus.” together in there.” Student Health Center. total enrollment showed gains Transfer enrollment was university community is the student make the grade and Moore Hall was constructed in 1951 Music major Mary Alice Teets ’58 had her The auditorium serves the university as in the fall semester. “the brightest spot of all,” Chan- record number of students liv- stay in school.” and dedicated to one of the university’s junior and senior recitals in the auditorium. a multipurpose stage for speakers, plays and founders, W.L. Moore, and several people “We had three music majors then,” she said. meetings. with deep connections to UNCP attended “With this (renovated) auditorium, this The auditorium has all the finishing the opening. As Chancellor Carter noted, looks more like a conservatory.” touches of an outstanding venue for the “Moore Hall is more than a place; it is part Teets was joined at the ribbon cutting arts, including recessed lighting in the The Entrepreneurship for UNCP’s students who will of our legacy.” by several members of the Moore family, walls, LED floor lighting and doors designed Incubator will house the uni- work with new and developing “We moved into this building my first including W.L. Moore’s great-grandchildren, to close silently. Adding to the warmth of versity’s two existing business businesses. year at the college,” said Mabel Cummings Lyn Sanderson ’79, and Luther Moore and the hall, both ceiling and seats are wood development units and nurture There will be space for 10- ’54, granddaughter of building namesake Landon Richard Moore and Crystal Moore, with a natural finish. eight-12 new businesses. Locat- 12 new and emerging business- W.L. Moore. “The entire college could all sit who is a nurse practitioner in UNCP’s ed in downtown Pembroke, the es. The university will build 16,800-square-foot storefront is the facility with $1.2 million in expected to open in August. grants from the U.S. Com- Chancellor Carter said merce Department’s Economic good things are in store at the Development Administration UNIVERSITY ROLLS OUT ITS storefront. It represents an and North Carolina’s Golden organic model of economic Leaf Foundation. NEW LOGO, BRANDING FOR 2015 GROUND BRO- Ground-breaking development in a county and Fundraising from pri- KEN region plagued by chronically vate donors and businesses The university’s new logo is the final images of the Lumbee Tribe for Cyna’s Jew- Pictured in the first row ceremony launches high unemployment. yielded $210,000 to purchase piece in a yearlong rebranding program elers in downtown Pembroke. The design from left are: Dan Gerlach “In the 1880s, when there the property. Private donors that rolled out a new website, slogan, fonts of UNCP’s new logo was open to the public, of Golden Leaf Foundation, were no teachers to instruct included Jim Thomas (name- and other graphic images that will repre- and the winner earned $500. Robin Cooley of the U.S. Entrepreneurship Economic Development American Indian children in sake of UNCP’s Thomas Family sent and promote the university. “I appreciate the opportunity that the Administration, Con- Incubator the area, the Lumbee commu- Center for Entrepreneurship), Chancellor Carter appreciates the sym- university offered to the community to gressman Mike McIntyre, nity took matters into their Pembroke Hardware, Lumbee bolism of Old Main and what it represents be involved,” Locklear said. “I understand Pembroke Town Council- The Entrepreneurship Incubator is own hands,” he said. “This is Guaranty Bank, CoreVantage for the university and community. that Old Main is the pinnacle symbol of the man Channing Jones, Jim Thomas, Aaron Thomas a game changer for the region and the their opportunity to transform Technologies, Rusty and Karen “We are thrilled to launch UNCP’s new university to this community.” of Metcon Construction, university, Chancellor Carter said during this region, as the university’s Livermore, Ron and Coleen logo featuring a representation of our most UNCP’s comprehensive rebranding pro- Cammie Hunt, Office of ground-breaking ceremonies on October 24. founders did so long ago.” Brown, Dr. Robin and Rebecca historic building, Old Main. The signifi- gram was led by Sandy Briscar, executive Engaged Outreach, Wendy Lowery, Office of Advance- After ourf years of planning, construc- The renovation of nearly a Cummings, Mary Ann Elliott cance is even more meaningful because director of University Communications and ment, Larry Chavis of tion has begun on the $1.2 million Entre- block of storefront real estate and Chancellor and Sarah Carter. the design came from the local community Marketing, and was driven by public input. Lumbee Guaranty Bank, preneurship Incubator at 202 Main Street also represents a downtown Pembroke-based Metcon and was vetted by alumni, faculty, staff, The rebranding has given UNCP a fresh and Chancellor Kyle and Sarah Carter. In the second in Pembroke. It is the most ambitious revitalization project for the Construction is the general students and community members.” face. It gives a unified, crisp look to publi- row are Gordon Vincent outreach project of Chancellor Carter’s town of Pembroke. Further, contractor. LOGO DESIGNER – Tim Locklear had the winning The logo was designed by artist Tim cations of the university across all media. and Rob Hsin of Jenkins administration. it represents opportunities design for the image that will represent UNCP. Locklear, who has designed many iconic Peer Architects.

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Provost Ken Kitts named president of North Alabama KEN AND DENA KITTS

// BY: SANDY M. BRISCAR They have moved on to lead the Social work grant takes aim University of North Alabama. Ken Kitts wasn’t looking for a job when “Dr. Kitts has been an outstanding proud that it’s grown.” he was approached in October by a search academic champion for UNC Pembroke,” UNCP maintains five off-campus at region’s mental health firm on behalf of the University of North said Dr. Zoe Locklear, dean of the School of sites, offers nine undergraduate degree Alabama (UNA) and asked to consider Education. “He is a person who sets high completion programs online and three applying for the presidency there. He has personal and professional goals for himself graduate degrees. been through the ranks in higher education and, in turn, expects this same level of In addition to distance education, a –from instructor to full professor to professionalism from those around him.” priority has been to increase the number The university and the grad- of Me Program will expand to a breakthrough for the social (Above) At a recent pinning ceremony of department head to associate provost to Kitts came to UNCP from Frances of articulation agreements (which provide uate social work program have additional providers over the work program and UNCP. graduates of UNCP’s Master of Social Work program pose with faculty. The provost–and had a presidency as a goal, Marion University in Florence, South easier access to transfer students) with been awarded a $1.087 million course of the grant. “An exciting aspect of this growing program, which launched at only down the road a bit. Carolina, where, as associate provost, he community colleges. Dr. Hunt has led that grant that its authors say will An annual symposium and a award is that we are on the UNCP in 2007, graduates approximate- But when opportunity knocks, it’s best oversaw the enrollment division. When initiative, and the number of agreements HRSA map, and we can seek ly 50 social workers per year. transform mental health care in website will also be developed to answer. So now, UNCP’s vice chancellor UNCP’s enrollment took a significant drop has grown from 31 to 44 in the past four southeastern North Carolina. as resources for physicians and other grant opportunities,” Dr. (Below) Dr. Ben Bahr confers with for Academic Affairs and provost of four in the fall following his appointment, years. The grant, from the U.S. other frontline health care pro- Edwards said. “As for UNCP, we researcher Dr. Marquitta Smith, seated, years is leaving to assume the presidency Chancellor Carter asked him to assume As the number two administrator on Department of Health and viders. Because interns must be know we can now get grants and lab manager Heather Romine. at UNA. that function here. First, Student Services campus, Kitts’s duties went well beyond Human Services’ division of supervised by a licensed social like this.” “[My wife] Dena and I are excited were placed under Academic Affairs to academics. He has spent many hours Health Resources and Service worker, the grant will fund a about the opportunity that awaits us at the create a more coordinated hub between working with Chancellor Carter and Vice Administration (HRSA), will new position. Two graduate University of North Alabama,” Kitts said. advising, disability support services and Chancellor Rich Cosentino to mitigate train 60-80 social workers over assistants will also be funded. Grant to boost “At the same time, we want everyone to tutoring. Kitts assigned faculty member Dr. budget cuts. three years in UNCP’s Master “Social workers are the know that it has been an honor to serve the Melissa Schaub to head the department. “Ken is an intelligent and thoughtful of Social Work (MSW) pro- largest group of behavioral Army research University of North Carolina at Pembroke. The following year, enrollment functions leader who sees conflicts and problems gram. The students will receive healthcare providers, and the on traumatic UNCP is a wonderful institution, and our were placed under that same umbrella. from a variety of points of view,” Dr. annual stipends of $10,000 and majority of mental health care brain injury time here will forever be special to us.” “Dr. Kitts has worked tirelessly to Cosentino said. “As a result, he is always healthcare insurance while comes from primary care pro- I am extremely proud of Dr. Kitts,” said stabilize enrollment, improve student a key contributor to finding solutions to working 980-hour internships fessionals, who are often not The university and Army Chancellor Carter. “His appointment to retention and implement higher difficult challenges.” in primary care settings. effectively trained in this area,” scientists are in the hunt to the presidency of North Alabama is not expectations,” said Dr. Carter. “State funding will continue to be Titled “All of Me: Integrative said Dr. Sherry Edwards, the solve the puzzle of traumatic only a reflection of his personal and “Stabilizing enrollment in a very uncertain,” Kitts believes. “We feel it Behavioral Health,” the pro- grant author/coordinator and brain injury (TBI), an issue that leadership, but also recognition of the challenging budgetary environment and acutely because historically, North gram is reaching out to primary chair of UNCP’s Department generated national news from great impact he has had on academics at bringing together the right team to make Carolina has supported higher education care providers. of Social Work. “We will train Washington to the National UNC Pembroke.” that happen feels good,” Kitts said. well. When I came here, 70 percent of our UNCP has formed partner- social workers in integrative be- Football League. In four years, Kitts’s impact has Another component of enrollment funding came from the state. Today, it’s 60 ships with four large healthcare havioral health and send them UNCP received a $276,427 been significant–not only on academic success was his appointment of Dr. percent.” providers–Cape Fear Valley to deliver care. grant from the Army Research The new high-powered confocal leadership, but also on the strategic Cammie Hunt as assistant vice chancellor Of all the challenges and Health Systems in Fayetteville, “It’s going to change the Office to boost the capabilities microscopy system goes hand in direction of the university and overall for Engaged Outreach, putting her over the accomplishments Kitts has faced in the Southeastern Health in Lum- culture of mental healthcare of Dr. Ben Bahr’s biotechnol- hand with an earlier Army grant of enrollment. In fact, all five of the deans Office of Distance Education. four years he has worked at UNCP, he berton, Robeson Health Care treatment in our region,” Dr. ogy laboratory at the univer- $399,000 that brought an addition- at the university were hired by Kitts, as “Demand is so profound for distance believes that leaving highly qualified Corporation and Children’s Edwards said. “This is one more sity. The grant will purchase al research scientist into the UNCP was the head of Enrollment Management education options that it’s here to stay,” personnel in place is among his highest Health of the Carolinas (Lum- way for a university to impact a laser-scanning Nikon C2+ lab for three years. The Bahr lab is and the assistant vice chancellor for Kitts stated. “It’s very important in a rural achievements. berton Children’s Clinic)–and the lives of people in communi- Confocal Microscopy System working with Army scientists at the Engaged Outreach. In addition, in his first area to have such access–we have to take “Your legacy is what you leave behind,” UNCP’s Healthy Start infant ties it serves.” that will peer deep into brain Aberdeen Proving Ground to better year in Pembroke, Kitts cochaired the education to the people. Online or on site he contends, “and putting the right people mortality program. The All Winning an HRSA grant is tissue and record signs of injury. understand blast-induced TBI. committee that facilitated the writing of at a community college, it is a way to serve in the right positions helps create a strong the university’s strategic plan. our citizens. It’s a good thing, and I’m legacy.”

8 WINTER 2015 UNCP TODAY UNCP TODAY WINTER 2015 9 UNIVERSITY OF NORTH CAROLINA PEMBROKE | NEWS

ble for generating 2,477 jobs in the region Shelby Economist’s study and an annual payroll of nearly $70 million. The study, titled “The Economic Impact Stephenson reveals UNCP’s of the University of North Carolina at Pembroke for FY 2013,” finds that UNCP’s named North economic impact total operational impact is more than The benefits of having a university in or $104 million, and when student spending Carolina’s poet near your community go far beyond educa- and construction are added, the impact is tional opportunities. The economic impact $131.4 million. laureate of a university is significant–pivotal, in “In addition to the educational role of Shelby Stephenson was installed as fact–as a recent UNCP study demonstrates. UNCP, it has become economically pivotal North Carolina’s poet laureate by Gov. Pat Dr. Bishwa Koirala, an economist and for the development of this region, espe- McCrory on December 2 in the Capitol director of the Economic and Business cially in Robeson County and the Town of Building in Raleigh. The governor could Research Center, studied the university’s Pembroke,” Dr. Koirala states in the exec- not have made a better choice. total economic impact and produced indi- utive summary. “The economic impact of The poet laureate serves as ambassador vidual results for Robeson, Cumberland, UNCP has stimulating results which are the of the state’s literary community, using the , Bladen, Columbus and Moore outcomes of direct economic activities.” office as a platform to promote both the counties, the counties where nearly all of “UNCP has a strong and vibrant rela- written word and North Carolina writers. UNCP’s employees live and spend their tionship with Pembroke, Robeson County DR. BISHWA KOIRALA Stephenson is a pillar of North Carolina’s paychecks. and its surrounding counties,” Dr. Koirala widely respected literary community. Dr. Koirala’s findings are eye opening. said. “This report highlights the many ways Director of the Economic and Business Research Center In October 2014, the poet and retired His model indicates that UNCP is responsi- in which UNCP contributes to the region.” professor was inducted into the North Carolina Literary Hall of Fame. There, he was described by his peers as “North Carolina’s poet.” For 32 years until he retired in 2010, Stephenson taught writing and literature Civic engagement of all in the U.S. UNCP has actively at UNCP, and for 30 of those years, he UNCP earns prestigious kinds is a growth industry at pursued its approval, said Dr. edited Pembroke Magazine, UNCP’s literary UNCP. A total of 2,351 UNCP Cammie Hunt, associate vice journal. The state’s top writers were Carnegie Foundation students logged 17,684 hours of chancellor for Engaged Outreach. among the magazine’s contributors. He service in 2013–14. The number also published groundbreaking editions of Community Engagement of student-volunteers and ser- American Indian and Latino authors. vice hours have approximately “These are campuses Perhaps Stephenson’s only failing Classification tripled in four years. as Pembroke Magazine’s editor was not The university is one of only Chancellor Carter said the that are improving publishing his own poems, which he wrote 240 colleges and universities in Carnegie Foundation classifica- teaching and learning, profusely. Fortunately, other publishers the nation to earn the presti- tion is the seal of approval for producing research found Stephenson’s work worthy, and they SHELBY STEPHENSON, POET LAUREATE OF NORTH CAROLINA gious Community Engagement institutions of higher educa- that makes a difference still do. Two of his poetry collections–“The Classification from the Carne- tion, and it is one important Hunger of Freedom” and “Shub’s Cooking”– The poet laureate appointment is for Bookwatch, said, “Not content with his gie Foundation for the Advance- measure of student learning. in communities, and were published in 2014. He has recorded two years. The recipient receives a $15,000 personal achievements as a distinguished ment of Teaching. “An important part of the revitalizing their civic several CDs of music with his wife, Nin, stipend and support of the North Carolina writer and as a great musician, Shelby UNCP earned the highest university experience is to and academic missions.” family and friends, and is currently Department of Cultural Resources. Stephenson has always sought to encourage classification, and the newly become a responsible, engaged working on a new musical recording and a The appointment was met with other talented people to share their gifts elevated status reflects the member of society,” Chancellor - Carnegie Foundation play. universal praise across North Carolina. with others. He has always looked for ways university’s emphasis on curric- Carter said. “UNCP has made Stephenson continues to write from An editorial in the Raleigh News and to find and expand appreciative audiences ular or classroom engagement great strides in increasing op- the porch of his restored homestead near Observer exclaimed: “Shelby Stephenson for good writing. Pembroke Magazine gave through service-learning courses. portunities for our students to Benson, North Carolina “I am happy, is a teacher, storyteller, singer and a native him the platform to share good writing For the 2014 Carnegie actively participate in the life of “We have put great empha- honored. Every morning, I wake up and of Johnston County. He’s also one heck of and build an appreciative community report, UNCP offered 38 the region. Achieving the Car- sis on service-learning and try to write. I am happy to be along for the a poet, whose writings reflect his own days of readers, and he gave us a treasure. service-learning courses with negie classification tells people engagement through the class- beauty and the joy and liveliness poetry on a farm and his life experiences. His Unselfishly, he poured his heart into this 653 students, an increase from unfamiliar with UNCP exactly room. We have also stepped brings to our lives,” he said in a recent stories and poetry are filled with colorful project and made this literary journal an 2008, when there were seven how we have prioritized citizen- up our community outreach interview. images of rural North Carolina and the important part of the American literary service-learning courses with ship among our students.” significantly. We are a fully The only thing better than reading phrases and rhythms of Tar Heel speech. scene. As poet laureate, he’ll be doing even 250 students. Service-learning Since 1970, the Carnegie engaged institution, and I am Stephenson’s poetry is hearing him read What better choice to serve as North more to celebrate and enhance our state’s incorporates civic engagement Foundation has been the last very pleased with the Carnegie it. The only thing better than hearing him Carolina’s next poet laureate? There isn’t great literary scene. So congratulations to and community outreach into word regarding classification of Foundation’s confirmation,” read poetry is to hear him sing it, as he one.” Shelby!” the classroom. institutions of higher education Dr. Hunt said. continues to do. D.G. Martin, host of UNC-TV’s

10 WINTER 2015 UNCP TODAY UNCP TODAY WINTER 2015 11 UNIVERSITY OF NORTH CAROLINA PEMBROKE | NEWS

recipient of the Community gets busy here,” Hill said. “This Ja’Kayla Impact Student Award. work means a lot to me. I feel Literary Achievements Hill cofounded a mentoring like I owe the world something, Hill: Campus program at the Pembroke not the other way around.” Housing Authority, served as a Hill has found a home at leader site leader for numerous days UNCP and appreciates the of service and participated in community of friends she is honored for an alternative spring break trip. surrounded by. She expects to She also volunteers with Special graduate in December 2015 and service Olympics and the Southeastern go to graduate school. Family Violence Prevention As a freshman, Ja’Kayla Hill Center. challenged herself to make the As manager of the CARE most of college, so she started Resource Center, an on-campus volunteering. food pantry and clothing Four years later, she has closet, Hill helps meet the “I feel like I made good friends, blossomed pressing needs of students as a campus leader and earned and community members. She owe the world the respect of her peers. For works from one event to the something, not her good works, she has been next. Economist: Historian Charles Shelby Stephenson honored as the university’s top “It’s been a good year,” the other way volunteer. Hill said. “We’ve served 100 A social work major from students, and we have 15–17 Social safety nets Beem publishes cooks up a new around.” Jacksonville, North Carolina, volunteers. I am especially Hill has been recognized for pleased with the number of CARDBOARD BRIGADE ensure growth his fifth book book of poetry - Ja’Kayla Hill outstanding leadership and good volunteers.” Hill shows off some of the signs that were Economist Dr. Mohammad Ashraf’s In his fifth book, historian Dr. Charles “Shub’s Cooking” (Red Dashboard LLC service by North Carolina The work requires “patience posted on the University Center Lawn for newest book examines the impact of Beem once again takes the covers off the Publishing) is a cookbook embedded in Campus Compact. She is UNCP’s and organization, because it an upcoming hunger awareness campaign. public and private social safety nets on monarchy, this time to reveal the husbands Shelby Stephenson’s ode to Southern food. economic growth. of queens, from to Bombay and It is his second book of poetry in 2014. Since the Great Recession in 2008, econ- too. “‘Shub’s Cooking’ is based on my moth- omists, politicians and pundits have waged “The Man Behind the Queen: The Male Con- er, Maytle’s, recipes, mostly,” he said. “She a war of words over government spend- sort in History” (Palgrave Macmillan; 2014) kept them in a little box with a plastic eagle ROBERT NUNNERY LOOKS BACK ON ing and social safety nets. Dr. Ashraf’s was published on December 17, 2014. tacked on the front.” contribution, “Formal and Informal Safety “The papers were so good, I talked with Shelby Stephenson taught at UNCP, A REMARKABLE COLLEGE EXPERIENCE Nets: Growth and Development in the Modern Miles about putting them together in a col- wrote poetry and edited Pembroke Maga- Economy” (June 2014; Palgrave Macmillan; lection,” Dr. Beem said. “No one has looked zine, the university’s literary magazine. To- Robert Nunnery was busier than ever made good friends and gotten a quality 256 pages), takes a look at international at the role of male consorts in this way. day, he stays busy writing from the porch last fall, his last semester at Pembroke. education. I’ve grown up as a person.” research on growth and social spending. Filling in the gaps of knowledge is exciting, of his restored family home. He was student-teaching classes in civics He said UNCP has supported him, from “I wanted to compare different devel- and I believe it will be quite popular.” “Maytle was an artist in the kitchen,” he at Lumberton Senior High School. the Chancellor’s Office to the Office of Stu- oped countries to see how social spending It was a three-year project for the explained. “It’s just fun to write. You don’t Nunnery had a remarkable run here. dent Affairs to his academic department. affected the economic growth after 2008,” editors, and Dr. Beem calls the work “a have anything to lose writing.” Starting as president of the Student Gov- Looking to the future, Nunnery said he will Dr. Ashraf said. “The argument goes that starting point” on the subject, which is full Stephenson, who was recently en- ernment Association, he became the first remain in southeastern North Carolina, a strong safety net will lower economic of contradiction and potential conflict. shrined as North Carolina’s poet laureate, UNCP student to be elected president of and he believes his future is in education. growth because of taxation and the loss of “Most consorts are women, so as a says “Shub’s Kitchen” is a project he has the combined UNC student governments, “Long term, I would like to get a mas- A LEGACY OF FIRSTS incentives. What I found is that safety nets gendered female role, a male consort is wanted to do for a long time. For a poet a position that made him the only UNCP ter’s degree and go into administration,” do provide for economic growth. problematic,” he said. “Technically, they who writes about all things rural, why not student to take a seat on the UNC Board he said. “It’s important to get experience in Nunnery at SGA’s legacy wall. He broke new ground for students as the first to take “The consensus among economists is are their wives’ subjects, but they are also food? of Governors. the classroom.” a seat on the UNC Board of Governors. that innovation is the engine of economic married, in a relationship.” Maytle’s recipes are uncomplicated, and “Right now, I am teaching five days a Nunnery has gotten a taste for politics, growth,” he continued. “To innovate is a “The Man Behind the Queen” demon- many hark back to an era when kitchens week,” he said, taking a deep breath. “I but he is “not interested in politics for the risky business, and individuals are more strates that there is no one path for the had wood-fired stoves. Wild game was also think I’ve made a good career choice.” sake of politics. I am interested in politics nery said. “We worked hard to get students likely to engage in innovative activities if male consort to follow, Dr. Beem said. a standard of country kitchens. “There are Nunnery was helped a great deal along with a cause, such as education.” to vote in Pembroke too.” they have resources to fall back on.” “There are consorts who have taken over only a couple of recipes for wild game,” the way at UNCP, a place he was not certain UNC student politics provided the Several ASG position papers on contro- For the rest of us, taking a chance on the role from their wives, and some who Stephenson said. “My mother had a natural he wished to attend. biggest thrills for Nunnery as an under- versial issues made national news. There the high wire is more likely to happen with have remained invisible.” talent for cooking it.” “The university gives a scholarship to graduate. His term as president of the were many other memorable moments, a safety net. Democracies also have their consorts, There is plenty more. Who doesn’t need SGA presidents, and they gave me a second Association of Student Governments raised including Nunnery taking a seat on the “Income inequality and social mobility Dr. Beem points out. “If Hillary Clinton is a recipe for Southern chess pie? With Ste- scholarship while I was with ASG,” he said. the profile of the group as it weighed in on UNC Board of Governors. are closely related, and the U.S. is not a elected president, we will have our first phenson, readers will get their pie served “I am very thankful for that, because they controversial state legislative proposals, “I got to see how the state works,” Nun- leader here,” Dr. Ashraf said. To motivate male consort, who is a former president. with generous helpings of poetry, whimsy didn’t have to.” including concealed weapons on campus nery said. “No one could say the ASG didn’t someone to get ahead financially, he says, Men are not always satisfied being behind and love of the food that sustained rural Nunnery said he has much to be thank- and voting rights for students. get its opinions out there.” “there must be some reasonable chance of the throne,” he added. people. ful for during his time at UNCP. “Pembroke “Basically, we won the right to vote as Looking back, Nunnery added one final climbing the economic ladder.” was where I needed to be,” he said. “I’ve residents of our campus community,” Nun- thought: “I was proud to represent Pembroke.”

12 WINTER 2015 UNCP TODAY UNCP TODAY WINTER 2015 13 NEWS | UNIVERSITY OF NORTH CAROLINA PEMBROKE UNIVERSITY OF NORTH CAROLINA PEMBROKE | ALUMNI

Mikala Lowry: First-year student earns medical school assurance ATHLETICS For most college freshmen, graduate the American Indian Science and Engi- ROUNDUP school and careers are a distant dream. neering Society (AISES). But the future is now for the Early Assur- The scholarship presents a daunting ance Program (EAP) Scholars, who enter challenge that Lowry calls “scary, exciting college already accepted to East Carolina and a magnificent opportunity.” University’s Brody School of Medicine. Choosing a career as a freshman FOOTBALL REBUILDING UNDER RICHARDSON Mikala Lowry is UNCP’s sixth EAP presented no problem for Lowry. “I can’t Scholar. It is a four-year scholarship that explain, but I’ve always wanted to be a The football team posted a 2-8 record under first-year head coach Shane Richardson. comes with medical school admission. doctor,” she says. The Braves retained the Two Rivers Cup and stayed unbeaten against Fayetteville State. The Braves had a pair of close road losses to Shaw (20-17) and Tusculum (20-17, OT) High expectations come with steep re- To gain entry to the Early Assurance before snapping a seven-game skid with a 26-0 victory over Limestone in the regular quirements, but these talented students Program, Lowry sat for interviews and season finale. are up to the challenge. wrote an essay. In the essay, she cited Lowry is from the Prospect community one of her favorite sayings: “There are no MEN’S SOCCER FLASHED BRILLIANCE and is a graduate of Purnell Swett High shortcuts to any place worth going.” After a 0-3-2 start, the men’s soccer team rebounded to post a 6-8-3 record in 2014, in- School. She was salutatorian of her senior “Passion and commitment are just a Placekicker Connor Haskins had another cluding a 3-4-2 mark in the Peach Belt Conference. The team ran off seven straight wins at class, excelled in three sports and was few of the key ingredients necessary for outstanding year, with 13 field goals. one point. Senior Sam Miles earned a spot on the National Soccer Coaches Association of engaged in many school, civic and church a person to complete medical school and America (NSCAA) all-region squad after leading the Braves. activities. provide critical medical care,” she wrote. Early in her first semester at UNCP, she “There could be no grander benefit than MIKALA LOWRY WOMEN’S SOCCER WAS OUTSTANDING has plans to sign up for the Health Careers knowing at the end of the day that hard UNCP’s sixth Early Assurance Scholar, Blessed with eight returning starters, the women’s soccer team turned in an 11-5-3 record Club and NATIONS, a Christian student work and have paid off.” Lowry, a freshman, has earned a place at in 2014, including a 6-3-2 finish in Peach Belt Conference standings. The Braves blanked organization. A high school member of the Early Assurance Scholars have already East Carolina’s Brody School of Medicine. Lander in the opening round of the Peach Belt Conference Tournament, but fell 3-1 to Native American Student Organization and learned that hard work pays off. perennial national powerhouse Columbus State in the semifinals. VOLLEYBALL SHOWS IMPROVEMENT The volleyball team registered a 16-22 mark under third-year head coach Angie Byrd, including a 3-15 mark in the Peach Belt Conference. After a 1-6 start, the Lady Braves registered five straight wins in mid-September, including a perfect run through the GRU Berri Locklear is UNCP’s newest Augusta Invitational. Nicole Matthews became the first UNCP player in three years to be Esther G. Maynor Scholar decorated with All-Peach Belt Conference after a standout season. CROSS COUNTRY A RUNNING SUCCESS STORY The newest Esther G. Maynor Scholar there is one class that Locklear said she is may be from Gaston County, but her family especially excited about. “I am very excited The men’s and women’s cross country teams both turned in outstanding seasons under first-year head coach Peter Ormsby. The men finished in the runner-up spot at the Peach roots are firmly planted in Pembroke. about Calculus II. I want to be a math Belt Conference Championships, while the women registered a fifth-place finish. Tim A future mathematics teacher, Berri teacher and eventually teach at the college Sigmon and Joel Johnston crossed the finish line in fifth and sixth place, respectively, to Nicole Locklear is the sixth Maynor Schol- level,” she said. Outside hitter Nicole Matthews grab all-conference honors for the Braves, while Sigmon also earned a spot on the United ar, the university’s most prestigious four- But mathematics is not why Locklear elevates for a kill. States Track & Field and Cross Country Coaches Association all-region squad. Both squads year scholarship. She is an outstanding stu- chose to come to UNCP. She is named for finished among the top 10 in the final region polls. dent as well as a well-rounded individual. and is a descendant of Henry Berry Lowrie, In high school, Locklear participated in the famous hero of the Lumbee people. theatre, student government and the teach- “I chose to come to Pembroke because er cadet program. She coached youth bas- of the American Indian Studies program,” ketball, participated in her church’s Youth Locklear said. “I didn’t grow up here. I Praise Team and was second runner-up and want to study our history, so I can connect One of many big goals for BERRI LOCKLEAR women’s soccer in 2014. voted Miss Congeniality in the Miss North with my family’s past.” Gaston Pageant. As school got underway, Locklear con- A bright and well-grounded student, Honors College Dean Mark Milewicz templated a world of possibilities. “Getting Locklear excels in mathematics. She expects to become a fully engaged college student. said Locklear is a great fit for UNCP. “Berri involved in theatre would make me really perfectly captures the academic excellence happy, and I’d like to volunteer in the and spirit of UNCP’s Maynor Scholars,” he community,” she said. “In my first semes- said. “Not only does she excel academi- ter, I’ll focus on my studies. Then, when I cally, but she is well rounded and service get adjusted, I’ll look for more things to get minded.” involved in.” In an interview before classes began, Well said.

14 WINTER 2015 UNCP TODAY UNCP TODAY WINTER 2015 15 ALUMNI | UNIVERSITY OF NORTH CAROLINA PEMBROKE UNIVERSITY OF NORTH CAROLINA PEMBROKE | THE O.T. JOHNSON STORY

have a choice but to join the rebel forces. They knew that was the only way that they were going to eat every day.” As tension in the capital city of Monro- via grew, more and more families began to flee to the countryside. Othello’s family was able to take shelter in the U.S. Embassy before it was evacuated. The family steadily made its way out of the country under the umbrella of night. Words cannot express how grave the situ- ation had become or what their fate would have

been had they been captured. The family made their way to a refugee camp in Gha- na. “Our aunt went back to the states and worked on getting us out of there,” Othello said. Othello, his two older brothers, his sister and his cousin boarded a plane for field. The initial meeting was not all sun- GOLDEN BRAVE Winston-Salem. His niece, Comfort, a shine and rainbows. newborn at the time, who recently graduat- “She told me I wasn’t very good at swim- Johnson earned the first Dan Kenney Coach of the Year The O.T. Award in 2013–14. From left: Kenney, former athletic ed from UNCP, would also make the trip. ming. We became friends, and it material- director and chief of staff for Chancellor Carter, with “When we got here, my aunt wouldn’t ized into something more,” he said. Johnson and Dick Christy, athletic director. let us leave the house for two weeks,” John- Johnson made his way back to UNC son said. “We were so malnourished she Greensboro. It was there that he developed spent the first two weeks fattening us up.” a love for the coaching side. Johnson Othello’s dream was to become the tournament, which would be Gibbs’s last next Michael . But at the lofty height Words cannot express before moving on to Baldwin Wallace in of 5-foot-2 (with shoes on), he went out for Berea, Ohio. Johnson was named the pro- the football team instead. how grave the situation gram’s sixth head coach later that summer. “One day, after football practice, I was had become or what their “It meant a lot to me,” said Johnson. “Ja- Story in the weight room, and the wrestling mie had enough faith in me to recommend coach came in and told me that I could be fate would have been had me to take over the program. He believed a state qualifier as a freshman. I started to they been captured. that I was the right guy for the job.” From war-torn to win and became obsessed with the sport The program has done nothing but blos- because I was that good at something.” som under Johnson’s leadership. Under his Following an outstanding prep career, Having competed in Pembroke, Johnson direction, UNCP has registered three top-20 coaching success in Pembroke Johnson received offers to wrestle in was impressed by P.J. Smith’s program. But finishes at the national championships, // BY TODD ANDERSON college, but his grades and low test scores Smith had already announced his retire- including finishing in a tie for eighth in his would have forced him to sit out a year. ment at the end of the 2005-06 season. first season. In addition to coaching eight Wrestling head coach Othello “O.T.” Johnson has a life story filled with He decided to attend Colby Kansas Com- “I didn’t actually meet (former UNCP all-Americans and 11 national qualifiers, adversity, but his life has truly been defined by one of his own mottos: “If you munity College. head coach) Jamie Gibbs until August, but Johnson led a pair of wrestlers, Mike work hard, good things are going to come to you. If you get knocked down, He thrived as a collegiate athlete with he asked me how involved I wanted to be Williams (2011–12) and Daniel Ownbey you just have to get back up and keep fighting.” the Trojans, twice (2002, 2003) capturing with the program,” Johnson said. “I told (2013–14), to individual national titles–the It was a motto that Johnson learned early in life. When Othello was the all-American accolades from the Nation- him that I thought I wanted to be fully first two national champions in the illustri- tender age of eight, his family spent most of their nights finding a way out of al Junior College Athletic Association involved and that I wanted to try and get as ous history of the program. their war-torn country of Liberia. The civil war eventually claimed the lives of (NJCAA). Importantly, Johnson also earned much out of this as I can.” Johnson said, “With the right resources, more than 200,000 people in the West African country. academic honors. The coaching marriage was magical for this team can win the national champion- “I was about eight years old when the first civil war there began. In a chance meeting at a pool condition- the Braves as Gibbs and Johnson led the ship. We have the right pieces to make a It really shocked the country,” Johnson said. “We went from very few people ing session inside Colby’s fitness center, program to five consecutive top-30 finishes run at a top-four finish this year, but this having guns to kids my age–anywhere from seven to 15 years old–carrying a he met his future wife, Ivy Ramsey, who at the NCAA Division II National Champi- program is in pretty darn good shape. Good gun, knowing that was their only option for survival. Their moms and dads became a three-sport standout for UNCP onships. The Black and Gold finished in a things are ahead of us.” had been killed, and there was nobody else left in the family, so they didn’t in basketball, cross country and track and tie for 17th place at the 2010–11 national

16 WINTER 2015 UNCP TODAY UNCP TODAY WINTER 2015 17 The Spirit of Homecoming was on display Mike Schaeffer and softball player Jelena Shaw ’10. UNCP in the 1980s and earned a degree in the week of October 20 in Pembroke. More At the 46th annual Alumni Awards Banquet, criminal justice. Since the return of football and Reunion! than 4,000 fans poured into Grace P. Johnson fall homecoming in 2008, she has reconnected Allison Harrington ’95 was named Outstanding The spirit of Pembroke was Stadium to watch the Braves battle Newberry with the university. “I come out to celebrate Alumna, Ken Strickland was the recipient of the strong at the 1964 class reunion. College. The weeklong celebration saw two Pembroke,” Cotton said. Distinguished Service Award and Derek Brun- Bobby Jacobs ’65, a Pembroke headline events at Givens Performing Arts Kelli Wallace ’02, who was Miss UNCP in son took home the Young Alumnus of the native who attended elementary Parade Spirit! Center, a color run, athletic contests in five fall 1999, never misses a homecoming. “Every Year Award. school on what is now UNCP’s sports, a standing-room-only pep rally and time I come back here, I get a feeling of pride,” Chancellor Carter lit a fire under the Home- deafening at times at the reviewing stand. As they do at every homecoming, alumni campus, said college was eye much more. Wallace said. “I haven’t missed a homecoming.” coming Parade, and the fun continued this year. The town loves a parade, said Traci Brooks defined the spirit of Pembroke. While tailgating, opening. The Athletic Hall of Fame gained five new Ashley Doughty ’14, who works as a winners waved while bands ’98, who was waiting on the parade route with sisters Audena Walker ’79 and Theresa Tyler Jacobs, who played basketball members: soccer player Whitney Beverly ’09, recruiter in the Office of Admissions, defined played on and students and staff raised their her children and several family members. ’77 used the word “family” to describe what the for the college, said, “Traveling baseball player Jason Morales ’10, basketball the spirit of Pembroke through the eyes of pro- voices in cheers. “The parade was really good last year, and university means to them. “All five sisters are with the basketball team was the player Danielle Richardson ’07, soccer coach spective students. “We have become a school The parade entry from the Office of the we’re excited,” Brooks said. “The spirit of Pem- graduates,” Tyler said. “Yes, it’s a family,” first time I ever traveled out of the of choice,” Doughty said. “People are excited Chancellor won the award for Best Representa- broke? I would say it’s about culture, heritage Walker said. state.” As a football season ticket Lee Sampson ’79 said the university is the about UNCP.” tion of the Spirit theme. and growth.” holder, he enjoys the team spirit The parade attracted Fairmont High Francine Cummings ’14 was on the Native pride of the small com- of the modern UNCP. munity where he grew School’s Marching Band, Purnell Swett High American Student Organization float. “The spirit Rudolph Turbeville ’64 said the School’s ROTC unit and Pembroke Middle of Pembroke resides in the people,” she said. up, and its heritage is college had about 600 students defined by the doors of School cheerleaders. With so many young “The people make it.” but half were freshmen when he people riding in the parade, the noise was And the UNCP community kept on rolling. opportunity that contin- arrived in 1961–“that’s how fast the ue to open for its grad- school was growing.” uates. “My uncle, Claud Dr. Ben Hardin ’65, who has A. Sampson, earned a practiced medicine in the county two-year degree here in for many years, called the college 1932,” Sampson said. life changing. “My parents couldn’t Football team falls just short, 13-6 Redean Cotton ’89 read or write,” Dr. Hardin said. “I On the gridiron, the Braves capitalized early The crushing blow came on an inter- played basketball at love this university. Without it, I but let a crucial fourth-quarter chance slip away ception and 85-yard return by the Wolves’ wouldn’t have gone to college.” late and fell just short, 13–6 to the Newberry Sharon Irwin in the second period. For Dr. Hardin, UNCP is a family College Wolves at homecoming. Despite gaining just four yards of offense affair too. His son Adam ’06 is a Both defenses were stout, with UNCP limiting in the first quarter and a stifling Braves graduate and works in admissions, Newberry to just 237 yards of total offense and defense, Newberry went into the locker and his granddaughter has been a field goal in the second half. Unfortunately, room at halftime with a 7–6 lead. accepted to attend the university. the Braves offense could not generate enough The rebuilding football team, which Turbeville said, “There are really scoring opportunities. lost 22 players from last year, had lost five good memories here. Pembroke Quarterback Seth Owen put the only points straight contests and was 1–6 going into was my home.” on the board for UNCP with a 10-yard run on homecoming. The Braves had a chance to Earlena Chavis Lowry ’65 their first possession of the game. Owen also win or tie late in the fourth quarter when said, “This is home. I have three threw for 99 yards. B.J. Bunn caught six passes, they pushed down to the Newberry’s 16– grandchildren here.” and L.J. Stroman provided excitement with the yard line, but lost the ball on downs. Two years ago, Chancellor return game gaining 123 yards on five touches.

ALUMNI AWARDS (Inset Left Page) Athletic Hall of Fame inductees: Whitney Beverly ’09, Jelena Shaw ’10, Mike Schaeffer, Danielle Richardson ’07, Alumna of the Year Allison Har- rington ’95, Young Alumnus of the Year Derek Brunson ’07 and Hall of Fame inductee Jason Morales ’10. (not pictured was Ken Strickland, recipient of the Distinguished Service Award).

REUNION (Top Left) At the 50th class reunion luncheon were, from left: Morgan Jones ’06, ’13, director of Alumni Relations, Dr. Mark Milewicz, dean of the Honors College and International Programs, Dr. Ben Hardin ’65, Dr. Ken Kitts, provost, Rudolph Turbeville ’64, Dr. Earlena Lowry ’65, Bobby Jacobs ’64, Gervais Oxendine ’65, Gloria Lowery ’66, Henry Ward Oxendine ’64, Hunter Wortham, assistant vice chancellor of Advancement, Tom Wynn ’63, Wendy Lowery, vice chancellor of Advancement, and Rudolph Locklear ’06, ’11, 18 WINTER 2015 UNCP TODAY president of the Alumni Board of Directors. UNCP TODAY WINTER 2015 19 ALUMNI | UNIVERSITY OF NORTH CAROLINA PEMBROKE UNIVERSITY OF NORTH CAROLINA PEMBROKE | ALUMNI

Chancellor English Jones stands in front of his creation 1976.

GIVENS PERFORMING ARTS CENTER A beacon for the performing arts and a community asset

opened in 1976 and was known as the Per- Steve Landesburg, political satirist Mark Very Special Arts Festival for the exception- Each season, special event performanc- GPAC Celebrates 40 Years forming Arts Center, or PAC. Soon, it was Russell, musician Taj Mahal and country al children of the county and Studio One, es are added as a bonus to the regular affectionately known as the “PAC House.” legend Tammy Wynette. In 1981, the first the performing arts wing of the county subscription series. “Rent,” “Saturday Night With its modern design, the PAC was season subscription was introduced, and schools. Fever,” Rodgers and Hammerstein’s “Cin- of the Arts and More and remains one of the largest stages in the 150 season tickets were sold. GPAC also stages events for UNCP’s derella,” “Shampoo” and the River People southeastern U.S., with a stage that spans After the etirementr of Chancellor Paul Theatre Department, as well as many mu- Music and Cultural Festival are just a few of // BY DAVID THAGGARD 64 feet–only seven feet shorter than the R. Givens in 1999, the Performing Arts Cen- sical events of the Department of Musical these special events. As the curtain went up for a new season impressive stages in North Carolina.” Metropolitan Opera stage in New York– ter was named in his honor. GPAC contin- Theatre. The building is home to a variety “As we celebrate our 40th anniversary, at the Givens Performing Arts Center The idea of a performing arts center seating just over 1,600. ued to grow. of campus events, such as orientation, con- we are excited to offer one of the most (GPAC), the lights were shining brighter began with former Chancellor English E. A three- to four-event season was “GPAC grew up under Chancellor vocation, graduate school commencement diverse seasons yet,” Fields said. “We invite after 40 years of great entertainment. Jones, who also sought a larger auditorium planned. The opening performance was by Givens,” Fields said. “Chancellor Joseph B. and the Miss UNCP Scholarship Pageant. you to attend one of our performances and As it does every year, this season is for university and community events. Dr. popular comedienne Lily Tomlin, who was Oxendine came to call GPAC his football Every summer, G-Camp, the summer the- experience GPAC and the spirit of UNC offering the best of Broadway and more. Jones imagined a place where the arts and followed by a sold-out performance by the team, because it brought so many people to atre camp for kids, is a hit. Pembroke. Throughout its history, GPAC’s stage lights community could gather. legendary Ray Charles. Pembroke.” Arts education has long been a part of “Once you visit the Givens Performing have shined on the arts at their best. In GPAC was constructed on what was then “For several seasons, a four-event series Others were putting the large hall to GPAC’s mission. The center is home to the Arts Center, you too will call us your home 1985, the Fayetteville Observer called it “a the far north end of campus and is now of performances was offered to enthusi- good use also. The Lumbee Regional Devel- On Stage for Youth Series, which provides for the performing arts,” she continued. cultural gold mine.” closer to the middle. “What better way to astic audiences,” Fields said. “Pembroke, opment Association continues to hold four schooltime performances for grades K-12 “As we celebrate our 40th anniversary, we “Thirty years later, we still consider our- introduce the public to GPAC than being which is centrally located to many of the Miss Lumbee pageants at the center every and introduces young audiences to the believe it’s just the start to an even brighter selves a ‘cultural gold mine,’” said Patricia located at the front door of the university?” larger communities in the surrounding year. Lumbee River Electric Membership magic of theatre. “I wish all of our patrons and more outstanding future. Fields, GPAC’s director since 2001. “As we Fields said. area, soon saw an influx of traffic as audi- Corporation’s annual membership meeting could have witnessed the children’s reac- “We have a seat waiting just for you. See celebrate our 40th anniversary, GPAC has Construction began in 1974 and was ences began to grow.” is held there too. tion to the snow scene when we staged you at GPAC!” truly come of age with grace and distinc- completed at a cost of just over $2 million. As audiences grew, additional program- GPAC annually hosts graduations for the ‘Nutcracker on Ice,’” Fields said. “They let * * * tion. Since opening in 1975, this gold mine GPAC’s replacement value is now estimat- ming was in demand. Several of the earliest Public Schools of Robeson County, awards out a huge, collective gasp as the curtain David Thaggard is GPAC’s assistant director has become one of the most notable and ed at more than $25 million. It officially performers on the stage were comedian ceremonies and performances such as the raised as it snowed in GPAC.” in charge of bookings.

20 WINTER 2015 UNCP TODAY UNCP TODAY WINTER 2015 21 ALUMNI | UNIVERSITY OF NORTH CAROLINA PEMBROKE UNIVERSITY OF NORTH CAROLINA PEMBROKE | KYLE R. CARTER

What is outstanding about Kyle R. Carter’s tenure at Pembroke? Everything! In his nearly five years at Pembroke, Chancellor Chancellor Carter’s Carter pursued excellence in every corner of the university. A longtime veteran of higher education, this leader had a Four-part Mission: holistic view of what UNCP should be and what it should do. He pushed, pulled, prodded and propelled the university forward in every way. Dr. Carter had a plan, and he backed it up with the »» Student Success inspiration and resources necessary to get the job done.

A wide-angle vision, plenty of grit and some creative thinking »» Outreach were needed if Chancellor Carter was to complete his mission when the national economy and the state budget went into a tailspin. For him, that meant it was time to do more with less. »» Efficiency &

Early in his administration, Chancellor Carter laid out four sweeping Effectiveness themes: facilitating student success, reaching out to the region, becoming an institution of choice and making the university more efficient and effective. These overarching goals were the »» Institution of Choice yardstick by which everything was carefully planned and measured.

Student Success In 2012, Chancellor Carter intro- story–that small classes, caring faculty declined, university fundraisers and grant duced his mantra, “One Team for Student and affordable tuition can make a college writers went to work for students. The Success.” He handed out buttons with the dream possible, recession or no. Enrollment popular Arrowhead Scholarship was estab- saying, and it echoed through campus, steadily increased every year after 2011. lished and funded through special appeals from faculty advisors to housekeepers. Looking to the long term, Chancellor to donors. Privately funded scholarships Increased community engagement, new Carter took aim at retention and grad- set a record in 2013–14 with 26 new endow- dining options, new intramural playing uation rates, two primary measures of ments. The university secured additional fields, added programming and new staff student success. A reorganization and con- student aid via two federal grant programs all contributed to a more robust student solidation of academic support programs that benefited dozens of students in STEM Kyle R. experience. proved a masterstroke. Retention rates fields. Another grant program will provide In his first convocation address to new improved in each year of the Carter ad- paid internships for as many as 80 graduate students, Chancellor Carter said his expec- ministration. The number of tutorials and social work students. tations for student success were very high. referrals of at-risk students grew dramat- Student-athletes set high water marks He proceeded to set standards high. With ically. GPAs for all students pushed ahead on the playing fields and in the classrooms. a new Academic Standing Policy, he raised every year. Offices that serve students were Baseball, football, wrestling and men’s bas- the grade point average (GPA) required for beefed up, including support services for ketball earned national rankings and NCAA students to remain in school. He tightened the growing number of transfer and veter- tournament bids. Two national champions the standard for Satisfactory Academic an students. were crowned in wrestling, and individual Progress for students receiving federal Individual academic programs, like the competitors earned all-American status. In Carter financial aid. He also raised admission nursing program, registered outstanding 2013–14, the university set a record for stu- Pursuing Excellence requirements for GPA and SAT/ACT. achievements. The School of Business, dent-athletes on the Peach Belt Conference The new standards had short-term and the Master of Social Work and Mental Honor Roll. And the graduation rate hit long-term impact. Health and School Counseling programs all an all-time high in the 2014 NCAA report. Enrollment declined by nearly 700 earned important accreditations, which as- The Braves graduation rate outpaced all in Every Corner students in fall 2011. Chancellor Carter sure high academic standards and student UNC Division II schools and surpassed the never blinked as recruiters in the Office of success in the job market. national average by more than 10 percent. Admissions continued to tell the Pembroke As state and federal financial aid

22 WINTER 2015 UNCP TODAY UNCP TODAY WINTER 2015 23 PEER PEER THOUGHTS THOUGHTS

Dr. Kenneth Kitts, Dr. John Jones, Provost & Vice Chancellor, Vice Chancellor, Academic Affairs: Outreach Efficiency & Student Affairs: Chancellor Kyle Carter has Every year of the Carter administration, film, and the Literacy Commons, which Dr. Carter’s leadership allowed provided superb leadership UNCP was named to the President’s Higher launched literacy programs in several the cabinet to effectively steer during a very challenging time Education Community Service Honor Roll. schools, were funded. Effectiveness the university toward a more for public higher education The university earned the Community En- The most significant achievement of the student-centered environ- in North Carolina. He has gagement Classification from the Carnegie Carter administration is the Entrepreneur- Planning and budgeting during the ment. Continuously promoting brought stability and a sense Foundation for the Advancement of Teach- ship Incubator. It was a stroke of creative Carter years were trying because state student engagement and of vision to UNCP. His empha- ing in early 2015. Only 240 universities in genius to wed the incubator concept with appropriations took a nosedive in 2009. learning, he inspired us to sis on quality has elevated the nation earned this prestigious Carnegie two existing and successful small-business From $57.6 million in 2008, state appro- become an enriched team the reputation of this campus, classification. The university was upgrad- consulting programs, the Thomas Family priations fell to $51.9 million in 2014. working toward common goals both within the UNC system ed to full status because of Chancellor Center for Entrepreneurship and UNC’s Annual reversions of funds kept university in creating a robust campus and across the Southeast. Carter’s support of civic engagement in the Small Business and Technology Devel- accountants busy and planners in the dark. community and advancing On a more personal level, I classroom programs via service-learning opment Center. Funding came from all The lack of salary increases for faculty and student success. We were consider myself blessed to courses. directions: the federal Economic Devel- staff challenged morale and recruitment fortunate to work alongside a have had Chancellor Carter Chancellor Carter reached out to the opment Administration, the state Golden of faculty and administrators. Despite this chancellor who encouraged as a friend and mentor. I have community. He met with tribal leaders, Leaf Foundation and private contributors. environment, Dr. Carter kept lines of com- feedback, created settings where learning could flourish learned much about strategic expanded children’s summer camps and Besides helping small and start-up busi- munication open on campus. He managed and who embodied the values thinking, grace under pres- launched certificate programs at the Office nesses, the incubator will give business rumors, avoided layoffs and kept academic of a true team player. sure and the art of balancing for Regional Initiatives (formerly Region- students opportunities for learning. This programs intact. efficiency with compassion. al Center). Programs like “Voices of the program will have a lasting economic im- UNC Pembroke continued to pursue Wendy Lowery, Perhaps most impressive has Lumbee,” the award-winning documentary pact in a community that badly needs it. its strategic initiatives. Chancellor Carter Vice Chancellor, been his unflinching belief put the university on a course to be carbon in the importance of UNCP’s Advancement: neutral by 2050. Recycling programs made NEW TRADITIONS mission and his commitment money, and conservation programs saved During my three years at to ensure that we serve our money. A sustainability director and an With wife Sarah, Chancellor Carter leads first-year UNCP, it has been a pleasure students well. Chancellor and energy manager were hired. students north across the bridge to convocation. In the to experience Kyle and Sarah’s spring, he leads graduates south across the bridge to Mrs. Carter care deeply about Raising external funding was also unfettered passion for the all members of the UNCP fam- commencement. An outdoor spring commencement on the critical. The Office of Advancement met historic Quad was a new and popular addition. students, faculty and staff of ily. They are people of quiet its 2013–14 goal by raising $1.8 million. our university. Through Sarah’s dignity, and I wish them all Marketing of the university also advanced, warm smiles or the Chan- happiness in their retirement. with a complete rebranding that included cellor’s undeniable emotion a new logo, graphics and website that put a while telling the story of UNCP Dick Christy, new face on the university. on one of our video tributes, Athletic Director: one never had a doubt where Dr. Carter has put our students their hearts lie. They are and and their achievement at the forever will be the Spirit of the Brave. It has truly been an forefront of every decision honor to have shared in this that he has made. His of their lives. I feel commitment to improving Institution of Choice confident UNCP will continue student performance and the to prosper as a result of their Chancellor Carter would, undoubtedly, strategic plan to focus recruiting efforts on overall college experience unwavering commitment say that becoming an institution of choice community college students. It paid off with is what attracted me to his during the past five years. leadership team. He focused remains a work in progress for UNCP. a record number of transfer students (589). Many, many others would say the universi- Outstanding scholarship is another on the big picture, and he has Dr. Richard Cosentino, ty has arrived. piece of becoming an institution of choice. fully supported our efforts Vice Chancellor, Last fall, as first-year students assem- In kicking off the celebrations of UNCP’s to improve the athletics SINGULAR ACCOMPLISHMENT Business and Finance: experience and improve bled for the annual class photo, there was a 125th anniversary, Chancellor Carter resources available to our Chancellor Carter addresses a crowd at the ground breaking for the Entrepreneurship great deal to celebrate. Enrollment (6,269) announced the formation of the Southeast Chancellor Carter’s ability to coaches and student-athletes. Incubator, his administration’s most ambitious project. It combines the best elements that continued to grow, signifying that Pem- American Indian Studies program that is be a strategic thinker and his a university can have. Funded by a public-private partnership, it will reach out to the broke has secured a place with North Caro- designed to expand the scope of American The Carters’ dedication to the community for economic development, while stimulating teaching and learning among thorough understanding of university has been inspiring, students and faculty. It was through sheer determination that all the pieces came together, lina’s college-bound students. Prospects for Indian Studies at UNCP. It was an import- the details that make up the and UNC Pembroke is a and the project will be a lasting legacy of Chancellor Carter’s tenure at Pembroke. fall 2015 look good, according to the Office ant acknowledgement of the university’s university’s financial position better place because of their of Admissions. heritage and an expansion of scholarship. have made him uniquely leadership. Chancellor Carter The other great news about fall 2014 Faculty research got the attention of qualified to navigate these has positioned us well for the enrollment is the success of the university’s national and international audiences troubling financial times. future. Continued on next page 24 WINTER 2015 UNCP TODAY UNCP TODAY WINTER 2015 25 A

ALUMNI | UNIVERSITY OF NORTH CAROLINA PEMBROKE UNIVERSITY OF NORTH CAROLINA PEMBROKE | ALUMNI Advancement Scholarships Change can stir up emotions such as fear, anxiety, excitement and opportunity. In the world of higher education, change is Still on the Rise inevitable as we strive to provide the optimal environment for students in an ever-changing world. A university must adapt to change in A sampling of recent gifts to provide a high-quality education while remaining competitive and attractive to prospective students. A university must SUMMIT IN PEMBROKE THE VAN DWIGHT SAMPSON JAMES B. AND EVELYN J. KIRKLAND SCHOLARSHIP RECOGNITION DINNER also stay in tune with the current professional ENDOWED SCHOLARSHIP MIDDLE GRADE LANGUAGE ARTS environment in order to attract high-quality UNC President Tom Ross and Gov. Pat McCory Established by: Family, friends, and ENDOWED SCHOLARSHIP Lycurous Lowry meets with the recipients of pose with Chancellor Carter during an historic faculty and staff. And occasionally, a university colleagues of the late Van Dwight Established by: James B. Kirkland Jr. the scholarship that honors his parents. higher education summit in Pembroke. must prepare for a change in leadership. Sampson - The scholarship will benefit The donor wishes to recognize out- As you know, UNCP is in the midst of former participants of the Robeson standing juniors or seniors in middle preparing for this change. Our Chancellor, County Parks and Recreation Depart- grade language arts. This scholarship The university believes that donors should Kyle R. Carter, will begin his well-deserved ment majoring in health, physical is open to education majors. Incoming know firsthand that their generosity is appre- (Continued from previous page) education and recreation. juniors and seniors are preferred. retirement in June of 2015. This will allow ciated by those who benefit from it the most. with books, published papers and research him to move to the next chapter of his life and PATTIE & LUTHER LOCKLEAR KAY MCCLANAHAN ENDOWED In its 10th year, the Scholarship Recognition on diverse topics like Alzheimer’s disease, give him the opportunity to spend time with AND PEARLIE M. & HARDYWELL MEMORIAL SCHOLARSHIP IN THE Dinner gives scholarship recipients an opportu- traumatic brain injury, the Civil War, ocean- family–a step most of us yearn for. LOCKLEAR ENDOWED DRAMATIC ARTS nity to meet their benefactors. SCHOLARSHIP going turtle migration and more. Dr. Ben Bahr Chancellor Carter brought me home to my Established by: Dr. Mark , It is a popular event, and with an attendance alma mater in late 2011. I landed in a position Established by Samuel and Katrina Kathy Gallucci, members of the cam- won the coveted UNC Board of Governors of more than 300 last year, the University Cen- that would afford me endless opportunities to ‘63 Locklear - The scholarship will pus community and Dr. McClanahan’s James E. Holshouser Jr. Award for Excellence support residents of Robeson County family - This scholarship will support make an impact at an institution that has done ter Annex was bursting at the seams. “We have in Public Service in 2013. Retired professor majoring in nursing, elementary edu- deserving students enrolled in the had so much growth in our endowed scholar- so much for so many. The commitment that cation or music education. theatre program. and former Pembroke Magazine editor Shelby both Kyle and Sarah have made toward our ship programs that we may have to find a larger Stephenson was named North Carolina’s efforts in Advancement is pervasive. We have LARRY DWIGHT FREEMAN THE TURBEVILLE-PERRITT facility,” said Wendy Lowery, vice chancellor poet laureate in 2015. When the Board of worked together to build upon the foundation ENDOWED SCHOLARSHIP ENDOWED SCHOLARSHIP for Advancement. “We added a record 28 new Governors met at UNCP for the first time ever that was built by those before us. Although Established by: Larry’s three children: Established by: Rudolph Turbeville ‘64 endowed scholarships last year. This is a great James, Kyland and Lindsey Freeman This scholarship is intended to help in 2013, Gov. Pat McCrory came to deliver his we faced several budgetary challenges, a The scholarship is open to residents of students to pay airfare, room and/or problem to have.” first statewide address on higher education. commitment was made to connect with a Robeson County in any major. board for an international educational The news brought an ovation from the Superlatives rained down from U.S. News broader base of alumni, to steward those donors experience. The scholarship will be guests. Chancellor Kyle R. Carter, who had who believe in our institution and to ensure that MARION CRADDOCK ENDOWED awarded to students who demonstrate and World Report and other rating agencies. announced his retirement only days earlier, our team has the resources to prepare for an SCHOLARSHIP FOR CROSS commitment and dedication to getting Importantly, the university went from being COUNTRY AND TRACK & FIELD a global education. was moved. “This room is a wonderful sight,” unranked in past U.S. News rankings to 42nd even stronger future. The support we received during the Carter Established by: Marion Lee Craddock Chancellor Carter said. “We’ve worked very among its peer institutions in the south. Jr. ‘75 - The scholarship will support a MARY ALICE PINCHBECK-TEETS administration will continue to make an impact hard over the last four and a half years to make U.S. News took note of other high-quality deserving student-athlete on the cross ENDOWED SCHOLARSHIP IN on our ability to garner private support for years AMERICAN INDIAN STUDIES this a better place, a university of choice. programs and very affordable tuition. The country or track and field team. to come. The Carters’ sense of community, Established by: Mary Alice Pinchbeck “The best part of my job has been experi- emphasis on veteran student success earned preservation of the university’s historical roots THE GORDON AND MARY LEA DOVE Teets ‘58 - This scholarship is open encing firsthand the success of our students,” UNCP “military friendly” and “best for vets” and commitment to UNCP students and alumni ENDOWED SCHOLARSHIP FOR UNC to residents of Robeson County who PEMBROKE ATHLETICS are undergraduate American Indian he said. “It is clear that UNC Pembroke changes labels. will be their legacy. I, along with the members Studies majors. lives, and the scholarships you’ve provided are MBA students Daniel Bought and Lewis of the Advancement team, will be forever Established by: Gordon “Gordy” Dove III - This scholarship is open to changing lives. Adams bested all comers to win the UNC grateful. any student-athlete demonstrating PINCHBECK-TEETS FAMILY “Our students are the beneficiaries of your Social Entrepreneurship Competition. UNCP Now, as the university embraces this ENDOWED SCHOLARSHIP IN MUSIC financial need. generosity, and you are the beneficiaries of students are presenting their research across impending change, we need the voices and Established by: Mary Alice Pinchbeck their spirit.” the nation. support of our alumni and friends to be strong, MIKE AND DARLENE RANSOM Teets ‘58 - This scholarship is open visible and steady. We are preparing for a new SCHOLARSHIP to residents of Robeson County, Alexis Jones, a freshman who aspires to be a UNCP is gaining recognition for things that demonstrating a financial need, who set of ideas. We will look to a new vision that Established by: Darlene Ransom ‘80 nuclear engineer, said her scholarship “allows the university and community have known all are music majors. will continue to expand upon the strengths of This scholarship will support students me to focus on my studies instead of my finan- along. For instance, the Givens Performing who are members of a state or feder- our university and a leader who will carry us NAT AND SANDRA TOLAR cial needs.” Arts Center was rated one the top 20 university ally recognized tribe and pursuing a to an even higher level. As you receive letters, degree in social work. ENDOWED ATHLETIC SCHOLARSHIP Marcus Sherman, a veteran, said, “Grad- stages in the nation. These are just some emails and phone calls asking for your support, Established by: Nat ’70 and Sandra uation has been a long and arduous journey of the things that make us an institution of JAMES E. AND NANCY M. MARTIN ’72 Tolar - This scholarship is open to I hope you feel compelled to give. Please give in for me. I owe my success to you donors, this choice. a way that reflects your passion and expresses ENDOWED SCHOLARSHIP a student-athlete participating in any major and sport. university and the government.” Future historians will give high marks to your appreciation for the University of North Established by: James ’67 and Nancy ’69 Martin - The scholarship is open Chancellor Carter’s time in Pembroke. In a Carolina at Pembroke. Vivienne Leavan, a Spanish and digital art to students in any major who are major, said a scholarship “is like a dream come time that tested the commitment of North residents of North Carolina and exhibit Carolinians to the future direction of higher a financial need. true. It made me work harder. College is hard education, Dr. Carter set UNCP on a steady without a lot of money coming in. The scholar- STEPHEN A. HAMMONDS ENDOWED ship took a lot of the worry off.” course for the stars. One thing is certain–this SCHOLARSHIP Michelle , a soccer player from is a better place because of Kyle R. Carter. Established by: Ronald G. Hammonds This scholarship supports students , put it simply: “Without scholarship majoring in science, math education or support, I would not be here to thank you .. WENDY LOWERY an agriculture-related program. Thank you.”

26 WINTER 2015 UNCP TODAY UNCP TODAY WINTER 2015 27 UNIVERSITY OF NORTH CAROLINA PEMBROKE | SCHOLARSHIPS

Turbeville said. “That view is worldly outlook resonated with prevalent among the French in this unique rural community. particular.” “I had a pleasant experience As the Turbeville name during my student days,” he Stephen A. Hammond: Education indicates, he is of French said. “I made a point to meet ancestry, but his first taste people. I tried to integrate into pioneer left a remarkable legacy of the world came far from the community, and there was In his determined pursuit of educa- grandfather’s legacy, his grandson Ronald . He joined the Army out a level of trust extended to me tion, Stephen A. Hammond rode a bicycle Hammonds has endowed a scholarship in of high school at age 17. that was not common.” from the Saddletree community north of his name. “Being stationed in Korea is Last year, Turbeville decided Lumberton to Pembroke daily to attend “The endowed scholarship represents what did it for me,” Turbeville to put additional properties the little school that is now UNCP. Croatan the legacy of Stephen Andrew Hammond said. “It was not long after the on the market. Proceeds Normal School had just opened in 1887, and his pursuit of education, commitment war, and much of their country from the sale will add to the and the school began training American to his family and community and his ded- was in ruins. My unit built a Turbeville-Perritt Endowment, Indian teachers like Hammond, who would ication to faith,” said Ronald Hammonds. school. I had empathy for the which honors his grandmother spark a local revolution in education. A farmer and agri-businessman, Ronald RUDY TURBEVILLE Koreans. Josephine Perritt, who spent Before attending school in Pembroke, Hammonds continues the family legacy in Turbeville- “Wherever a student goes, her last years in the Turbeville With classmates at the 50th reunion of Hammond attended Magnolia School and the Saddletree community. Perritt the Class of 1964. studying internationally household. the Thompson Institute, an African Amer- The endowed scholarship was will broaden their outlook “I want to honor that side of RONALD HAMMONDS ican subscription school in Lumberton. established with a gift of $10,000 to the Scholarship of the world,” he said. “This the family,” he said. “They are Hammonds honored his grandfather with an endowed He completed his studies in Pembroke in UNCP Foundation, Inc. The Stephen A. Scholarship to help students affects the quality of our of French ancestry also.” scholarship. Stephen A. Hammond’s educational 1896, and at the age of 21, he began a long Hammond Endowed Scholarship Fund is will open study internationally. nation’s citizenship and our Turbeville is pleased with journey culminated at Croatan Normal School with teaching career. a perpetual gift that will provide the From Chadbourn, North government. the mission of his endowment, a degree in 1896. He was truly a pioneer of education students to in the county. Stephen Hammond’s legacy as a teach- resources needed for UNCP students to Carolina, Turbeville is a man “I hope they also and he believes that studying er, farmer, preacher and founder of one obtain a college degree. The recipient the world for all seasons and a self- learn compassion and abroad is a starting point of the area’s great families is huge in this must be a resident of Robeson County with described citizen of the world. understanding,” Turbeville to students’ international community” and far beyond. To honor his demonstrated financial need. Scholarships help students, He would share both his said. “We need more of this. We experiences. Rudolph (Rudy) Turbeville forested estate near Mt. Gilead, are basically an ethnocentric “I am hopeful and idealistic believes, but a scholarship to Noth Carolina, and his view of nation that believes everyone about the endowment at foster international experience the world with UNCP students. should be like us.” Pembroke,” Turbeville said. “I changes lives. Turbeville, who is “I like to take a larger view, Coming out of the Army feel at home whenever I’m in a 1964 graduate, has established and being a citizen of the world in 1961, Turbeville discovered Pembroke. I am the richer for it.” They chose UNC Pembroke to establish “It’s a great institution that’s helped a lot of the Turbeville-Perritt Endowed carries a certain responsibility,” Pembroke State College. His the James Bryant Kirkland Jr. and Evelyn kids make something of themselves. Johnson Kirkland Middle Grade Language “For Evelyn, education was a calling, Arts Endowed Scholarship. The perpetual like the ministry; she had a calling from endowment will benefit high-achieving the get-go, from the sixth grade, to be a education majors with demonstrated classroom teacher,” Jim said. “Even though Guard with the rank of major. financial need. she could have gone into administration Davis Enloe The former track and field standout had Evelyn, who was a career teacher, with her master’s degree in school not seen Pembroke in 35 years. But when passed away in 2013, and as Jim says: leadership, she never lost sight of the endowment he got the idea of creating an endowed “We talked about this for a long time.” importance of the classroom teacher, scholarship, Enloe decided to return. The Kirklands chose to invest in education because they’re on the front lines.” honors running “When my wife, Mimi, created an because it was important in their lives. Jim delights in the idea of giving back endowment to honor her mother, it caused Their 50-year marriage began in college or “paying it forward,” he says. “I encour- great Garry Henry me to remember Garry Henry, an all-Amer- when Jim met Evelyn Johnson while they age other people to give.” Davis Enloe ’76 learned about Pem- ican runner for us,” he said. “Garry was an were students at East Carolina University broke State University from an article in a incredible guy and one of the most authen- (ECU). Evelyn earned an undergraduate Greer, South Carolina, newspaper. It was a tic people I’ve known. So, I created a cross and graduate degree in education at ECU. “[Pembroke] has life-changing moment. country scholarship in his honor.” Jim Kirkland Jim earned a business degree. “The article was on Ed Crain, who was Henry is UNCP’s greatest distance run- “Evelyn was a believer when it came helped a lot of kids from a nearby high school,” Enloe said. ner of all time. Besides earning numerous HOMECOMING Establishes an to education,” Jim said. “I believe in “He was having success as a track coach at all-American honors, he led the university Davis Enloe, second from right, was honored with a vintage academic scholarships and helping kids make something of Pembroke State University. to its only team national championship cross country jersey during Homecoming 2014. Endowment with college expenses.” “At the time, I was working the third in 1979 under Coach Crain. At $120,000, Also pictured are Alison DeCinti, director of development, Evelyn knew the importance of themselves.” shift in a print mill, and knew I didn’t want the Garry Henry scholarship is one of the Chancellor Carter and cross country Coach Peter Ormsby. at UNCP scholarships. She was one of the first to do that the rest of my life,” he said. biggest athletic endowments at UNCP. recipients of ECU’s North Carolina Enloe parlayed his talent for running “It’s funny how the best memories are Hard work, community and education Prospective Teachers Scholarship, the hurdles into a degree from the university often the ones that don’t cost a thing,” En- broke. “My younger brother, who is also a are important to Jim and the late Evelyn predecessor of the Teaching and many wonderful memories. After loe continued. “Call it nostalgia or longing, graduate, and I came back for homecom- Kirkland, and they wish to pay it forward Program. The Kirklands have established graduation, he taught high school, earned or just appreciating where I came from.” ing,” he said. “The university has really by investing in the future of the things scholarships at ECU and, now, Pembroke. a master’s degree in creative writing and Enloe got in touch with the Office of changed, and it was nice to get back, meet they value. “We watched Pembroke grow,” Jim said. retired from the South Carolina National Advancement and planned a trip to Pem- new people and see some old friends.”

28 WINTER 2015 UNCP TODAY UNCP TODAY WINTER 2015 29 ALUMNI | UNIVERSITY OF NORTH CAROLINA PEMBROKE

ALUMNI ASSOCIATION OFFICERS & ALUMNI BOARD OF Class of 2014 Alumni DIRECTORS Rudy Locklear appointed ARMY SPEC. JORDAN L. LILLY ’14 has graduated from basic combat training at Rudy Locklear ’06, ‘11 Fort Jackson in Columbia, S.C. During the nine weeks of training, he studied the President to Judicial Council Army mission, history, tradition and core values, and physical fitness and re- President Aaron Thomas ‘99 Rudy Locklear ’06, ’11, a Robeson County magistrate and ceived instruction and practice in basic combat skills, military weapons, chem- These are exciting times at UNCP! The Immediate Past President president of UNCP’s Alumni Association, has been appointed to the ical warfare, bayonet training, drill and ceremony marching, marksmanship, university continues on its path of growth and Owen Thomas ’11, ’13 North Carolina Judicial Council, an advisory and oversight body of armed and unarmed combat, map reading, field tactics, military courtesy, the expansion–in enrollment and in the physical size 1st Vice President the judicial system. Locklear is currently serving his eighth year as military justice system, basic first aid, foot marches and field training exercises. of the campus. EXCELLENCE! ENGAGEMENT! Yolanda Sinclair, ’98 a magistrate and third term as area director on the North Carolina EXPANSION! These three powerful words are at 2nd Vice President Magistrates Association. LEANN STRICKLAND MELVIN ’14 began a position at UNC the very core of the vision that is unfolding here. Morgan Jones ‘06, ‘13 With more than 13 years of law enforcement and judicial expe- Pembroke on July 15, 2014, as the assistant director of Parent Our beloved university has experienced Executive Director rience, including having worked with the Robeson and Scotland and Family Services. The Office of Parent and Family Services significant and steady growth over the past County sheriff’s offices and both the Pembroke Rural and Pembroke fosters the relationship between parents, families and students several years, while achieving a high standard Jarette Sampson ‘01 City fire departments, Locklear serves as an adjunct instructor at to enhance student development. As natural partners with of excellence. Under the visionary leadership Adam Hardin ‘06 UNCP and Robeson Community College. He recently earned his the university, parents and families are encouraged to support total student of Chancellor Carter, the physical size of the Patrick Strickland ‘01, ‘07 general instructor certification from the N.C. Criminal Justice and learning and to empower students to take personal responsibility for their university has grown by 50 percent. Mickey Gregory ‘88 Training Standards Commission. social and academic choices. The department partners with New Student and As the university embarks on its 128th year, Floyd Locklear ‘86 “I’m looking forward to this new role as an opportunity to pro- Family Orientation to facilitate successful transition to the university while I hope you share my pride in our alma mater. It Sheila Swift ‘03 vide input to improve our judicial system from the perspective of developing ongoing communication between students, parents and families, is important for alumni to know that every one Sylvia Pate ‘99 the magistrates across the state,” Locklear said. “I am a firm believer and the university to provide student support. LeAnn was united in marriage of us has a role to play. Even in this challenging Tomika Brooks ‘12 in setting smart goals and sharing those goals with the people that on November 1, 2014, to Kevin Locklear Melvin, who will be graduating from fiscal environment, I have every confidence that Courtney Chavis ‘09 can help us get there. At the end of the day, we can’t come close UNCP in December 2015. we will reach new heights, set new standards for to achieving these goals without identifying what we’re doing right Mitchael Leazer ‘14 Class of 2013 excellence and achieve greatness at every level. Crystal Moore ‘06 and what we could be doing better to make the North Carolina I would challenge you to think of ways you Winifred Winston ‘03 Judicial System the most productive it can be.” KELLY MAYO CLARK ’13 is a reporter at the Daily News-Record in Harrison- can give back to the university to whatever Christopher Peterkin ‘13 burg, Va. Kelly is married to Noah Clark ’12, who was a copy editor for the Pine degree you are comfortable with. The Alumni Needle. Noah has worked as a government and education reporter for the Association looks forward to your continued newspaper. Kelly and Noah are in the process of moving to support of UNCP through: HOMECOMING Harrisonburg. WEEK • Engagement: To be the leaders who engage BRIAN THOMPSON 13 2015! ’ is Ardrey Kell High School’s new wrestling coach. He our students, alumni and friends to connect was a four-year starter and captain at UNC Pembroke. to the university through meaningful Linda alumni activities, volunteerism and September 28–October 3 Class of 2012 advocacy. Jacobs The UNC Asheville Athletics Department is pleased to announce • Scholarship: To grow the alumni CLASS NOTES publishes the hiring of NICK PHILLIPS ’12 as the school’s new director of endowment to provide more student two books athletic media communications. Phillips spent the past two years scholarships that will attract the best Alumni Relations as the sports information director at Louisiana State University and brightest students. P.O. Box 1510 for children Eunice, where he handled all athletic media relations efforts and • Recognition: To showcase alumni who have Pembroke, NC day-to-day responsibilities for each of LSU Eunice’s athletic teams. While in achieved professional success 28372-1510 Linda Locklear Jacobs ’02, ’04 said she has been college, he worked with a pair of collegiate baseball teams, the Lake Norman and have made significant community [email protected] too busy to enjoy the pride of authorship. She recently Copperheads of the Southern Collegiate Baseball League and the Wilmington contributions. published two children’s books: “Life on the Farm with Sharks of the Coastal Plain League, in media relations roles. A native of Rocky More information: Marcus and Mia” and “Summer on the Farm with Marcus Mount, N.C., Phillips graduated with his bachelor’s degree in mass communica- While I’m talking about things to be proud of www.uncp.edu/alumni and Mia.” tion, with concentrations in broadcasting and journalism. at UNCP, this year marks the 40th anniversary (910) 521.6252 “I plan to get out and promote the books more now OFFICER HEATHER LYNN WYATT 12 of our beloved Givens Performing Arts Center. that I have some time,” she said. “It’s an easy reading book ’ was promoted to the position of investi- GPAC continues to uphold its reputation as for kindergarten through fourth-grade readers. I think they gator in Hamlet, N.C. She has been an officer in Hamlet for the past two years. one of the region’s premier destinations for would be good books for parents to read with their children, Wyatt graduated from basic law enforcement training at Richmond Community arts, culture and entertainment. Join me in too.” College and was voted by her peers as best overall cadet. She has completed 200 wishing GPAC another 40 years of vibrancy and Jacobs started the book in Dr. Swanee Dickson’s reading hours of training at the North Carolina Justice Academy in the field of criminal inspiration! class. “We were given a blank hardcover book and an investigations. I have an overwhelming sense of pride in our assignment to make a children’s book,” she said. “We had to Class of 2011 alma mater that I know you share. As alumni, be very particular about our word choices for early readers.” I am excited about what we can do together as The story line is about adventures of Marcus and Mia and BRITTANEY TYLER ’11 and Bradley Strickland ’14 were united in the university grows. The legacy we are leaving how they learn to care for each other by watching farm marriage on July 26, 2014, at Shannon Assembly of God. Brittaney behind will foster tradition and pride in the animals. The real Marcus and Mia are Jacobs’ grandchildren. works for the Public Schools of Robeson County. Bradley is em- generations of UNCP students to come. A series of temporary jobs convinced her to go to ployed by Lumbee Guaranty Bank. college. “I was working in the (UNCP) Bookstore when it This is a great time to be a BRAVE! came to me that I could do this,” said Jacobs. “It just came to me suddenly.” The first-generation college student pursued that dream with all her might. Her persistence paid off with good grades and being named to the Chancellor’s Honor Roll twice. Marcus and Mia are following in their grandmother’s RUDY T. LOCKLEAR ‘06, ‘11 footsteps in attending UNCP. 30 WINTER 2015 UNCP TODAY UNCP TODAY WINTER 2015 31 ALUMNI | UNIVERSITY OF NORTH CAROLINA PEMBROKE UNIVERSITY OF NORTH CAROLINA PEMBROKE | ALUMNI

Paul Norman ’65: Class of 2007 Memoir of a ERICA DELLINGER ’07, of Pembroke, and Adam Atkinson, of Charlotte, were united in marriage on April 12, 2014. Erica attended Purnell Swett High School, sharecropper’s son UNC Pembroke and Campbell University of College of Pharmacy and Health Services. She works at Southeastern Regional Medical Center. The couple cur- PAUL W. NORMAN SR. ’65 is one rently reside in Southern Pines, N.C. of seven children born into a family of sharecroppers. He worked his way SHAUN KRENCICKI ’07 has assumed the position of leadership at the through college to earn a degree in Community Learning Center at Pinckney with Moore County Schools. business administration from UNCP. Krencicki is also completing a year with the Sandhills Leadership Academy Norman has held management and is finishing an internship at Union Pines High School. He will assume the positions at several large companies, principal’s position at Pinckney on July 1. Krencicki began his teaching career including RJ Reynolds and Leggett and Platt. Having many in 2000 at New Century Middle School but left to teach English in exciting and funny adventures as a student, he decided to in 2002, where he remained for three years while he and his wife ran a small officials, Allen got the call last put them into print. English language school. He returned to New Century Middle School in 2005. spring from the NFL. His start was “The Cloud is Drifting Slowly Across the Sky” was In 2010, Krencicki taught at Crain’s Creek Middle School until he joined the Brad Allen memorable because he wore the published in October 2014. In it, Norman reflects on aging Sandhills Leadership Academy this year. Krencicki received his bachelor’s white hat of the referee, who is by returning to his youth. degree from the University of California at Santa Barbara and his Master of Arts breaks into the official with the microphone. “My life is like that cloud, slowly drifting away,” Norman in Teaching degree from UNC Pembroke. He is the first rookie to do that said. “There’s nothing I can do about it; as the Bible says, ROYCE MCNEILL GOLF SCHOLARSHIP the NFL since 1962. man is appointed once to die. Someday, I will cast no Class of 2006 shadow, and the cloud will have slowly gone beyond the Brad Allen ’91 is a little older In a recent interview, Allen Pictured from left are Drew McBean, assistant golf coach; Laura Bird, a member of the horizon. Yes, the cloud is slowly disappearing. MAYA KIMBERLEY BUDIHARDJO ’06 married Jerry Richard- than the typical NFL rookie, but like called the news of his promotion golf team; Ronnie Chavis; Larry McNeill; David Synan, head golf coach; Terry McNeill; “The Bible tells us that our days are like a cloud that Lewis Adams, a member of the golf team; Dick Christy, UNCP athletics director; and son on September 27, 2014, in Cary, N.C. them, he climbed the ladder from “a surreal moment.” For someone crosses the sky and slowly disappears,” he continued. Juanita Rico, assistant golf coach. high school to college to the pros. who has worked college bowl The Haigler and Wallace Co., which makes personalized leath- “Today, I am going back to the place of my youth where er, wood and nylon products including belts and dog collars, Allen, a Lumberton native and res- games, it was the reward for a the cloud first appeared. A certain amount of nervous has been selected for inclusion into Who’s Who for Executives ident, began his career as an NFL distinguished career. anticipation began to funnel through my brain as the turnoff and Professionals, the company announced in September 2014. Acceptance to official this season. He has excelled When he’s not working NFL to my past approached. A beautiful multicolored leaf with Golf scholarship established Who’s Who is limited to individuals who have demonstrated their leadership at all levels since putting a whistle games, he serves as regional su- its beautiful hues of green, gold and red blew across my around his neck in 1986. pervisor of high school basketball windshield. I do not need any more reminders that Father for Robeson sports legend ability as well as achievement within their occupation, industry or profession. As a veteran member of the and director of the North Carolina Time is slowly ticking away.” The company is owned by SHARON HAIGLER WALLACE ’06 and Jackie Wallace Senior Games. Jr. This will be the third year their company has been selected for this honor. Atlantic Coast Conference football The late Royce McNeill ’68 “Royce organized and played Haigler and Wallace have also been selected for candidacy into the Worldwide was an icon of Robeson County in so many golf tournaments Who’s Who Registry and the Top 100 Business Leaders, which comprises “the athletics. And he had a lot of to help other people that this largest network of professionals in the world.” Their products are currently friends who took time out this seemed like a perfect way to for sale through Intuit websites and on eBay, Etsy, Blujay, Artfire and Amazon summer to honor his memory remember him.” Class of 2010 JJ DAVIS levels. She received her doctorate in stores. Sharon is a graduate of Richmond Community College, where she In the summer of 2009, School and The University of North by contributing to an endowed The participating golfers ’10 was dreaming of winning a gold educational leadership and curricu- Carolina at Pembroke. She works as enjoyed the tournament, Terry earned an associate’s degree in administrative office technology, and UNCP, The Shelby Star welcomed lifestyles scholarship for golfers at UNC . He spent a couple of months lum and instruction from the Univer- a loan officer for Lumbee Guaranty McNeill said. where she earned a bachelor’s degree in sociology. She attended graduate reporter WADE ALLEN ’10 to its Pembroke. at the Olympic Training Center in sity of North Carolina at Wilmington Bank. The groom attended Purnell “After the event, they asked school at UNCP in the school counseling program and has been accepted into newsroom in the fall of 2014. He will In early September, a check for Colorado Springs, Colo., where he in 2014. She also holds master’s Swett High School and the University us to keep the tournament go- Appalachian State University’s graduate program in educational media, new cover entertainment, health, food, $4,000 was presented to bring the was given the opportunity to build degrees in school administration and of North Carolina at Charlotte. He ing, so we’re planning another media and global education. fitness, faith and feature stories. scholarship to $12,000 and estab- on the skills that made him a state reading education from the University works as an engineer for the North one for next year,” he said. Allen grew up in Rutherfordton. He lish the Royce McNeill Endowed DR. LEE R. LOWERY ’06 has joined the Southern Pines Women’s champion wrestler at Byrnes High of North Carolina at Pembroke. Her Carolina Department of Transporta- “We’d like to do a scholarship received his bachelor’s degree in mass Golf Scholarship at UNCP. The Health Center, a FirstHealth clinic. He likes the location because School and a two-time all-American at undergraduate degree is in middle tion. The couple spent their honey- for women’s basketball at the communication with a concentration endowment represented proceeds it is close enough to his hometown of Pembroke for frequent vis- the University of North Carolina, Pem- grades education from North Carolina moon in Key West, Florida. university, and after that, who in broadcasting and journalism at from two very successful golf its. His new colleagues are also a good fit, and he has the oppor- broke. Fast-forward five years, and State University. knows.” UNC Pembroke. Before joining The tournaments. McNeill’s brothers, tunity to practice the type of medicine he has wanted to do since Davis has replaced his Olympic gold Class of 2008 The endowed scholarship Star, he worked at The Southern Pines Police Depart- Terry and Larry, explained how the high school. Lowery graduated from UNCP with highest honors and a degree in medal dreams with visions of gold is perpetual, and its proceeds for four years. Allen started as a crime ment welcomed ROBERT WESLEY STEFANIE PHILLIPS ’08 scholarship came to be. biology with a biomedical emphasis. He attended the UNC School of Medicine and platinum records. Having taken will benefit golf at UNCP. The reporter and later covered education. PAGE ’09 to its officer ranks. Page ’13 is the new principal “Ronnie Chavis came to the on a Board of Governors medical scholarship, earning his degree in 2010. He the stage name JJ Dae, the burgeoning endowment stipulates that the He has written articles about students, recently completed a four-year com- at Aberdeen Elementary. family with the idea of a golf completed his OB-GYN residency at Vidant Medical Center of the East Carolina singer-songwriter and guitarist was recipients be North Carolina parents, teachers and schools in mitment in the Army Phillips has worked for scholarship at the university,” University Brody School of Medicine in Greenville earlier this year. recently nominated for best male R&B residents and they maintain a Gaston County. with deployments to Djibouti, Qatar Moore County Schools said Terry McNeill. Chavis, a 1972 artist at the seventh annual South 3.0 grade point average. AARON PERKINS 06, an eight-year employee of Brunswick County, was and . He has extensive training since 2009, where she was most re- UNCP graduate and Robeson ’ JON BAEZ 10 Carolina Music Awards. After graduating from promoted from athletic coordinator to director of the Parks and Recreation ’ is a marketing and in security management, safety cently a curriculum specialist for the County’s athletic director for many UNCP, Royce McNeill coached Department. Perkins holds a bachelor’s degree in recreation from UNCP and communications operations profes- inspections, interagency liaison, Science/Healthful Living department. years, was a longtime friend and Class of 2009 at Prospect and Purnell Swett has Brunswick County roots. sional with IBM living in Durham. intelligence, counterintelligence, She served as an assistant principal colleague. high schools. He was athletic MOLLY CAPPS ’09, ’11 has been surveillance, survival, interrogation, at Pinecrest High from 2012–2013 “I thought we should do some- director at both schools. Class of 2005 named principal of Aberdeen Primary psychological operations and cultural after working as a science teacher. thing special for Royce,” Chavis “Royce loved sports, he KELSEY CUMMINGS ’10, School. Capps has been with Moore communications. Officer Page is a to coming to Moore County said. “In 30 years of working in “Hail to UNCP! A 125-year History of The University of loved Purnell Swett High the first graduate student County Schools since 2012, when graduate of UNC Pembroke with a Schools, she worked with Scotland athletics, he touched the lives of so North Carolina at Pembroke” has been awarded the Willie School and he loved this to win the Miss UNC Pem- she became part of the Instructional bachelor’s degree in criminal justice. and Bladen county schools. Phillips many people, especially kids.” Parker Peace History Book Award by the N.C. Society of broke title (served two Design and Innovation Team as an holds master’s degrees in school To raise funds for an endowed university,” said Larry McNeill, Historians. The award was presented on October 25 at years), recently graduated English language arts curriculum AMANDA PAGE STRICKLAND ’09 administration and science education scholarship, McNeill’s brothers and who was a member of UNCP’s the annual meeting of the society. The book was coauthored with a Master of Arts in Teaching specialist. From 2006 to 2012, Capps and Donavon Hunt were united in and a Bachelor of Science degree in Chavis decided a golf tournament Campus Police for more than by Dr. Linda Oxendine, the late Dr. David Eliades and degree in May 2014. Cummings is cur- was with Cumberland County Schools, marriage on June 7, 2014, at First Bap- education, all from The University of would be both productive and 30 years. “He would have loved LAWRENCE LOCKLEAR ‘05, ‘12. rently teaching music at Piney Grove where she served as an English tist Church in Lumberton. The bride North Carolina at Pembroke. appropriate. Chavis explained, to play in this one.” Elementary School in Lumberton, N.C. teacher at the middle and high school attended Lumberton Senior High

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Class of 2003 Jackie Jacobs ’86 pens Ronette Gerber assumes Class of 1990 William Todd Propes and GINNY MARIE BRIDGERS ’03 were married on De- RUSS CRANSON ’90, has been named the district manager for cember 6, 2014. Bridgers attended UNCP and works for Astellas Pharma. stylebook for Indian Country the Wilmington, N.C,. District of the Social Security Administra- new legal duties at UNCP tion. Cranson’s service area encompasses two offices and five DR. MATTHEW PERKINS ’03 has joined the Towson University UTeach program Jackie Jacobs ’86, a Robeson County native and former also instruct and manage the university’s Southeastern N.C. counties. as a clinical instructor/master teacher. He is coteaching multiple introductory Miss Lumbee, has coauthored a new e-book designed to compliance with the Jeanne Clery Act, secondary education courses, working with math and science majors placed in help journalists write accurately and authoritatively about Lee University has tapped DR. JEFFERY MCGIRT ’90 as the new which requires an annual reporting and several schools across the county. The former director of the Robeson Planetar- American Indians. director of the school’s Charlotte center campus. The campus disclosure of campus crime statistics for all ium and Science Center is also teaching an introductory astronomy class and A 1986 graduate, Jacobs has more than 30 years of operates under Lee’s Division of Adult Learning and offers colleges and universities. presenting the programs to the public. media and public relations experience. She is one of four undergraduate degrees for both traditional and adult students. American Indian media professionals behind the “Indian “It requires a good understanding of McGirt comes to Charlotte after pastoring for over 20 years at East Class of 1997 Country Stylebook for Editors, Reporters and Writers.” the law, familiarity with university policy Laurinburg Church of God. He has served on the denomination’s “My goal with this project is to help educate journalists, and the ability to work collaboratively with State Council and Evangelism and Home Missions boards during PHYSICIAN ASSISTANT JENNIFER GRAHAM ’97 recently joined editors and writers that things are different in Native Ameri- multiple constituencies,” Chancellor Carter his tenure as pastor. Dr. McGirt earned both his doctorate and Southeastern Medical Clinic in Red Springs, an affiliate of ca,” said Jacobs, who works as a communications specialist said. “Ms. Gerber brings all these skills his master of divinity degrees from the Pentecostal Theological Southeastern Health. A native of Pembroke, Graham completed a for the Quileute Tribe of La Push, Washington. “There’s a to the table, and I’m pleased that she has Seminary. He received his undergraduate degree from UNCP bachelor’s degree at UNC Pembroke in 1997 and physician assistant lot of confusion regarding sovereignty and the Freedom of accepted this new role.” in elementary education and was a certified K-4 teacher before training at Wake Forest University in 2006. She has a special inter- Information act. It doesn’t apply in Indian Country, and most Gerber will collaborate with various entering full-time ministry. est in the treatment of patients with diabetes. The clinic offers complete family don’t understand why.” university departments, including Police medicine services. Graham joins PA Bob Hollingsworth at the clinic. Released on December 1, 2014, the guide is modeled and Public Safety, Student Conduct, Hu- ANTHONY SMITH ’90, plant manager of Contempora Fabrics in man Resources and Athletics. Her duties Lumberton, has been selected Robeson County’s Industrialist of RAY SHEPPARD ’97 was named director of distance learning at Bladen Com- after “The Associated Press Stylebook.” the Year for 2014. Smith was recognized for his accomplishments munity College. Sheppard, a Cumberland County native and graduate of Cape The “Indian Country Stylebook” comprises more than will also involve consultation with the Cam- at Robeson County’s annual appreciation dinner, held in Lumber- Fear High School, has worked at BCC since 2008 as an adjunct instructor and 100 entries on spelling and word usage. As an undergrad- In September, Ronette Sutton pus Judicial and Appeal boards. ton. The event was sponsored by the Robeson County Committee full-time faculty member. He is a graduate of BCC and The University of North uate, Jacobs served as UNCP’s director of Resource Gerber ’89 was appointed the “I’m excited about the transition from of 100, BB&T, Lumbee Guaranty Bank and the Lumbee River Carolina at Pembroke. and Promotions. She describes her work at the director of Title IX and Clery associate general counsel to director of college, where she headed a campus-wide Compliance. She previously served Title IX and Clery Compliance,” Gerber Electric Membership Corporation. Contempora Fabrics, which Class of 1995 telecommunications project, as a formative as associate general counsel for said. “Gender discrimination and sexual specializes in knit fabrics, currently has about 160 employees. A experience. the university. The position is the assault are important issues for this and all native of Lumberton, Smith earned a degree in business manage- A Lumberton speech pathologist has been appointed by Gov. Pat McCrory to “I don’t think the new graduates realize most recent addition to the staff of universities to address. I look forward to ment. After graduating from the university, he became a knitting the North Carolina Board of Examiners for Speech and Language Pathologists that we built that broadcasting program at Office of the Chancellor. working with staff, faculty and students to supervisor at Contempora, followed by maintenance and safety and Audiologists. ALLISON HARRINGTON 95, who is the owner and president ’ the university from the ground up,” she In this role, Gerber oversees ensure this is a safe campus environment committee chairman, knitting department manager and then of Speech Solutions, was appointed to the seven-member board on October 22. said. “It was where I cut my teeth.” the administration of policies, that is free of these issues; a place where plant manager, a position he has held since February 2003. Harrington will serve on the board until 2017. Harrington opened Speech Solu- The “Indian Country Stylebook” can be procedures and data collection to everyone can have enjoyable professional tions in her Rowland home before moving it to its Fayetteville Road location in Class of 1989 purchased online. ensure UNCP’s compliance with and academic experiences.” 2004. She has expanded the business to include offices in Laurinburg, White- Title IX of the Education Amend- Gerber holds both Juris Doctorate MARK KINLAW 89, a Lumberton native and longtime vice pres- ville and Shallotte. Harrington is the executive chairperson for the Lumbee ’ ments of 1972 as it relates to gen- (1997) and Master of Public Administration ident at Robeson Community College, has been tapped to lead Regional Development Association Policy Committee and is the founder of the der discrimination, with particular (1992) degrees from UNC-Chapel Hill, and Rockingham Community College as its president. He has served Allison Harrington Endowed Scholarship, which provides support for residents emphasis on sports, employment is a 1989 graduate of UNCP, where she as vice president for Instruction and Support Services at RCC in Robeson and Brunswick counties to attend The University of North Carolina and sexual harassment. She will earned a Bachelor of Arts degree. since 2001. Before that, he worked as the chairman of the school’s at Pembroke. Early Childhood/Social Science Department from 1997 to 2001. In 2014, Harrington was given UNCP’s Outstanding Alumnus Award. She taught Jamie Burney He was director of Title III technology grants from 1994 to 1997, middle school in Robeson County for more than four years and has been a Kimberly Locklear promoted and director of Planning and Research from 1988 to 1994. Kinlaw speech language pathologist for 14 years. is PSRC’s taught college-level education and history for five years and previ- ously worked with the Public Schools of Robeson County. Teacher to director of purchasing of the Year Kimberly system, and BraveCart, the university’s Class of 1988 Class of 1993 Locklear ’98, procurement program that was created by Jamie Burney ’01 Topsail High School of Pender County has named After a five-year hiatus from coaching at the high school level, ’05 has been SciQuest. She served as the department has taken another DEANNA MORRIS ’88 as athletic director. She is a graduate of DAN WILLIS 93 is returning to Laney High School as the head promoted to administrator for BraveCart and led its ’ step in a successful Eastern Wayne High School, where she ran track and cross- wrestling coach. Willis, who graduated from UNC Pembroke in director of the implementation. teaching career by being country and UNC-Pembroke, where she was a member of the 1993 with degrees in psychology and physical education, is practi- Purchasing Department. A 15-year UNCP employee, Locklear named the 2014–15 Teacher of the Year for the Public Schools of crosscountry team. Morris has been teaching for 20 years, the last cally a wrestling coaching legend in the Cape Fear region. Willis coached from As director, Locklear manages is excited about the new opportunity. “It’s Robeson County. 10 years at Spring Creek, a grade six–12 school. She has served as 1995 to 2004 at Hoggard High School and from 2006 to 2009 at Laney. the purchasing programs of going to be a learning experience, but Burney was a Teaching and a busy student at UNCP. He university and has responsibility for this opportunity gives me the chance to the middle school athletic director and the high school assistant Class of 1991 was twice elected a senator to the Student Government Association. planning, directing and coordinating use both my knowledge and training,” athletic director. Morris is the president of the NCAAE (North He was elected vice president his senior year and also served as all functions as relates to the she said. “We have a great staff in place Carolina Association of Athletic Education), a division of the CHIFFON STRICKLAND JENKINS 91 ’ was born in Lumberton and currently treasurer for the UNC Association of Student Governments. purchase of goods and services. She who are capable, knowledgeable and North Carolina Alliance for Athletics, Health, Physical Education, resides in Atlanta, Ga. Growing up in rural North Carolina as an only child, she At Fairmont Middle School, where he teaches language arts, brings to the job more than 13 years experienced.” Recreation, Dance and Sports Management (NCAAHPERD), a loved children’s stories and her endless adventures playing with her cousins Burney continues to be involved. He is faculty advisor of purchasing experience in higher As the new director of the Purchasing nonprofit organization of athletics, health, physical education, at their grandmother’s farm. Jenkins is drawn to the strength and resilience of to the school’s Junior Beta Club. On a bigger stage, Burney is past education and reports to Carlton Department, Locklear will focus on recreation, dance and sports management professionals. Morris children and said: “It’s the purity of young imagination and the sense of being president of the Robeson Association of Educators and currently Spellman, assistant vice chancellor customer service and training. has been married for 15 years and has two grown daughters. able to do anything that makes me long to write about, and for, children.” “A on its board of directors. for administration. “The role of our office is to facilitate the Day With Gran” is the first book from the Goldflower Adventure Series. This “Absolutely, teaching was the right choice for me,” he said. Proficient in state purchasing success of every department and office on story is meant to introduce young readers to Olivia and explain how her sense “There is a lot of work if you’re doing it right. I make sure my stu- laws and policies, Locklear has campus,” Locklear said. of adventure and bravery are given life. Olivia’s imagination always gets the dents understand the material, and if they don’t, I go back considerable experience with UNCP A Laurinburg, N.C., native, best of her. A cast of characters from various background the cultural diversity and rework my lesson plan.” policies and procedures as well. Locklear earned a degree in Business of the heroes makes it easy for any reader to attach him to a relatable character. A Lumberton native and first-generation college graduate, Locklear is also proficient in Administration and a Master’s degree in “A Day With Gran” is currently available at Amazon.com in both paperback and Burney was an outstanding student in high school and college. Banner, UNCP’s data management Public Administration. Kindle editions. He is also a firm believer in lifelong education.

34 WINTER 2015 UNCP TODAY UNCP TODAY WINTER 2015 35 ALUMNI | UNIVERSITY OF NORTH CAROLINA PEMBROKE

Class of 1987

DR. JAMIE OXENDINE ’87 is a Native American speaker, writer and teacher, storyteller, professional musician/educator and civil IN MEMORIAM rights activist. He is of Lumbee/Creek ancestry and a member of The Lumbee Tribe of North Carolina. Oxendine sits on several state boards, including the Ohio Humanities Council and The War of 1812 Bicentennial Commission, and was recently appointed by the governor, after approval of the state House and Senate, to the Ohio Historic Site Preservation Board for nominating and DR. KAY MCCLANAHAN, professor and BARTO CLARK JR. ’50 died last fall at the approving sites for the National Register. He also sits on the K-12 chair of English, Theatre, and Foreign age of 88. A Pembroke native and lifetime Education Committee and chairs the Grants Policy Committee. Languages, died peacefully at her home resident, he died on October 27, 2014. Oxendine has also been appointed to the Fallen Timbers Battle on June 14, 2014. She had been battling He was born in Robeson County on March Commission and teaches “Indians of North America” at the cancer since December 2013. 24, 1926. Clark, or “Uncle Buck,” as he was College of Languages and Sciences at the University of Toledo. “Those who knew Kay appreciated her known to family and friends, was a World Class of 1984 quick wit, fierce loyalty, attention to detail War II veteran. When he returned from and unfiltered honesty,” said Dr. Wen- the war, Clark enrolled in Pembroke State ALVINA B. BLANKS ’84 has joined the faculty at Frances dy Miller, a colleague. “She was deeply College and graduated in 1950. Marion University as an instructor of mathematics. She earned an devoted to her friends, colleagues and He was the president of the Student Gov- M.A. and a B.S. in mathematics education from Pembroke State students, and she will be terribly missed.” ernment Association in 1949-50, and his engraved image hangs University. Eddie Mac Locklear She earned a Ph.D. at the University of on the Wall of Presidents in the James B. Chavis University Center. Class of 1982 Illinois, a Master of Arts degree from American University and a Clark’s name also appears on the university’s Heritage Walk in front contributes Indianhead Bachelor of Arts degree from St. Andrews Presbyterian College. Dr. of Old Main with all the school’s graduates until 1955. Clark was a ELIZABETH WARD ’82 was named one of Pitt County’s McClanahan came to Pembroke in 1999. teacher and principal, and for his church, he served as a deacon Elementary Teacher of the Year winners. Ward currently teaches and Sunday school teacher. nickel art third- and fourth-graders at Falkland Elementary School. She is Friends of Dr. McClanahan have established a scholarship in her National Board certified. name for theatre students at UNCP. Indianhead nickels are highly and one in Pembroke. collectible, and this one is priceless “The family agreed to the gift, and we Class of 1976 TESSIE LEE HUNT ‘42, a 1942 graduate of JAMES FURMAN “BUDDY” BELL ‘58 to Eddie Mac Locklear ’58. think the Chancellor’s Residence is a good JEFF CUSHING ’76 died on January 6, 2015. Cushing was an Pembroke State College, died on September did it all with grace and humility. A veteran, A rare hand-painted 1935 place for it,” he said. NAIA All-American in 1975 after winning the 1,000-meter run 28, 2014. She was 93. athlete, educator, civic leader and patriarch of Indianhead nickel necklace was Locklear, who worked for Robeson in the indoor national championships. He was named to the one of Pembroke’s outstanding families, Bell gifted to UNC Pembroke on Community College for many years, is one Athletic Hall of Fame in 1993. Cushing pursued sports and Hunt was a recipient of the Order of the died on December 24, 2014, at the age of 83. August 28 in memory of Locklear’s of the original 100 members of the Braves recreation across several career endeavors, and died after Long Leaf Pine. She was a founding member wife, Mary Ellen. Set in gold and Club, the university’s athletic booster club. being struck by an automobile while riding a bicycle on a of the Lumbee Tribal Elders and participated Bell was a proud supporter of UNCP and accented with a piece of turquoise, He is currently a member of its Board of country road in Robeson County. regularly in their activities, including quilt Purnell Swett High School athletics. He the piece is framed and mounted Directors. making. helped lead the charge for the return of above a dedication plaque. The Chancellor Carter called it a unique Class of 1969 football in 2007, and was a founding member In 2007, Hunt attended the dedication of artwork will go on display in the piece of art that is a good fit with the of the Braves Club, a university trustee from On July 18, STEVE CLARK ’69 reached the summit of the 19,340- UNCP’s Heritage Walk, where her name is Chancellor’s Residence. university’s heritage. 1988 to 1991 and a recipient of UNCP’s Locklear and several family The Indianhead nickel is also known foot Mount Kilimanjaro. Steve, a former teacher in Virginia, inscribed with early graduates from when the college was all-Indian. Alaska, Washington, England, Turkey and the , Distinguished Service Award. members–daughter Sharon as the buffalo nickel because of the image Hunt taught school for two years in Fairmont, worked in nursing at participated in a six-day Tanzanian safari following his climb. ’85, son-in-law Eric ’84, and on the reverse side of the coin. They were Baker Hospital in Lumberton and returned to teaching at Magnolia Bell was a member of the Pembroke Jaycees, Lions Club and VFW. He School, where she remained for 28 years. also served for many years on the Pembroke Parade Committee and was granddaughter Josie–met with issued from 1913 to 1938 and represent the grand marshal of the 2014 Pembroke Twilight Christmas Parade. Chancellor Carter to make the some of the most iconic art that the U.S. Her mission work to children included teaching Bible studies. She was presentation. Locklear collected Mint has produced. Recent prices for a member of the Pembroke chapter of the Business and Professional He was a graduate of Magnolia High School and served in the Korean War. coins as a hobby for many years the five-cent pieces run into the hundreds Women’s Club, which endowed a scholarship at UNCP. and specialized in Indianhead of dollars, depending on condition and nickels. Lately, he has been gifting other factors. them to friends. MAGDALENE C. CANADY ‘35, Popular mass communication professor “I gave one of the painted ones the university’s oldest living graduate, TONY CURTIS died on January 23, to a visiting professor from South died on January 2. 2015, after a brief bout with cancer Africa,” he said. “So, there is one in at the age of 74. Dr. Curtis is survived Canady, or “Mag,” as she was affectionately by his wife of 37 years, Judy Curtis, known to friends and relatives, was 102 and who is an associate professor of mass a member of the class of 1935 when UNCP MAC CAMPBELL GIFT communication. was known as the Cherokee Indian Normal University officials recently recognized Mac ’68 and Sylvia Campbell School. Dr. Curtis taught in higher education since 1967 and came to UNCP in 2002. for their continued generosity to athletics and the School of Business. Canady lived in Antioch, about five miles south of St. Pauls. “She was He received an Outstanding Teaching From left they are: Dick Christy, athletic director, Hunter Wortham, very well known,” said Lawrence Locklear, university historian. Through Award in 2012. He served as the chair of assistant vice chancellor of Advancement, Mac Campbell, Dr. John his research, Locklear discovered that she was the college’s oldest the Faculty Senate and as president of the Friends of the Library. Parnell, interim dean of the School of Business, and Wendy Lowery, vice living graduate, and that she was having her 100th birthday. chancellor of Advancement. Dr. Curtis and Judy breathed life into UNCP’s journalism programs Canady, who was the oldest of four children, received a two-year and into the Pine Needle. Possessing a lively and engaged mind, degree, as the school did not award four-year degrees until 1940. he had deep interest in space, electronics, computer technology, Canady was the last of the one-room school teachers among the amateur radio and journalism. Lumbee Indians and one of the last in the county. She taught at the old Barker School near St. Pauls and later taught at Magnolia School.

36 WINTER 2015 UNCP TODAY UNCP TODAY WINTER 2015 37 NON PROFIT ORG US POSTAGE PAID RALEIGH NC Office of Alumni Relations PERMIT No. 675 P.O. Box 1510 Pembroke, NC 28372

In Tribute To Sarah Carter

UNCP’s First Lady Sarah Carter has been an ever-present figure on campus for the past five years, serving as official hostess for countless campus and community groups – opening the Chancellor’s Residence to 40 or more events each year. Sarah was a faithful committee member for landmark events such as the university’s 125th anniversary celebration, the Board of Governor’s meeting and the faculty-staff holiday party. She was instrumental in the creation of the Hawk Walk, a fitness trail through campus, and many of the sustainability efforts on campus. It is with admiration and fondness that we say thank you and wish Sarah and Kyle the very best in their retirement.