UNCThe magazine of The CharlotteUniversity of North Carolina at Charlotte for Alumni and Friends • v17 n1 q2 • 2010

The Adventure Continues Dubois marks five years as chancellor

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Moving Forward In Trying Times

As we approach a new fiscal year, Governor ascendance as the nation’s “New Energy Perdue and the General Assembly are making Capital,” and EPIC will provide the cutting- important decisions about funding for higher edge research facilities and professional education. Since last spring, the North personnel necessary to the region’s future Carolina economy has continued to struggle, economic development. resulting in lagging state revenues to support The UNC Charlotte football program is the University and other state agencies. As a another initiative that will do a great deal for consequence, UNC Charlotte was forced to our University and for the region. Over the reduce its permanent budget by about $12.7 past year, the Board of Trustees and the UNC million for the 2009-2010 academic year. For Board of Governors unanimously approved 2010-2011, it is possible that UNC Charlotte plans to move forward with a football program could face additional cuts in the range of $9- that will begin competition in the fall of 2013. 10 million. The proposal calls for the University to borrow As the General Assembly goes to work on $40.5 million to construct a permanent a budget for next year, the economic situation 15,000-seat stadium, field house, and adjacent in North Carolina remains a question mark. practice fields. The Department of Athletics But there can be no question that we are has raised more than $6 million through seat very concerned about taking on even deeper license sales and private contributions, both cuts than those we have already sustained. of which we expect to accelerate once the These budget reductions affect all areas of General Assembly has given the final “green the University, including admissions, student light” for us to proceed. Fortunately, no state At the same financial aid, student/faculty ratios, availability funds are required to be approved. of courses to support students’ timely progress Finally, as best we can, we want to continue time as we toward degree completion, academic and to remain accessible to students seeking career advising, personal counseling, the undergraduate and graduate degrees. We expect struggle to protect provision of classroom/laboratory supplies to enroll over 25,000 students this coming fall. and equipment, and support for the work of How rapidly we grow toward our expected core academic the faculty and staff. With advance planning eventual enrollment of 35,000 students we have been able to avoid widespread and will depend on the availability of adequate activities, we also permanently damaging personnel layoffs. financial and physical resources. We remain don’t want the But the only way this has been accomplished optimistic that the Governor and the General is by our not filling more than 150 staff Assembly will eventually find a way to fund current budgetary and faculty positions that were intended to new construction required for our continued support our growth in enrollment. We are no growth, including a new $120 million Science circumstances to longer trimming at the edges, we are cutting Building that remains unfunded at this time. dangerously close to the core. As always, you are invited to visit campus stop our forward At the same time as we struggle to protect at any time. If you haven’t had a chance to see core academic activities, we also don’t want the the steel frame of the EPIC building rising momentum as current budgetary circumstances to stop our from the Charlotte Research Campus or forward momentum as an institution. the new Student Union, I can promise that an institution. With advocacy on our behalf by UNC you will be amazed at these remarkable new System President Erskine Bowles, former additions to the landscape of UNC Charlotte. Vice Chancellor of University Relations If you ever had any doubts, you’ll leave having and Community Affairs David Dunn, and realized that “it’s great to be a Niner!” the EPIC Advisory Board, the General Assembly provided $2 million last year in Cordially, ongoing funding to support the hiring of faculty and staff for our Energy Production and Infrastructure Center (EPIC). We hope to secure the final installment of $3 million of requested funding in the 2010 legislative session. An educated workforce will play Philip L. Dubois a critical role in the Charlotte region’s Chancellor

UNC CHARLOTTE magazine www.UNCC.edu

UNCC-2Q10-final.indd 44 5/24/10 10:48 AM contents | UNC CHARLOTTE

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features departments 18 3 Meditation Helps 4 News Briefs Cognition 22 Center Stage 24 49ers Notebook 12 Chancellor Dubois - The 39 Class Notes Adventure Continues 40 Building Blocks 18 Pushing It to the Limit - 41 P erspective Motorsports Engineering stake your claim profi les 28 Doing Good - Humanitarian Honored 10 Seth Avett 16 Leigh Derby 30 Making of the Modern 34 Tracy Dodson Research Library 36 Michael Marsicano

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On the cover: Chancellor Philip L. Dubois refl ects on his fi rst fi ve years at the helm of North Carolina’s urban research university.

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Forward, forward!

“Locksley Hall” by Alfred, Lord Tennyson reads, in part, “Forward, forward let us range. Let the great world spin for ever down the ringing grooves of change.” And thus it is at UNC Charlotte, where change truly is a constant and where even The University of North Carolina at Charlotte bittersweet changes haven’t dulled our trajectory. In this edition you’ll read all about change. Our cover story Volume 17, Number 2 tracks the first five years of Chancellor Philip L. Dubois’ tenure. Could there be more change in such a short time? More than Philip L. Dubois a dozen new academic buildings and other facilities have come Chancellor on line or are moving fast toward completion. Enrollment has Ruth Shaw increased by more than 5,000. Twelve new academic programs Chair of the Board of Trustees have begun. GPAs and SAT scores for incoming freshmen have Editor leapt significantly. A 12-story Center City building is rising fast. We’re starting a Director of Public Relations football team for goodness sake! These are all great changes for the university but John D. Bland just a sample of many, many enhancements. Creative Director Change. Read about our inaugural class of Levine Scholars. Read about the Fabi Preslar ingenious work going on to enhance the J. Murrey Atkins Library into a model Contributing Writers 21st century resource for the campus and the community. These are great, great Phillip Brown benefits for UNC Charlotte and the Charlotte region. James Hathaway Change brings challenges of course. Read, for example, of the departure of Cliff Mehrtens Arthur Murray Vice Chancellor David Dunn, a 1980 graduate. No one loves UNC Charlotte Paul Nowell more, and he has proven that in his roles leading the division of University Lisa A. Patterson

Relations & Community Affairs, and previously the Alumni Affairs department. Staff Photographer David also served for many years as UNC Charlotte’s government liaison (read Wade Bruton lobbyist) in Raleigh. He was crucial to bringing to campus millions of dollars Circulation Manager of appropriations. He’ll be a tough act to follow, but he’s moving on to a fresh Cathy Brown challenge and that is a joyful thing. At UNC Charlotte, change happens – and plenty of it. And by providence and Design & Production SPARK Publications hard work, that moves us forward, forward. Regards, UNC Charlotte is published four times a year by The University of North Carolina at Charlotte, 9201 University City Blvd., Charlotte, NC 28223-0001 ISSN 10771913

Editorial offices: Reese Building, 2nd floor The University of North Carolina at Charlotte 9201 University City Blvd. John D. Bland, Editor Charlotte, NC 28223 704.687.5825; Fax: 704.687.6379 Director of Public Relations The University of North Carolina at Charlotte is open to people of all races and is committed to equality of educational opportunity and does not discriminate against applicants, students or employees based on race, color, national origin, religion, Printed on sex, sexual orientation, age or disability. recycled paper

17,500 copies of this publication were printed at a cost of $.52 per piece, for a total cost of $9,210.

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UNCC-2Q10-final.indd 2 5/21/10 2:13 PM Brief Meditative Exercise Helps Cognition

By James Hathaway

Some of us need regular amounts of coffee group) after four days of training for only School of Medicine. He’s a former doctoral or other stimulants to make us cognitively 20 minutes each day. student at the University of North Carolina sharper. A newly published study suggests “In the behavioral test results, what we at Charlotte, where the research was perhaps a brief bit of meditation would prepare are seeing is something that is somewhat conducted. us just as well. comparable to results that have been “Simply stated, the profound improvements While past research using neuro-imaging documented after far more extensive that we found after just four days of technology has shown that meditation training,” said Fadel Zeidan, a post-doctoral techniques can promote significant changes in researcher at Wake Forest University Continued on p. 33 brain areas associated with concentration, it has always been assumed that extensive training was required to achieve this effect. Though many people would like to boost their cognitive abilities, the monk-like discipline required seems like a daunting time commitment and financial cost for this benefit. Surprisingly, the benefits may be achievable even without all the work. Though it sounds almost like an advertisement for a “miracle” weight-loss product, new research now suggests that the mind may be easier to cognitively train than we previously believed. Psychologists studying the effects of a meditation technique known as “mindfulness ” found that meditation-trained participants showed significant improvement in their critical cognitive skills (and performed significantly higher in cognitive tests than a control

“The mind is, in fact, easily changeable and highly infl uenced by meditation.”

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ZABLOTSKY NAMED LEVINE In a letter accompanying her application have moved beyond the university to make their SCHOLARS DIRECTOR for a faculty position, Zablotsky envisioned a mark in the world.” Sociology Professor Diane Zablotsky has been learning community of students that would Provost Joan Lorden described Zablotsky appointed director of the Levine Scholars Program foster a broad understanding of international as a highly respected faculty member at UNC Charlotte. In June, she will succeed issues tied to an opportunity for service. and administrator. interim director This vision was realized with the creation “Her knowledge of UNC Charlotte and our Al Maisto, of the Sociology/Anthropology Learning community will be invaluable as we launch who helped get Community, which is now the Global the Levine Scholars Program,” she said. “What the new merit Village Learning Community. Students in distinguished Diane most in the large field of scholarship that program are involved in an international competitive candidates that we attracted for program off service learning experiences. this position was the passion that she has for the ground. Zablotsky has similar expectations for the students, their personal and intellectual growth, Zablotsky Levine Scholars Program. and their success.” joined the “My vision would be to create a premier Last month, the members of the inaugural UNC Charlotte experience for the scholars in ways that allow class of 15 Levine Scholars were introduced faculty in 1992 them to take the individual gifts they bring as as the new scholarship program was officially as an assistant Diane Zablotsky entering freshmen and blossom into mature launched. The group includes 10 young leaders professor and scholars, role models, and leaders when they from North Carolina and five other states. was promoted to associate professor in 1999. leave the university four years later,” she wrote. They will take their place among their peers on Along with her teaching duties, she currently serves “The success of both the program and my campus in the fall 2010 semester. as Associate Dean of Student Support Services leadership would be fulfilled when students The scholarships were made possible by in the College of Liberal Arts and Sciences. She from across the country are drawn to UNC philanthropists Leon and Sandra Levine, who also served as interim chair of the Sociology and Charlotte seeking this opportunity to fulfill committed $9.3 million to UNC Charlotte for Anthropology in the 2005-06 academic year. their potential, and alumni of the program the scholarship program to develop community service leaders. Leon Levine is the founder and chairman emeritus of Matthews, N.C.-based Family Dollar Stores, Inc. The Levines are SORENSEN ADDS INTERIM POST involved in a number of civic and charitable In May, Chancellor Dubois announced that Niles Sorensen causes in the Charlotte region through The Leon will serve as interim vice chancellor for the division of University Levine Foundation. Relations and Community Affairs (URCA). Sorensen also will continue in his role as vice chancellor for Development and VICE CHANCELLOR DAVID DUNN Alumni Affairs. MOVES ON TO COMPASS GROUP Sorensen, who joined the University in 2006, will fill in for David Dunn, UNC Charlotte’s first David Dunn, who recently stepped down as vice chancellor vice chancellor for university relations and for URCA. “Niles has been a superb member of my Cabinet,” Niles Sorensen community affairs (URCA), stepped down said Dubois. “I am grateful to him for taking on these May 15 to pursue a position in the additional responsibilities.” private sector. URCA was formed in January 2006 to foster enhanced local, regional and statewide Dunn, who was appointed by Chancellor awareness of and support for the mission of UNC Charlotte. It comprises the offices of Philip L. Dubois to head the new URCA Broadcast Communications, Community Affairs, Events and Special Projects, Governmental division in December 2005, now serves as vice Affairs, Marketing and Public Relations. president of sales for higher education at the Sorensen will serve in his interim role until Dubois makes a final decision on the future of Americas Division of Compass Group. The URCA structure and staffing, likely by the end of December, 2010. Dubois has indicated that London-based company is a world leader in he expects to make a decision by mid-summer as to whether to maintain the vice chancellor’s foodservice management and support services. responsibilities for legislative relations or to create a separate position that will be solely Its Americas Division is based in Charlotte. responsible for UNC Charlotte’s state and local governmental relations. Dunn served as the university’s governmental To help in evaluating the current and future organizational, strategic and staffing needs of liaison with the General Assembly in Raleigh. URCA, Dubois has hired former Wachovia Corp. executive Shannon W. McFayden for a part- He worked closely with legislators to secure time advisory role. She will start work on June 1. key appropriations and to increase the overall McFayden served as senior executive vice president, head of human resources and amount of state funding for UNC Charlotte. corporate relations for Wachovia, where she had responsibility for human resources, corporate Dubois has initiated a search for communications and community relations. Dunn’s successor.

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UNCC-2Q10-final.indd 4 5/21/10 2:13 PM Fifteen Named Levine Scholars

Fifteen young leaders from high schools School of Science and Mathematics, Mount “The response from top students from across the United States, including 10 from Olive, daughter of Julia and Remus Outlaw; around the country was more than we could North Carolina, have been named the first Jasmine Patterson, South Stanly High School, have envisioned,” said Chancellor Philip L. group of Levine Scholars at the University of Norwood, daughter of Merry and Robert Dubois. “Their credentials are at the very North Carolina at Charlotte. Patterson; and Cassady Schulte, Independence highest echelon, which made the selection It is the inaugural year for the prestigious High School, Charlotte, daughter of Cathy process very difficult because of the quality of merit scholarship program, which covers and Lee Schulte. the individuals and the group as a whole.” the cost of all tuition and fees, housing and The other recipients come from five other Al Maisto, associate dean for the Honors meals, books, a laptop computer and summer states. They are: College and Interim Director for the Levine experiences. Additional funding is provided to Vrushab Gowda, Manalapan High Scholars Program, echoed those sentiments: support community service work during the School, Manalapan, N.J., son of Amba and “The young scholars who accepted the Levine academic years. H.I. Gowda; Karen Gray, Oak Mountain Scholarship were by and large fiercely sought The value of the scholarship is about High School, Birmingham, Ala., daughter after by other institutions,” he said. “The fact $90,000 for each in-state student and of Deborah and John Gray; Celia Karp, that they choose to come here is significant $140,000 for each out-of-state student. Walter Johnson High School, Bethesda, and speaks to what UNC Charlotte has to The 10 Levine Scholars from North Md., daughter of Andrea and Robert offer to students of this caliber.” Carolina are: Karp; Caitlin Vaverek, St. Thomas Aquinas The first group of Levine Scholars will Anna Bawtinhimer, Arendell Parrott High School, Plantation, Fla., daughter of take their place among their peers on campus Academy, Ayden, daughter of Stacey and Gary Barbara and Kevin Vaverek; and Jonathan in the fall 2010 semester. Throughout the Bawtinhimer; Caroline Brewer, High Point Wainwright, Allegany-Limestone High school year, Levine Scholars will be expected Christian Academy, High Point, daughter of School, Allegany, N.Y., son of Leslie to actively engage with established community Cheri and George Brewer; Evan Danchenka, Pasternacki and Jeffrey Wainwright. organizations or develop their own resolution Hickory Ridge High School, Harrisburg, This year’s recipients were selected to key issues facing Charlotte. son of Janelle and Gary Danchenka; Mack through a lengthy nomination and To support their work in service to Herman, Maiden High School, Newton, interview process. More than 1,000 society, recipients also will have access to an son of Terri and Anthony Herman; Jacob high school seniors from 25 states were $8,000 grant funded by The Leon Levine Huffman, Myers Park High School, Charlotte, nominated by their schools. Foundation and distributed by the UNC son of Janice Sherian and Timothy Huffman. From those nominees, the foundation Charlotte Foundation. Samuel McClenney, St. David’s School, and regional committees chose 43 finalists, The scholarships were made possible by Cary, son of Aleta and Walter McClenney; including 31 from North Carolina. The philanthropists Leon and Sandra Levine, who Christina Neitzey, Topsail High School, out-of-state finalists were from as far away committed $9.3 million to UNC Charlotte Hampstead, daughter of Dawn and Richard as New Jersey, Indiana, New Hampshire, for the merit scholarship program to develop Neitzey; Laura Outlaw, North Carolina Florida and Kansas. community service leaders. Leon Levine is the founder and chairman emeritus of Matthews, N.C.-based Family Dollar Stores, Inc. The Levines are involved in a number of civic and charitable causes in the Charlotte region through The Leon Levine Foundation. “This is truly an outstanding group of young people,” said Leon Levine. “We are looking forward to following their progress at UNC Charlotte and their involvement in our community.” The program has been compared with the esteemed Morehead-Cain Scholars at UNC Chapel Hill, Park Scholars at North Carolina State University and Benjamin N. Duke Scholars at Duke University.

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INTERNATIONALLY KNOWN Aluko. This sometimes controversial presentation involving 50 students from Nathaniel Alexander NIGERIAN PERFORMER TO also mentions notable freedom fighters including Elementary School and James Martin Middle SERVE AS ARTIST-IN-RESIDENCE Paul Robeson, Frederick Douglass, Patrice School. CDF Freedom Schools programs feature Internationally known Nigerian performer Lumumba of the Congo and Queen Nanny of a literacy-based learning curriculum that focus on Tayo Aluko is the Africana Studies Department’s Jamaica. The presentation includes significant empowering children to reach their full potential. artist-in-residence. His visit is in collaboration African philosophy and proverbs, too. This addition to the Freedom School Partners with the College of Arts + Architecture and the was made possible in part by a grant from the Harvey B. Gantt Center for African-American CHILDREN’S DEFENSE FUND Wachovia Wells Foundation. Freedom School Arts and Culture. PARTNERS WITH COLLEGE Partners provides literacy-rich learning programs As a baritone, Aluko has performed as the OF EDUCATION integrating reading, conflict resolution and guest soloist with numerous orchestras, choirs UNC Charlotte is staking its claim to assist social action in an activity-based curriculum that and brass bands in the United Kingdom, at-risk children by serving as the host of a site promotes social, cultural and historical awareness. Germany, Ireland and Nigeria. His signature for a 2010 Children’s Defense Fund Freedom FSP is dedicated to serving at-risk students and production, “Call Mr. Robeson,” premiered Schools summer program. Mary Lynne Calhoun, families living in poverty in the Carolinas. at Edinburgh Fringe in August 2007. He has dean of the College of Education, announced the performed the play around the United Kingdom, initiative March 24. BUSINESS STUDENTS COMPETE IN United States and Canada, and he went on the “This was a natural chain of events due to NATIONAL INVESTMENT CHALLENGE win the coveted Argus Angel Award for Artistic longstanding relationships with Freedom School A team of UNC Charlotte students recently Excellence, Best Male Performer Award and a Partners and the rising need in the community,” represented North Carolina in a national nomination for the Best Show at the Brighton said Sherell Fuller of the Department of Reading investment research challenge in New York City. Festival Fringe in May 2008. and Elementary Education, who has been named Lee Bowles, Jarrod Green, Brian Schaffer, Aluko’s latest piece is “I Got a Home in the program’s site coordinator. Suken Shah and Bruce Silverman qualified by Barack (From Africa to the White House: A The CDF Freedom Schools summer program having the top report and oral presentation in Journey of Resistance, Triumph and Spirituals).” will serve as a learning tool for UNC Charlotte a state challenge in February. They competed The musically illustrated talk explores African student interns and summer school students against teams from Duke, Wake Forest and pre-slavery history, Africans’ resistance to who will work with the children. Fuller said, the Appalachian State universities. white domination over the centuries and the location at UNC Charlotte is “an unbelievably The national competition, the Americas symbolic triumph resulting from the election valuable resource to give these children access to a Regional Investment Research Challenge, was and inauguration of Barack Obama. The college campus.” sponsored by the CFA Institute, the global, not- performance features selected spirituals sung by The program will run from June 21 to July 30 for-profit association of investment professionals

UNC CHARLOTTE PART OF Becky Carney collapsed in her Endowment is administering COLLABORATION TO SAVE LIVES legislative office and went into the distribution of the Several organizations united to increase cardiac arrest on April 2, 2009. machines and providing availability of portable defibrillators in Her life was saved because a the essential training on Charlotte. UNC Charlotte partnered with portable defibrillator was available proper usage. The Lucky several organizations to support Strive to at the time of the incident. Hearts Campaign has been Revive, an initiative that made available “I am pleased a new program increasing the availability of 20 Automated External Defibrillators to will save lives by increasing the the devices in Mecklenburg Charlotte-area places of worship. number of portable defibrillators County since 2008. The Strive to Revive initiative sought to in Charlotte. I know how Rep. Becky Carney Additional partners increase the chance of survival of sudden important it is to have these include Bank of America, cardiac arrest patients through training and devices in public places. I am living proof Blue Cross and Blue Shield of North bystander intervention. The program focused that a defibrillator will increase the chance of Carolina, Carolinas Healthcare System, on places of worship, as consistently large survival to anyone that may experience cardiac Duke Energy Carolinas, Mecklenburg gathering places, and was designed to help arrest in a public setting,” said Rep. Carney. Medical Alliance and Endowment, populations disproportionately impacted by The Lucky Hearts Campaign, a public Mecklenburg EMS Agency (Medic),the heart disease, cardiac arrest and other health education collaborative spearheaded by N.C. Association of Electric Cooperatives, risk factors or disparities. Mecklenburg EMS Agency (Medic) and Mecklenburg County Farm Bureau, Progress The program was developed after state Rep. the Mecklenburg Medical Alliance and Energy and Reynolds American.

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UNCC-2Q10-final.indd 6 5/21/10 2:13 PM that awards the CFA and CIPM designations. The UNC Charlotte students are enrolled in the Belk College’s Student Managed Investment Fund, a year-long finance course established to give students hands-on experience in investing and financial analysis. Assets for the SMIF are provided by the UNC Charlotte Foundation. Judson Russell, clinical associate professor of finance, is the SMIF adviser and served as coach for the student investment team. “We are incredibly proud of the students for their performance in the state investment challenge and their representation of North Carolina in New York,” said Joe Mazzola, dean of the Belk College. Lyman Johnson is fl anked by Marc Horgan of First Citizens Bank (left), Johnson’s wife Sue and Chancellor Philip L. Dubois. 49ERS MAKE MAJOR HIRE In April the Charlotte 49ers named Alan Johnson Receives 2010 First Major, formerly an assistant coach at Ohio State, as head men’s basketball coach, following an Citizens Bank Scholars Medal extensive national search. “Alan comes from a strong background For his contributions to the knowledge and understanding of colonial Latin that includes success at the highest level,” American history, Lyman L. Johnson is the 2010 recipient of the First Citizens Bank said Director of Athletics Judy Rose. But just Scholars Medal. The prestigious award, presented by First Citizens Bank and UNC as important as the impressive credentials of Charlotte, honors faculty scholarship and intellectual inquiry. great players and teams he has been a part of “Lyman Johnson is the kind of professor you’d always hoped you would have, the is the great energy he exhibits and the genuine kind of colleague you are grateful to work with, and the kind of friend you cherish care he shows for his players. He wants to throughout your life,” a colleague wrote about Johnson, a history professor at the develop student-athletes not only in basketball university since 1987. but in life.” Johnson’s research on the lives of middle-and working-class men and women in late Major spent the last six seasons as an 18th- and early 19th-century Argentina has helped establish the Department of History assistant to Thad Matta at Ohio State. Prior as a highly active research department. He has earned a reputation as one of the nation’s to that, he served as an assistant to Matta preeminent historians of colonial Latin America, while helping to grow the department at Xavier for three years. Major, who has an and attract talented scholars to UNC Charlotte. 18-year coaching background, has also had While his fellow scholars and colleagues describe Johnson’s research contributions in stints at Pacific, Southern Illinois and Cal different ways, all of them concur that his work has made an indelible impact on the Lutheran. A native of Indianapolis, Major field. In a field with little outside funding, Johnson has attracted more than $1 million graduated from Purdue in 1992. While at in grant funding from prestigious sources Purdue, Major served as a manager for Gene Johnson also has been the recipient of two Fulbright awards and numerous other Keady’s Boilermakers. He received his master’s distinctions. in education with an emphasis on physical An imaginative and productive scholar, Johnson has authored and co-authored 40 education from Cal Lutheran in 1995. articles and book chapters, and three books, including one of the most widely used Major has been at Ohio State for the last single volume histories of colonial Latin America. six seasons, helping the Buckeyes to a 156-54 record, four NCAA Tournament appearances, a school-record 35 wins in 2006-07, three Musketeers went 78-23 with coach Bruce Weber. His career outright Big Ten regular-season titles and three NCAA appearances, began at Cal Lutheran where two league tournament titles. This past year, including a trip to the Elite he helped the Kingsmen to a Ohio State reached the NCAA Sweet Sixteen Eight in 2004. He coached 61-22 record in three seasons, after winning both the Big Ten regular-season for a total of five seasons including trips to the NCAA and tournament titles. In 2007, the Buckeyes at Pacific, and helped the Div. III Tournament in 1993 reached the NCAA National Championship Tigers to the 1997 NCAA and 1994. game and in 2008, they won the National Tournament. He coached for Major replaces Bobby Lutz, Invitation Tournament title. one season at Southern Illinois who completed a 12-year stint In his three seasons at Xavier, the under current Illinois head Alan Major as 49ers head coach in March.

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PROFESSORS EXCEL IN STEM CRUCIAL DISCIPLINES Four Lee College of Engineering faculty members who were awarded tenure and promoted to associate professor in April are breaking the national trend of under-representation of women among tenured faculty in engineering and other sciences. Gloria Elliott, Brigid (Brid) Mullany, Jiang (Linda) Xie and Terry Xu were awarded tenure and promotion to associate professor, along with their colleagues Ertunga Ozelkan and Qiuming Wei. David Brinkley was promoted to professor. “The promotion of these faculty members recognizes their commitment to the excellence we seek here at UNC Charlotte in Gloria Elliott Jiang Xie all faculty roles,” said Joan Lorden, provost and vice chancellor for Academic Affairs. “It also is significant that four of the six faculty members who were promoted to associate professor in the Lee College of Engineering were women,” Lorden said. “Attracting and retaining women faculty members in engineering and other science and mathematics disciplines is a well-documented national issue. The faculty and administrators of the Lee College of Engineering deserve credit for their efforts to address this national need by creating an environment in which the careers of these outstanding women can flourish.” Brigid Mullany Terry Xu In its February 2010 report, “Why So Few? Women in Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics,” the AAUW suggests creating a collegial environment, providing mentors and revising institutional policies make a difference. Lorden is primary In their research, Xu’s group is interested in synthesis, investigator for an NSF grant that supports such work through characterization and exploration of novel properties of one- the UNC Charlotte ADVANCE initiative. Three of these four dimensional nanostructures. Currently, the research work is focused engineering faculty have received Bonnie Cone Fellowships from on boron-based nanomaterials for thermoelectric energy conversion ADVANCE, and all four have participated in programming. application, which will play an important role in meeting the energy challenges of the future. Xu received the prestigious NSF CAREER award in 2008. STUDENTS WIN AWARDS FROM Xie’s research tackles problems in emerging wireless technologies COLLEGE NEWS ORGANIZATION and networks, such as wireless mesh networks, cognitive radio Students from the University Times Marketing Department networks, wireless body area networks for e-health, vehicular recently won six awards at the College Newspapers Business and networks, and the next-generation Internet. The research has the Advertising Managers conference. potential for societal as well as engineering impact. She won a NSF The students picked up top honors for Best Printed Rate Card and Faculty Early Career Development (CAREER) award in 2010. Best Newspaper Marketing and Promotion Plan; second place awards Mullany also received a prestigious NSF CAREER award for Best Display Ad in Color, Best Sales Incentive Program and in 2008. Her research focuses on precision surface generation Best Sales Increase for a Special Section (for the basketball preview); and evaluation. Precision polishing dynamics has implications and third place for Best Orientation/Back to School Issue (for the for process automation and for industries that include optical Welcome Back edition). component and laser system manufacturers, semiconductor The University Times, produced by the Office of Student Media, fabrication companies and the biomedical sector. is a twice-weekly campus newspaper distributed in a number of Elliott is working with colleagues to develop innovative on- and off-campus locations. Student media organizations are techniques for environmental-friendly, sustainable transformation completely student-operated and foster education and growth for of waste paper products and plant biomass from agriculture students interested in journalism and advertising. CNBAM is a and lumber mills into a marketable liquid fuel commodity. Her professional organization for students and advisers working with research includes a focus on heat and mass transfer, solidification business and advertising departments at collegiate newspapers across phenomena, biological thermodynamics, biomaterials and the nation. biomedical engineering.

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UNCC-2Q10-final.indd 8 5/21/10 2:13 PM Sandra and Leon Levine Awarded Honorary Degrees

Sandra and Leon Levine epitomize the phrase, “Paying it Forward.”

UNC Charlotte honored Sandra and Leon Levine with honorary degrees at the university’s spring commencement May 15 for their philanthropic contributions in the Charlotte community and longstanding support for higher education. The Levines were made honorary Doctors of Public Service for their numerous acts of public service and philanthropy. Most recently, their foundation established the Levine Scholars Program, a merit scholarship, which will enable UNC Charlotte to recruit exceptional student-leaders from around the United States. Leon Levine is the founder of Matthews-based Family Dollar Stores Inc. Leon and Sandra Levine He and his wife, Sandra, are involved in a number of civic and charitable causes in the Charlotte region through the Leon “We were overwhelmed by the selected from top students both Levine Foundation. number of extraordinary students from statewide and across the nation, at UNC “Sandra and Leon Levine epitomize the around the country who applied for Charlotte,” he said. “We want them to phrase, ‘Paying it Forward,’ ” Chancellor these scholarships,” Dubois said. “These use their academic prowess, leadership Philip L. Dubois said. “Their endeavors students are also being recruited by skills, dedication to community service on behalf of our state, our region and other outstanding universities. Because and business talents right here in the our community are, frankly, much too of this new merit scholarship program, Charlotte community.” numerous to list.” they are finding UNC Charlotte offers Leon Levine’s vision is to foster a The Leon Levine Foundation is excellent opportunities in a wide variety commitment among the Levine Scholars funding the largest individual gift of academic disciplines.” to community service and a capacity for commitment, initially valued at $9.3 The 15 recipients of the scholarships what he calls “ethical leadership.” million, in UNC Charlotte’s history. were announced in May. The program has been compared with In February, 43 Levine Scholars Al Maisto, associate dean for the the esteemed Morehead-Cain Scholars Program finalists, selected from more Honors College and interim director for at UNC Chapel Hill, Park Scholars at than 1,000 applicants, visited the UNC the Levine Scholars Program, said the idea N.C. State University and Benjamin N. Charlotte campus. They included nine to start the scholarship program derived Duke Scholars at Duke University. The students from the Charlotte region and from the Levine family’s ongoing efforts value for in-state students will be about others from as far away as Kansas and to give back to the Charlotte community. $90,000 and about $140,000 for out-of- New Hampshire. “The goal is to cultivate new leaders, state students.

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UNCC-2Q10-final.indd 9 5/21/10 2:13 PM UNC CHARLOTTE | stake your claim profile

Growing fame of Avett Brothers comes at the right time

Seth Avett is not “The Man”

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By Paul Nowell

It’s mid-morning when Seth Avett pulls his pickup truck into the shopping center parking lot off University City Boulevard. Dented and missing some of its tannish- brown paint, the truck shows plenty of signs of use on his father’s farm, hauling firewood, hay and music equipment. No one seems to take notice when Avett walks into the Java Jackson shop and orders a latte. He is the younger half of the Avett closing act at MerleFest, transforming the If the clerk, a young woman wearing a brothers, who are from Concord. The band usual Sunday afternoon from a lineup Georgia Southern sweatshirt, recognizes the is gaining more popularity as the months of acoustic folk and gospel music into a celebrated musician, she is deserving of a go by since the release of its album, which raucous affair. job with the Secret Service or at least a role was produced by Rick Rubin, who also has Even for Seth Avett, it’s hard to imagine on the television show “24.” She takes his worked with artists including Johnny Cash, that just a few short years ago you could money and hands Avett his coffee and a few the Dixie Chicks and the Red Hot Chili catch the Avett Brothers in parking lots coins and goes about her business. Peppers. and wine shops for the price of a drink – or Avett, dressed in the dark attire he While virtually impossible to pigeonhole, less. At the time, he skateboarded around typically wears at an Avett Brothers the Avett Brothers band is most often called the UNC Charlotte campus and attended performance and sporting his signature a folk-rock group. Seth and Scott write the soccer matches when he wasn’t studying or beard and shock of thick brown hair, ambles music and share vocals. While Scott is most rehearsing. over to one of the cushy leather easy chairs associated with the banjo and Seth with the Avett becomes nostalgic about seemingly in the back of the shop. acoustic guitar, both are versatile enough to unremarkable places near the campus, A couple of customers raise their play piano, organ and even drums. including the shopping center parking lot. eyes from their laptop screens for just a The band also features Bob Crawford “This parking lot is actually very special moment and glance over at him as he sits on stand-up bass and cellist Joe Kwon. to us because it is where Bob (Crawford) down to chat about the recent success Their vast repertoire combines elements of auditioned to join the band,” he said. “We of the Avett Brothers and his devotion to bluegrass, Americana, country, folk and a used to hang out here all the time because UNC Charlotte, his alma mater. good measure of punk and rock ’n roll. there was a record shop in this shopping Suffice it to say it’s a rare moment of After only a few years, the band is center. He drove up from Rock Hill, S.C., solitude for Avett, who with brother Scott touring with national acts such as the and auditioned for us right out there and and the rest of the band has been touring Dave Matthews Band, John Mayer and we’ve been together ever since that night.” the United States and more recently, Europe Government Mule. It has played major As a matter of fact, a lot of nearby and Australia, in support of the critically music festivals, including Bonnaroo and acclaimed release, “I and Love and You.” Coachella. In May, the band was the Continued on p. 38

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Chancellor Dubois refl ects on his fi rst fi ve years

AdventureThe Continues

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UNCC-2Q10-final.indd 12 5/21/10 2:13 PM feature | UNC CHARLOTTE “We have been so fortunate to have had visionary leaders take the steps necessary to get UNC Charlotte where it is today…”

Dubois and Provost Joan Lorden enjoy a Cabinet meeting.

On July 5, 2010, Philip L. Dubois E.K. Fretwell, and Jim Woodward. We will complete his first five years as UNC have been so fortunate to have had such Charlotte’s fourth chancellor. He took time visionary leaders take the steps necessary to to reflect on some of the highlights and look get UNC Charlotte where it is today and briefly into the future. I thought it was very significant that all of If you had to pick out a couple of moments, the people ever to have served as Chancellor what has been the most positive memory for were standing by my side. The only thing you and which the most negative? that could have made that moment more The Center City Building is I’ve been fortunate to have had many memorable would have been to have Miss rising in Uptown Charlotte. positive moments since I returned here, Bonnie standing there too. including the day in the summer of 2006 The low point was on April 13, 2006, when we learned that the Center City when we had the campus explosion and building would be funded, the opening electrical fire that injured several members of the Student Union, the funding of our of our campus staff and eventually took Energy Production and Infrastructure the life of Ed Seamon from the Facilities (EPIC) project, and the announcement Management Department. Most of us of the new Levine Scholars Program. But on campus have pretty simple jobs and by far the highlight of my return was don’t really have daily responsibilities that February 3, 2006, when I was installed place us in a position of danger. We were as Chancellor, and shared the stage with fortunate in the sense that more people were my three predecessors—Dean Colvard, not hurt or killed and we used the accident

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to re-focus our attention upon safety issues Long term, I think the decision to make and emergency response procedures, but the Center City building a top priority there was nothing we could do to save for legislative funding in my first year and Ed. When we dedicated the bench in his to work with President Bowles and Vice memory over by the Friday Building some Chancellor David Dunn to secure approval months after his death, I was reminded of by the General Assembly will turn out to the strength of his family and of the tough be the most important thing we’ve done. decisions that his wife, Brenda, had to For whatever reason, that decision—and make during his hospitalization at the N.C. our advocacy in the community for the Jaycees Burn Unit in the hospital at UNC construction of the northeast line of light Chapel Hill. rail with a stop on campus—may do as So far, what do you consider to be your much to cement Charlotte’s “ownership” most significant achievements? of this institution as anything else. Moving

Left: Dubois and Lisa Lewis Dubois, UNC Charlotte’s fi rst lady, were beaming on his installation day.

Below: The Chancellor’s cabinet includes (front row, left to right): Vice Chancellor for Academic Affairs and Provost Joan Lorden, Dubois, Athletics Director Judy Rose; (back row, left to right): Vice Chancellor for Information Technology Services Jay Dominick, Vice Chancellor for Business Affairs Beth Hardin, Vice Chancellor for Research and Federal Relations Steve Mosier, General Counsel David Broome, Vice Chancellor for Development and Alumni Affairs (and Interim Vice Chancellor for University Relations and Community Affairs) Niles Sorensen, and Vice Chancellor for Student Affairs Art Jackson.

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Left: The EPIC building is well along in construction and has tremendous support from local energy companies. But UNC Charlotte is working hard to ensure state appropriations to hire faculty and staff.

Below: Dickson Gate provides a proud new face to campus visitors.

ahead with starting an intercollegiate football program might be a close second, although that may depend more upon the success of future coaches and players than me or the members of my team! By the time football makes a difference, I’ll have been buried in the north end zone for some time. Although I didn’t do any of the “heavy lifting” to make it happen (that credit goes to Provost Joan Lorden and Dean Ken Lambla), I’m also proud of the decision to create the College of Arts and Architecture. We need a major presence in this community’s artistic and cultural life and the College positions us to further programs in a wider range of disciplines. or in preparation. We have important strengthen that aspect of our role as the Right now, the economy and our resource new buildings being planned or in state’s only urban university. constraints serve as a significant drag on construction, including EPIC and a new Have there been instances you view as lost our ambitions. Still, when one reads the building known as PORTAL (Partnership, opportunities or outright mistakes? draft strategic plans in development by Outreach and Research for Accelerated Oh, sure. I’m certainly guilty of seeing our deans and the faculties in the various Learning), to facilitate University-industry more projects, problems, and issues that colleges, we can see plenty of opportunities research partnerships. On the other need attention than are reasonable for our for innovation, experimentation, enhanced hand, it is important for the campus people to execute. Our faculty and staff research, and service to the community. and the community to know that we have gone above and beyond the call of duty UNC Charlotte will continue to be a place are not hell-bent on growing to 35,000 to help me achieve the major agenda items characterized by ongoing change. students without the resources or the I identified at the time of my Installation. You’ve talked a lot on campus and in the facilities required to support that level of In terms of missed opportunities, most community about the goal of achieving a enrollment. In light of the current recession of those have occurred because we are campus enrollment of 35,000 students by the and the budget cuts we have suffered or constrained by time, money, circumstances year 2020. Are we prepared for that growth expect in the next couple of years, we have and, on occasion, politics. Had the and will we stay on that timeline? already had to slow our enrollment growth economy not soured, we would be making In many fundamental ways, we are at the freshmen level; 600 otherwise a strong case to establish a public law school very well prepared. We’ve completed qualified young people were turned away at UNC Charlotte. Long term, UNC our campus master plan which addresses for admission this past year alone. We Charlotte will need to be heavily invested critical uses of our land and our facilities. desperately need our proposed new $120 in medical education, either with its own Subordinate plans for student housing, million Science Building and funding to medical school or in partnership with transportation and planning, and renovate older buildings, like Burson Chapel Hill. We’ll have many more doctoral sustainability are either already completed and Kennedy.

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UNCC-2Q10-final.indd 15 5/21/10 2:13 PM UNC CHARLOTTE | stake your claim profile People Transformed Leigh Derby helps others surmount disabilities

By Lisa A. Patterson

Above: Leigh Derby, ’72 and ’84, In 1973, many children and adults with Williams soon recognized that Derby, a founded LifeSpan, an organization significant developmental disabilities were business major, had a genuine interest in dedicated to transforming the lives of children and adults with signifi cant relegated to lives in institutions. Some volunteer work as well as an appetite for developmental disabilities. Colorful lived among family members but had little psychology classes. Williams prompted artwork created by LifeSpan clients opportunity for enrichment, educational Derby to major in psychology. lines the walls of Derby’s Clanton Road experiences or employment. Upon graduation, Derby first took offi ce and is displayed at galleries in the North Davidson neighborhood. Enter Leigh Derby, ’72 and ’84. a sales job before Williams steered him Something about the young UNC Charlotte to a position at a fledgling nonprofit in student caught the attention of professor Charlotte. Derby looks back on what he Wade Williams. Williams suggested Derby considered his “Peace Corps job” with become a volunteer with the Special affection. Olympics. “We [Staff members] worked with five “I was around people with disabilities severely disabled children in a program for the first time, and it wasn’t long before I run out of the basement at St. Mark’s really started to enjoy being around them,” Church,” Derby said. “I wanted to make Derby said. the community a better place, but I only

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intended to be there a couple of years.” According to Derby, LifeSpan exists as That entrepreneurial spirit isn’t limited to At the time, the idealistic alumnus did a nonprofit with strong ties to the for- manufacturing goods. not foresee that the St. Mark’s opportunity profit and government sectors. It receives The LifeSpan creative-expressions would lead him to a meaningful career 90 percent of its funding from the federal program, which includes pottery-making that would result in the transformation of and state governments and 10 percent from classes, painting and horticulture, was thousands of lives. private sources. designed to unlock the creative talents Part of a very small staff charged with The recession has negatively impacted of seniors and those with disabilities providing day care for the children, all of both lines of funding. that preclude them from traditional whom were excluded from public school “In 2009, we lost $4.5 million in employment. LifeSpan clients have shown because of their disabilities, Derby learned government funding. Consequently we’ve their artwork in galleries in and around about life at a small nonprofit – in one had to close programs. We’re significantly Charlotte. The organization is renting week, he might serve as a van driver, janitor, smaller than we were just several years ago,” space in the North Davidson community cook, teacher and program director. Derby said. In addition, donations are down where artists with disabilities can study and He also recognized what he considered 30 to 40 percent. showcase their work. the injustice of segregating a population of To offset cuts in government funding, Providing a range of services for adults and people based on their physical and cognitive LifeSpan is investing in innovative and children in more than 30 North Carolina disabilities and began formulating and entrepreneurial ways of funding services. counties, all of which have their own needs, implementing ideas to improve their lives. LifeSpan owns a for-profit entity, LS requires sensitivity and flexibility; but not at That tiny program has since blossomed Solutions LLC, to train and employ people the expense of high standards, Derby said. into LifeSpan, a highly regarded social- with developmental disabilities. Revenue From the beginning of his career, Derby has service organization dedicated to helping from the company’s products is then used to been adamant about the use of best practices. children and adults with significant fund LifeSpan programs. He explained that providing evidence-based developmental disabilities lead full lives as services requires a significant investment up integral members of their communities. “When you see front to achieve long-term gains. “LifeSpan started with an idea – a small Through partnerships with the UNC group of people believed that children with people transformed, Charlotte College of Education and significant disabilities could actually learn, a others, Derby and his staff have developed revolutionary idea at the time,” he said. literally… that makes best practices and service models that are Even the pioneers in St. Mark’s basement emulated throughout the country. As a weren’t sure exactly what the children could it worthwhile.” result, he has been tapped to lead several learn. Derby said the staff used common professional associations and policy- sense and trial-and-error to test ideas. development boards and task forces. “We started with taking care of personal In the past decade, however, he’s needs. Let’s teach children how to eat, encouraged his direct reports to hone their how to use the toilet – the things that leadership skills – after all, Derby wants to were barriers to getting them into public ensure that LifeSpan’s work will continue schools,” Derby said. “Nobody thought seamlessly when he steps down as CEO. these kids could learn to walk, but we were When that time comes, Derby is confident able to teach them.” his staff will continue to improve upon what Decades ago, and even now, the biggest he started more than 35 years ago. barrier to individuals with significant “When you see people transformed disabilities is low expectations, Derby literally … when you see artists become explained. He maintains that given a artists, when you see people getting jobs chance, and with the right support, these at the airport, for example, that makes it individuals can realize their potential, worthwhile,” Derby said. “That’s what whether through creative pursuits, charges people up. We’re here to change employment or other activities. lives and not make money.” LifeSpan serves more than 1,300 The naiveté of the 22-year-old Derby developmentally disabled clients in 30 might be gone, but the idealism remains — North Carolina counties. Derby, the and that has made all the difference. organization’s CEO, leads a staff of more than 500 full- and part-time employees and Lisa A. Patterson is senior writer contract workers. in the Office of Public Relations.

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UNCC-2Q10-final.indd 17 5/21/10 2:13 PM UNC CHARLOTTE | feature

Motorsports Engineering fi nds applications on race track and roadway

By Arthur Murray Pushing TO THE

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Below, left and right: The motorsports engineering team manages and drives its own racecar.

Left: N.C. Motorsports and Automotive Research Center Director Ahmed Soliman shared time with Gov. Bev Perdue at the Lowe’s Motor Speedway

Next page: Motorsports engineering students get their hands dirty working on racecars.

It was November 2008. Brent Tedder timing wasn’t right there. Even NASCAR That took him back to UNC Charlotte had just become one of the early victims was feeling the effects of the poor economy. and its N.C. Motorsports and Automotive of the recession. He hadn’t seen it coming. With the 2008 season completed, sponsors Research Center. “My original degree was in Three years earlier, he had gone to work were reducing their commitments, and mechanical engineering with a motor sports in Hickory for Corning Cable Systems teams were consolidating. With Detroit’s emphasis. I wasn’t doing anything with it at as a product-development engineer after troubles, the major manufacturers were Corning. I really wanted to do something receiving his bachelor’s in mechanical pulling back. Tedder found the sport was with my degree.” The school, meanwhile, engineering at UNC Charlotte. Now he was bleeding jobs, not adding them. The same had beefed up its graduate and research one of about 300 who had been laid off. was true for other racing series. programs in motorsports, having added Tedder studied his options. For one He began to form another idea. “Rather four professors in the years since Tedder had thing, he could look for work. That didn’t than look for other work, I decided to get graduated. seem promising. Tedder wanted – and he my master’s degree. It seemed like the time But even after that moment of clarity still does – to work in motor sports. But the was right.” about his future, there was a problem.

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UNCC-2Q10-final.indd 19 5/21/10 2:13 PM “Research partners include General Motors Europe, Oak Ridge National Laboratory and Savannah River National Laboratory, focusing on diesel and hybrid engines, emissions and hydrogen fuel cells.”

The timing of the layoffs meant he had missed the deadlines for applying for the winter semester. He came to tour the center anyway, and Dr. Jerre Hill, senior lecturer in the Department of Motorsports Engineering, encouraged him to take the Graduate Records Examination and apply anyway. Tedder did. He knew UNC Charlotte was where he wanted to be. “The motorsports program here is great, and the facilities we have are very nice.” But he still wasn’t sure whether it would work out because of the late start. “As it turned out, I didn’t get accepted until three days before the semester began,” he says. Now he’s one of about 20 graduate students in the motorsports engineering program overseen by Dr. Ahmed Soliman. formed an alliance with other colleges in has the feel of a NASCAR shop. Inside the The faculty specializes in power-train the state to promote motorsports research, building, students are building a stock car engines and transmissions, aerodynamics but it also is still just getting off the ground. from the ground up. At about two-thirds and fluid-vehicle dynamics, and the “There are few worldwide,” Soliman the size of the cars used in NASCAR’s top school is running one of the cutting-edge says. “There is one program at Cranfield level, the Sprint Cup, the vehicle donated by programs. “We started before the others, University in England, but it’s only a Red Bull is for the Pro Challenge series. specifically Clemson” he says. “Clemson is graduate program.” Near it is a water tunnel, which Soliman not as focused as we are. They say they’re In fact, the UNC Charlotte program says is one of the largest in the country. motorsports, but I don’t think they’re like is collaborating with Cranfield, sending Inside the tunnel, water moves at one meter we are.” a student there to work on regenerative per second, which allows students and And he’s not just talking about regional braking on hybrid vehicles. But that’s just researchers to study the flow, which mimics motorsports programs. Indiana University- one of the research projects under way at the air flow and suggest ways to improve Purdue University Indianapolis recently center, a 6,800-square-foot laboratory that aerodynamics. Among the aerodynamics

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UNCC-2Q10-final.indd 20 5/21/10 2:13 PM projects under way at the center are research wind tunnel. And we hope to have a experience. “The classes I’m taking, I’m on drafting – how cars are affected when calorimeter, which is used to look at heating learning a lot. In undergraduate studies, they’re close together on a race track – and and cooling.” you learn what technology is being used on the yaw, the rotation around the vertical Graduate student Tedder also counts on a today. In the master’s level work, you’re axis of a vehicle when it goes airborne. bright future. learning how you can further what we have Other equipment includes a dynamometer, For his graduate studies, Tedder is today, now to push it to the next level.” used to measure an engine’s power. working on the diesel-engine project. “I’m Unlike many of his peers, he’s not Some of the research is for specific teams, most excited about working on engines in necessarily pushing for a NASCAR job. “I which Soliman says he’s not at liberty to general,” he says. “This one is more about enjoy NASCAR, and I wouldn’t turn down disclose. Other projects are to benefit the how to tune the engine for efficiency rather a job in it, but my ultimate goal, regardless sport in general. than for motorsports. But efficiency and of whether I start in NASCAR, would be Among the research partners he can power go hand in hand. The more efficient working for a team that does road-course identify is General Motors Europe, which an engine is, the more power it generates.” racing. That interests me more, that is interested in advanced diesel and hybrid The project plays into his ultimate goal. type of engine, than what’s going on engines for consumer vehicles. The center He will finish up his master’s degree in in NASCAR.” also works with Oak Ridge National December, and he wants to work in engine There also is another possibility: more Laboratory in Oak Ridge, Tenn., on design in a racing series. “What we’re doing education. “I’m not an economist, but my emissions research, and with Savannah with that engine is something that not gut feeling tells me the market in December River National Laboratory in Aiken, S.C., much research has been done in that area. isn’t going to be much better. Since I came on hydrogen for fuel-cell applications. We’re also working with biodiesel.” to graduate school, my professor has been At the forefront is Soliman, a native of Aside from motorsports, the research trying to talk me into getting my doctorate. Egypt who grew up racing motorcycles has applications in the consumer market. For my end goal, I don’t think that it would and cars in the streets of Cairo beginning “The way in which the engine would run benefit me greatly. But you never know. I at age 13. He dons a brown fedora as he could be used to charge a hybrid battery,” might change my mind again.” moves from his office to the laboratory and Tedder said. warmly greets other faculty and students Tedder went back to school because of Arthur Murray is a as they file in to resume work on various the poor economy, and he has enjoyed the Charlotte-based writer. projects. He got his bachelor’s and master’s in mechanical engineering from Ain Shams University in Cairo, and then got his The next big step for the Motorsports Engineering Program at UNC doctorate at The Ohio State University. He Charlotte will come next year, with the opening of a much larger facility has published papers on chassis and steering on campus by fall. How much larger? The existing center is about systems, aerodynamics testing and engine 6,800 square feet. The new facility will be 15,000 square feet, which will air-intake systems accommodate more faculty, students and research and laboratory space He followed Formula 1 racing initially, for the program. then became a NASCAR fan once being Offi cials hope to break ground by the end of the year. Construction exposed to it after moving to the Unites of the center is funded in part by a $1.9 million gift from the family of States in 1988. Now, he says, “I’m in front of the TV every weekend. I follow Formula the late NASCAR champion Alan Kulwicki. In conjunction with the gift, 1, NASCAR, motorcycle racing, even the the university has renamed its research center the Alan D. Kulwicki Kentucky Derby.” Motorsports Laboratory. Despite his interest in racing, Soliman The Kulwicki family’s involvement with education is a natural step. believes the research done at the center The driver, who died in a plane crash in April 1993, several months after has uses outside the sport. “In racing, completing one of the most exciting championship seasons in NASCAR everything is pushed to the limit. What history, was the fi rst NASCAR champion with a college degree. He earned we’re doing will transmit just as well to the a bachelor’s in mechanical engineering from the University of Wisconsin- cars we drive today, making them more Milwaukee in 1977. efficient and helping them to perform better The undergraduate program will remain in the existing building, on the highway. while graduate work will move to the new center. “It will help us The future of the program is bright. recruit additional faculty,” says Dr. Ahmed Soliman, director of the N.C. University officials plan a major expansion of the center that will help the program Motorsports and Automotive Research Center. “It will double our capacity keep advancing (see accompanying article). for faculty, graduate students and research.” “Hopefully, we will add more engine ARTHUR MURRAY dynamometers in there and a small-scale

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UNCC-2Q10-final.indd 21 5/21/10 2:13 PM UNC CHARLOTTE | center stage

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UNCC-2Q10-final.indd 22 5/21/10 2:13 PM Share the Love

The Charlotte 49ers softball team (35- 13) wrapped up their 2010 home season with a 9-2 victory over UNC Greensboro on April 27. Besides a super won-loss record, the 49ers had plenty of reasons for high 5s. Serena Smith broke the team’s all-time RBI record; she has a three-year total of 117 runs batted in. Charlotte Jeffery also broke the team’s career strike-out record with more than 590. The 49ers offer several softball camps beginning in June. Contact the Athletics department for details. At press time the 49ers were wrapping up their fi nal few games and preparing for the A-10 tournament.

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UNCC-2Q10-final.indd 23 5/21/10 2:13 PM UNC CHARLOTTE | 49ers notebook From Clean Slate to Full Plate New basketball coach in a whirlwind

By Cliff Mehrtens

Alan Major, UNC Charlotte’s new men’s Rose. After interviews, Rose said only Major Major, in the rare moments when he’s basketball coach, approached his team with was offered the job. not immersed in basketball, enjoys reading what he called a “clean slate.” “Alan comes from a strong background (“anything about people who’ve done What began clean quickly became full. that includes success at the highest level,” something really special”), listening to jazz Major, 41, was hired April 9 and Rose said. “But just as important as the and working out. announced three days later to an overflow impressive credentials of great players and Coaching demands often mean less time crowd of fans, staff and media at the James teams he has been a part of is the great to visit family, which is high on Major’s list H. Barnhardt Student Activity Center. The energy he exhibits and the genuine care of important things. He joked during his whirlwind continues as Major, an assistant he shows for his players. … He is a people introductory press conference that he wasn’t coach at Ohio State University the past six person and a basketball junkie.” going to glance at several family members years, deals with the myriad details of taking over. He sipped coffee in his new office in the Miltimore-Wallis Athletics Training and Academic Center. Over his shoulder was a full day of meetings and duties etched on a whiteboard, beginning with “7:30 (a.m.) film.” “You have to prioritize,” said Major, an Indianapolis native who has coached 18 years. “I’ve tried to have almost a first 30 days mindset. The first 10 would be focused around the players, absolutely A-No. 1, then getting somewhat of a feel for campus and meeting as many key campus people as I can.” That will be followed by recruiting, and reaching out to UNC Charlotte students, as Major said “to see how we can make them feel that you really need them, and hopefully spice up the home environment.” Major, beginning his first stint as a head coach, replaced Bobby Lutz, the longest- serving (12 seasons) and winningest coach (218-158) in school history. Major was a key part of Ohio State teams, during his six seasons, compiled a 156-54 record, made four NCAA Tournament appearances and won a school- record 35 games in 2006-07, when the “There are about 19 other emotions I’m Buckeyes reached the NCAA title game. Soon after Ohio State advanced in March feeling, too. Humbled. Fortunate. Lucky. to the Sweet 16, Major was targeted by UNC Charlotte Director of Athletics Judy Blessed. You can throw them all in there.”

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UNCC-2Q10-final.indd 24 5/21/10 2:13 PM 49ers notebook | UNC CHARLOTTE

Left: Alan Major answers questions from the media after he was introduced as the new men’s basketball coach at UNC Charlotte in April.

Below: Members of the men’s basketball team fi ll up most of the front row at a packed news conference to introduce Major.

Opposite Page: Major addresses an overfl ow crowd of students, staff and media at the James H. Barnhardt Student Activity Center.

— including his mother, Mary — beaming proudly in the front row for fear of losing composure. “Having them here makes you feel like a million bucks,” Major said. “It helps keep you grounded with everything going on. You have to have something that keeps you grounded, and for me that’s been family and friends. To them, I’m not ‘Coach,’ I’m Alan. My mother has been a rock, and for them to be there and share it was special.” Seated not far away during the same press conference were several 49ers players Major inherited — and vice versa. Early reviews were positive – in both directions – for a program that hasn’t I’d find myself helping them out. To me, fully prepared for the challenge of becoming made an NCAA Tournament appearance that’s the purest part – when you’re in the a head coach. Charlotte has landed a very the past five seasons. gym and you’re on the floor (with players). good coach – and a really good person – in “When Coach Lutz left, we were all That allows everybody to speak the same Alan Major.” shocked,” said Shamari Spears, a junior language. That’s the best part.” Major said it’s too early to predict what forward from Salisbury. “I think we’re Major has been instrumental in developing type of team his initial 49ers squad will be. feeling a lot better now that we’ve had a four Ohio State players that were NBA But he promises staples like playing defense chance to talk with Coach Major.” first-round draft choices – Greg Oden, Mike “extremely hard,” playing together and Major’s coaching began long before he Conley, Daequan Cook and Kosta Koufos. playing smart. donned a tie and jacket on a college bench Current Buckeyes guard Evan Turner has Excitement is high for Major and for — even before he realized it was indeed swept national player of the year honors. Niner Nation. coaching. As a youngster on a backyard “Alan Major is an outstanding young “There are about 19 other emotions I’m court, he’d instruct younger players “to help coaching prospect, and he will do a terrific feeling, too,” Major said with a laugh. make them better,” Major said. job at Charlotte,” said Jay Bilas, an ESPN “Humbled. Fortunate. Lucky. Blessed. “I learned how to play from older guys, basketball analyst. “Alan is a hard worker, You can throw them all in there.” and that’s what they did for me,” he said. a good recruiter, an excellent teacher, and “They’d help me out. As I got older, I’d he has a great feel for the game and for the Cliff Mehrtens is a Charlotte-based writer sometimes play with younger guys, and players. He has put his time in, and he is with a background covering sports.

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UNCC-2Q10-final.indd 25 5/21/10 2:13 PM UNC CHARLOTTE | 49ers notebook

GOLFER NAGY TO PLAY IN professional for another month to play in Track & Field Championship to give PRESTIGIOUS PALMER CUP the Palmer Cup but it will provide a fitting Charlotte its third straight A-10 indoor Charlotte 49ers senior golf standout end to a very successful amateur and title. A 13-time league champion in seven Corey Nagy (Charlotte, N.C./Vance H.S.) college career.” different events, Law has twice been named has added yet another feather to his much- Nagy, who has earned all-America honors the Atlantic 10 Performer of the Year as well decorated hat. The three-time all-America in each of his three seasons with the 49ers as the 2008 A-10 Rookie of the Year for and defending Atlantic 10 individual and has boasted six top-five finishes this the Indoor and Outdoor season during his champion, has been named to the 2010 season, including victories at the VCU freshman season. U.S. Palmer Cup team. He is the second Shootout and the Irish Creek Collegiate, To go along with his success in the 49er in three years to earn a spot in the won the 2009 A-10 Championship. The Atlantic 10, Law recently became Charlotte’s prestigious event. 2009 A-10 Men’s Golf Student-Athlete of seventh NCAA Indoor All-American as the Year, Nagy has won four individual titles the junior took 12th place in the 200m in his career. in Fayetteville, Ark. His performance was the first Niner male athlete to achieve all- DARIUS LAW NAMED A-10 American status since 2005. INDOOR MEN’S STUDENT-ATHLETE OF THE YEAR TIME FOR SPORTS CAMPS For the second year in a row, Charlotte’s The Charlotte 49ers offer a variety of Darius Law was named the Atlantic 10 summer sports camps for young children. Conference’s Indoor Men’s Student-Athlete The camps are professionally staffed by of the Year. Law has won the award three 49ers coaches, players and former players times as he was named to the same honor last to offer your child the best instruction season for the indoor and outdoor season. possible. Affordable and fun, the 49ers The Raleigh, N.C., native owns a Sports Camps will provide an experience perfect 4.0 grade-point average in Business that your child will remember for years to Management, currently serves as the come. For more information, including Student-Athlete Advisory Committee specific camp dates and registration President and is the first Charlotte athlete to information, log on to www.charlotte49ers. be selected as the A-10 representative for the com or call the 49ers athletic offices at National SAAC. 704/687-6245. Corey Nagy GREAT GOLD RUSH “It’s extremely exciting,” Nagy said. AUCTION COMING JUNE 5 “Obviously, any time you can represent Enjoy an exciting night while bidding on your country it’s a tremendous honor. This over 1,400 items, ranging from electronics, is unique in the sense that only a handful getaway vacations, date night dinners, to of guys get to go. To be invited is pretty sports equipment and memorabilia, artwork special. It certainly ranks up there in things and one-of-kind experiences. The Charlotte I’ve accomplished at Charlotte. I feel very 49ers Athletic Foundation’s 27th Annual honored to be a part of the team.” Great Gold Rush Auction will be held on Nagy is one of eight players selected to Saturday, June 5, in Halton Arena, which the U.S. team. The 2010 Palmer Cup will is located inside the Barnhardt Student be held June 24-26 at Royal Portrush Golf Activity Center at UNC Charlotte. The Club in Northern Ireland. The Palmer Cup silent auction begins at 5 p.m. and will is a Ryder Cup-style event that pits the top be followed by the live auction program collegiate players from America against their at approximately 8:30 p.m. A food counterparts from Europe. extravaganza will be available throughout Darius Law “This is a tremendous honor for Corey,” the evening. Proceeds from the event benefit said 49ers head coach Adam Pry. “Being the Charlotte 49ers athletic scholarship selected to represent your country is Law won the 200m dash (21.97), 400m fund. For more information about the event extremely special and will certainly be an dash (47.62) and ran the anchor leg of the log on to www.greatgoldrushauction.com experience he will remember for the rest of winning 4x400m relay team (3:17.07) for or call the 49ers Athletic Foundation at his life. Corey will have to delay turning the Niners at the 2010 Atlantic 10 Indoor 704/687-4950.

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UNCC-2Q10-final.indd 26 5/21/10 2:13 PM stake your claim profile | UNC CHARLOTTE IVY LEAGUE TALENT FROM A MAGNOLIA TOWN. To find world-class talent, you don’t have to look any farther than UNCUNNC Charlotte.Charlotte. Whether it’s academics, athletics, or the arts, we’re home to top achieversvers andand leaders.leaders. 24,700 students strong and growing, UNC Charlotte boasts an award-winningwinning faculty, notable alumni, and an outstanding student body. Stake your claimm to a universityuniversity that’s home to academic achievement.

Kenechukwu Onwugbolu Mona Abbasi, Marketing, Honors Program, Class of 2011 Biologl y/Pre-Med, Honors Program, Class of 2011

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UNCC-2Q10-final.indd 27 5/21/10 2:13 PM UNC CHARLOTTE | feature Helping Others Grow William Dalen Rice is 2010 Jamgotch Award recipient

By Paul Nowell

William Dalen Rice had to convince his parents to allow him to go on his first mission trip to Haiti. “I assured them that this wouldn’t prevent me from completing my engineering education,” he said. “In my head this was a large fork in the road. I have friends who went down the normal “American” path. They now own homes and mortgages, have wives and kids, and careers with salaries. “I took the path that Robert Frost suggested and I have no regrets.” For Rice, that poetic trail took him to places where he experienced firsthand the generosity of people who have “less than nothing” and that inspired him to give more of himself. In honor of the exceptional ways in which Rice gives more of himself to serve others, he has been selected as the recipient of the 2009-2010 Nish Jamgotch Jr. Humanitarian Student Award. Rice, a graduate student in geography and earth science, will receive a $10,000 award. Political science professor emeritus Nish Jamgotch Jr., who taught at UNC Charlotte from 1966-1993, established the award to recognize a student who demonstrates achievement and notable work in the humanitarian field. Rice began his humanitarian efforts after his sophomore year when he took a mission trip to Haiti. His activities in UNC Charlotte’s Venture outdoor recreational program had prepared him for rustic outdoor experiences and in Haiti he found even greater challenges, doing “grunt labor” to help poverty-stricken people with physical needs. For some humanitarians, that might be enough. Not for him. Rice subsequently spent summers counseling children at camps and traveled to Mexico and Montana on missions with the United Christian Fellowship. He worked in

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Montana with the Blackfeet tribe of Native nominator praised Rice for his “matchless should take that ability to solve problems in Americans and in Mexico on HIV prevention leadership skills,” which he honed through our communities,” he said. “These thoughts in community clinics. He worked on another years of volunteer service. and feelings cemented my position as a project in Mexico to improve medical and “We experienced the suffering and community servant, something I don’t ever dental care for those in need. hardship that exists in our society, on see myself not doing.” “Dalen is the gold standard of an domestic soil (and beyond),” said Rice. The selection committee is chaired inspiring young public servant,” said “And then we put shovels to the ground by Vice Chancellor for Student Affairs Ryan Lewis, operations manager with and hammers to nails to try to make Art Jackson. Members of the committee AmeriCorps*NCCC, in nominating Rice for things right.” were Anita Blowers, criminal justice the award. He worked with Rice throughout For Rice, he said the experience had a and criminology; Lawrence Calhoun, the southeast tutoring students, building profound impact. psychology; Gary Kohut, management; homes and helping with disaster relief. “As those days drew to a close, we all Al Maisto, Honors College; Tyrel “I came to rely on Dalen’s steady presence were sent off with the belief that we could Moore, geography and earth science; and and work ethic,” Lewis said. Another do anything and the compulsion that we community member Barbara Jefferson.

WHERE ARE THEY NOW? STILL DOING GOOD Laura Mesec Associates architectural fi rm. His The 2008 award winner, Laura focus there is on environmentally Mesec lives in Greensboro with her friendly projects. “Right now fi ance, Jonathan, where she teaches I’m completing my professional high-school English. “Receiving the experience as an architect so I’ll Jamgotch Award was a huge honor. have the freedom to pick and To have been picked out of the choose community work.” He entire UNC Charlotte student body used his Jamgotch Award to go to is humbling. I have continued to stay Nicarauga, where he helped design involved with volunteer organizations, and build a community center. “It specifi cally Habitat for Humanity. I have Laura Mesec resonates within me. It’s a beacon, Charles A. Howell helped out with a few builds through and a guilding light for the experience the school I teach at and hope to continue to do so. I I’m gaining right now.” also hope to join a mission team as soon as possible through my church. The fact that I won the Jamgotch LaKeisha Rainey Award is always in the back of mind, and that often In 2005, LaKeisha Rainey was helps to remind me to give back to others and use the recognized with the Jamgotch gifts that God has given me to help others.” Humanitarian Student Award. At UNC Charlotte, Rainey co- Brett Tempest chartered the American Medical In May, Brett Tempest, who won Student Association, the fi rst in 2007, was about a month away premedical organization at the from fi nishing work for his Ph.D. in university. As president, she helped infrastructure and environmental plan events that better prepared systems in UNC Charlotte’s civil- students for graduate work. For LaKeisha Rainey engineering department. “I’m looking three years, Rainey was a resident for an academic job. I’d like to be advisor on campus and volunteered at the Charlotte a professor in a civil-engineering Rescue Mission; the H.E.L.P Store, which provides department. I do research on concrete packages of food and clothes to needy families; and materials, and I like the instructional Brett Tempest Meals on Wheels of Charlotte. role, too. Getting the award is the Additionally, Rainey lobbied to improve only thing that made it possible for me to remain in pharmaceutical drug coverage for seniors and worked school. Even if I hadn’t gotten the award, I’d have still with the Breast Cancer Resource remained involved in the community, but certainly Center in Fayetteville to which she getting it encourages that kind of thing and continues donated some of her award money. to inspire me.” Tempest and about 20 other volunteers recently planted Irwin Creek Community Garden on a Andrew Clark 1.4-acre county-owned fl ood plain. Andrew Clark, who won in 2004, is an international-project specialist Charles A. “Chip” Howell with the International Technical 2006 winner Chip Howell lives in Los Angeles, Assistance Program of the U.S. where he is a junior designer at Marmol Radziner and Department of the Interior. Andrew Clark

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UNCC-2Q10-final.indd 29 5/21/10 2:14 PM UNC CHARLOTTE | feature Beyond the Stacks On becoming a modern research library

By Lisa A. Patterson

A threat can become an opportunity. “A lot of what drives Wilder said. “We really hope that over the Perhaps the greatest threat to the university course of the next few years we manage to research library is perception. To hear some me philosophically, demonstrate to people that we can make talk, the library will soon go the way of the contributions to the quality and quantity Pet Rock. That’s why University Librarian and the library’s of their work that they would never have Stanley Wilder has made it his mission to thought possible.” change perceptions of UNC Charlotte’s direction, is the While the nature of information J. Murrey Atkins Library. continues to change rapidly, spurring Wilder, a vocal and visible champion of process to show discussions about whether the traditional the library since coming to UNC Charlotte book will soon become an artifact, Wilder in 2009, has taken a show and tell approach the University what explained that that question is irrelevant. to educating would-be library users. they can expect out In fact, the library has always been about “A lot of what drives me philosophically, information in its evolving forms and the and the library’s direction, is the process to of a 21st-century people who use it, and the book is just one show the University what they can expect form of information. out of a 21st-century research library,” research library.” Far from making the library obsolete,

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Wilder contends the digital environment even the most (to an outsider) illogical act. including 1) An overwhelming need for the gives the library an ocean of new tools “We are capable, through careful library to provide 24-hour service; 2) The for doing the things libraries have always interviewing, observation and other research creation of spaces within the library that done, such as managing and preserving techniques, of tapping into that logic, so it meet the needs of students; 3) An overhaul scholarship, making it accessible and is comprehensible to insiders and outsiders of the library’s Web site; and 4) Patron helping students and faculty interact with it alike. We aim to make the ‘exotic familiar, education about the vast array of services in meaningful ways. and the familiar exotic,’” Lanclos said. that are available, including the services of Wilder looked to companies such as Through open-ended interview and research librarians. Xerox and Google for inspiration when observation processes, anthropologists leave Wilder’s staff has worked to open lines determining how to achieve these goals. For room for the element of surprise; whereas of communication with patrons in order example, Xerox uses qualitative research to with means of gathering information such to find out what they want and need. For learn about customers. as surveys, the parameters of response are example, the library Web site will soon be “I have a bedrock belief in the value limited by the questions. revamped incorporating feedback from of qualitative research for understanding “On the one hand, the basic nature of student forums and several rounds of academic communities. You can think of academic work hasn’t changed for hundreds usability testing. faculty and students as members of a village. of years. There’s always this process of Lanclos works closely with the library’s The appropriate way to understand their learning what’s known about something, usability task force. Utilizing software behavior is to use this tool that is established creating something new, and the new acquired with the help of the College of for just this purpose. Anthropologists have a knowledge goes back into this wonderful Computing and Informatics, patrons were set of tools they use for understanding how cycle,” Wilder said. “You use anthropology asked to complete a set of tasks on the people do their work,” Wilder said. to keep current of how people are doing library Web site. Each task is timed, and Last fall, he hired Donna Lanclos, that work — the tools we use, the way every movement of the mouse is recorded, associate professor for anthropological we communicate with one another, how creating a record that clearly indicates to research, to help implement his vision. communication works in terms of peer Lanclos and colleagues where Web site According to Lanclos, one of the basic review, systems of academic prestige … it’s a improvements should be made. assumptions underlying anthropological constantly changing scenario out there.” “Given that the Web is the library for a research is as follows: Behavior is Through qualitative research, Lanclos huge portion of the community, there’s so comprehensible — there is a logic behind and Wilder have identified several priorities, much more we can do to make it simple

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and powerful in the sense of giving people The library administration is working with the best quality resources possible,” Wilder “The new world Campus Police, the Dean of Students Office said. “Google gives you everything that’s we’re entering and SafeRide to get this done. free, and the fact of the matter is if it’s “The library doing this 24-hour thing free, it’s probably not appropriate for the will require a is going to be essentially the first step this vast majority of academic uses. Academic campus has made to 24-hour operation, and materials cost money, and Google can’t get different kind of that’s significant,” Wilder said. “It’s going you there.” to take everybody stepping up to some In addition to the usability testing, attributes. The degree so we can be safe, using these services Lanclos has been engaged in more and facilities appropriately. The whole traditional anthropological research. Her same thing applies community understands it’s time for us to observations have led to the conclusion do this.” that the first floor of the library is a loud, to the library – Where some might see an uphill climb, confusing place, full of furniture designed Wilder sees opportunity and possibility for quiet study space. She also noted that we’ll never be unfettered by tradition. In fact, the library while faculty are assigning more and more Harvard’s library is well on its way to bolstering UNC group work to students, the library is Charlotte’s position as the state’s urban short on space to accommodate groups. with its millions research university. The library is addressing these issues by “The new world we’re entering will require reconfiguring furniture and providing of volumes, but a different kind of attributes. The same more places for students to work that thing applies to the library — we’ll never be allow for collaboration and use of we can still Harvard’s library with its millions of volumes, portable technology. but we can still become a great research The forthcoming provision of 24-hour become a great library with these things that don’t even cost service represents another profound shift money,” Wilder said. “We are free here — in perception. Wilder explained that research library we’re not going to look like Princeton; we’re 24-hour service is among the next logical with these things going look like UNC Charlotte, and we have steps in UNC Charlotte’s progression as a all of the tools to do that.” modern research university. While 24-hour that don’t even service is not cost-prohibitive, the campus Lisa A. Patterson is senior writer infrastructure must be in place to support it. cost money.” in the Office of Public Relations.

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UNCC-2Q10-final.indd 32 5/21/10 2:14 PM Continued from p. 3 “Findings like these suggest that meditation’s benefits may not require meditation training are really surprising,” extensive training to be realized, and that Zeidan noted. “It goes to show that the meditation’s first benefits may be associated mind is, in fact, easily changeable and highly with increasing the ability to sustain influenced, especially by meditation.” attention,” Zeidan said. The study appears in the April 2 issue “Further study is warranted,” he stressed, of Consciousness and Cognition. Zeidan’s noting that brain imaging studies would be co-authors are Susan K. Johnson, Zhanna helpful in confirming the brain changes that David and Paula Goolkasian from the the behavioral tests seem to indicate, “but Department of Psychology at UNC this seems to be strong evidence for Charlotte, and Bruce J. Diamond from the idea that we may be able to modify William Patterson University in Wayne, our own minds to improve our cognitive N.J. The research was also part of Zeidan’s processing – most importantly in the ability doctoral dissertation. The research also to sustain attention and vigilance – within a was presented in April at the Cognitive “The simple process week’s time.” Neuroscience Society’s annual meeting of focusing on the The meditation training involved in the in Montreal. study was an abbreviated “mindfulness” The experiment involved 63 student breath in a relaxed training regime modeled on basic volunteers, 49 of whom completed the “Shamatha skills” from a Buddhist experiment. Participants were randomly manner, in a way meditation tradition, conducted by a assigned in approximately equivalent trained facilitator. As described in the paper, numbers to one of two groups, one of which that teaches you “participants were instructed to relax, with received the meditation training while the their eyes closed, and to simply focus on other group listened for equivalent periods to regulate your the flow of their breath occurring at the tip of time to a book (J.R.R. Tolkien’s The of their nose. If a random thought arose, Hobbit) being read aloud. emotions by raising they were told to passively notice and Prior to and following the meditation one’s awareness acknowledge the thought and to simply let and reading sessions, the participants ‘it’ go, by bringing the attention back to were subjected to a broad battery of of mental processes the sensations of the breath.” Subsequent behavioral tests assessing mood, memory, training built on this basic model, teaching visual attention, attention processing as they’re physical awareness, focus and mindfulness and vigilance. with regard to distraction. Both groups performed equally on happening, is like Zeidan likens the brief training the all measures at the beginning of the participants received to a kind of mental experiment. Both groups also improved working out a bicep, calisthenics that prepared their minds for following the meditation and reading cognitive activity. experiences in measures of mood, but but you are doing it “The simple process of focusing on the only the group that received meditation to your brain.” breath in a relaxed manner, in a way that training improved significantly in cognitive teaches you to regulate your emotions by measures. The meditation group scored Fadel Zeidan raising one’s awareness of mental processes consistently higher averages than the as they’re happening, is like working out a reading/listening group on all the cognitive bicep, but you are doing it to your brain. tests and as much as 10 times better on one results on a “computer adaptive n-back Mindfulness meditation teaches you to challenging test that involved sustaining task,” where participants would have to release sensory events that would easily the ability to focus while holding other correctly remember if a stimulus had been distract, whether it is your own thoughts information in mind. shown two steps earlier in a sequence. or an external noise, in an emotion- “The meditation group did especially If the participant got the answer right, regulating fashion. This can lead to better on all the cognitive tests that were the computer would react by increasing better, more efficient performance on timed,” Zeidan noted. “In tasks where the speed of the subsequent stimulus, the intended task.” participants had to process information further increasing the difficulty of the task. “This kind of training seems to prepare under time constraints causing stress, The meditation-trained group averaged the mind for activity, but it’s not necessarily the group briefly trained in mindfulness approximately 10 consecutive correct permanent,” Zeidan cautions. “This doesn’t performed significantly better.” answers, while the listening group averaged mean that you meditate for four days and Particularly of note were the differing approximately one. you’re done – you need to keep practicing.”

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UNCC-2Q10-final.indd 33 5/21/10 2:14 PM UNC CHARLOTTE | stake your claim profile Development of an Urban Designer Tracy Dodson is a champion for Charlotte

By Buffi e Stephens

“Now I can be a champion for selling Charlotte.”

Tracy Finch Dodson swore she would never return to North Carolina after completing graduate studies at Harvard University. In fact, while interviewing for a transportation manager’s position at the Lower Manhattan Development Corp. in New York City, Dodson decided she didn’t even want to work on the East Coast. She dreamed big and the West Coast was calling so she followed her instinct and wandered. Dodson, a 1998 graduate of UNC Charlotte, searched for job opportunities in California and Washington. While in Berkeley, she was offered a position with Peter Calthorpe Associates; Calthorpe is considered a guru of sustainable development and urban design. But on the brink of fulfilling her goal, she realized her heart belonged to Charlotte and turned down the offer. A native of Apex, Dodson knew in high school that she wanted to study architecture. “I had two choices,” Dodson said, “UNC Charlotte or North Carolina State University, and I needed a change from the Raleigh area. I wanted to move away from home.” She visited Charlotte and “fell in love with the university and the School of Architecture.”

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“I love UNC Charlotte, and I’m anxious to see football and the transit line become a part of the University.”

After spending her first year as a “normal” professors worked on projects in major realized her company might not be able to student, she committed to the five-year cities across the country. Dodson took the sustain all four project managers. architectural program focusing on urban business and real estate courses she needed When Charlotte Center City Partners design. “Between the classes and studio to enhance her skills. approached her for ideas about a new work, architecture is time-consuming. I She finished at Harvard with a Master of position that would focus on selling lived vicariously through my roommates Design Studies with a concentration in real Charlotte’s Center City and South End, after that,” she said with a laugh. estate and urban development. One of the Dodson decided that she wanted to be a While doing her thesis work, Dodson most memorable projects she worked on part of the initiative. She joined CCCP as went to work in Charlotte for Shook Design was planning the redevelopment of Ground director of economic development in July Group (now Shook Kelley Inc.). Her thesis Zero in New York City. 2009. “Now I can be a champion for selling involved examining the redevelopment of Upon leaving Harvard, the wanderlust Charlotte. Nationally, we’re known as a the city’s South End community adjacent began, and so did the fascination with good city to live in, and we attract young to Dilworth. “The trolley was popular, the working on the West Coast. But as she talent, in spite of the banks contracting. redevelopment of South End was moving interviewed and traveled, Dodson began Charlotte also has a depth of talent already forward, mixed-use projects were coming to realize that Charlotte was a great here and we’re diversifying with careers in on line in Charlotte, and Shook Design place to conduct business. “Other large, health care and energy.” was heavily involved in all those endeavors.” established cities take so much longer to “Tracy understands the needs of the Eventually, Dodson realized she wanted to execute projects because of their politics. I office brokers and the unique role Charlotte concentrate on building communities. felt I could come back to Charlotte and be Center City Partners can play as a facilitator “My focus shifted and I began thinking effective in helping grow the city.” In 2003, to grow jobs and recruit new companies more about building a city than a she returned, committed and determined to Uptown and South End,” said Michael specific building.” to make a significant contribution to the Smith, president and CEO of CCCP. She left Shook Design to work for city’s growth. Dodson remains thoroughly engaged Charlotte’s Planning Department, where she In the time since, Dodson has consulted with UNC Charlotte, returning to lecture focused on the South Corridor, transit and for the City of Charlotte and other groups. at the request of School of Architecture urban design issues. “The city was a great She’s also worked for Charlotte’s Economic professors Deborah Ryan and David Walters landing ground for me. I could focus on Development Office as its transit station and visiting lecturer James Bartl. She also development.” She began contemplating a development coordinator and at Harris lectures in geography classes that focus on career as a real estate developer but knew she Development Group. Focused on transit- transit-oriented development. needed more business expertise. oriented development in the urban in-field, “I love UNC Charlotte, and I’m anxious That revelation sent her to “I was able to put all the pieces together to see football and the transit line become a Harvard University, which offered an by incorporating design and smart growth part of the University.” interdisciplinary, hands-on approach to its principles with a focus on transit.” program for professionals who had been out But as the economy soured in 2008, Buffie Stephens is media relations in the workforce. Many of the program’s development ground to a halt. Dodson manager in the Office of Public Relations.

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Marsicano is an accomplished musician, particularly the oboe. Marsicano also fi nds joy in raising tulips, and entertains each spring to share the beauty of his fl owers with others.

By Phillip Brown Success at Bringing People Together Michael Marsicano gets Distinguished Service Award

Michael Marsicano has been a driving Levine, founder of Family Dollar Stores supports a significant number of charities force in the Charlotte region for more than and the Leon Levine Foundation. “He’s and non-profit organizations in the greater two decades. As Charlotte has emerged done a tremendous amount for the cultural Charlotte metropolitan region. Before as a leading city of the New South, community of Charlotte; we’re ranked near that, he served as president of the Arts Marsicano helped that ascension by building the top and Mike deserves the credit.” & Science Council. relationships that stressed the importance of As president of the Foundation For The The arts are vital to a community, cultural arts to the community. Carolinas (FFTC), Marsicano now heads a according to Marsicano. “If you define “Michael has great vision, which is community enterprise with assets totaling the soul of a community, you can’t define something Charlotte has needed,” said Leon more than $775 million. The foundation it without the arts. It is the expression of

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civilization and who we are and what we with Michael on a variety of projects over the believe in.” past 20 years.” Consistently named as one of the UNC Charlotte’s continued growth and city’s most influential people, Marsicano maturation is a prime focus for Marsicano. demonstrates “success at bringing people “The realization of our North Carolina together.” Marsicano has tripled the campus, the University of North Carolina at assets of the FFTC and has transformed Charlotte, to become the research institution the foundation into an organization that that is on the drawing board,” Marsicano takes leadership roles on a number of civic stated. “In today’s economic world, you initiatives. The foundation is currently cannot compete as a region without a addressing several pressing community needs, major research university. That is the one including providing city-wide affordable accomplishment that all of us should put our housing options to avoid concentrating energy, time and money behind for the future poverty in any one area; completing the of our community.” greenway system linking the region’s 15 In recognition of his two decades of counties; administering a critical need service to the Charlotte region and the fund focused on providing shelter, food University, Marsicano will receive the UNC and warmth to the community’s neediest Charlotte Distinguished Service Award at a citizens; and running programs focused formal reception in his honor in June. The on strengthening and restructuring our the Charlotte and cultural communities led Distinguished Service Award was established nonprofit community. him to see the obvious benefits.” in 1987 by the Board of Trustees of UNC In addition to K-12 educational concerns, She also noted his long-time service as a Charlotte and the Board of Directors of Marsicano has been a strong supporter of member of the UNC Charlotte Foundation the University Foundation. It honors those higher education, especially UNC Charlotte. Board of Trustees as well as a founding who have provided outstanding leadership Ruth Shaw, chair of the UNC Charlotte member of the University’s Institute for and exemplary service to the Charlotte Board of Trustees, stated that Marsicano has Social Capital. community and to the advancement of been a valuable asset to the University. “He Whenever asked to serve, Marsicano “has UNC Charlotte. was a significant member of the task force that quickly stepped forward to bring his insight, recommended the creation of the College of his passion and his intelligence to every task,” Phillip Brown is internal communications Arts + Architecture. His deep knowledge of said Shaw. “It’s been a great privilege to work manager in the Office of Public Relations.

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UNCC-2Q10-final.indd 37 5/21/10 2:14 PM Continued from p. 11 Having recently returned from an “Scott and I can go into the studio and international tour, the band is keeping up its get as much done in three days as it once venues and bars ooze with Avett Brothers frenetic pace. “It’s been a journey for sure,” took us two weeks to get through,” he said. vibes. And so do some UNC Charlotte said the soft-spoken musician. “I rarely get “The time we have off is devoted to laying campus buildings. Back when Seth Avett the chance to sit and reflect on where we down some new ideas. We are getting much was studying printmaking in the Arts were and where we’ve come to. When I do, I better at creating more efficiently.” Department, the band would jam into the think about the major steps we’ve taken.” Avett laughs when asked if he is unique wee hours of the morning in the studios in Avett is truly appreciative of the success on the musical circuit because he has a Rowe Hall. he and the band have achieved, and he college degree. Seth said other UNC Charlotte students readily admits he’s fine with the fact that it “A lot of the great musicians we see and faculty members who also worked late took almost a decade for the Avett Brothers around the country were a lot like us when into the night were gracious enough never to make it. they were young and just out of high to complain about the strange noises that school,” he said. “Just like me, they were sometimes emanated from the studio. confused and lost and they knew college was “We had a lot of long nights in Rowe a legitimate use of their time.” Hall,” he said. “Anybody who happened to As for Avett, he has fond memories of his be around was going to listen to a real mess years at UNC Charlotte. Scott graduated going on in those rooms some nights.” from East Carolina University, so they So Avett can be forgiven for shrugging made friends with a lot of students at off the lack of attention he gets from the both universities. patrons of the coffee shop. It reminds him “I have a lot of great friends I met at of old times back in 2002, when the brothers UNC Charlotte that I’m still close to,” he would try out their latest songs for 12 people said. “I think that is true for a lot of folks without regard to fame or fortune. because when you are in college you are a Later on, the Avett Brothers were lot more like the person you are going to be playing at local venues like Puckett’s Farm for the rest of your life.” Equipment, Fat City and the Wine Vault. He also is unabashedly proud of “To be truthful, we started out in an the connection. alcove outside the Wine Vault,” he said. “I really love this school,” he said. “I “We’d play three and a half hours and before “If we had received all this attention think it’s a great university with a lot of too long the owner decided we can play when I was 20, it could have been a versatility that makes it worthwhile to a lot inside. By the end of our run, we’d get 300 disaster,” he said. “I would not have been of people with different interests.” to 400 people there to see us.” prepared to see my picture on a magazine “I studied printmaking at UNC All the while, the band’s music catalogue cover. Too much ill-advised ego comes Charlotte, and the artistic community was continued to grow and its live performances when people are making too big a deal a whole separate world than I was used to became legendary. One of the biggest breaks about it. Now I’m a grown man, with a being around,” he said. “I really warmed up came when the group was booked to play wife. Scott and Bob (Crawford) are married to the vibrancy and motivation I got from MerleFest. Thousands of fans got a taste of and have kids. I feel we are in a much better this new world.” what was to come. place for receiving all this attention. He also learned quickly that college was Some of the nonchalant coffee drinkers a “The older you get, the more reasons demanding and that he needed to develop few seats away could easily have been among there are for you to be humble,” he said, good work habits to keep up with his the fans that jammed into concert halls across adding: “The older I get, the more ludicrous studies while also playing music. When he the United States or international stops such it is to think I’m the man.” came back for a visit several years after being as Dublin, Paris, Oslo and Sydney to see “You need to keep popularity in its away, Avett felt a strong sense of nostalgia. the Avett Brothers put on one of the group’s place,” he said. “That’s why we try not to “It just came over me and I realized how legendary performances. pay too much attention to the press we get. much I loved and missed this place,” he said. But on this day, Avett enjoys his obscurity I think of the reaction we get from the fans Like a lot of other graduates who hadn’t when matched up against the hordes of crazed at the shows. “ been back to the campus in awhile, he fans that push up against the stage at most He said right now the band is at a creative also was startled by the new buildings and shows, many singing every song note for note. peak, and he and Scott are writing new other improvements. “I remember telling Scott one time that we songs all the time. And the band’s chemistry “This school is growing in its legacy and should bring some extra microphones and give also is gelling like never before, so members its personality,” he said. “It’s amazing.” our voices a rest some nights,” he said, smiling are able to work through new ideas and at his own joke. “Sometimes you can’t hear us melodies in the short breaks they have Paul Nowell is media relations over the fans.” between tour dates. manager at UNC Charlotte.

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1970s “Rural Landscapes and Livelihoods,” introductory and advanced GIS classes R.T. (Rodney) Smith, ’70, was recently as well as a population geography named University Writer-in-Residence course. Macalester is nationally at Washington and Lee University. His recognized for its long-standing most recent book of short stories, The commitment to academic excellence, Calaboose Epistles, will be released internationalism, multiculturalism and by Iris Press in the fall. Last year he civic engagement. received the Library of Virginia Poetry Book of the Year Award and a Virginia Judson Gee ‘93, an independent Governor’s Award for Excellence in financial advisor at JHG Financial in the Arts. Charlotte was recognized as a top financial advisor and named to the Miley W. (Bucky) Glover, ‘76, CPA, of LPL Financial Director’s Club. This Mark A. Beers Monroe, has been appointed to a three- distinction is based on an annual year term as a member of the State production ranking of all registered Board of Certified Public Accountant advisors supported by LPL Financial, new position, Beers will report to A&B (CPA) Examiners. The Board is an the nation’s largest independent Vice President, Controller and Assistant independent State agency that grants broker-dealer, and is awarded to less Treasurer Paul Ito, who will assume certificates of qualification as CPAs to than 25 percent of the firm’s 12,027 oversight responsibility for corporate those individuals who meet the legal advisors nationwide. Gee is affiliated planning. His key responsibilities will be requirements. Glover was licensed as with LPL Financial and provides to lead corporate planning activities, a North Carolina CPA in 1978. A past conflict-free financial planning including the development of annual president and treasurer of the North services, investment advice and operating plans, periodic forecasts, Carolina Association of CPAs (NCACPA), asset management services to over capital plans, and special studies related Glover served as a member of the 200 clients in Charlotte and the to corporate development. NCACPA’s Board of Directors and surrounding area. Executive Committee. 2000s What are you doing? Pamela Mims, ’09, is the 2010 recipient of the Student Research Award in It is time to share what you’ve the Single-Subject Design category presented by the Division of Research been up to lately and let other Council for Exceptional Children. Now a research associate in the Department alums help you toot your horn or of Special Education and Child spread the word on small or large Development, Mims trained a teacher and two paraprofessionals to implement achievements. We want to hear a prompt hierarchy during shared stories with four students. The results from you. indicated all four students increased the Visit the Alumni Affairs Web site Holly Barcus number of comprehension questions answered correctly during the three at www.unccharlottealumni.org 1990s shared stories. and tell us what you’ve been Macalester College has granted tenure Mark A. Beers ‘03 has joined Alexander doing. status to Holly Barcus, ‘95 associate & Baldwin, Inc. (NYSE:ALEX) (A&B) as professor in the Geography Department. manager, corporate planning. Beers Or write Alumni Affairs, UNC Barcus received her B.A. and M.A. from moves to A&B from the company’s UNC Charlotte and her Ph.D. from Hawaiian Commercial & Sugar Company Charlotte, 9201 University City Kansas State University. She joined (HC&S) on Maui, where he served as Blvd. Charlotte, NC 28223-0001 the Macalester faculty as an assistant assistant controller since 2005. He professor in 2005. Barcus teaches earned his MBA at UNC Charlotte. In his

www.UNCC.edu Q210 | UNC CHARLOTTE magazine 39

UNCC-2Q10-final.indd 39 5/21/10 2:14 PM UNC CHARLOTTE | building blocks

Could it be love? On a languid late springtime afternoon in 1971, on the front porch of the Kennedy RITES OF building, two students steal a few moments to chat. What’s the topic? The Econ test that he just bombed and she just aced? The fact that “Brown Sugar” by the Rolling Stones had just nudged SPRING “Joy to the World” by Three Dog Night from the Billboard #1 spot on the pop music charts? The impending completion of the library’s Dalton Tower (background)? Whatever the topic, the vibrations were sure to be far out and groovy.

40 UNC CHARLOTTE magazine | Q210 www.UNCC.edu

UNCC-2Q10-final.indd 40 5/21/10 2:14 PM perspective | UNC CHARLOTTE

Education, Holistic Vision, Key to Creating Energy Solutions By Steve Patterson Interim Director, Energy Production and Infrastructure Center

Leaders in the energy industry converged necessary to modernize current energy by educating students and the public to on Charlotte recently for the Energy Inc. production operations and facilitate the think clearly, and with some technical summit, highlighting the growing importance development of alternative energy sources. literacy, about important issues. Citizens of the energy industry to the Charlotte region. Recognizing an opportunity for long- have a direct impact on the nation’s energy Now is a good time to reflect on Charlotte’s term collaboration that will benefit the outcomes, and a population that is more rise to prominence in a drive to become community and industry, as well as reinforce discerning and can think critically will help the nation’s “New Energy Capital,” as well Charlotte’s position as a global leader lawmakers achieve optimal outcomes. as on how the nation should approach the in energy production, UNC Charlotte Simply put, there’s a role for business development of energy solutions. has created the Energy Production and and industry, the government and for When we think about energy, we need to Infrastructure Center (EPIC). the University, and our unique role is think about it holistically. The nation’s energy EPIC will certainly increase the region’s expressed both in our broad curriculum production and distribution system is both supply of trained engineers and provide and more specifically in EPIC. Our mission large and complex, and must be understood vital expertise and research support. is to examine carefully the technical issues as such by politicians and private citizens But I contend that the University’s role around energy production, infrastructure alike. Oftentimes, however, decisions that should be more broadly defined — UNC and development, and our extraordinary impact the energy landscape are ruled by a Charlotte, through its various programs faculty, who represent a variety of positions combination of emotion and consideration and community engagement initiatives on energy related issues, do just that. of the parts apart from a view of the whole. helps advance the nation’s energy objectives Undoubtedly, the country will benefit Educated leadership across the broad spectrum from a two-pronged approach to energy of government, business and supporting independence — we must enhance and institutions is essential to create an energy modernize existing methods of energy climate that is both innovative and practical. production and develop new avenues to Perhaps most importantly, we need a energy ingenuity. The Charlotte region well-educated populace in order to guide will be at the forefront of identifying decision making in a democratic society. energy solutions and UNC Charlotte will Industry leaders are looking toward be there as a partner contributing both UNC Charlotte to help address critical directly through EPIC and by fulfilling shortages in the intellectual capital its educational mission to create a more – workforce and research – that are informed and thoughtful public.

UNCC-2Q10-final.indd 45 5/21/10 2:14 PM Nonprofi t Org. U.S. Postage PAID Charlotte, NC Permit No. 949

The University of North Carolina at Charlotte 9201 University Blvd. Charlotte, NC 28223-0001

THE SPIRIT, PHILOSOPHY AND ART OF THE ASIAN GARDENING TRADITION ARE ALIVE AND WELL ON CAMPUS IN UNC CHARLOTTE’S NEW ASIAN GARDEN.

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