Volume XXXVII, Number 7 April 2010 Undergraduate Research Highlight of Cadetship

By We n d y Lovell First-class Cadet Jacob Cox took second place in the science poster division of the recent Undergraduate Research Symposium at the Virginia Military Institute, but he conducted much of his research on film electrolytes and silicon nanowire anodes 3,000 miles away. Last summer, Cox was selected to participate in the National Science Foundation Solid State Chemistry Program with scientists at the University of California Los Angeles’ Nanosystems Chemistry and Engineering Research – NanoCER – program. NanoCER supports the NSF program by working in teams that develop new materials, devices and applications in nanotechnology. Cox’s team focused on developing an electrolyte that could be used in a three-dimensional battery. “The way batteries have been designed in the past simply doesn’t allow them to power tiny devices effectively,” said Cox. “As technology gets Cadet Jacob Cox discusses testing procedures with Maj. Daniel McCain. – VMI Photo by Kevin smaller and smaller, we’re losing our ability to Remington. actually power those devices, but a battery that their design, have an anode, a cathode, and a for the team at UCLA is to design a separating has a 3-D architecture should work extremely separating layer.” layer that works successfully with the anode and well on a tiny scale. All batteries, regardless of While the solution seems simple, the challenge cathode prototypes they’ve developed. Cox also Please see page 4 Cadet Club: We’re Making An App For That

By Ge o r g e Ab ry Several cadets in the math and computer contained programs that have a single purpose pre-recorded cadre commands that can be science department have decided to take a real- or use. downloaded onto an iPhone. Gordon said world approach this semester to their senior Connor Ross ’10, a computer science major, the club has allowed him to focus some of his research projects: they have developed a series is cadet in charge of the iPhone application club. academic skills on fun, real-world projects. of iPhone apps. For his senior project, Ross has been designing “Many of these apps may be sold through They have also started a club so students an app in the form of a downloadable Post tour Apple some day, so this helps teach the and faculty members can learn how to develop that could be viewed on an iPhone anywhere importance of quality work and puts a definite computer apps and stay on top of the latest in the world. Ross said his biggest difficulty so time line on a project that has the potential to software developments. far has been calibrating the GPS, which is only stretch on forever,” Gordon said. App is short for application, and it’s Apple’s accurate to within three or four buildings. For his senior project, Nick Lizotte ’10, term for the software programs that run on the Trent Gordon ’11, a computer science major, designed a home automation system that uses iPhone. Most of the apps tend to be small, self- worked on an iCadre app – a simulation of Please see page 6 Page 2, The Institute Report, April 2010

Governor Visits Barracks

Virginia Gov. Robert McDonnell visits a cadet room while touring Barracks during his April 7 visit to the VMI Post. McDonnell came to Post to give the keynote speech for the 21st annual Environment Virginia Symposium. He was accompanied by Gen. J.H. Binford Peay III ’62, VMI superintendent, on the tour, which was led Col. Thomas Trumps ’79, commandant of cadets. On the day of the tour, the governor commended the Corps of Cadets for its service and expressed his appreciation by granting amnesty to the cadets, canceling penalty tours, confinements, and specials. – VMI Photo by Kevin Remington.

Society of Family & Friends Support Vital

By Sc o t t Belliveau ’83, VMI Fo u n dat i o n Some alumni have observed that, often, their since its establishment. “We saw it as a great way Michael and Monica Simmers, two cadet Brother Rats can be more than a little proprietary to not only bring these people closer to VMI, but parents, and the hard work of Terrie Conrad, has when it comes to the Institute. Having spent four also to educate them on the roles that they can effectively engaged of a large segment of VMI’s years in Barracks – sometimes more, sometimes play in providing VMI the financial support that stakeholders. less – they see the Institute as something it needs to maintain excellence in all areas.” “The success of the Society of VMI Family unfathomable to anyone who has not worn a The Society has fulfilled that purpose admirably. & Friends not only shows how much parents cadet uniform and as something that truly belongs Indeed, so successful was the Society at reaching of cadets and admirers of VMI appreciate VMI only to alumni. out to its target audience and raising private and support its traditions and values,” added Such thinking is, of course, nonsense, said support from its members that, last year, Crockett. “It also helps point out the direction Terrie Conrad, the VMI Foundation’s vice the Parents Council decided to rename its that the Institute, the VMI Foundation, and the president for constituent and planned giving. development committee the committee for the other alumni agencies must take in order to “Hundreds of people who have never spent a Society of VMI Family & Friends. At the end of expand the Institute’s base of support, specifically moment as a cadet love VMI,” said Conrad. “They fiscal year 2009, the Society had 1,250 members, to enlarge that special group of people we call appreciate the values it stands for, such as honor and, in the same year, those members gave more ‘The VMI family.’” and service to community and country. They than $2 million to funds managed by the VMI know VMI alumni as their friends, co-workers, Foundation and the VMI Keydet Club. and neighbors and admire them for their This success has prompted Conrad to develop purposefulness and their leadership abilities. a new recognition program for those members of Institute Report Parents are among the Institute’s biggest fans as the Society whose accumulated giving is $5,000 they see the positive effects of a VMI education on or more. Those donors will receive a new car Office of Communications and Marketing their children – often before their cadets do.” decal that highlights their membership in the Col. Stewart MacInnis – Director In the past, the only organized way that VMI Society. Sherri Tombarge – Editor engaged this broadly based group of supporters “It’s a relatively small, but vital, way to let these Burton Floyd – Publications Coordinator was through the Parents Council, which meant people, these loyal supporters of VMI, know just Contributors: Wendy Lovell, George Abry, that the outreach to it was extremely limited. how significant their support is to the Institute’s John Robertson IV, Scott Belliveau, That changed in 2006 when the VMI Foundation future,” said Conrad. “It is also an excellent and Kevin Remington. established the Society of VMI Family & Friends way to highlight participation by non-alumni in Printing – McClung Printing,Waynesboro, Va. under the auspices of the Council. the ongoing effort to support the Institute. It is Eight issues are printed during the academic “The purpose of the Society is to engage the interesting to note that a cadet parent provided year. Inquiries, suggestions, news items, or entire range of non-alumni supporters of VMI, the seed money for this recognition program.” address changes should be directed to: Editor, not just parents and grandparents, but everyone Brian S. Crockett, chief executive officer of The Institute Report, VMI Communications and who supports VMI and the extraordinary way the VMI Foundation, praised the Society of VMI Marketing, Lexington, Virginia 24450-0304, that it educates young people,” said Conrad, who Family & Friends as “an organization that, thanks Telephone 540-464-7207, Fax 540-464-7443 has been responsible for the Society’s operations to the volunteer co-chairs of this committee, The Institute Report, April 2010, Page 3 Daniels Award Recipient Named

VMI alumnus and environmental engineer Paul support humanitarian action on four continents and V. Hebert has been selected to receive the Daniels in countries including Iran, Philippines, Nepal, Bosnia Humanitarian Award. Hebert, a member of the Class of and Herzegovina, Serbia, Switzerland, Ethiopia and 1968 who has devoted his career to humanitarian work Kenya. in many countries, will receive the award in a ceremony Hebert has worked with agencies including U.S. Army at VMI during the 2010-11 academic year. Medical Corps, the Near East Foundation, the World Bank, The Daniels Award was established by the VMI Board the United Nations and the World Health Organization. of Visitors in 1997 to honor Jonathan M. Daniels ’61, A resident of Kenya, Hebert is currently working as an who gave his life to save a young black girl during a independent consultant for Catholic Relief Services and voter registration drive in Alabama in 1965. The award other non-governmental organizations in East Africa in recognizes individuals who have made significant assessing success with community-based water resource personal sacrifices to protect or improve the lives of management, sanitation programs and humanitarian others. Paul V. Hebert funding. He is a member of the Advisory Board and “This has come as a complete surprise,” said Daniels organizing committee of the Dubai Humanitarian Aid in his letter of acceptance, “and I cannot adequately convey my emotion and Development Conference for 2009 and 2010 and a contributor and to have been so honored with this prestigious award.” speaker at the Conferences in 2009 and 2010. Hebert, who holds master’s and doctoral degrees from University of Prior recipients of the Daniels Award are President James Earl Carter in North Carolina-Chapel Hill, has worked to promote development and 2001 and Ambassador Andrew Young in 2006. VMI Foundation Notes

By Sc o t t Belliveau ’83, VMI Fo u n dat i o n Foundation Board Meets these alumni are charged with strengthening the bonds among Brother The Board of Trustees of the VMI Foundation held its annual spring Rats and bringing them ever closer to the Institute. meeting March 25-27. Responsible for the overall governance of the VMI They also play an important role in fundraising, informing their Brother Foundation, the trustees gather twice a year on Post, in the fall around Rats of VMI’s needs and urging them to participate in the ongoing effort to Founders Day and in the spring. raise money for VMI. During the meeting, the VMI Superintendent Gen. J.H. Binford Peay III “Truly, a class agent is the glue that holds a class together,” said Patrick F. ’62 and other VMI leaders gave the trustees a briefing on the current state Webb, who, as the VMI Foundation’s vice president for alumni and reunion and future plans of the Institute. giving, is responsible for the class agents program. “They also are some The trustees also attended the VMI Foundation’s annual stewardship of the best salesmen for VMI that anyone will ever encounter.” luncheon. The rest of the two days was taken up with subcommittee The conference began with a workshop for the class agents from younger meetings and a meeting of the full Board Saturday morning. classes, an opportunity for them to hear from more experienced class agents. Stewardship Lunch Recognizes Donors During the remainder of the conference, the class agents heard The Hall of Valor in Marshall Hall was the location of the VMI Foundation’s from various VMI officials, including Peay, who made the presentation eighth annual stewardship lunch. The primary purpose of the event is to “VMI Today” and took questions from the agents, and Brig. Gen. R. recognize those people and organizations, such as classes, who established Wane Schneiter, deputy superintendent for academics and the dean of the endowments that support scholarships for cadets and provide support the faculty, who discussed the academic program and its many recent to faculty members. advances. It also provides an opportunity for these donors and their representatives They also learned about the Institute’s financial situation and to meet the cadets and faculty members they support and to see firsthand intercollegiate athletic program from Col. Eric Hutchings ’77 and Greg the positive effects that their endowments are having on Post. Cavallaro’84, the chief of staff of the athletic department and the chief Retired U.S. Navy Capt. Susan J. Rabern, acting director of the Center executive officer of the VMI Keydet Club, respectively. for Leadership and Ethics, spoke at this year’s event. In her remarks, she Presentations by Brian S. Crockett, chief executive officer of the VMI described the Center’s work and how it already is helping to improve Foundation, and Matt Schwarzmann ’90, VMI Alumni Association chief cadets’ overall education. information officer, occurred on the morning of the 17th, followed by Approximately 150 guests – including members of the VMI Foundation’s breakout sessions and discussion of the challenges ahead in the coming Board of Trustees – were in attendance, along with members of VMI’s budget year. faculty and staff and more than 100 cadets. “The spirit and enthusiasm of the class agents is something wonderful to behold,” said Crockett. “Their devotion to their classes and to the Institute Class Agents Gather for Conference is impressive. These alumni are totally dedicated to VMI and to ensuring Forty-six of VMI’s class agents were on Post for the annual class agents that it enjoys continued success. I thank all of them for their ceaseless conference April 16-17. Drawn from classes from the 1930s to this decade, work on behalf of VMI and their Brother Rats.” Page 4, The Institute Report, April 2010

Torch Run

Thirty-six residents and cadets leave the start line during the 5K Torch Run fundraiser March 28 during Spring FTX. Eighty-eight cadets helped with the event, setting up and breaking down, running the torch over the course, and giving directions. The event raised $600 for Special Olympics. – VMI Photo by Kevin Remington.

Undergraduate Research Highlight of Cadetship Continued from page 1 worked on a second project that involved etching when I was in college, and I know that it helped Symposium. a silicon wafer with hydrofluoric acid and silver me decide that I wanted a career in chemistry,” Cox said participating in undergraduate nitrate to form an array of silicon nanowires. said McCain. “Jacob is an exceptional student research has made things harder at times – he “It was rough doing two projects at once, and could go anywhere and achieve anything he recently logged approximately four hours each but it was really rewarding, and I made a ton of desires. The chemistry department has always day in the lab finalizing work for his Honors thesis progress,” said Cox. “Actually, I found myself placed a high value on research as one of the while juggling his extracurricular commitments spending more time in the lab than the grad best ways of educating cadets, and most of our and preparing for graduation, but the work is students. Thanks to the NSF Solid State Chemistry chemistry majors do research with a faculty paying off. If he can secure funding for his travel Program, I now have a much better feel for how member on Post at some point during their and living expenses, he plans to spend a year cutting-edge research is conducted at large cadetship, but Jacob took the initiative in seeking after graduation with a research team at the research labs, a much better understanding of this unique off-Post opportunity, and we wanted University of Yaounde in Cameroon, Africa, that what grad school is like, and insight into what a to facilitate that.” is working to develop new drugs to treat African career in research might look like. With URS behind him, Cox is finalizing his sleeping sickness. This life-threatening disease is “Also, the research Dr. Joe Nemanick and Institute Honors thesis on enzyme kinetics. Since endemic to 36 countries in sub-Saharan Africa I conducted [on the silicon wafer] should be last spring, he and McCain have been studying an and, according to the World Health Organization, published sometime within the next year.” enzyme in humans called PP2C, which is involved threatens an estimated 60 million people. Throughout the eight-week experience, Cox in a large number of signaling sequences in the “Despite the time commitment, undergraduate presented his work four times; the last was an hour- body. They hope the data collected in this project research has really enhanced my education and long presentation to his research group, which was will lead to a better understanding of cellular given me some opportunities I wouldn’t have comprised of three other undergraduate students processes and eventually drug treatments for a had otherwise,” said Cox. “I wouldn’t have been and 15 graduate students and post-doctoral variety of diseases. accepted into the NSF program last summer, and researchers. That was good preparation for the While such a project complements Cox’s Dr. [Barthelemy] Nyasse probably wouldn’t be so recent URS poster session and a presentation he interest in going to medical school and pursuing open to letting me work in his lab next year if I made at the Southeast Regional Meeting of the research professionally, the time demands of the didn’t have these research experiences. Also, it’s American Chemical Society last October. project have been difficult for a cadet who also allowed me to get much closer to my professors Maj. Daniel McCain, Cox’s mentor at VMI, is is involved in many extracurricular activities. than I otherwise would have, and Maj. McCain pleased with what he has accomplished during He’s held rank for the past three years and is and I have become good friends.” his cadetship and that he was able to participate an Institute EMT and volunteers once a week with Most importantly, Cox said, his research has in such a rewarding experience off Post. In fact, the Lexington Rescue Squad. He spent a semester enhanced his understanding of science. the NSF stipend didn’t cover all of Cox’s expenses, at Oxford the summer after his 4th Class year and “Science isn’t done by reading through a book so VMI’s chemistry department supported part of the spring semester of the next at the Auckland and working the problems at the end of each his housing costs so he could participate in the University of Technology. He also is a member chapter,” he said. “It’s done in the lab. It’s all program. of the English Honors Society and has written about research and publications, and my work “I did the NSF Solid State Chemistry Program poetry for the Sounding Brass and the VMI Poetry here has taught me that.” The Institute Report, April 2010, Page 5 Lehrer Promotes Service in Speech at VMI

By We n d y Lovell

Veteran journalist Jim Lehrer addressed cadets March 22. – VMI Photo by Kevin Remington.

Veteran journalist Jim Lehrer said he felt at been for the draft, but he credits the three years review it all. There’s a creeping need for someone home at the Virginia Military Institute when he he spent in the military for shaping the person he to do this for you, and this is a new place yet to came to Post on March 22 to give a lecture in the has become both personally and professionally. be created for people to put it all together.” Distinguished Speakers Series. Having served in “One of the many things I learned in these Lehrer added that such a gatekeeper needs to the U.S. Marine Corps in the 1950s, Lehrer said three years was to remove all the clichés about be credible. No matter what form a gatekeeper he had a clear view of what life is like at VMI. people,” said Lehrer. “I learned not to judge takes, he added that the news itself will remain “I know about you all; I know VMI,” said people. When you serve your country, you spend at the heart of all communication and that the executive editor and anchor of the PBS time with people who are different from you, and consumers need to recognize what is news and NewsHour. “I know that your motto is ‘In Peace that’s an important experience.” what is not. Bloggers, twitters, comedians, and a Glorious Asset, In War a Tower of Strength’; I That understanding of people has served Lehrer talk show hosts don’t provide the news, but they know that you have an Honor Code; I know your well in a long and successful career that began in all need it to thrive. mascot is Mo the kangaroo; I know what a rat is 1959 at The Dallas Morning News and blossomed When asked for career advice by a cadet and the Rat Line; I even know what it means to in public television where his partnership with interested in broadcast journalism, Lehrer strain.” Robert MacNeil in 1975 grew into what is today advised him to focus on writing and to look Lehrer knows about VMI in part because his the PBS NewsHour. He said it’s also come in handy for an internship at a small newspaper where great nephew is a cadet, but the journalist’s in the many debates he’s moderated over the he would get exposure to a variety of beats and understanding of VMI’s citizen-soldier model years, including 11 nationally televised debates experiences. comes from a deeply held belief in the importance in the last six presidential elections. “It’s no longer good enough to have a surface of serving one’s country. Lehrer told cadets both Lehrer gave his viewpoint on the current knowledge to be a journalist,” said Lehrer. in his public talk and in an informal gathering climate in journalism created by advances in “You’ve got to know your history, and you can’t with a select group of Institute Honors students technology and a downturn in the economy. The cover the news today without a knowledge of that service is something all young people should expansion of media outlets and opportunities on economics. You also better be a good writer, and pursue. the Internet has created a plethora of information if you’re not, become one.” “I think service should be mandatory,” Lehrer that is difficult to sort out. Lehrer sees the need for In addition to his work at PBS, Lehrer has told the cadets. “I’m not talking about a draft, but credible gatekeepers to help manage the flow of written 19 novels, two memoirs, and three plays. mandatory service, whether it’s in the military, the information for consumers who don’t have time He has been honored with numerous awards Peace Corps or some other form. I favor a system to digest it all. for journalism, including the 1999 National that facilitates a shared experience, and right now “Not long ago, the news was a shared Humanities Medal, two Emmys, the Fred Friendly there’s enormous opportunity to do great things experience,” said Lehrer. “You had your daily First Amendment Award, the George Foster voluntarily but also to do bad.” newspapers, three television networks, Time and Peabody Broadcast Award, and the University Lehrer told the small group of cadets that he Newsweek. It’s great that we have more outlets, of Missouri School of Journalism’s Medal of never would have become a Marine if it hadn’t but the problem is most people don’t have time to Honor. Page 6, The Institute Report, April 2010 We’re Making An App For That Continued from page 1 Twitter as a means of communication. One of puzzle, which is sort of like a jigsaw puzzle, is browse and download thousands of applications the key components of the project is remote a two-dimensional game with pieces that are via iTunes, an online digital media store operated accessibility. manipulated to form a picture – in this case the by Apple. “The iPhone/iPod application was used to VMI logo. “We are currently looking into the process for remotely access the Twitter account and send Another app features a countdown to putting the apps on the Apple Store and looking messages to the home automation account,” graduation; cadets can punch in a graduation into the complications of free versus paid apps Lizotte said. date and then track the time remaining till and intellectual property issues,” said Baker. “We Lizotte said the process of creating apps is graduation, down to the final minutes. would like to put them on the store so that cadets similar to other types of Geographical User and alumni can download them, and we think Interface – GUI – programming. this will help with the recruitment and retention “Anybody with any sort of GUI programming of computer science majors.” experience will pick up the widgets fairly Lt. Col. Troy Siemers, associate professor quickly,” Lizotte said. “The language used and head of VMI’s mathematics and computer for the programming is Objective C, which is science department, is working with Baker on simple to pick up for anybody with a C/Java the application project. programming background.” “We have figured out quite a bit of information The club can use the help of cadets in a about how to create applications for iPhone and range of disciplines. “Even cadets with no IPod touches,” Siemers said. “We are working technical background at all would be helpful on marketing and distribution issues – and for generating project ideas and user interface others, right now.” testing,” said Lizotte. “Some of the challenges involved in writing apps Col. James “Mac” Baker Jr., professor of include the small size of the display, the limited mathematics and computer science, said battery life, and the unusual input mechanisms interdisciplinary involvement across Post is ICadre (left) and a VMI slider puzzle are among – the touchscreen, the accelerometer, which can needed for the iPhone application project’s the iPhone apps being developed by cadets. – Photo tell you how the iPhone is tilted or moved – and long-term success. courtesy of the math and computer science department. the GPS capabilities,” Baker said. “My participation has mainly been with “Ultimately we would like to teach a class in ideas for apps,” said Maj. George “Merce” Brooke Perhaps the most fun will be had with the this,” Baker said. “Not just on iPhones and iPods, IV, an assistant professor in the department of iCadre app. Voices, still in a “BETA” version but mobile computing in general and the issues physics and astronomy. “We meet about once recorded by cadets, yell out cadre commands, involved in mobile computing.” a month to listen to what the cadets have done including “Duty jackets on!” and “Fly away to The software tools to develop these apps and then give input,” Brooke said. “It is really a whatever hole you came from!” were provided to VMI at no cost by Apple. The great club.” Baker is a faculty advisor on the iPhone mathematics and computer science department Thus far, cadets have created three application project. He said the cadets’ apps are is participating in Apple’s iPhone Developer applications. models for future applications the department University Program, a free program that One of the completed apps is a simple “slider hopes to create and place on the Apple App Store. encourages colleges to introduce iPhone app puzzle” with the VMI spider logo on it. A slider Apple’s App Store is a service that lets people development into their curriculums.

VMI Brass in Ireland A brass ensemble of VMI cadet musicians perform on a float before 650,000 people in the Dublin, Ireland, St. Patrick’s Day parade, which was televised across the Europe and on “Good Morning America” in the United States. The cadets, who spent six days in Ireland, gave six performances, including concerts at a St. Patrick’s Day festival, a U.S. Embassy gala, a high school in Cork, the Cork College School of Music and at St. Multouse in Kinsale, an eighth-century Episcopal church. The cadets were billeted by the Irish Defense Forces in army barracks in Dublin and Cork, courtesy of Capt. Brian Prendergast and the IDF School of Music. – Photo courtesy of Col. John Brodie. The Institute Report, April 2010, Page 7 Undergraduate Research Symposium Continues Growth

By We n d y Lovell

Third-place liberal arts poster winner Adam Green ’11, discusses his project, “Unrest in the Holy Land: A Strategic Analysis of the Israeli-Palestinian Conflict,” with Cadet Chiesopher Gyamfuaa ’11. – VMI Photo by Kevin Remington.

Helping coordinate the Undergraduate Research Symposium for several the work our cadets do to prepare for URS despite the hectic nature of years has been all in a day’s work for Patricia Hardin, but this year, her spring at VMI,” said Hardin. “I’ve also enjoyed the opportunity to work role as acting director of the Undergraduate Research Initiative gave her more closely with the members of the URS Steering Committee and to see a new perspective on an event that continues to grow in size and scope. firsthand just how committed our faculty is to undergraduate research.” Around 140 cadets presented their research at URS on April 1; some even Another aspect of Hardin’s role as acting director has been to look shared their artistic talents in the second annual VMI Exhibition of the Arts beyond URS to the future, which includes strategic planning. An external held in conjunction with the traditional poster and paper presentations. team of reviewers recently visited Post to assess the state of VMI’s “I’m extremely pleased with the success of URS this year,” said Hardin. undergraduate research program, information that will help the Institute “We had cadets presenting their work in just about every discipline. We shape its future. Hardin said that she has had to look at additional avenues even had a poster on Cadet Johnny Alerding’s Air Force ROTC experience to generate external support for the Symposium and the URI that will add last summer.” to the Jackson-Hope Fund’s generous and long-time support of URI. Hardin explained that for the first time the URS Steering Committee “Being part of the undergraduate research experience at VMI in a invited participation from the ROTC departments in an effort to bring that stronger capacity has been quite rewarding,” said Hardin. “I believe that aspect of cadet life into the Symposium. She said their involvement will be when students get involved in an undergraduate research experience, encouraged at next year’s URS, and she hopes participation in this area they get to see the whole process from start to finish. They also get the will increase over time. opportunity to work one-on-one with faculty mentors, and a bond is formed “Serving as acting director of URI has given me a new appreciation for that is quite invaluable to both student and teacher.” 2010 URS Awards Announced URS projects were evaluated by judges, and the following cadets David Johnstone, first; David Padgett, mentored by Cmdr. Robert received prizes for their projects: McMasters, second; and Sloan Burns, Carter Kunz and Matthew Liberal arts poster presentations: Matthew Sinkez, mentored by Satterwhite, mentored by Col. Matt Hyre, third. Col. Wade Bell and Col. R.E. Burnett, first; Logan Swanson, mentored Liberal arts oral presentations: Even Rogers, mentored by Col. by Bell and Dr. Pringle, second; and Adam Green, mentored by Maj. Rob McDonald, first; Fredy Jurkowitsch, mentored by Patricia Dennis Foster, third. Hardin, second; and Timothy Graziano, mentored by Col. Jim Squire, Science posters: Timothy Johnson, mentored by Col. Henry Schreiber, third. first; Jacob Cox, mentored by Maj. Dan McCain, second; and Ottie Science oral presentations: Alex Houser, mentored by Turner, first; Allgood Jr., mentored by Col. Jim Turner, third. Michael Kromm, mentored by Col. Lee Dewald, second; and Kathleen Engineering oral presentations: Ericsson Davis, mentored by Maj. Underwood, mentored by Col. Vonda Walsh, third. Page 8, The Institute Report, April 2010 A Cappella Group To Release CD

By Ge o r g e Ab ry

The Men in Grey perform in February during the legislative reception in Richmond. – VMI Photo by Kevin Remington. Two years ago Cadet David Perry was just a Rat who thought he had a Association and VMI’s communications and marketing office, helped the good idea. This month VMI’s a cappella group Men in Grey are releasing group find the money to book some studio time. their first CD. “We were initially just going to do the recording ourselves,” Perry said. The CD is called “Inside the Walls.” Its 12 tracks feature innovative Instead, the guys recorded the CD over three weekends in the Music Lab arrangements of traditionals like “Shenandoah” and “Coney Island Baby.” facility at the Jefferson Center in Roanoke, Va. “It was long, sometimes Readers who came up in the ’80s will appreciate the group’s sprightly painful; it was a new experience for everyone,” Perry said. treatment of Rick Springfield’s 1981 hit “Jessie’s Girl.” Jake Dempsey, the recording technician on “Inside the Walls,” said the “We are just doing this to have fun and show off our work, not to make group basically recorded everything together live, although occasional a lot of money,” Perry said. “We always try to give vocal parts were done separately. Dempsey said a performance, not just a recital, and that’s what the hard part was getting the sound of the group we wanted to do here.” Perry, a history major balanced in the studio. “I think they are used to in the Class of 2011, is Men in Grey’s music playing together, so overdubbing kind of threw them director. off a bit,” Dempsey said. As a high school student in Midlothian, Va., Perry was the acting producer of the CD. Dempsey Perry had formed a six-man a cappella group. said his own input throughout the project was He wanted to do the same thing at VMI. minimal. During his Rat year in 2007 Perry was a “I really like the traditional stuff they do; all of that member of VMI’s Glee Club. is really strong,” Dempsey said. “They do a great “I liked the Glee Club, but I wanted to branch version of ‘Jessie’s Girl,’ and all the material is great, out, sing other things, and so did a few of the but I really like the more traditional stuff they do.” other guys.” “This CD has been a long time coming,” Squire Men in Grey became an official VMI group said. during 2008-09, and what started with eight guys, Perry is proud of how far Men in Grey have now sounds more like 16 guys singing in harmony with one soloist – who come in the past couple of years, but he said it’s time to step down as changes with every song – and a beat boxer. the group’s music director and hand the baton to someone else. Paul “The group, relatively, is still pretty young; we have a great time singing Lingamfelter ’12, an international studies major, will take over for Perry together,” said baritone singer Barker Squire ’10, who serves as regimental next semester. executive officer in the Corps of Cadets. “This CD project is something we “My main goal for the next year is to establish an all-new repertoire,” tried to do for the last few years, but we always encountered obstacles – Lingamfelter said. “To learn new, original music that is unique to our primarily funding.” group.” Things really took off after a performance before the VMI Board of Men in Grey will perform April 30 at 8 p.m. in Gillis Theater in Marshall Visitors last fall. Several board members, along with the VMI Alumni Hall. The Institute Report, April 2010, Page 9 VMI Welcomes First Leader-in-Residence

By We n d y Lovell Lt. Col. Greg Gadson has long had a reputation for being a natural leader, but a life-changing injury suffered in Iraq has made his life a portrait of courage in the face of great adversity. Because this decorated Army commander knows well the role that hard work and determination can play in overcoming life’s challenges, the Virginia Military Institute named him its first leader-in- residence. A standout football player at West Point, Gadson fully embraced his role as an officer in the U.S. Army. He served in every conflict of the past two decades – in Kuwait, Bosnia- Herzegovina, Afghanistan, and Iraq. In May 2007, he was severely wounded by an improvised explosive device, which cost him both legs and normal use of his right arm and hand, but not his dedication to serving his country. A senior fellow at the Army War College, Gadson visited Post for a week in March and again in April to spend time with cadets, staff, Lt. Col. Gregory Gadson talks with cadets during a “fireside chat” in Barracks. – VMI Photo by and faculty discussing the meaning of leadership Kevin Remington. and sharing his insights on what he’s learned opportunity to meet with an inspirational person “He will be a tough act to follow because he’s as an Army officer. He will be followed by other like Gadson in a small-group setting. authentic – a real soldier who comes fresh from current or former leaders in government, the Retired U.S. Navy Capt. Susan Rabern, acting the battlefield,” she said. “The program was a military, or business who will spend several director of the Center for Leadership and Ethics success, and the cadets have already given the weeks on Post interacting with cadets and which sponsors the program, said she was Center for Leadership and Ethics a long list of sharing insights on ethical leadership formed thrilled by the impact Gadson made on everyone leaders they would like to be considered as guest during their careers. who came in contact with him. Please see page 12 During Gadson’s visit, he gave several lectures, met with Honors classes and athletic teams, and held informal discussions with cadets over meals Gadson Meets Physical Plant and during fireside chats in Barracks. “When I see VMI cadets, I see the future,” said Employees at Special Reception Gadson, who graduated from West Point in 1989. “All I want to do is see them become successful, By Ge o r g e Ab ry and if there’s anything I can do to help by being During Lt. Col. Gregory Gadson’s visit to Post, he took some time to address VMI’s physical here, I will.” plant employees and afterward shared refreshments with them in a separate reception. That’s According to Cadet Will Shannon ’10, Gadson when Scott Schulke recognized him. did quite a lot during his time on Post to motivate Schulke, a VMI waterproofer and maintenance employee, strode on over and sat down next the Corps of Cadets. The leader-in-residence to Gadson, and the two enjoyed a one-on-one conversation about everything from the New York visited Shannon’s Honors forum class in March Giants and teamwork to the importance of never giving up. to lead an informal discussion on leadership. Schulke, who spent about 20 minutes talking with Gadson, asked him how hard it had been “It was very clear that Lt. Col. Gadson wanted for him to endure so much and find the will to get back on his feet again. to learn as much from us as we would learn from “He said being in the hospital was the darkest point in his life,” Schulke said. “He didn’t know him,” said Shannon. “He brought a real-world what was going to happen from there, but something woke him up, made him want to continue, application of the leadership models we are and that was the biggest thing I got from him – a lot of people don’t make it through things like taught about in class and practice in Barracks that.” and on Post. Real-world examples, talking to Gadson’s table was soon occupied by a cast of VMI employees who stopped by to congratulate real leaders, and receiving advice on how we, Gadson on his lecture; soon they were talking football with Gadson, who discussed the importance too, will someday lead is invaluable information of looking out for one another and taking pride in a job well done. Gadson reminded the group that cannot be [gained] through PowerPoint that it’s possible for anyone to make a difference, even in a job or position you don’t like or slides.” wouldn’t choose to be in under different circumstances. Shannon added that Gadson’s positive attitude “I think he’s a guy who mentally knew what he needed to do, and it helped him physically,” is something he will never forget and that he Schulke said. “He taught me that if you are down about something you can pick yourself up; appreciates the way the Leader-in-Residence you’ve got to try, anyway.” Program is structured to give cadets the Page 10, The Institute Report, April 2010

Artist Mort Kunstler will unveil a print of his painting “Last Tribute of Respect” in the VMI Museum May 15. – Photo courtesy of Mort Kunstler ©2009. Artist Mort Kunstler to Unveil Print at VMI

By Ge o r g e Ab ry Historical artist Mort Kunstler doesn’t remember the last time he was at earlier work, “Final Visit,” which has Robert E. Lee visiting Jackson’s grave VMI, which is one reason he is looking forward to visiting Post. in Lexington sometime around 1870. Kunstler will be at the VMI Museum on May 15 to unveil the print of his The focal point of “The Last Tribute of Respect” is Jackson’s casket, new painting, “Last Tribute of Respect.” which is covered with the second national flag, which is also known as The painting captures the scene on May 15, 1863, when Gen. Thomas the “Stainless Banner” of the Confederate States of America. J. “Stonewall” Jackson’s casket was carried out of the Barracks – where Kunstler said the flags in the painting tell a story. The Virginia flag and Jackson’s body had lain in state the night before in his old classroom – the first national flag of the Confederacy are visible on the left, while the through Washington Arch, then loaded onto a caisson bound for services VMI flag with its color guard is on the right; Confederate battle flags fly in at Lexington Presbyterian Church. the background. “It was a day of somber pageantry, the day of the funeral and burial,” The procession that followed the caisson through Lexington included Kunstler said. thousands of people: members of the Stonewall Brigade, Confederate Kunstler has chronicled Jackson’s military career in many of his officers, wounded soldiers, honorary pallbearers, the entire Corps of paintings, which are prized for their historical accuracy and attention to Cadets, and officials from every level of government. factual detail. This latest painting is an extension of Kunstler’s longtime The people in the painting represent a cross-section of the civilians who fascination with Jackson, a “colorful character who is fun to paint.” came to Lexington for the ceremonies that day: women, children, and “Here was this powerful general who was dressed more shabbily most of old men. Among the mourners are the widowed Mary Anna Jackson and the time than a private,” Kunstler said. “He had dress uniforms of course, Virginia Governor John Letcher. All eyes are on the casket. but he was always in campaign attire in the field.” How long did it take to paint? The painting was commissioned by Donald McKenzie, who sells Kunstler “It took a lifetime to learn how to do it, but it took several months [to paintings through King James Galleries. McKenzie approached Kunstler paint]; it was a very difficult picture,” Kunstler said. “I have always tried last year with the idea of painting the initial moments of Jackson’s funeral to paint pictures that no one else has ever painted before.” procession, and Kunstler agreed that this was an unsung episode in Kunstler’s emphasis on the Civil War in his art began in the 1980s. In American history that should be celebrated. Both men also thought this 1992 the U.S. Postal Service commissioned him to do a painting of the painting was a missing piece in a series of scenes Kunstler has painted Buffalo Soldiers, which was issued as a stamp in 1994. In 2001 Kunstler over the years of Jackson at various points in his military career. was named the official artist of the motion picture Gods and Generals. In an earlier painting titled “Road to Glory,” Kunstler depicted Maj. Limited Edition prints of “The Last Tribute of Respect” will be sold at Thomas Jackson on horseback leading the Corps of Cadets from VMI on the VMI Museum. Kunstler will sign prints at the museum from 9 a.m. till April 21, 1861, at the beginning of the Civil War. 2 p.m. Print orders can be placed before May 15 by calling King James Kunstler said he wanted his new painting to serve as a prequel to another Galleries at (888) 217-1865. The Institute Report, April 2010, Page 11 Reception Room Opens in Former Subs Mess

By Jo h n Ro b e rt s o n IV a n d Sherri To mba r g e Faculty, staff, cadets, and alumni now have one more place on Post to hold formal gatherings. The former Subaltern’s Mess – or Subs’ Mess – located in the lower level of Crozet Hall, has been renovated and redecorated as a reception room. Sixteen archival photos documenting the history and tradition of VMI’s mess hall from circa 1880 through 1960 are displayed on the walls of the room. “Forming up and marching down to the mess hall three times a day for meals has always been a part of VMI tradition,” said Col. Keith Gibson, ’77, executive director of the VMI Museum, who selected the photos. The photos show cadets marching in formation to three different incarnations of the mess hall. The original mess hall, designed by Alexander Jackson Davis, was built in 1868 and destroyed by fire in 1905. The site was intentionally located away from Barracks because of the constant threat of fire in a mess hall. The second mess hall was constructed with a similar design and stood from 1906 until 1934, when a larger building was needed, prompting the construction of the present Crozet Hall.

Cherry captains chairs and historic photos furnish the recently renovated reception room in Crozet Hall. – VMI Photo by John Robertson IV. Photos on display chronicle the history of the three buildings, all located in approximately the same location as today’s Crozet Hall. Photos of the interiors of the mess halls show how cadets of different eras ate their meals together, being served family style by waiters and passing dishes around the tables. Cadets take a meal around 1904 in the original mess hall designed by “Eating is socially a bonding experience,” said Gibson. “It is a Alexander Jackson Davis. – Photo courtesy of the VMI Archives. proclamation of trusting.” That camaraderie is captured in photos of cadets forming up, marching down, and eating together. The furnishings, which were installed earlier this month after renovation of the room, resonate with this sense of history. “We have done it with an eye toward the past to make sure we’ve captured the spirit of Crozet Hall,” said Col. Jim Joyner, director of auxiliary services. The furnishings include cherry captain’s chairs, lamps bearing the VMI seal, and a flag stand. A podium and built-in sound system make the room suitable for a variety of occasions. Though plans for Crozet Hall called for a reception room in the basement, the renovation was postponed while the room was used for storage during the demolition of the former and construction of the current Lejeune Hall, when both the bookstore and the PX were housed in Crozet. The reception room now boasts an outdoor area and pull off for dropping off and picking up people attending gatherings within. A meal in 1915 takes place in VMI’s second mess hall, after the first was When not in use by the VMI community, the room will be available for destroyed by fire in 1905. – Photo courtesy of the VMI Archives. use by outside parties. Page 12, The Institute Report, April 2010 Olmsted Program Offers Abroad Experiences

By We n d y Lovell Four years into his career it also is a great opportunity for with the Army, Col. Lee Dewald your entire family.” began studying German through While the cadets in a program he says changed his attendance aren’t yet eligible life. for the scholarship program, Then a battery commander at Dewald said he likes to plant Fort Hood, Texas, Dewald was the seed for future opportunity selected as an Olmsted Scholar, and to introduce them to which provided full funding for Marsh and Stratton, who have language training at the Defense visited VMI for the past several Language Institute and two years years. To be eligible for the of study at the University of Olmsted Scholarship, active Göettingen. duty officers in the U.S. Armed “The Olmsted program really Forces must have at least three changed my whole career,” said and no more than 11 years Dewald, who has taught in VMI’s of commissioned service, mathematics and computer outstanding professional science department since 2002. Retired Navy Rear Adm. Larry Marsh, president and CEO of the Olmsted performance and demonstrated “I thought I’d be an Army officer Foundation, talks to cadets about abroad opportunities for active duty officers. scholastic achievement. all my life, but following my – VMI Photo by Kevin Remington Olmsted Scholars are program I was offered several placed in countries all over the opportunities thanks to my affiliation with Olmsted that changed my path world, including Indonesia, a first placement this year for the program. and brought me to the classroom.” VMI alumnus William Short ’82 studied at the University of Jordan in Established in 1956 by Maj. Gen. George H. Olmsted and his wife, Carol Amman from 1982 to 1984, and alumnus Nathan Pierpoint ’98 studied Olmsted, the Olmsted Foundation promotes its founders’ belief that the at Corvinus University in Budapest, Hungary, from 2004 to 2007. greatest leaders must be educated broadly. To that end, the Olmsted Scholar The Olmsted Foundation has supported VMI through its Overseas Travel Program gives young military leaders the opportunity to achieve fluency and Cultural Immersion Program for undergraduate students, as well. To in a foreign language and to become immersed in a foreign culture by date, 35 VMI cadets have received scholarships to travel abroad during pursuing graduate study at an overseas university. their cadetships. To date, 525 scholars comprising 52 Olmsted Scholar classes have been “The Olmsted Foundation benefits cadets because it provides selected, and they have been assigned to 177 universities in 58 foreign opportunities to travel abroad for commissioning cadets who might non-English speaking countries, studying in 37 foreign languages. not otherwise get an international experience at VMI,” said Cmdr. Tim As a former Olmsted Scholar, Dewald has supported the foundation over McElhannon, director of international programs. “It is important for the years by participating in annual reunions of scholars and by spreading us to get international experience for as many cadets as possible so that the word about the foundation’s benefits. On April 13, he was host for an when they leave VMI they are able to understand cultures and perspectives information session for a select group of more than 50 1st and 2nd class different than their own. cadets, including presentations by retired Navy Rear Adm. Larry Marsh, “Regardless of whether they are going into the military and deploying president and CEO of the foundation, and retired Air Force Col. Bob abroad or working in a U.S. government agency or company here Stratton, vice president for special programs. in the States, they need to be able have a global perspective and an “This is a program for your future,” Marsh told the cadets. “This is a life- understanding of foreign cultures to be competitive and effective in their changing, leadership experience of personal and professional growth, and professions.” Leader-in-Residence Continued from page 9 speakers or as the next leader-in-residence.” and requested that he speak to the team before inspire everyone he comes in contact with, he The VMI community is not alone in its they took the field. The Giants had lost the first does hope to help put things into perspective. appreciation of Gadson’s gift of a positive attitude. two games of the season and were playing with Cadet Barker Squire ’10 attended a small-group Former West Point football teammate Mike no heart. The wounded warrior’s pep talk worked luncheon with Gadson and enjoyed hearing about Sullivan was so impressed by the way Gadson well, so well that the head coach named Gadson his experience as an Army officer, especially how interacted with his fellow patients Walter Reed honorary co-captain at the NFC championship he has dealt with his injuries in Iraq. Army Medical Center during his recovery that he game and the team ended the season with its first “I only talked with Lt. Col. Gadson for about enlisted his help motivating the New York Giants Super Bowl victory in more than a decade. 40 minutes, but by the end of that time, I felt like football team, where he serves as quarterback Whether he’s talking to an NFL football team I could have asked him anything,” said Squire. coach. or a classroom full of cadets, Gadson’s message “I think the benefit of the CLE’s new program is Three months after his visit with Gadson at focuses on service, duty, perseverance, and that it definitely makes leadership much more Walter Reed, Sullivan sent him tickets to a game adversity. While he doesn’t claim to be able to real.” The Institute Report, April 2010, Page 13 Spring FTX Reinforces Company Unity

By Ge o r g e Ab ry As in years past, 1st and 2nd class non- commissioning cadets had a full slate of activities to keep busy with during Spring FTX. This year they did things a little differently. Instead of cadets volunteering individually for projects, cadet companies were assigned to a particular event, then given certain responsibilities to carry out. Why the change? “To give company CIC’s more of a leadership role,” said Even Rogers ’10, who served as cadet in charge of Spring FTX. “It reinforced company unity and chain of command.” Rogers and his staff were responsible for executing all Spring FTX activities. “I basically ran the staff and made sure everyone was where they needed to be,” said Rogers. “But it was my staff who executed to the detail, and they did an excellent job.” First class cadet Marshall Cox was in charge of the Regimental Operations Center, the hub of FTX operations, while Alex Houser ’10 oversaw Cadets participate in a self-defense class during Spring FTX. – VMI Photo by Kevin Remington. transportation. This year cadet companies worked on a Control,” a self-defense course designed for to defend against them,” Pannebianco said. number of community service projects. The law enforcement and military personnel. “Today what is happening is people are watching VMI Timber Framers built a house for Project Pannebianco, who is chief of police for the city YouTube in every country, learning one or two Horizon while cadet companies worked with of Buena Vista, is also a self-defense expert. He Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu moves, and then trying them Habitat for Humanity. One of the biggest projects said the Internet has made it easier than ever out on people.” this year involved clearing huge rocks from a for would-be assailants to pick up martial arts About 83 cadets were involved in Special drainage ditch in Buena Vista. Cadet companies techniques that can be used against police or Olympics activities on Post, where athletes also had an opportunity to take classes in civilians. participated in power lifting, bocce ball, investing and self defense. “Take Control is basically a recognition track and field competitions, basketball, and A.J. Pannebianco, VMI grappling coach, course; it allows people to see some of the swimming. Cadets also organized the VMI 5K led cadets through a program called “Take chokes people will try to put on them and learn Torch Run for Special Olympics. Post Briefs Gibson Invited to Write Encyclopedia Article First Cadet-Led Book Club to Begin in Fall Col. Keith Gibson ’77, director of VMI Museum operations, has been The Center for Leadership and Ethics is supporting the Virginia Military selected by the editors of Oxford University Press to submit an essay on Institute’s first cadet-led book club, which will begin meeting next fall. The the work of Moses Ezekiel for the Grove Encyclopedia of Art. Grove purpose is to encourage reading within the Corps of Cadets and to serve Encyclopedia is considered the foremost scholarly resource for western as a forum for discussion on current and sometimes controversial issues. art. Gibson co-wrote a biography on the artist in 2007 titled Moses Ezekiel: The club will be led by cadets Sharif Gray ’11, Brandon Griffith ’11 and Zac Civil War Soldier, Renowned Sculptor. Ezekiel, the first Jewish cadet to Hartless ’11 with Capt. Susan Rabern, acting director of the CLE, serving attend VMI, fought as a cadet in the Battle of New Market and graduated as its faculty adviser. Plans are for club readers to discuss eight books in 1866. Two of his heroic bronze statues are located on the VMI Parade over the course of the next academic year. Cadets and faculty members Ground: Virginia Mourning Her Dead and “Stonewall” Jackson. interested in participating can contact Cadet Sharif Gray at graysl@vmi. edu or Rabern at [email protected]. 2010-11 Department Heads Announced Seven of the 14 department head terms will expire at the end of the current Gray Finalist for Prestigious Scholarship academic year. The following faculty have been reappointed to five-year Cadet Sharif Gray ’11 was selected as a finalist for the prestigious 2010 terms: Col. Floyd Duncan, economics and business; Col. Shawn Addington, Truman Scholarship, which provides financial support for graduate electrical and computer engineering; Col. Jim Hentz, international studies study, leadership training, and fellowship with other students who are and politics; Col. Kathleen Bulger-Barnett, modern languages and cultures; committed to making a difference through public service. Gray was among and Col. James Gire, psychology and philosophy. Col. Mark Wilson has 200 students selected as finalists from an applicant pool of 576 students been appointed to a five-year term as head of the history department, and from 254 colleges and universities. Sixty students were chosen to receive Col. Michael Hardin, mechanical engineering. fellowships. Page 14, The Institute Report, April 2010

Attorney General on Post

Virginia Attorney General Kenneth T. Cuccinelli II talks with Cadet Johnathan Shirkey, Alpha Company commander, during his April 6 visit to the VMI Post. Accompanying Cuccinelli are Gen. J.H. Binford Peay ’62 (left), VMI superintendent, and Col. Thomas Trumps ’79, commandant of cadets. – VMI Photo by Kevin Remington.

Parker and Team Embrace Order in Chaotic Legislative Process

By Ge o r g e Ab ry State funding for higher education doesn’t the superintendent. So it is really his efforts in happen by accident, especially not in tough Richmond, his office calls with legislators, their economic times. So Lt. Col. Kimberly C. Parker respect for him, and his credibility that really leaves nothing to chance. make the difference for VMI.” “Typically, because most legislators don’t Clark said it also helps that several lawmakers know how higher education operates; they in Richmond are VMI alumni who have held may introduce a very well-intended piece of leadership positions in the General Assembly and legislation, but there may be some unintended have sat on key committees. They include Del. consequences,” Parker said. “So we work with William R. Janis ’84, Del. Scott L. Lingamfelter them on the ground in Richmond.” ’73, Sen. Thomas K. Norment Jr. ’68, and Sen. As VMI’s government relations director, Parker Ralph S. Northam ’81. is the primary resource officer and go-between Lt. Col. Kim Parker “We rely on all of them because a lot of for members of the Virginia General Assembly Since Virginia works from a two-year budget, this involves understanding the appetite for and VMI’s government relations team, led by the focal point of the legislative session this year a particular issue or initiative,” Clark said. Gen. J.H. Binford Peay III ’62. The team also was the 2010-2012 budget that was presented “And they can provide sound counsel to the includes Brig. Gen. Robert L. Green, who is last December by then-Governor Tim Kaine. Institute.” deputy superintendent of finance, administration, Incoming Gov. Bob McDonnell and lawmakers “I think one of the things Kim brings is a and support. spent the bulk of the 60-day session – which ran quiet, professional, deliberate approach to an In Richmond, Parker fields questions Jan. 13-March 14 – refining that budget. The otherwise chaotic and unmanageable legislative from lawmakers about VMI’s funding needs, state provides approximately 25 percent of the process,” Norment said. “In a very short period coordinates and schedules the superintendent’s Institute’s annual budget. of time she has earned the respect of her peers visits to the capitol, tracks higher education “I spend a lot of time looking at legislation and and legislators, and I think she has become a very legislation, attends committee meetings, and sending those bills back to the post,” so members effective advocate and face for VMI in the General relays intelligence. of various departments can study a bill’s language Assembly.” Lt. Col. Dallas Clark, Institute planning officer, to gauge its impact on VMI, Parker said. Norment cited Parker’s efforts to stave off said one of Parker’s strengths is her ability to Parker downplays the significance of her further cuts to higher education during the develop relationships with legislators, which individual efforts; she said VMI’s ability to recent session. “It really could have been allows the Institute to play an active role in secure funding is an enormous team effort. devastating to VMI, and I think Kim was very shaping legislation. Parker said it’s impossible to overstate the effective in advocating what the potential impact “So as bills come forward, we are able to importance of Peay’s own interaction with would have been on VMI,” Norment said. work with the patrons of a bill to ensure that they legislators. Peay typically meets with lawmakers Before coming to VMI in December 2007, understand the impact it would have on higher numerous times before and during the Parker spent six years at Liberty University, education,” Clark said. “VMI enjoys a great legislative session. serving as associate dean for administration and deal of credibility among the legislators; that is “I am really down there representing VMI student affairs in the law school. Parker also a result of the person who is down there day-in as a resource officer,” Parker said. “But when has worked for several special interest groups and day-out. legislators want to see someone, they want to see in Washington, D.C. The Institute Report, April 2010, Page 15 Visiting Professor Enlightens Young Minds

By We n d y Lovell

Dr. Harrison Pemberton describes philosophic concepts with a cadet in his class. -- VMI Photo by Kevin Remington.

Dr. Harrison Pemberton taught philosophy in Lexington for nearly 50 thing I will take away from this class is not a particular answer, but rather years, but not at the Virginia Military Institute. a multitude of questions as it is through questioning that assumptions can That changed in December when he joined the faculty as the Eugenio be refuted and the truth can be revealed.” Lopez Visiting Chair for Asian Studies. In that capacity, he is teaching an Cadet Hisham Yousif ’11 is an Arabic and international studies and politics Honors course in philosophy, as well as leading an Honors forum. Next major who was drawn to the course by its title and the way it is structured to fall, he will teach another Honors course on courage and existence. bring together two very different philosophical branches for comparison. “Topics in Philosophy: The Buddah Meets Socrates” has been well “Dr. Pemberton’s style is very unique; he is not rigid in structure or received by the 12 cadets in Pemberton’s class. His students are investigating methodology,” said Yousif. “His class is truly a seminar in which he rarely the philosophical traditions of Western and Eastern philosophy and will lectures but sparks discussion, and it is absolutely enlightening in the sense put the two together in a final paper. that it has introduced an absolutely foreign perspective on philosophy – For many of his students, the class offers an initial study of concepts such Eastern thought is not at all similar to anything Western or Judeo-Christian. as existence, knowledge, values, and reason. For Pemberton, it’s his first He has expanded our realm of knowledge to a new world seldom given opportunity to teach a group of students in such a unique and structured any serious examination in universities or schools.” atmosphere. Pemberton’s unique way of teaching is born of an experience he had in “I had been out of the classroom for a year and discovered I really 2004 when he traveled to Kalimpong, India, to teach Western philosophy missed it,” said Pemberton, who retired from W&L in 2004 but continued to young Buddhist monks at the Advanced School of Buddhist Studies. teaching occasionally. “The students keep you alive, and you’ve got to keep Among those students was His Holiness the 17th Gyalwant Karmpa, the head the gray cells busy. My cadets are asking startling questions I haven’t heard of one branch of Buddhism. In 2008 Pemberton published The Buddha before, and I’m really enjoying it.” Meets Socrates, an account of his experience as the private tutor of one While VMI cadets differ somewhat from W&L undergraduates, Pemberton the highest lamas in Tibetan Buddhism. said that good students are good students no matter where they attend “When we learned of Dr. Pemberton’s interest in teaching a course at school. He’s found the biggest difference to be in the way cadets manage VMI, and we discovered that he wanted to develop and offer the Buddha their time and are attentive to doing what’s asked of them. Meets Socrates seminar based on his book, we thought immediately of According to his students, the subject matter requires that they do a lot, nominating him for the Lopez Chair,” said Col. Rob McDonald, associate but they find the challenge exciting and enlightening. dean for academic affairs. “He has done extraordinary things for the cadets, “Being an economics and business major, I don’t get too many chances and the course already has a reputation – a good one. to think on such deep topics, but there are a lot of personal benefits “As we prepare for pre-registration, I’ve had some asking whether it from doing so,” said Cadet Kippur Taylor ’12. “I’ve learned a lot about will be available next year, and that’s quite a compliment for a professor philosophy, and I’ve learned even more about myself. The most important who’s been with us only since December.” Page 16, The Institute Report, April 2010 New Facilities Reap Substantial Water Savings

By Sherri To mba r g e Between 2007 and 2009 VMI increased its as the old. The timers are set to water lawns at the most square footage through new buildings and The Barracks is a good example of water efficient time of day, typically in the evening or additions by more than 15 percent. savings from the new fixtures. In 2005, VMI was early morning, and they have rain sensors so the Between 2007 and 2009, the VMI Corps using approximately 760,000 gallons of water a sprinklers do not run if the lawn has received of Cadets grew from about 1,300 to close to month in Barracks. Since then, Barracks water sufficient rain. 1,500. usage has dropped to approximately 229,000 “We’re using less water because we’re smarter And during that same time period, VMI used gallons a month. about when we apply water to the grass,” said 25 percent less water, achieving $96,000 in The toilets and faucets are, said Ackerman, Ackerman. savings. “in every building touched by Vision 2039,” The installation of artificial turf at Delaney Field VMI’s water conservation measures have approximately 17 of the 30 large buildings on has significantly reduced water use there, said significantly exceeded growth and other water Post: new construction of Hinty Hall, Marshall Ackerman. The water used in the summer to demand factors. Hall, and Third Barracks and renovation of cool the artificial turf is a fraction of the amount So concludes Lt. Col. Paul Ackerman ’93, Mallory Hall, Nichols Engineering Building, that used to be used for irrigation. deputy post engineer. Jackson Memorial Hall, Crozet Hall, Kilbourne Three new fields will come on line next year “We’ve gained a lot of efficiency with the Hall, Old and New barracks, Paulette Hall with the completion of the Military Leadership current construction schedule,” said Ackerman, (formerly Patchin Field House), Morgan Hall Field Training Grounds, but one of those may be noting that all new buildings and all renovated (the Nichols annex), King Hall (the Cocke Hall artificial, said Ackerman. buildings have low-flow faucets and low-flush annex), and Foster and Gray-Minor stadiums. “We love it,” he said. “You don’t have to cut it, toilets. These buildings also feature low-flow or and you don’t have to water it. In bad weather, “The old toilets were 3 to 3 1/2 gallons per waterless urinals. Low-flow urinals use 1 gallon you can use it.” The DeLaney Field was actually flush; we’ve replaced the majority of those with per flush instead of 2 or 3 gallons, and waterless plowed during last winter’s snow events. [toilets using] 1.6 gallons per flush,” he said. urinals in the stadiums save “hundreds to The water savings has been a nice bonus. The new faucets have aerators that build up thousands of gallons” during each sporting event, “We have primarily focused on energy pressure before the water comes out. said Ackerman. [savings],” said Ackerman. “We know we “It makes it feel like you have good water The savings extend outdoors, as well. Patchin have been conserving water, but with current pressure, but it is low flow. People don’t realize Field, Foster Stadium, the Third and Old Barracks renovations we have not had to focus on water they’re using less water,” said Ackerman. The courtyards, and the Parade Ground now have savings. We’ve gotten a lot of return on less effort new faucets use about half the amount of water irrigation systems on programmable timers. than if we had attacked it separately.” Keydets Achieve National Ranking

By Brad Sal o i s , VMI Sports In f o r mat i o n VMI baseball achieved its third which occurred in 2007 (22-8). national ranking in program history The Keydets have been sparked by March 15, when the Keydets were their offense, including freshman Cory ranked 30th in the country by Spangenburg, who has hits in 25 of Collegiate Baseball. 30 games this year and is currently In the ensuing weeks’ polls, VMI batting .378. First Class Cadet Jordan briefly moved up to No. 28 before Ballard leads the Big South in home sliding to No. 29 in the March 30 runs (12), and has hits in 16 of his and April 6 tabulations. past 17 games. Additionally, only one Also on April 6, the Keydets full-time Keydet starter has a batting received votes in both the National average under .329, while all but two Collegiate Baseball Writers VMI players to get a start in the field Association Writers’ Poll and ESPN/ have hit a home run. USA Today Coaches’ Poll for the Upcoming key games for VMI fourth consecutive week. include April 23-25, when perennial Jordan Ballard has helped power VMI baseball to its best-ever start. – VMI has been helped by a two- Photo courtesy of VMI Sports Information. Big South power Coastal Carolina game sweep of The Citadel, as visits Gray-Minor Stadium for a three- well as an ACC win over Maryland en route to achieving the national game weekend series. Virginia Tech, Winthrop and Virginia are all on the recognition. remaining schedule as well. At 25-5, the Keydets are off to the best start in school history. This year’s Note: All statistics are current as of April 8. team is a full three games ahead of the previous best beginning to a season, The Institute Report, April 2010, Page 17 VMI Cadets Help Run Model U.N. Conference

By Co l . Rick Ki l r o y , In t e r n at i o n al St u d i e s Three VMI cadets, Charles Crowder ’10, Ryan Schmidt ’12, and Alex Wade ’10, joined with Washington and Lee University students last month to run this year’s High School Model United Nations Conference. The two-day event at the W&L Law School brought together students from five high schools, Rockbridge County, Stuarts Draft, James River, Parry McCluer, and Roanoke Catholic, to discuss both current and historical international political events. The conference included simulations of the United Nations Security Council, its Social, Humanitarian, and Cultural Committee, the Economic and Social Council, an ad hoc Crisis Council, the Disarmament and International Security Committee, and a historic Security Council on the Rwandan Genocide in 1994. Crowder and Schmidt, both international studies majors, served as co-chairs of the UNSC and DISEC, respectively. Wade, a history major, co-chaired the historic Security Council. The VMI cadets and W&L students helped VMI cadets (from left) Charles Crowder ’10, Ryan Schmidt ’12, and Alex Wade ’10 joined with lead debates and fostered discussions in their students of Washington and Lee University to run the Model United Nations event. – Photo committees on issues such as nuclear proliferation, courtesy of Col. Rick Kilroy. humanitarian intervention, missile defense, environmental refugees and climate change, a challenge to constitutional democracy, and the global financial crisis. The high school students prepared their specific country position papers with the assistance of background papers from last fall’s American Foreign Policy courses written by other VMI cadets: David Grey ’10, Michael Herron ’11, George Statzell ’12, Jared Hendee ’10, Logan Swanson ’10, Christopher Carr ’12, Kelly Vickery ’10, and Ermin Mujezinovic ’11. The papers provided the high school students with information on each of their assigned committees and topics. While the students were busy debating global issues, Maj. Howard Sanborn, assistant professor of international studies, gave a talk on U.S.- Chinese relations to the high school faculty sponsors. Sanborn, who has lived and taught in China, is working with Col. Mark Wilkerson, professor of history, to develop a study-abroad program for VMI cadets this summer at East China Normal University in Shanghai. During lunch on Saturday in Crozet Hall, Gen. J.H. Binford Peay III ’62, VMI superintendent, offered students his views on the importance of international diplomacy and encouraged their desire to learn more about the world and the role of the United States and other countries in international politics. Crowder, Schmidt, and Wade were able to participate in this year’s conference due to a schedule change that moved the event up one week so that it did not conflict with VMI’s spring furlough. The three are taking a new course, PO 470 International Organization, which focuses on the role of inter-governmental, non-government, regional, and other actors in international politics. In February, they traveled to the University of Maj. Howard Sanborn gives a talk on U.S.-Chinese relations to high North Carolina-Chapel Hill to attend a United Nations Peacekeeping school faculty sponsors during the Model U.N. event. – Photo courtesy Conference. of Col. Rick Kilroy. Page 18, The Institute Report, April 2010 Cadets Further Military Education at Fort Pickett

By 2n d Lt. R. Hubbell McGe o r g e ’09, Ar m y ROTC VMI’s Marshall-New Market Battalion conducted its Spring Field Training Exercise March 26-30 at the Army National Guard Maneuver Training Site Fort Pickett near Blackstone. The exercise was planned and executed by 1st Class cadets, who will receive their commission as second lieutenants in May. The 4th and 3rd class training mainly focused on basic soldiering skills, such as land navigation, rifle and machine gun marksmanship, and fire team-level military operations on urban terrain training. “The FTX was a great opportunity to get exposure to true military training,” said Justin Dwight ’12. Training was both vigorous and exciting and focused on cadets’ skill development, he said. The 2nd Class cadets spent most of the FTX in the field, conducting advanced land navigation and squad and platoon field exercises. These training events consisted of tactically moving through rough terrain while engaging simulated opposing forces. For 2nd Class cadets, this training is the final exercise prior to the summer Leadership Development and Assessment Course, where they will be involved in a six-week course designed to Members of the Class of 2012 prepare to clear a building during military operations evaluate leadership ability. This course is the apex of Army on urban terrain – MOUT – training. – Photo courtesy of Army ROTC. ROTC training, and, along with GPA and campus performance, helps determine to which military occupational specialty they will be undoubtedly perform extremely well this summer at LDAC. assigned. The 1st Class also picked up some new leadership techniques as they “All in all, the Spring FTX went tremendously well,” said Maj. Eric East planned and executed the FTX. ’99, recruiting operations officer. The 4th and 3rd Class cadets enjoyed “I learned that an extensively detailed exercise like Army FTX requires their intense training and left with a new skill set to bring back to the substantial coordination and the ability to think ahead, backwards plan, Institute. The 2nd Class had the fortunate opportunity to gain some finishing and anticipate changes” said Josh Hughes ’10, ROTC S-4, logistics, touches to an already vast knowledge in tactics and leadership. They will officer. Marine-Option Cadets Train at McKethan

By Gu n n e ry Sg t . Bradley Driver, Naval ROTC The spring 2010 FTX for the VMI Marine-option Naval ROTC cadets by 1st Class cadets who had previously completed summer training. opened Saturday, March 27, with a morning hike to McKethan Park, where Later that day, Lt. Matthew Hyatt ’09 and Lt. Mark Turner ’09, guest the cadets established a bivouac site and began military training classes. speakers, discussed their Marine Corps experiences and explained how The classes, in land navigation, operations order writing, camouflage, VMI prepared them for service as a Marine officers. cover and concealment, small unit level tactics, and artillery, were taught On Sunday morning, the 2nd Class cadets, who are scheduled to attend Officer Candidate School this summer, were evaluated on their ability to lead a squad through obstacles and attacking objectives. These scenarios ranged from assaulting through an enemy position and capturing enemy prisoners of war to recovery of a downed pilot. Concurrently with the squad evaluation, 3rd and 4th class cadets completed land navigation training. They were required to plot their points on the map and navigate to the points, and they were graded on their ability to successfully complete the course. Once the land navigation course was complete, the cadets began the small unit leadership evaluation, going through similar obstacles to those 2nd Class cadets had completed that morning. The 3rd and 4th class cadets worked on the events in fire teams of four or five cadets and were evaluated on their efficiency, correctness, and ability to lead their teams. On Monday morning, the cadets hiked back to VMI for a cookout and other activities, and on Tuesday, they heard briefs from outside agencies Marine-option Naval ROTC cadets cross a linear danger area during and completed career counseling with the staff members. offensive operations training. – Photo courtesy of Naval ROTC. The Institute Report, April 2010, Page 19 Survival Training, Paintball in Air Force FTX

By Ca d e t Brian Mo l i n a ’10, Air Fo r c e ROTC

Commissioning 1st Class cadets undergo survival training during Spring FTX. – Photo courtesy of Air Force ROTC.

VMI’s Air Force ROTC Detachment 880 opened its Field Training Exercise, and the leadership reaction course, all focused on preparing the cadets March 26-30, with the Combat Dining-In, featuring guest speaker Maj. Gen. for Air Force Field Training during the summer. Darren W. McDew. The remainder of Detachment 880’s cadets participated in a paintball The commissioning 1st Class cadets began survival training the next function to simulate small arms combat, but in a messier and more day, Thursday, at the Survival Evasion Resistance Escape camp at Mountain enjoyable fashion. Shepherd Wilderness Survival School near Catawba, Va. Following the paintball event, the cadets were divided into three groups They then traveled to Bolling Air Force Base in Washington, D.C., to get for base visits. The cadets learned the day-to-day activities of a base at the a better understanding of what it is like to be a second lieutenant in the U.S Langley Air Force Base in Hampton, Va., Shaw Air Force Base in South Air Force. Field Training Preparation offered myriad activities, including Carolina, or Seymour Johnson Air Force Base in North Carolina. Joint FTP day with the University of Virginia’s detachment, M-9 training, Naval ROTC Cadets Visit Warship, Train at Norfolk

By Lt. Jeff Lamb e t h , Naval ROTC Built with 7.5 tons of steel recovered from the World Trade Center and After a night spent on board the ship, the cadets got an early start for recently commissioned in New York Harbor, the USS New York, LPD-21, is a variety of trainers and tours made available to them at Naval Station an impressive warship, carrying with it both the might and the memories Norfolk. Some of the cadets participated in The Buttercup, a damage of the American people. control trainer that involves combating actual flooding casualties in a VMI Naval ROTC Navy-option cadets spent the first night of the 2010 simulated ship environment. Others drove submarines in a virtual reality Spring FTX aboard this ship in Norfolk. They also toured a cruiser or a simulator in the Submarine Learning Center, saw firefighting techniques destroyer. and used the virtual weapons range to test their marksmanship skills with The stay on LPD 21 enabled the cadets to experience firsthand what the M-16 and 9 mm pistol. living and sleeping on a Navy vessel feels like. The cadets were greeted A few cadets were even able to go to the Navigation, Ship Handling upon arrival by the ship’s commanding officer, Cmdr. Curtis Jones, who and Seamanship Trainer, one of the Navy’s newest, most advanced led a tour highlighting the capabilities and design of a San Antonio Class trainers, where they practiced ship driving skills in virtual high-pressure LPD. The cadets were then released to explore on their own and to enjoy environments. the experience of shipboard life. Virginia military institute communications & marketing office Non-Profit Organization Lexington, VA 24450-0304 U.S. Postage PAID Permit no. 14 Lexington, VA 24450-0304

Keydets Host Military Championships

By Brad Sal o i s , VMI Sports In f o r mat i o n Led by Hannah Granger’s 198 markers. Navy’s 154 points placed it school record performance in the third, while Coast Guard, with 18.5, and 5,000-meters, the VMI women’s the Merchant Marine Academy, with 6, track and field team finished fourth were sixth and seventh respectively. at the 2010 Military Track and Field “I was proud to be the coach of this Championships, which concluded team this weekend,” said Darrin Webb, March 27 at Foster Stadium. The VMI head coach. “Both teams did a great men also finished fourth, paced by job of competing for the two full days, and Felix Kitur’s win in the 800-meters their fourth-place finishes are something and a pair of second-place finishes to be proud of because all the teams by James Alexander. involved in this meet are strong and very Kitur crossed the line in a time of well coached.” 1:51.81 to notch the victory and earn Granger’s 17:29.28 clocking gave her 10 of VMI’s 93 team points in the the 5K victory and was some 20 seconds process. The 2nd Class cadet took better than the previous school record, the lead early in his race and held it Hannah Granger dominated the field to win the 5K at the Military which Granger herself set in 2008. The throughout, before outrunning Tyler Championships. – Photo courtesy of VMI Sports Information. 2nd Class cadet held a commanding lead Stanley of Air Force and Matthew from the opening lap and went on to win Evers of Navy down the final stretch to prevail. by just under 10 seconds. Alexander finished just behind Army’s Alfred McDaniel in the 100- and Those 10 points helped the VMI women earn their fourth-place finish, 200-meters, clocking in at 11.03 over the shorter distance while posting as the Keydets posted 64 points on the day. Air Force won the meet, led by a 21.98 time in the 200-meters. senior Sara Neubauer, who won all four throwing disciplines and led the The 26 points that Kitur and Alexander combined to earn helped VMI Falcons to 237 total points. Navy finished second with 193 points, while finish fourth, well ahead of fifth-place The Citadel at 54.5 points. Army won Army had 163 markers. The Citadel came home fifth, as the Bulldogs had the meet with 209 points, edging out Air Force, which finished second with 49 points, and Coast Guard finished sixth with its 11 points.

Page 20, The Institute Report, April 2010