Climbing the Walls for Fitness and Fun S I Look Back Over Our Five Years at ULM, I Am Inspired by the Tremendous Accomplishments a We Have Achieved Together

b e r 2 2 0 0 7 A Helping Hand for Schools n U M New Health Sciences Degree

e 7 , The Cofer Years

lum t h e m a g a z i n e o f t h e ULM v o University of Lo u i s i a n a M o n r o e

Climbing the Walls for Fitness and Fun s I look back over our five years at ULM, I am inspired by the tremendous accomplishments A we have achieved together. In our first few weeks on campus, Deborah and I, along with so many of you, reclaimed our campus, banishing litter and peeling paint and other signs of neglect. An ambitious $70+ million visionary plan, focusing on students first, has become our campus renaissance. James & Deborah Cofer This issue of the ULM Magazine shares that campus renaissance with you. The renovated Student Union Building was rededicated to its “owners”—ULM students. Our new Office of Enrollment Management will offer a “one-stop shopping” admissions/enrollment experience. Today ULM undergraduate students are presenting their research at regional, national and international conferences, an experience often reserved for doctoral students. Who would have dreamed of such innovations for our students? The answer to that question is ULM’s faculty and staff, such as kinesiology faculty Dr. Wilson Campbell and Dr. Lisa Colvin who have published cutting-edge research examining how to reduce childhood obesity. Students can now earn a Bachelor of Science in Health Studies degree, providing professional education in the health fields which will help them serve the citizens of Louisiana for a lifetime. Our alumni continue to play the vital role of supporting their alma mater. We’ve featured several who are making a difference in today’s world, in part because of the education, values and life-changing experiences they received at ULM. The 1984-88 women’s basketball teams held a reunion, spotlighting standout player Eun Jung (Lee) Ok, as she and her teammates pioneered the way to enable women’s basketball, not only at ULM but across the country, to become the mammoth sport it is today. ULM is at a crossroads. While change is constant, we are positioned financially, physically, academically and organizationally for the future. We must build on the strong foundation that we—together—put in place with the dedicated work of students, faculty, president’s letter president’s staff, administrators and friends. As progress and excellence continue at ULM, please know your support allows this university to bring to life an inspiring vision of the future.

James E. Cofer, Sr. President contents tU h e ma g a z i ne o f L t h e U n i ve r s i tM y o f L ou i s i ana M on r oe Features VOLUME 7, Number 2 2007 Big Kids Executive Editor Don A. Skelton, Sr. 8 Fighting for the Editorial Board fit futures of Louisiana Keith Brown children–and their parents. Karina Craighead (BA ’03) Susan Duggins (BBA ’77) Laura Harris Anne Lockhart (BBA ’86) Barbara Michaelides Eric Pani Focus Five Don A. Skelton, Sr. Lindsey Wilkerson Judy Willson 16 With campus construction and talented Other Contributors students, ULM in the Bob Anderson Christi Bailey (BFA ’81) Cofer years is an Claudia Evans exciting place to be. Brian Fassett Sara Palazzo Molly Pealer Diana Pinckley Tommy Walpole (BA ‘83, MA ‘89) 22

Photography Philip Gould Richard Lupo (BA ’87) In Demand

Design A new program in Zehno Cross Media 20 Communications health studies helps students fill a growing need. President James E. Cofer, Sr.

Vice President for Departments University Advancement Don A. Skelton, Sr. 2 News Executive Director of n Construction n New Books Alumni Relations n n Keith Brown Student Recruitment Louisiana Lyric Opera n Student Union Building President, ULM Alumni Association n Sports Paul H. Wilkening (BA ‘83, MA ‘85) 24 Alumni News The ULM Magazine is published semiannually n n n for members of the ULM Alumni Association Class Notes Profiles Faculty Facts and friends by the University of Louisiana Monroe and the ULM Alumni Association. Point of View Letters and comments should be sent to: 36 ULM Magazine 700 University Avenue Monroe, LA 71209-2500 On the Cover Phone: (318) 342-5440 Fax: (318) 342-5446 E-mail: [email protected] Megan Ramsey and Kristina Holmes, second graders at Sallie Humble Elementary School in

Contents © 2007 by the University of Louisiana Monroe, tackle words and a wall in an innovative physical education program that combines Monroe and the ULM Alumni Association. All rights academic challenges with fitness. (see story, page 8) reserved. The University of Louisiana Monroe is a member of the University of Louisiana System. Inside Back Cover: As dusk descends, a lighted path leads the way past the ULM Library to University Commons II. newsCampus

Pharmacy moves in; Student Success Center and additional parking on the way

ollege of Pharmacy students began attend- The building also includes a large 48-station ing classes in the new 132,000-square-foot Pharmacy Care laboratory, a simulated pharmacy C Bienville Building, located at 1800 Bienville and hospital room, a patient education facility, Dr., after Phase I renovations were completed and a sterile products compounding area. December 2006. Phase II renovations will include building the The Bienville Building features four large ULM Medicaid Office of Drug Evaluation and SMART classrooms. Two of these classrooms Outcomes Research, the Prior Authorization unit, offer interactive distance learning capabilities to the Disease Management program, and the connect the main campus classrooms with the College’s research laboratories. They are sched- College’s satellite campuses. uled to begin in June 2007. The majority of the College’s graduate and The renovated pharmacy research programs will remain in Sugar Hall until building features a 48-station the completion of Phase II in March 2008. The College’s growing undergraduate toxicology Pharmacy Care laboratory, program will continue in its Sugar Hall location. a simulated pharmacy and Construction on the new Intermodal Transit hospital room. Facility began in early April. The new parking garage, located at 407 University Ave., will provide an additional 285 parking spaces for ULM students. This project, which will be completed in the fall, is combined with the DeSiard Street parking project, which will include new parking lots in front of all campus buildings along DeSiard Street, a new iron fence, signage and landscaping. The new parking lots, which will also be completed prior to the fall 2007 semester, will be reconfigured to provide a safer entry and exit to DeSiard Street. Conversion of the former Wigwam into the Clarke M. Williams Student Success Center will ULM Pharmacy students now learn in the state-of-the-art Bienville Building. also start this summer, with a fall 2008 completion date. Once complete, the state-of-the-art Student Success Center will offer tutoring, workshop areas, a 24/7 computer lab and counseling offices.

University of Louisiana Monroe www.ulm.edu campusnews

Miller heads enrollment management

s the University of position in January. Miller, who has worked at Louisiana at Monroe ULM for over four years, will excel in her new Acontinues to attract position, said ULM Provost Stephen Richters. more academically “Lisa has continuously demonstrated her prepared students, the exceptional abilities in improving our recruiting administration is stream- and admissions efforts and has really developed a lining the way enrollment comprehensive enrollment management philoso- is managed at ULM. phy,” Richters said. A new position, Miller will oversee the Offices of Recruitment Associate Provost for and Admissions, Scholarship, Financial Aid and Enrollment Management, was recently created to Registrar along with the Clarke M. Williams coordinate all university activities relevant to the Student Success Center. She will collaborate with recruitment, admission and retention of ULM the Enrollment Management Committee, the students. administration, and the Faculty Senate to deter- Lisa Miller, formerly the director of recruitment mine enrollment goals and initiatives. and admissions, assumed the newly-created

New books by ULM faculty

olly L. Wilson, associate professor of philosophy, published Kant’s Pragmatic Anthropology: Its HOrigin, Meaning, and Critical Significance.

ark Clark, associate professor of music, published a re- Msearch book entitled Guide to the Aria Repertoire.

erry L. Jones, professor of history, has had his eighth- grade Louisiana history textbook, The Louisiana Journey, Tapproved by the Board of Elementary and Secondary Education for adoption by the state’s school systems.

www.ulm.edu University of Louisiana Monroe newsCampus

What was once old is new again

fter $7 million and almost two years of down-to-the-steel renovations, the Student AUnion Building re-opened on Jan. 16, reclaiming its role as the focal point for student- oriented activities. The state-of-the-art facility features several student lounges, study rooms, a food court with enough cuisine choices to satisfy any appetite, wireless Internet access, a stage and ballroom. It’s a building designed to meet the needs of the The state-of-the-art Student Union Building is the hub of campus. 21st-century ULM student. Thus it was appropri- ate that a 20th-century student returned to cut the ribbon on Jan. 23, officially reopening the SUB original SUB. The current SUB opened in1962. and rededicating it to current students. During the ceremonies, Cofer presented In 1946, Yvonne (Lusk) Anderson was elected Anderson a framed photo of the Student Council the first female Student Council president of what from the 1946 Chacahoula. was then Northeast Junior College, after serving “I have three priorities at this institution,” said as Student Council vice-president the Cofer. “They are the current stu- year before. The busy Epps native also dents, the former students, and the wrote for The Pow Wow, served as future students. This building president of the Wig and Mask theatre represents all of those wrapped into club, and was a member of Delta Psi one. Omega, a speech organization. “This is another in a long series “It was the middle of World War II. I of grand openings here at ULM in was with a group of young people the last few years,” continued Cofer. graduating from high school and Yvonne (Lusk) and Kent “We are pleased that we can offer Anderson with ULM President waiting to be sent off. We liked to be James E. Cofer, Sr. at the opening our students, faculty and staff top- involved and do everything we of the SUB notch facilities.” could,” Anderson said. Of the SUB now, Anderson said, “There wasn’t an organization I didn’t belong “It’s just awesome! I’m so delighted that we have to, an office I didn’t hold. I was that active. It was it. It is the most wonderful thing that’s happened a wonderful time to be in school.” in this area, and only good can come of it. We “The old SUB survived. It was small, and they need this school, and we need it badly. It’s going had some rooms above it that housed the football somewhere with this good leadership. We have boys who were not from this area.” the best faculty and the best head man and his Anderson joined ULM President James E. Cofer, wife that we could have.” Sr., to officially open the SUB and its companion Included in the SUB renovation was a sealed time building, the Student Center, housing the offices capsule containing ULM items, to be reopened of Student Life and Leadership. When Anderson during ULM’s centennial celebration in 2031. was a student, the current Student Center was the

University of Louisiana Monroe www.ulm.edu Culturenews

ULM announces new professional theatre

fter just four years at ULM, the School of University where he was the director of Visual and Performing Arts (VAPA) is opera. He has a doctor of musical art in Aquickly becoming the area’s cultural magnet. opera production from the University of Internationally-renowned actors will contribute Washington and has directed his own to that success as they vie for the lead roles in VAPA’s opera company in northern California. new Louisiana Lyric Opera. Robin Stephens, the new director of This summer, the new theatre will open its preview dance, comes from Coastal Carolina season with Nicholas F. Saverine, who will play University where she served as a dance instructor Mushnick in “Little Shop of Horrors” (Aug. 2-5) and and a choreographer. the Major General in “Pirates of Penzance” (Aug. 16- 19). Saverine has performed in Austria, Germany and “Not only will our new on Broadway in both “Les Miserables” and “The Phantom of the Opera.” professional theatre expose To find additional Broadway talent for the lead our community to top-notch roles, VAPA director Keith White traveled to United performers, but it will Professional Theatre auditions, where he reviewed also have a considerable more than 900 professional actors in just a few days. White has been researching and planning the new economic impact on our region.” professional theatre—the only one of its kind in Louisiana—for almost three years. He has specific Stephens has a bachelor of fine art in music theatre plans to make it a huge success. from Oklahoma City University, and a master’s “Not only will our new professional theatre expose degree from LSU. She has performed on Broadway our community to top-notch performers, but it will and was in the original cast of “42nd Street.” also have a considerable economic impact on our VAPA has flourished under the direction of White, region,” White said. “And for the emerging talent we who was hired at ULM in 2003, said ULM President attract from all over the nation, this theatre will serve James E. Cofer. as a stepping stone. It will give them national Shortly after Cofer arrived at ULM, he saw the exposure.” potential for a school that would combine art, music, The professional theatre will produce three shows theatre and dance, and VAPA was officially formed between July 5 and Aug. 20 each summer; hire in 2002. principal actors with Broadway experience; hire a “Through the efforts of our talented faculty, staff resident ensemble of college and early professional and students, the School of Visual and Performing performers through competitive auditions; hire Arts has quickly made reality our vision of ULM as production and technical staff to design, mount and the gateway to an impressive array of cultural work backstage for each show; and most importantly, opportunities,” Cofer said. expose the regional community to professional For more about VAPA, the new Louisiana Lyric theatre. Opera and audition information, please visit In preparation for the new theatre, White hired two www.ulm.edu/lyricopera new directors. Dr. Mark Ross Clark, the new director of opera/music theatre, comes to ULM from Indiana www.ulm.edu University of Louisiana Monroe newsSports

Something Special

n Feb. 11, 1985 a record crowd of 8,155 filled point guards to ever Fant-Ewing Coliseum to witness a women’s play the game. O basketball game between nationally-ranked Growing up in Northeast Louisiana University and Louisiana Seoul, Korea, Eun Tech University. Coach Linda Harper’s NLU team, Jung (Lee) Ok was in led by Lisa Ingram and Eun Jung (Lee) Ok, would fifth grade when she not disappoint their fans as the Lady Indians first picked up a earned an 80-67 win. The victory not only solidi- basketball. Her ball- fied the university’s reputation as one of the handling skills and nation’s elite programs but also propelled them talent were immedi- into the NCAA Final Four. ately recognized by her coaches and she was quickly on her way to a I love this ,” Ok says.” promising future in the game she loved. “ university Harper first observed Ok during an AAU “This is my home and I owe a lot tournament in Florida, where the Soong Eui High to this institution. I have great School team was playing. “I knew she was a memories about my teammates that player the moment I saw her—she was something I will treasure the rest of my life.” special,” Harper said. Harper immediately offered her a scholarship. When people talk about women’s basketball Over the next four years Ok, a three-year All- today, one of the first names mentioned is Eun American, led the Lady Indians to a 102-15 record, Jung (Lee) Ok. Not only is she regarded as one becoming a legend on the hardwood with her of the greatest players in ULM history, but she is flashy passes and flamboyant play. For her efforts, also acknowledged nationally as one of the best she was named Southland Conference Player of the Year four straight years—the only basketball player, male or female, to be so honored. In 1986 EUN JUNG (LEE) OK HIGHLIGHTS she earned the Jim Corbett Award as Louisiana’s • 10 All-American awards from various athletic/media Athlete of the Year. In addition, Ok is featured in organizations the Distinguished Women of Louisiana Exhibit, is • Southland Conference Player of the Year, 1983-84-85-86 a member of the Louisiana Sports Hall of Fame • Named to All Southland Conference Team, 1983-84-85-86 and in 2004 became the first female inducted into • Named to All Louisiana Team, 1984-85-86 • Highest Career Assists average (8.4), 1983-84-85-86 the Southland Conference Hall of Honor. • Highest Season Assists average (10.3), 1983-84 season For the past 18 years, Ok has served the • Most Assists per game (17) vs LSU, 1983-1984 season university as a member of the women’s basketball • Most Steals in career (297), 1983-84-85-86 coaching staff. Today, as associate head coach, she • Assists (978), 1983-84-85-86 continues to play an integral role in the develop- • Free Throws Attempted (702), 1983-84-85-86 ment of young players. “I love this university,” Ok • Free Throws Made (528), 1983-84-85-86 says. “This is my home and I owe a lot to this • Started every career game (117) institution. I have great memories about my Stats from Bob Anderson’s book “Indian Territory, A History of ULM Athletics” teammates that I will treasure the rest of my life.”

University of Louisiana Monroe www.ulm.edu Sportsnews

ULM “Super” stars

hen Chicago Bears safety WChris Harris intercepted India- napolis Colts QB Peyton Manning in Chris Harris Vincent Brisby Larry Whigham Smokey Stover Stan Humphries Bubby Brister the first quarter of Super Bowl XLI, another ULM football alum made a key play in Stover (1958-59) started the list in the mid 60s. He front of 93 million television viewers. played linebacker for the Kansas City Chiefs Harris is the latest in an elite group of former in Super Bowl I (1967) versus the Green Bay Packers. ULM football players to make his way to the Stan Humphries (1986-87) quarterbacked the ultimate game in professional football. A second- San Diego Chargers to Super Bowl XXIX, and Larry year player for the Bears, Harris joins Bubby Whigham (1992-93) and Vincent Brisby (1990-92) Brister, Stan Humphries, Larry Whigham, Vincent played for the New England Patriots in Super Brisby and Smokey Stover on the list of alums Bowl XXXI. who have been members of Super Bowl teams Bubby Brister (1984-85) earned two Super Bowl during their NFL careers. championship rings with Denver when the Broncos won back-to-back titles in Super Bowl XXXII and XXXIII.

Accolades come early for ULM basketball coach

LM men’s basketball coach in the West Division, to an 11-7 divi- Orlando Early is “Coach of the sional record and co-West Division title. U Year”—times five! Following The Warhawks posted its fourth the 2006-2007 season, he earned that undefeated record at Fant-Ewing title from: Coliseum with a 14-0 mark in only • the Sun Belt Conference Early’s second season at the helm. • the National Association of Basketball Early was also named one of the 15 Coaches (NABC) District 8 finalists for the 2007 Hugh Durham • Collegeinsider.com, an online Mid-Major Coach of the Year Award.

magazine and forum for collegiate Orlando Early The NABC names a Coach of the Year basketball coaches for each of 15 districts across the • the Louisiana Sports Writers Association, as United States and winners are included in the “All-Louisiana Coach of the Year” NABC National Coach of the Year ballot. • the Louisiana Association of Basketball The Hugh Durham Award is given annually Coaches, as “College Coach of the Year” to the nation’s top mid-major coach, as voted In the school’s first season of Sun Belt play, on by a 20-member panel representing Early guided his Warhawks, picked to finish last Collegeinsider.com. www.ulm.edu University of Louisiana Monroe ILLUSTRATIONS BY KENNY HARRISON, COURTESY OF THE TIMES-PICAYUNE BY KENNY HARRISON, COURTESY ILLUSTRATIONS

University of Louisiana Monroe www.ulm.edu Big Kids

Like their adult counterparts, Louisiana’s kids are too much of a good thing. The state is fourth-heaviest in the nation with 30% of its adults tipping the scales as obese and another 35% as overweight. Nationally, one in every three children is either obese or at risk of obesity, and the proportion is even higher close to home. ULM’s Wilson Campbell and Lisa Colvin hope to change this alarming trend.

by Diana Pinckley

rs. Campbell and Colvin, faculty members in the ULM kinesiology department, specialize in the science of movement. Each is exploring ways to help schools make our kids smart about their DDbodies as well as their minds. Campbell is working to reinsert physical education into Monroe schools, with cutting-edge techniques that kids love. Colvin’s research, a potential national model, will help determine what classroom approaches are effective to fight the fat in rural elementary school students.

It’s an important venture—because the problem is getting worse. A national goal is to reduce childhood obesity to 5% by 2010, but current trends, if they continue, predict that 20% of our children will be obese by that date. Those kids have medical costs that are, on average, about three times higher than their slimmer friends. And overweight children tend to grow up to be overweight adults, contributing to an epidemic of diabetes (Louisiana ranks sixth in the nation at 8.6%) and hyper- tension (the state is ninth in the nation, with 28.6%)

Clearly, it’s time to break the cycle of chubbiness.

www.ulm.edu University of Louisiana Monroe Wilson Campbell has Monroe kids on the move.

From working with words as they make their way up colorful walls to dancing through video games with their feet, students at every level in Monroe City Schools are engaging their bodies and their minds simultaneously. This ULM kinesiologist knows it’s a good way to learn.

photography by Philip Gould

Dr. Wilson Campbell, professor and chair of the might have to identify the verb and adverb kinesiology department at the University of in a sentence while they’re climbing. Louisiana Monroe, has received a $1 million, “When you have the body and the mind three-year grant from the U.S. Department of working at the same time, that’s a good way Education to fund a partnership with Monroe to educate kids.” City Schools to increase student activity levels Campbell’s schools give the children pedom- with a focus on fitness. eters, measure the number of steps they take, DLast year the program began in and use those numbers in addition, 12 elementary schools; this year it subtraction and charts, among other was launched in three junior highs; assignments. “Math comes alive and next year it will move to the when you use numbers from fellow high school level. By the end of the classmates rather than a book,” he grant, Campbell says, there will be a says. “Kids are excited because the physical education specialist-teacher numbers have meaning.” at every Monroe City school. Before The programs teach nutrition the program was implemented, there through the food pyramid, so were no PE teachers in any Monroe children know the number and type public elementary school. of calories in the food they eat. “It’s a huge commitment for the Campbell starts heath and fitness school district and a win/win situ- programs in kindergarten. “Some- ation for students and for physical where between third and fourth education,” Campbell says. “The grade, we see children change nega- focus is to keep kids more physically active, tively, and that pattern can progress all the way improve fitness levels, reinforce basic locomotive through grade 12. If we can get kids excited about specialty skills, and integrate academic content in exercise and understand health concepts in fourth, education.” fifth and sixth grades, we will get the short-term And he’s come up with lots of fun ways to and long-term benefits.” accomplish his aims. There are magnetic climbing The response from elementary school children walls at elementary schools that present a physical has been extraordinary. “The kids love it. They challenge at the same time they offer math prob- always ask, ‘Is today a PE day? Are we getting PE lems or other academic content. “For example,” today?’ They’re so excited – when they have to Campbell illustrates, “we have vocabulary words leave, they always ask if they can stay longer. It’s they are studying in the classroom, and the kids refreshing to see how much fun they have. And

10 University of Louisiana Monroe www.ulm.edu Wilson Campbell has Monroe kids on the move.

their teachers notice that the children are more “We want to change the traditional concept. mentally alert, and that the program complements Our programs allow students to concentrate on things they’re teaching in class.” what they feel is important and what they’d like At the junior high level, among planned features to do, instead of following the curriculum of of the program is a “low ropes course,” designed what’s good for one is good for everyone.” to promote the social and emotional development Of course, along with new curricula come of participants. “The kids have to work together new forms of measurement. Every year at all to solve a physical challenge,” Campbell says. levels, participants are measured at the beginning “One person can’t do it alone. You have to have and end of the school year. “Last year, we put confidence in your teammates.” all information in a health report card that Video games for feet, which light up when you went to 4,133 parents, giving them health-related step on them, are specially designed for dance- information on their child,” Campbell says. fevered adolescents. “When I was at different He reports that the results were good, though elementary schools, I noticed that kids are always many parents were not happy with their child’s dancing, always moving. I wanted to see if I can body composition. challenge them to channel that energy into some- Then his teams came back in May and mea- thing else—and use technology back against them sured again. “We believe, based on statistics, that in a positive way,” Campbell says. we created some small change,” he says, adding In the three high school fitness centers, students that any measurable change is hard to bring about will have choices to make. “Traditionally, it’s been in a year’s time period. that everyone has played one sport regardless,” “We’re hoping to track in the next three to five to Campbell says. “If I’m playing basketball and I’m seven years some changes in fitness. That will be an 6'4", I’m having a lot of fun. If I’m 5'6", I’m not indicator of how successful the program is and help too excited.” us answer the question of whether we can improve fitness through a 21st century curriculum.”

www.ulm.edu University of Louisiana Monroe 11 In junior high, the fitness programs can also exercise recommendations in a health-care setting, be a door to counseling, particularly for children encouraginge people to abandon bad habits or be with a distorted idea of what an attractive body rehabilitated from the damage those habits might looks like. “It’s especially helpful for girls who have caused. are just becoming aware of the ‘magazine image’ The undergraduate exercise science program is of beauty,” he says. “We ask them ‘Where would only the second among such programs nationally you like to be at the end of the year?’ and we to be accredited by CAAHEP. know that if someone says ‘I’m 5'1" and weigh The fastest-growing program in the kinesiol- 120 now and I’d like to be 5'5" and weigh 105,’ ogy department is the exercise science/physical we can address the issue.” therapy track, which meets all the requirements The curriculum is based on the Five for Life to apply to physical therapy graduate programs. concept, stemming from the five components “Over the last two or three years, we’ve had a of fitness as outlined by the Centers for Disease 93% success rate of students who apply to Control – cardiorespiratory endurance, muscular physical therapy schools,” Campbell said, adding that three majors were admitted to medical school last year. Many “I’m an innovator, and the grads also go on to opportunity to work with a programs to train as chiropracters, school system, to do something medical perfu- new, and to touch 9,000 lives sionists and other in such a positive way is very specialties, while rare.” others go to work –Wilson Campbell as certified teachers and community health education promoters, among other areas. strength, muscular endurance, body composi- “It’s an exciting time for our profession, as tion and flexibility. The curriculum, which is also we have expanded career opportunities and used by school districts in New York, Kentucky, expanded salaries,” says Campbell, noting the Georgia, Washington and Idaho, among others, dramatic levels of change in the last two decades. contains academic content that leads to an under- “We have about 330 students enrolled, and standing of the importance and role of fitness. they’re outstanding. Teaching is fun, but teach- Campbell divides his time between his research ing good academic students makes it even better. programs in Monroe City Schools and his duties GPAs of 3.5 or 3.6 happen on a more regular in teaching and departmental administration. He basis than before.” has had notable success in each of those arenas. He is also energized by the public reaction to For example, the masters program in clinical the programs in Monroe City Schools. “It’s nice exercise physiology is the first program of its when you’re in the grocery store and a principal kind in the nation to be accredited by the stops you and says ‘We just love that Five-for-Life Commission on Accreditation on Allied Health program,’” says Campbell, who is in his 28th Education Programs (CAAHEP). The average of year of teaching. 15 students who complete it each year move on to “I’m an innovator, and the opportunity to a variety of jobs, including work in cardic rehab work with a school system, to do something in a hospital, employee wellness director of a new, and to touch 9,000 lives in such a positive company, director of a fitness club, or other areas way is very rare.” where they specialize in designing a program with

12 University of Louisiana Monroe www.ulm.edu Lessons for a Lifetime

ULM professor Lisa Colvin is visiting classrooms in rural settings throughout the state, figuring out what works in the real world to make kids and their families more aware of the healthy habits that will fight obesity and disease. “With children’s health, we can’t assume anything any more,” says Colvin. “We have to know.”

Lisa Colvin grew up in a family of “This randomized study looks teachers. “I’ve played school my whole at long-term intervention in public life. I don’t know any other way,” says schools, and that’s where the real the kinesiologist and triathlete. She’s world is,” says Colvin. “In a perfect taught in public school; her kinesiol- world, we’d like to have the Cleaver ogy classes are offered within ULM’s family (from the TV series Leave it to College of Education and Human Beaver). The kids would go to school, Development. want to learn, have breaks, LNow Dr. Colvin is team- the mom and dad are ing with teachers in rural there, the mom kicks them Louisiana to figure out the out of the house to play best ways schools can help outside, or mom and dad in the fight against obesity take them to the park. But in children. that’s not reality. And if you don’t believe “Reality is kids who deal that Louisiana kids are with very different situa- more overweight than ever, tions. People caring for a Colvin recommends taking child may not get home a field trip to the nearest until very late and be tired mall. “Go sit in a food from working two jobs. court and look at people,” They may not be able to advises Colvin. “Kids do anything with the child have changed a lot in the 20 years I’ve other than homework. worked in this arena. You can see it. “We want to find out how you inter- All you have to do is look.” vene starting in school and then take Her research is part of a $2.4 million those lessons home.” grant from the National Institutes of Colvin notes that, right now, there Health and the U.S. Department of are no consistently effective methods Agriculture to the Pennington Bio- to get kids away from the TV and the medical Research Center. The projects computer and focus them instead on with children in grades four through physical activity and smart eating. six—and their teachers—are designed “This may be one of those landmark to help create a national model that is studies. There are assumptions about effective in the real world. what works, but we’re at the point

www.ulm.edu University of Louisiana Monroe 13 now with children’s health that we can’t assume The third group adds a health-education curric- anything any more. We have to know. We have to ulum with planned lessons and a physical activity start somewhere, and rural Louisiana schools are center in the classroom. “We know that kids lose a great place to start.” focus after 30 or 45 minutes, but recess has been The project, called Teachers Education Across taken away,” says Colvin. “With activity centers, Content Areas, or LaTEACH, includes some the kids can have a five-minute fun brain break… 4,500 students in grades four through six at 32 juggling scarves, competing in eraser races. A little schools in parishes in both the north and south physical activity lets students rest and re-engage. parts of the state, “In a high- including Avoy- stakes testing elles, East Felici- National Childhood Obesity environment, ana, East Carroll, the first things Madison, Pointe to go away are Coupee, St. John health and well- and St. James. ness breaks,” she The grade level adds. “We some- was chosen be- 18.2% times forget that cause “how kids 16% a healthy body think about health 13.8% 14% equals a healthy is not imprinted mind. And when until sixth grade,” 2000 2004 2000 2004 these students says Colvin. The become fresh- project is focused men in college, on rural areas, healthy habits are which may have ingrained and dif- to overcome isola- ficult to change.” tion, a resulting The third lack of access to health care, and generally lower group will also have access to an Internet coun- levels of family income. selor, based at the Pennington Center, for indi- The schools are divided into three groups to de- vidual counseling during private, live chats. “The termine the effectiveness of three approaches. The live chat/instant messaging tool is the cutting edge first group is the control group, in which teachers piece of the study,” Colvin says. “The kids love it, get professional development, including instruc- they know how to chat, and they may teach their tion on classroom management, cooperative teachers something about the technology.” The learning, and technology use. There’s no specific technology is funded by LaGEARUP, the state health promotion involved. arm of a national program that puts technology The second group of schools have campaigns into middle schools. that focus on talking to students about physical The program actually began in the summer of activity and nutrition; posters for the classroom; 2005, when the classroom teachers involved came physical activity promotion; sessions for parents; to the ULM campus for a two-day session that and cafeteria modifications—including menu briefed them on how to become health research- boards and placecards that indicate healthier ers. LaTEACH was slated to go into classrooms choices, posted health tips of the day, and digital that fall, but after Hurricanes Katrina and Rita, photography of the food children are actually students and teachers were scattered. It entered eating, so that they can monitor their nutrition schools in fall 2006. over time. Vending machines hold healthier It’s important to Colvin to work with public food, and teachers also get professional education in high-need, underserved areas. “This development sessions. is getting back to my roots, back to the public schools where I started,” she says. “You always have to remember where you came from and

14 University of Louisiana Monroe www.ulm.edu what life is like in the day of a teacher. To help She points out that doing research at ULM can with that is rewarding beyond words.” be particularly satisfying. “In the kinesiology Colvin knows that day well. Her mom taught department, we have our Ph.D.’s, but most of us elementary school in Zachary for 42 years; her taught and coached in public schools before we dad was a high school chemistry teacher and went back to get advanced degrees. We’re certified principal for 22 years. After earning bachelor’s teachers. We’re committed to fighting obesity in and master’s degrees in physical education from the pediatric population, and it’s a real testament what was then Northeast Louisiana University, to the university that it allows us to do that. Colvin herself “[President] taught at Neville Overweight Percentages Among Cofer and [Pro- High School in U.S. Boys and Girls—1971 & 2004 vost] Richters Monroe for two are our advo- years before cates, in Monroe 6-11 12-19 getting a Ph.D. and throughout from the Univer- the state. I’ve Ages 2-5 sity of Southern been to a lot of Mississippi. 18.8% universities, but Her academic 16.4% I’ve never been career took her to another one to Georgia, where the presi- Arkansas and 13.4% dent asks you Colorado and in the cafeteria then brought how your grant 6.1% her home to 5% 4% is going and is ULM in 2003, there anything as a professor of he can do to 1971 2004 1971 2004 1971 2004 kinesiology. help. Many fac- “If I can ulty, including impress on teachers, especially in rural areas, the myself, will work our brains out for someone who magnitude of their worth—especially PE teachers remembers what we do. And they do.” or elementary teachers who also provide PE— Obesity in Louisiana is pretty much on a par that’s where I belong,” Colvin says. “The public with that of other Southern states, she notes, with should have undying gratitude toward them.” Mississippi as the heaviest state of all. “Obesity is Colvin is proud of teaching her ULM students. at epidemic proportions in Louisiana. If I gave the In addition to a full course load, she works with state a report card, it would be an F-minus as far students in the Emerging Scholars program, as health is concerned. One-third of us are obese guiding them through the fine points of research and another 40% are overweight. It affects qual- design and implementation. “They want to be an ity of life, with higher rates of orthopedic issues, integral part of what we’re doing. Undergraduate hospital stays, visits to a physician, cardiovascular students want to make a difference—not just go disease and strokes. And our overweight children to class and take a test. They want to be engaged. are moving that way. Our students want to serve something bigger than “We’re starting to see diabetes in third-, fourth- themselves. and fifth-graders. If we don’t do something now, “When I can give the students a little of my this may be the first generation not to outlive knowledge, it sparks their interest. And, who their parents.” knows? They may be the person that someday finds the greatest cure or intervention of all times!”

www.ulm.edu University of Louisiana Monroe 15 Focus Five Reclaimed campus. Renewed communication. New residence halls. A facelift for the university’s “front door.” Students who are more academically qualified than ever—and more numerous. Innovative new programs. Enhanced alumni involvement. It’s the story of ULM 5for the last five years. It’s the story of President James Cofer. ULM in the Cofer Years Cofer the in ULM

16 University of Louisiana Monroe www.ulm.edu eamwork is the foundation for success, and every good team requires a good leader. Enter James E. Cofer, Sr., who came to ULM with his wife Deborah in April 2002, from the University of Mis- souriT System where he had spent four years as vice president of finance and administration. And they got right to work, initially focusing on cleaning up the campus. Approximately 300,000 square feet was painted by over 2,000 volunteers––students, faculty, staff, community leaders and area citizens. Then came a $70+ million building campaign. The demolition of outdated residence halls and the construction of state-of-the-art replacements—along with parks, outdoor amphitheatres and other student-oriented facilities––have completely changed ULM’s look and feel. A new School of Visual and Performing Arts (VAPA), a new degree program in health studies, and a new building for the College of Pharmacy are a few of the university’s recent innovations. Faculty research funding has grown by 16%, and students are more academically prepared than ever. The average ACT score of full-time beginning freshmen and of the entire student body both hit an all-time high in 2006. “It is our unani- mous feeling that Dr. Cofer during his tenure has brought a new image and direction to ULM, often having to do so by facing obstacles not of his making, such as state budget cuts,” said Betty Cummins, president of the ULM Foundation, at a May 2006 meeting. “We endorse the job he is doing, not only for our university but for our community and state.”

www.ulm.edu University of Louisiana Monroe 17 BUILDING CAMPUS HOUSING ADDING campus facilities n A $68 million bond issue makes ULM’s residence hall 2002 initiative one of the largest student housing projects in the n ULM receives a lead gift of $300,000 for the southeastern United States establishment of the Clarke M. Williams Student Success Center 2004 n Hudson Hall and Sherrouse Hall demolished 2002 to present: n Olin Hall demolished n ULM secures $500,000 additional private funding to assist in the completion of the student success center n Significant renovations, including modern amenities and new landscaping, begin on Madison Hall and Ouachita Hall 2005 n Masur Hall remodeled n Student Health and Counseling Center opens 2005 n Renovation of Student Union Building begins n Bayou Suites opens with 408 beds 2006 n Ouachita Hall and Madison Hall receive additional n The university administration purchases (and begins reno- amenities vating) the three-story, 132,000 square foot Bienville Building n Monroe Hall and Slater Hall are demolished from State Farm Insurance to house the College of Pharmacy n Construction begins on University Commons I and II n In addition to acquiring and renovating the building, ULM administration secured $5.5 million for the 2006 College of Pharmacy (between 2002 to 2006) n Bayou Suites (formerly Olin Hall) opens, equipped with n Starbucks Coffee Company, a convenience store and LA 159 beds and modern amenities Capitol Federal Credit Union, all located on the first floor of n University Commons I and II open with 100% occupancy University Commons II, open n First Living/Learning Community opens in University n Lake C. Oxford Natatorium is renovated Commons n Funding is secured for construction of an Intermodal Transit Facility and parking improvements along DeSiard Street n Phase I renovations of the Bienville Building are complete 2007 n Newly-renovated Student Union Building, which boasts a food court, faculty lounge, a commuter/non-traditional stu- + dent lounge and the Student Center, which houses the Office $ of Student Life and Leadership, opens 70 CREATING NEW KNOWLEDGE n Faculty secured a record $21.8 million in external grants MIllion and contracts in 2006, with funds coming to ULM from money invested in student agencies including the National Science Foundation, the housing and infrastructure National Institutes of Health, the Department of Defense, the U. S. Department of Education, and the U.S. Small Business Administration. That’s a 16% increase in the last 4 years.

18 University of Louisiana Monroe www.ulm.edu RESTRUCTURING THE ACADEMIC Ben Stein, Robert F. Kennedy, Jr. and Steve Forbes to ULM and the community ENTERPRISE n First Convocation is held n School of Visual and Performing Arts created when 2004 President Cofer saw the potential for a school that would n Envision ULM, an annual program celebrating the progressive combine art, music, theatre and dance. The school now relationship between the community and ULM, begins employs renowned talent, including Broadway performers. n College of Arts and Sciences born from merger of 2006 College of Liberal Arts and College of Pure & Applied n “Wine over Water,” a well-received alumni/community Sciences event, begins

Additional accomplishments ATTRACTING AND RETAINING GREAT STUDENTS 2004 n Eliminate $4 million deficit in AuxiliaryS ervices The average ACT score of full-time beginning freshmen and the average ACT score of the entire student body both are at 2005 an all-time high in the fall semester of 2006. Comparing fall n May “Intersession” and winter break “Wintersession,” 2002 to fall 2006, other highlights include: which offer students needed course flexibility, begin n 5% increase in total enrollment since 2002 2006 n 33% increase in first-time, full-time freshmen n Sun Belt Conference play begins in all sports n 44% increase in first-time freshmen applicants n 55% of first-time, full-time freshmen receive TOPS SUPPORTING ULM Alumni have been generous with both time and dollars, as we ENRICHING CAMPUS LIFE build a stronger network for support for university progress. Events and programs draw the ULM community Alumni Chapters and Events: together—and let potential students know what an n 2002 – 13 chapters and 11 events exciting place the campus can be. n 2007 – 25 chapters and 27 events New programs begin: 2002 Giving to ULM Increases n “Evening at ULM” recruitment events begin Total gifts: 2003 n 2002: $1,776,814 n Emerging Scholars program starts n 2006: $2,800,184 n Mardi Gras ball, an enormously popular student event, starts Total Donors: n Presidential Lyceum Series begins, attracting national n 2002: 2,629 speakers such as Bill Cosby, Doris Kearns Goodwin, n 2006: 3,703

www.ulm.edu University of Louisiana Monroe 19

Like the rest of the nation,

A new ULM program The only one of its kind in the state — will help meet that demand.

ULM

20 University of Louisiana Monroe www.ulm.edu Like the rest of the nation, Louisiana has an urgent and growing need for talented, trained professionals and managers in a wide variety of health care arenas. A new ULM program The only one of its kind in the state — will help meet that demand.

by Diana Pinckley he bachelor of science in health studies, approved in April 2006, “has a lot of students really, really excited,” says Dr. Jessica Dolecheck, department head of the Health Studies program. “These programs are a hot new trend on T many campuses.” Students who major in health studies can choose a healthcare management and marketing option, which leads to jobs such as: • mid-level managers in hospitals, nursing homes, physicians’ practices, outpatient centers and rehabilitation centers • health information managers • marketing and sales for health care organizations, pharmaceutical companies and medical supply companies • human resources for medical businesses. Health studies students can also select a pre-professional option that will get them ready for graduate programs in occupational or physical therapy. Early indicators show a high level of interest. “Back in the summer when word got around this was going to be developed and approved, I got lots of phone calls,” said Dolecheck. “After it was approved, 60 students wanted to change their majors almost immediately.”

www.ulm.edu University of Louisiana Monroe 21 he bachelor of science in health studies (BSHS) tancies, health care is a national concern. The U.S. program, a part of the university’s College of Department of Labor projects that health services will Health Sciences, builds on the college’s existing be the fastest-growing industry in the country between strengths in clinical lab sciences, communica- 2004 and 2014, accounting for three of every 10 new Ttive disorders, dental hygiene, nursing, occupational jobs – 4.3 million positions. therapy and radiologic technology. The Louisiana Department of Labor estimates that The university is recognized historically as a major nearly 30,000 health services positions will need to be provider of allied health sciences graduates, with many filled in the state between 2000 and 2010. And a good alumni of the College of Health Sciences and the Col- health care system is essential for economic growth. lege of Pharmacy delivering health care in settings in In its third annual report, the Louisiana Health Works north Louisiana and all over the state. Commission points out that “health care, like educa- About 30% of the students admitted to ULM tion, is a quality-of-life issue. Without an adequate between fall 1999 and spring 2004 declared majors in healthcare workforce, our economic and physical well- allied health fields. And more and more students are being is in jeopardy.” choosing those career paths. “We have With burgeoning needs and excellent 600 to 700 first-time freshmen wanting to job prospects for graduates, it’s no wonder major either in the allied health sciences, that Dolecheck calls health studies degrees pharmacy, nursing, pre-med, pre-vet or “a current hot trend” on many campuses. pre-dental,” said ULM President James In shaping the new ULM program, she E. Cofer, Sr. “With its diverse curriculum, visited some of those campuses, including the BSHS program serves as the ideal de- the University of Alabama at Birmingham, partment to house these students as well SUNY Stonybrook, and sites in Texas and as positively affect retention by providing California. alternate career paths.” “Most health programs that lead to Cofer noted that almost 40 percent of a licensed professional degree are mov- health sciences majors leave ULM by their ing to the graduate level,” Dolecheck junior year, when they must transfer into said. “Those programs need bachelor’s professional health sciences programs at programs to feed them. In addition, we the university, because slots in those pro- Dr. Jessica Dolecheck wanted to give another option to students grams are very limited and very competitive. who don’t want to go to graduate school “The new BSHS programs give these students a viable immediately.” career path in the health sciences,” he said. ULM’s bachelor of health studies program will even- There’s no other curriculum like it in the state, tually be able to enroll 190 majors and approximately according to Dolecheck. “Louisiana Tech has health 600 students pursuing other health sciences degrees, information, but it’s strictly dealing with data. South- Dolecheck said. It’s projected to have a total enroll- eastern Louisiana University has a degree in health ment of 40 majors in the fall––its first year––growing studies that is focused on wellness, community health to 190 within five years. and sports medicine.” A third program, at Nicholls The program is flexible, with faculty in biology, State University, offers advanced courses to practicing business, chemistry, psychology, gerontology, sociolo- healthcare professionals. gy, nursing and pharmacy teaching some of its courses. “The BSHS program is an excellent fit for ULM,” In the summer, the health studies program will of- said Louisiana Commissioner of Higher Education fer classes in health care issues, social epidemiology, Joseph Savoie. “There is a built-in market for a health leadership in health care and “practicum one,” where studies baccalaureate in the region. I’m confident that students will learn about professional behavior, outline the program will attract a wide range of students with career goals, prepare an online portfolio and identify diverse health care career goals. an organization or agency for whom they would like “This is an excellent example of a university provid- to do an internship. ing for the needs of the community in which it oper- The second part of the program’s practical experi- ates.” ence is the actual internship. Those needs will only grow in coming years. In “Students will spend eight hours twice a week with an era of an aging population and longer life expec- an organization or agency––a nursing home, hospital,

22 University of Louisiana Monroe www.ulm.edu About 30% of the students admitted to ULM between fall 1999 and spring 2004 declared majors in allied health fields. More and more students are choosing those career paths.

physician’s office, sales rep or public health group–– Dolecheck’s background includes volunteer stints and be mentored by one or two people in the organi- in hospitals and clinics where she watched physi- zation,” Dolecheck explained. cal therapists and occupational therapists work with “They’ll see first-hand what an administrator of a patients. Then she studied at LSU Medical School in nursing home, for example, does on a day-to-day basis New Orleans. “I loved it. I became fascinated with the and what problems they face.” fact that you can teach someone how to use one arm But it’s more than just observation. Students will to get dressed or to work with a baby to make sure the be asked to put their own problem-solving skills to baby develops appropriately.” work. “We will ask a student to identify a situation or During a job in an acute-care hospital in Baton challenge in the internship agency and present a solu- Rouge, she discovered her passion––working with tion,” Dolecheck said. The approach will be presented infants with disabilities. “Most of my caseload was on-campus as part of the health studies program and single moms from low-income families. I loved teach- to the agency itself. ing them to work with their babies.” Dolecheck, who has taught in the occupational Now she’s turned that enthusiasm to the new health therapy program at ULM for 11 years, expresses her studies program. “I’ve had a lot of contact with many excitement about a new challenge. “I had just com- faculty members over the summer. There’s strong inter- pleted my Ph.D, and this was something new and est inside and outside the College of Health Sciences. fresh that I needed. There are a lot of parallels—health It’s definitely going to be attractive for students in studies is very similar to occupational therapy. I began every part of the university.” designing a mission and a philosophy and researching other health studies programs. ULM presented me with the option. I took it and ran with it.”

www.ulm.edu University of Louisiana Monroe 23 class notes

Alumni Association 1949 1964 Welcomes Newest Life Members Kathryn Norwood Koehler ’49 John M. Stovall Jr. ‘64, DDS, resides in Roanoke, Vir., where has been awarded the presti- Charles Adams she is on the Board of Directors gious Texas Dentist of the Year Terry Aucoin of Opera Roanoke and presi- at the Texas Academy of Gary Dante dent of the Roanoke Valley General Dentistry’s annual Lone Debrah Davis Branch of the American Star Dental Conference in Deidra Farr Association of University Austin. He has been in private James Folston Women. She served as editor practice in Crockett, Tex., for 38 of the student newspaper, The years. Carolyn Garrett Pow Wow, from 1948-49. Dwight Grubbs 1967 Matt Hardie 1959 Bill Herod Virginia Brown Kalinowski ’67 David Edward Tschabold Jr. ’59 has been promoted to vice William Kaliebe

alumni is a retired special education president of administrative Dean Macheras teacher with the East Carroll services for the Builder Services Linda Macheras Parish School System. He lives and Major Accounts Divisions Evelyn Matheny in Lake Providence. of Fidelity National Title Insurance Company. She and Royce Matheny 1962 Frank Maxwell, III husband Jerry live in Placentia, Calif. Paul Meaux Donnavae Hughes ’62 is now Rodney Messina retired and living in a retire- Mark Mitchell ment residence with great travel David Tolliver benefits which she is using to travel and visit all over the USA David Turrentine and Canada. Sidney Wilhite Michael Michael Wong Camille, associate professor of ULM Alumni Association Regional Vice Presidents: geosciences, is 2007-08 Executive Committee Area 1 : Vacant creating a pipe- and Board of Directors Area 2 : Ivan Landry (BS ’91) line GIS for north Past-president: Area 3 : Philip W. (Phil) Dixon (BA ’87, MA ’89) Louisiana that J. B. (Bart) Dornier (BBA’85) Area 3A: Laurinda Jordan Crenshaw (BA ’85, MA ’87) companies will Area 4 : Mary Hardee Barnard (BS ’90) President: be able to use to Lisa Boggs (BA ’85) Paul H. Wilkening (BA’83, MA ‘85) reduce the risk of Area 5: Lisa Cox (BA ’83, Med ’85) Bobbye Fletcher Earle (BS ‘61) pipeline-related President-elect: T.J. Shuflin (BS ‘75) Area 6 : Traci James Canterbury (BBA ’89) disasters. W. Paul Ledford, Jr. (BBA ’77, MBA ’80) Vice-president: Jeremy Moore (BBA ’00, MBA ‘02) Ronald D. (Ron) Bush (BS’89) Missy Adams (BA ’85, MA ’87) Toni Bacon (BA ’94) Secretary-treasurer: Area 7 : Lisa Haile (BS ’86) Thomas H. (Tom) Deal (BA ’74) Todd Landrum (BBA ’74) Area 8 : Ronald “Scott” Higginbotham (BS ’85, MS ’89)

24 University of Louisiana Monroe www.ulm.edu class notes

For Jerry Chen (MS ’01 In 2005, the Chinese Ministry of Health asked Toxicology), one of the biggest Chen to implement Chinese Genetic Engineering challenges in his career is keeping into clinical practical uses in hospitals. Chen ahead of the competition, which is agreed and in one year, he worked with more big in China—the second largest than 200 national institutes, top hospitals, large pharmaceutical market in the universities and high-tech biomedical companies. world. To stay on top, Chen hopes to one day In 2006, Chen led a professional team in collaborate with ULM and its “excellent establishing clinical bases in more than 100 top pharmacy school.” hospitals in China. Many of Chen’s clinical “We always need to develop new pharmaceuti- projects were accepted as national keystone cal products to meet highly competitive markets. initiatives. Due to Chinese pharmaceutical researching Chen oversees more than $800 million in limitations, we hope to find several advanced pharmaceutical and medical device sales per year. researching partners to reach our goals ... I wish “Certainly, ULM offered me professional, alumni to have a chance to collaborate with ULM on extensive, practical and the most advanced these projects.” pharmaceutical education,” Chen said. “I espe- Chen, who grew up in Shanghai, China, is the cially appreciate my advisor, Dr. Benny Blaylock, deputy president for the Medical Committee of who educated me not only in pharmaceuticals, Chinese Genetic Engineering and is the deputy but also highly professional attitudes.” general medical director for Shanghai Health Bio- Engineering Co., Ltd.

1968 Lindberg Hebert ’71 is a Phyllis Gilmore ’72 graduated pharmacist with CVS. He and from medical school at LSU Lawrence “Larry” Robinson ’68, wife Beverly have two grand- New Orleans after leaving NLU. ’73 and Elizabeth “Ann” Green children, Hunter and Haddox. She then practiced medicine for ‘72 celebrated their 38th They have three children, five years in the Southwest with wedding anniversary on July Heath, Adam and Sarah, and the Indian Health Service before 13, 2006, and the birth of their live in Denham Springs. moving to Oregon where she is second grandson Jacob Laurent the only doctor in a small Garrison, born July 25, 2006. 1972 logging town in the mountains Their first grandson is 4-year- of northwest Oregon. She is Richard Cravatts BA ’72, MA ’73 old James Lawrence Garrison. married to James Baraiber and was recently named the They live in Cordova, Tenn. has a son Phillip. She has fond founding director of Boston memories of NLU and can still University’s Book and Magazine 1970 taste the Johnnie’s Pizza across Publishing Certificate Program, the street. Back then women William Edward “Ed” Davis BA offered by the university’s could only wear slacks on ’70, BBA ’77 and wife Betty Center for Professional special days! Davis BA ‘78 recently moved to Education. the Austin area from the He served as the first director Houston area. They live in of publications at the Kennedy Cedar Park, Texas. School of Government at Harvard University from 1976- 1971 78 and was the founding editor of the school’s magazine; he Patsy Cicala ’71 has retired from later served as director of public the New York School System to relations at Harvard’s School of take a position with the Indian Public Health. River School District in Delaware. He and wife Diane live in Milton, Del. www.ulm.edu University of Louisiana Monroe 25 class notes

Daniel F. Jennings MBA ’72, a 1976 1981 professor in the Industrial Distribution Program at Texas Clark Colvin ‘76 has been hired Steven Breed ’81 was promoted A&M University, has been as the accounting manager for to adult protection supervisor in appointed to the I. Andrew a new facility being built by 2005 with the Department of Rader Professorship in Craftmasters Manufacturing Inc. Family and Protective Services Industrial Distribution. He is in Garland, Tex. after working 15 years for the director of the Department of state of Tex. He also remarried Engineering Technology and Jeanie Shadoin Colvin ’77 is a on Dec. 30, 2005. He and wife Industrial Distribution’s fourth-grade teacher for Rockwell Jessica live in Angleton, Texas. Executive Master of Industrial Independent School District. Distribution Program. He joined Connie Hill Hogrefe ’81 was Delores Deloach Rabalais ’76 the Dwight Look College of promoted from pharmacy has been appointed principal Engineering faculty in 1997. He clinical specialist to pharmacy of Riverside Elementary in was previously the Mays clinical manager for Lee Simmesport, a PreK-6 school Professor of Entrepreneurship Memorial Health System in Fort

alumni with a student population of and Strategic Management at Myers, Fla. Her new job in- 580. Baylor University. He is a volves managing the clinical registered professional engi- 1977 programs for Lee Memorial neer in Texas. Health System’s five campuses. John P. Pierce, BS ‘77 is execu- Vincent Marella ’81 received his 1973 tive vice president of Mobile Ph.D. from the University of Enterprises, Inc. of Fort Worth. Aline Gossein BA ’73 completed Florida in May 2005. He was Loren In a recent issue of Concrete her executive MBA at Queen’s promoted to director of phar- Hayes Repair Bulletin, his company University in Kingston, Ontario, macy for Omnicare in New assistant profes- was spotlighted for receiving an in May 2003. Jersey and is in charge of all “Award of Excellence” in the sor of biology, state-run facilities. He has been transportation category. recently secured a Dianne Hollis Lundy MEd ’73 with Omnicare for 15 years. He $130,846 National was recently named to Who’s 1979 and his wife Barbara were Who Among American Science Founda- married two years ago and he Teachers for the fourth time. tion grant that will Dorris Annette Brewer Beard has stepchildren Brianne and She is retired after 33 years of ’79 moved to Bentonville, Ark., TJ. They live in Wyckoff, N.J. allow students to teaching family and consumer after graduation to work as a gain international science in Rapides Parish and reporter for the Benton County Charles Meador BS ’81, MEd ‘83 medical research is currently working on a book Democrat (now the Benton has retired as principal of through intern- based on memoirs of her County Daily Record). She Caldwell Parish High School. teaching experiences. She and He published a book of poetry ships in Chile and married in 1982 and had nine husband Richard live in titled Reflections of a Country Macronesia. children, whom she educated at Pineville and have one son, home. Two are in college, two Boy. Jonathan. are married, and the youngest Charlene Morrison ’81 has are at home with her in Pea 1974 been promoted to assistant Ridge, Ark. She is now manag- principal of instruction at ing editor of the Times of Linda Diane Jean ’74 and Linear Middle School in Northeast Benton County, a Robert Louis Phillips were Shreveport, after teaching weekly newspaper in Pea Ridge. married on July 24, 2006, at the grades 4-8 for 25 years. home of her sister Julie Jean Bricknell ’78 in Jackson, Mo. Linda is a retired Winn Parish fourth-grade teacher and Bob is retired from the freight business. They enjoy traveling and decorating their new home in Jackson, Mo.

26 University of Louisiana Monroe www.ulm.edu class notes

Sunil Kumar, who was born He describes “relevant intelligence” as and raised in India, earned his reaching the right conclusions without all of B.S. in mechanical engineering the necessary information. “Also, I’ve often at the prestigious Indian been helped by my wife’s intuition about ideas, Institute of Technology. After people and risk levels in business approaches,” graduating from ITT, Sunil he said. wanted to earn his MBA at Sunil’s company, which produces specialty then-Northeast Louisiana chemicals, mineral products and filter prod- University. ucts, generates over $1.6 billion in annual His father, a distinguished but poor scientist, revenue. Many of his competitors are 20 to 40 borrowed money to fly his son to Monroe. “I times larger than his company, and that couldn’t bear to add to his debt to pay for MBA competition pushes Sunil to succeed. tuition and living expenses,” Sunil said. Looking back at his experiences in Monroe, It turns out Sunil didn’t have to. Sunil said, “ULM gave me an opportunity to NLU offered Sunil a graduate assistantship in mature as a person, and become more well- the computer center and waived his tuition. Sunil rounded than who I was as an engineering alumni graduated in 1973. undergraduate. Also, it enabled me to learn the Sunil credits his success today—he’s president American way in a friendly environment.” and CEO of International Specialty Products in Sunil continues to give back to ULM. In 2005 Wayne, N.J.—to “luck, faith, diligence and he returned to the university to speak at ULM’s relevant intelligence.” College of Business Symposium where he shared his experiences with ULM students.

1982 Willie Hey ’83, former ULM George Roberts ’83 retired from basketball player, has written a ULM as department head of Pearlie “Pearl” Coleman Wise book titled The Hawks’ Last Clinical Laboratory Science in BA ‘82, MA ‘90 received the Flight: Our Quest for a 2006 after 28 years of service to Special Olympics, Louisiana, Championship. The book is a ULM. He is now the Dean of Above and Beyond Award in true story that chronicles the Health and Natural Sciences at 2006 for her efforts in serving as last basketball team that made South Arkansas Community the area director of the the state playoffs from College in El Dorado. He and Louisiana Law Enforcement Marthaville (La.) High School. wife Josie live in West Monroe Torch Run. She and husband Hey graduated from Marthaville and have five grandchildren. Willie live in Monroe. High in 1978. Carolyn Tucker Van Sas ’83 is a 1983 Wanda Robinson Miller ’83 is special education teacher for the proud grandmother of the Round Rock (Tex.) Robert Gregory Gibson ’83 and Tierah Simone, 3, Jaden Amare, Independent School District. his wife Ursula have three boys, 19 months, and Jordyn Dijour, She teaches PPCD (early a 16-year old and twins, 14. He 17 months. She is a RN case childhood handicapped chil- plays lots of golf and drives his manager for Catholic Charities dren) along with typically ZO6 Vette. He is finishing his Ph. in Fort Worth. developing children who are D. in business administration. children of teachers. The They live in Heidesheim, students work and play togeth- Germany, where he is a sales er in the same classroom. She executive for for Lufthansa and husband Barry live in Systems. Austin.

www.ulm.edu University of Louisiana Monroe 27 class notes

When Judy Zaunbrecher (‘69) Judy helped grow her family’s small oil- and her husband Tim first related business from a tiny operation into started their own oil-related several larger companies that serve customers business, they worked out of a all around the globe. “Success in these spare bedroom in their home. businesses allowed us to broaden our vision Now, they travel and conduct and diversify,” she said. “I think that Tim and I business all over the world. were ready for a new career challenge. We Their newest adventure? were looking for something our children would Opening a winery in Tennessee. enjoy participating in. We’ve always been Judy, who grew up in Michigan, moved to impressed that most small wineries are family- Morgan City at the age of 13. owned and operated.” After graduation, then-Northeast Louisiana After researching the industry, the feasibility University offered her an academic scholarship, of the wine business, and the suitability of and an opportunity she otherwise could not have their land, the Zaunbrechers planted their first grapevines three years ago. This summer, they

alumni afforded, she said. “From my first year until my graduation, I plan to open Amber Falls Winery & Cellars, changed from a person who wasn’t willing to which will include a bed and breakfast, tea step out of the box into someone who is eager to room, gift shop and tasting room, in Lewis take on new challenges, knowing I will succeed. I County, Tenn. have that confidence thanks to my experiences at ULM.”

1984 1985 Randall Stevenson BS ’85 accepted a position as an Kathy Loe Elam ’84 graduated Cathy Martin ’85 has given up associate life and health actuary from Our Lady of the Lake her career as an instructor in with the National Association of University in May 2005 with a the marketing department at Insurance Commissioners in nursing degree and is now an the University of Akron to Kansas City, Mo., in August RN at Our Lady of the Lake accompany husband Mark to 2005, and was promoted to Regional Medical Center. She Perth, Australia, for a 3-to-5 chief life and health actuary in and husband Kirk Elam ‘82 live year assignment as business March 2006. He now manages in Prairieville with their three development director for Koch the life and health actuarial children, Jason, 21, a senior at Knight LLC. Their son Joshua, section of the NAIC. He previ- LSU, Chad, 18, a freshman at 18, will attend the University of ously spent 7 years as an Baton Rouge Community Western Australia. She looks actuarial analyst with the College, and Ashley, 17, a forward to exploring her new Louisiana Department of senior at Dutchtown High environment and doing a lot of Insurance. He lives in Leawood, School. traveling before she goes back Kan. to teaching. Alice Rachal Regan ’84 is now retired from her private practice as a licensed professional counselor in marriage and family counseling in Baton Rouge and is living in Monroe. Her husband Patrick is retired from BellSouth.

28 University of Louisiana Monroe www.ulm.edu class notes

1986 Michael Smith ’89 is founding 1992 partner and owner of his new Kurt Oestriecher BBA ’86, CPA, company, Marathon Commercial Robert Bradley Carroll ’92 has has received the Society of Construction, LLC, in Fort Worth. opened his own practice, Louisiana CPA’s 2006 He and wife Amy live in Trophy Bradley Carroll, CPA, PC, in Outstanding Continuing Club, Tex. Duluth, Ga. Professional Education Discussion Leader Award. He Alan “Jay” White BBA ’89, MBA Anna Guerra BA ’92, MEd ’95 also received this award in ’91 was named director of has moved back to New Orleans 1998 and 2005. He is a partner graduate business programs on after living and working in with Oestriecher & Company, a Jan. 1, 2006, at the Indiana Seattle. She is an account CPA firm in Alexandria. University SE School of manager for Westlaw and Business. teaches legal research at the 1987 four law schools in Louisiana. 1990 Charlette Stephens Seng ’87 Stacy Doyal Hunt BA ’92, MEd alumni has been promoted to branch Mike Neal BBA ’90 has been ’95 is a counselor at St. infusion manager at Apria selected president and CEO of Frederick High School and Healthcare Inc. She and hus- the Tulsa, Okla., Metro Chamber husband William Christopher band John E. Seng ’82, ‘86 live of Commerce. Neal most “Chris” Hunt BS ’93 is a RiteAid in Little Rock. recently served as president Pharmacy manager in Monroe. and CEO of the Nashville Area They have children Aaron, 10, 1988 Chamber of Commerce. Ethan, 7, Catherine and Elizabeth, both 4. Teri Fontenot MBA ’88, 1991 president and CEO of Woman’s Christopher Jeselink ’92 is Michelle Carter Hays ’91 was Hospital in Baton Rouge, has serving on active duty with the recently on the cover of been re-elected to the Federal U.S. Army and was promoted Sophisticated Woman, a Reserve Bank of Atlanta’s board to Brigade Assistant Operations Northshore magazine. She is of directors. She is a CPA and a Officer and Safety Officer in a chief financial officer at Wendel Fellow of the American College training support brigade, Fort Louisiana Heart Hospital in Ray of Healthcare Executives. Sill, Okla. He and wife Karen Lacombe. She and husband professor of Colvin Jeselink ’92 have a baby Carolyn Robertson Lacks ’88 John Hays ‘91 live in Covington. boy, Carter, born April 2005. marriage and and husband Jim Lacks, who family therapy, retired with 20 years of service Laura McGraw ’91 is now living Continued on page 33 and recent in the U.S. Army in 2004, have in Panama City Beach, Fla., with opened two successful furniture her 13-year-old son. Ph.D. graduate stores in South Boston, Va. Molly Govener Jennifer Hillman Smith ’91 was They live in Halifax, Va., and presented at an recently promoted to Patrol Sgt. have two sons, Kyle, 11, and with the West Monroe Police international Grant, 6. Department. Her husband Todd conference in 1989 is an assistant chief with the Paris with some West Monroe Fire Department. of the most Ronald Camp BBA ’89, MBA ’91 They have children Aynsley influential family is a staff attorney at the Family Clair 8, and Brantley Kade 4. therapists in Justice Center of Ouachita Parish. Europe.

www.ulm.edu University of Louisiana Monroe 29 class notes

Marriages

Sharon Kay Oglesby Armfield BA ’02 to Gerald Kayla Haltom ’04 to W. Matthew Hebert ’05, Alex Greer, May 27, 2006, Calhoun. August 12, 2006, Monroe. Matthew is pursuing a master’s degree at ULM. Jeri Brining BA ’01 to Jason Carroll, June 15, 2006, St. Thomas, Virgin Islands. They live in Ashley Elizabeth Hattaway BGS ’04 to Sean West Monroe. Morgan Kilpatrick. They make their home in Monroe. April Nicole Brown BA ’05 to Andrew Kyle Martindale, June 3, 2006, West Monroe. Meredith LeAnn Herring BA ’04 to Calvin Leroy Hall, June 3, 2006, Monroe. LeAnne Elizabeth Burford BA ’01 to Kendall Haley BS ’02. They will make their home in Joni Michelle Hunter ’01 to Charles Matthew Monroe. McDonald ’04 in August 2006.

Amanda Rae Caldwell BA ’05 to Justin Bradley Martha Yvonne Irvin BS ’87 to Robert Scott alumniLaBorde, June 24, 2006 in West Monroe. Hankins, June 12, 2006, Las Vegas.

Capt. Christian Todd Cannon, U.S. Marine Corps, Kelly Michelle Langreck BBA ’02 to BGS ’97 to Gabriela Giron Portillo, in David Brandon Moore BGS ’05, Monroe. Tegucigalpa, Honduras. They make their home in New Orleans. Kasey Lindow BS ’04, MS ’06 to Allen Fisher BGS ’05, June 3, 2006. They live in West Monroe. Shawn Christene Clark BA ’79 to Roger John C. Turner Dorn. She is employed with Aegis Mortgage Brian Marx BBA ’98 to Victoria Newton. They Steckline Corp. and he is self-employed. make their home in Hollywood, Fla., where he is associate employed with Radiology Associates. Gigi Craighead BS ’03 to Brian Roberts. She is professor of employed as a registered nurse at Glenwood Stefanie McWhorter BS ’05 to Jeremy Rawls BS communication, Regional Medical Center in West Monroe. ’05. She is employed with High Hopes Pediatric traveled to Therapy in Monroe and he with Premier Rehab Turkey on a Heath Alan Denison BS ’04 to Danielle Dawn Hospital in Monroe. Roark, June 10, 2006, Enterprise. Fulbright-Hayes Jennifer Menhennett ’00 to Mitch Green, July 7, Curriculum Mary Eddleman ’89 to Chris Docherty, July 3, 2006, Seattle, Wash. Development 2006. He has six-year-old son, Alex, and she has Christina Pippins Montgomery ’01 and John Grant. seventeen-year-old son, Deven Eddleman. They live in Monroe. Montgomery Jr. will renew their marriage vows on May 5, 2007. They were married the first time Amy Ford ’01 to Timothy Miller. She is employed by a Justice of the Peace in Hamburg, Ark., and with the Louisiana Department of Health and will re-marry with a ceremony for all their family Hospitals and he is attending ULM. and friends.

Eugenia Foster ’75 to Royce Lord, July 3, 2006. Jennifer Ann Placke PharmD ’04 to James Paul She has a grandson Christian Tate Foster, born Prentice PharmD ’04, June 15, 2006. The couple Dec. 30, 2005. make their home in Birmingham. Both are employed as pharmacists; she is at Walgreens Trisha Denae Gardner BGS ’04 to Randall Wayne and he is at the University of Alabama at Loveless, June 10, 2006. The couple make their Birmingham Hospital. home in Pigeon Forge, Tenn.

Ashley Colette Gwin BS ’06 to Justin Ross O’Neal BS ’06, July 1, 2006. They make their home in Little Rock.

30 University of Louisiana Monroe www.ulm.edu class notes

In his father’s drug store in The store was a huge success, but he realized Alexandria, James “Jim” that times were going to change with the advent Vanderhoeven was allowed of discount stores. to make ice cream cones for More than a decade later, Vanderhoeven customers only when he was decided to open a high-end drug store. That tall enough to reach the soda was a bad idea; however, it turned out to be one machine. When that day of the better things that happened to him. finally came, instead of To salvage his unsuccessful idea, he started handing the cone to the customer, he took a big to service the pharmaceutical needs of nursing bite out of the ice cream. homes, and after servicing a few, he realized a “It was a reflex reaction,” Vanderhoeven computer would solve many of the problems in remembered with a chuckle. His customer pharmacy service of nursing homes. service skills eventually improved. After To his knowledge he was the first in the alumni graduating from then-Northeast Louisiana country to incorporate a computer in a drug University with a B.S. in Pharmacy in 1964, he store. At one time, Vanderhoeven serviced more worked at various pharmacies around than 25 pharmacies in nursing homes through- Louisiana, filling in for pharmacists who were out Louisiana. vacationing. While he left the drug store business 12 years What was supposed to be a three-week stint ago, he still owns and manages different health at a pharmacy in Tioga resulted in a definitive care facilities throughout Louisiana today. And Robert career move. Within one month, the pharmacy when time permits, he manages his apartment Hanser he was managing turned a profit. The drug complex in the French Quarter of New Orleans assistant profes- store owners offered Vanderhoeven a 10 and enjoys the occasional bike ride around the sor of criminal percent cut of the store’s profit. Vanderhoeven, Quarter. 31 at the time, wanted more—he wanted to justice, traveled Reflecting on his success, he credits the buy the store, which had been on the market to Bangkok, pharmacy school at ULM. “ULM provided me for 5 years. Thailand, to chair with a living, which was probably the most “The owners asked me, ‘Who’s going to co- the first session important thing that happened to me. It pro- sign your loan?’ I told them, ‘You are, and if you vided me with a way to hire and manage people for the Asian don’t, I’ll be gone and you’ll start losing money who were very good at what they did,” he said. Association of again.’” “A degree in pharmacy provides you with the Policing, rep- His pharmacy was located next to a grocery tools to succeed in life, no matter what you resenting ULM store, and those customers soon also became decide to do, and that’s because of the outstand- to police and Vanderhoeven’s. “I put my white tunic on and ing professors. My professors did everything to national security introduced myself telling them, ‘I’ll treat you help me learn. I never, ever forgot what this and your family right and I’ll take care of you.’” school did for me, and no one should.” administrators from 19 nations.

Kaci Rhodes BGS ’05 to Kaleb Wayne McMillan. Steve Randolph Traxler, Jr. BS ’05 to Emily Kylin The couple make their home in Swartz. Granen, May 27, 2006. He is employed with Traxler Construction. She attends ULM. Pamela Spikes ’85 to Steven Johnson, May 20, 2006, League City, Tex. They live Jessica Luticia Tyler BS ’06 to Davey Paul in Dickinson, Tex. Legendre PharmD ’06. She is employed as an interior designer with J.C. Penney. He is Karen Thomas ’05 to Joshua Keen, a former employed as a pharmacist with Rite Aid. ULM music student, July 24, 2006. They live in Nebraska where Joshua is stationed in the U.S. Air Force.

www.ulm.edu University of Louisiana Monroe 31 class notes

Births

1 Tristan Jacques Ackroyd, March 8, 2006, to Lily Kyle Mills, Dec. 4, 2006, to Megan Kyle Mills Caroline Durand Ackroyd ’98 and husband ’01 and husband Ray. Lily has older brother Gregory. James.

Chandler Bryant, Aug. 20, 2002, to Matt Bryant Astoria “Storye” Trinity Molinar, Sept. 3, 2006, to ’98 and Hilary Seyfarth Bryant ’97. Shanna Walpole Molinar ’94 and husband Manny. Storye is welcomed by big sister 2 Robert Harris Carroll, Oct. 30, 2006, to Robert MacShayne, and “Uncle Tommy” Walpole, BA Bradley Carroll ’92 and Dawn Harris Carroll ‘93. ‘83, MA ‘89

Claire Eileen Cassidy, Sept. 22, 2006, to Shannon Reese McKensey Ratcliff, Oct. 17, 2006, to Julie Murphy Cassidy ’90 and husband Jack. Davis Ratcliff ‘00 and Jeffrey Lloyd Ratcliff ’00.

Joycelyn Courtney, April 3, 2005, to Melisa Cayla Marie Rhodes, Dec. 11, 2006 to Donna Courtney ’00. Klaiber Rhodes ’01 and husband Colby. alumni

Logan Michael Denning, Oct. 5, 2006, to April Adelene “Addie” Aylse Rodgers, Jan. 1, 2007, to Benoit Denning ’98 and husband Clay. Adams Rodgers BBA ’98 and April Barnhill Rodgers BBA ’98. Nathan Jai Eschete, Sept. 14, 2005, to Lori Victoriano Eschete ’02 and Jai W. Eschete ‘00. Nicholas Shelton, July 12, 2006, to Jennifer LaValle Shelton ’95 and Brian Shelton ‘96. Colton “Colt” Reese Evans, June 3, 2006, to Nicholas has a 4-year-old older brother, Ian. The Dillon Evans ’99 and wife Brittney. Sheltons live in Flower Mound, Tex. Lana Alise Evans, Feb. 22, 2006, to Stacy Barnes Conner Owen Smith, April 19, 2006 to Katie Evans ’01 and husband Alexander. Melerine Smith BGS ’93, MA ’01 and Bernard Ronda L. Morgan Lindsay Fraser, March 11, 2006, to Smith BA ’91. Conner’s older brother is Chandler, Akins Cassidy Zackheim Fraser ’02 and husband Alan. who is 5. n Assistant Madelyne Ruchelle Gannon, July 20, 2006, to Landry Marie Suire, Nov. 20, 2006, to Russell professor of Kelley Roberts Gannon BS ’94 and husband Suire ‘00, ‘02 and wife Ashley. Landry has older pharmacy, Kevin, who is currently serving in Iraq. brother, Jackson, 3. contributed to 3 Henry Herbert High, Sept. 29, 2006, to Parker Amie Tumminello, Dec. 8, 2006, to Monica a study that Katherine Rogers High ’00 and husband Brian. Walker Tumminello ‘98 and Chris Tumminello was published They are now living in Monroe. ’98. They live in Keller, Tex. in the New Piper Michelle West, Dec. 24, 2005, to Charles England Journal Baylee Elizabeth Mabou, Sept. 1, 2006, to Laurie Bell Mabou ’03 and Shane Mabou ’02. Scott West ’96 and Michelle Brasher West ‘94. of Medicine and Piper joins sister Elisa Rayne who is 3. resulted Kaylyn Alese McLendon, March 30, 2006 to Traci in a new Alford McLendon ’00 and husband Mike. Cannon Campbell Young, April 20, 2006, to Cheri Guillot Young ’88 and husband Nathan. antibiotic approved by the FDA.

1 2 3

32 University of Louisiana Monroe www.ulm.edu Bright Futures Continued from page 29 1994 1996 Deserve Support Tim Ardillo BA ’94 has been Charles Scott West ’BS 96 is named the new director of working the Monroe territory institutional advancement for for PriCara, a unit of Ortho- the Indianapolis Zoo. He will McNeil. He and his wife head up the zoo’s fundraising Michelle Brasher West BS ‘94 efforts, continued building and live in West Monroe. development. Previously he served as director of develop- 1997 ment for The Arc of Indiana. He Janet Chaney Brady ’97 is holds the CFRE (Certified Fund working at Deloitte and Touche Raising Executive) designation. in Houston as manager of Kimberli Waller Charlet ‘94, ‘95 human resources. She married and husband Brent Charlet ‘94 Kelly Brady in 1999 and they are co-owners of The Corbel have two daughters, McKinley, Distinctive Gifts and Interiors almost 3, and Evelyn, 1 year old. and Charlet Brothers Southern Sherryl Rhoades Morgan ’97 is Design and Construction in teaching at Union Christian Jackson, La. They have children Academy in Farmerville. She Cara Lane, 8, Anna Beth, 6, and and husband David have two Charles, 4. They live in Zachary. daughters, Ashton, 6, and William M. Stallings BBA ’94 Cassidy, 3. What Describes ULM Today? Momentum! has been promoted to senior Johnny Nguyen ’97 is a travel Your university is doing well—with great vice president at BB&T Corp. He nurse currently on assignment joined the bank in 1992. students getting an excellent education in in Orange County, Calif. He is a wonderful new facilities. 1995 Captain in the U.S. Army Reserve based in Oakland. Matthew Lee BBA ’95 has been What Keeps Progress Alive? You do! in the pharmaceutical business 1999 for 11 years. He and wife You can help them get the foundation for James Landers ’99 played Brenna Lee, M.D., have four Arena Football for 7 years and success through your gift today—and by children, Austin, 13, Hunter, 11, received an award in 2004 for Emilie, 4, and Gracie, 1. They exploring the benefits of annual gifts, major “Lineman of the Year.” He is live in Austin. gifts and/or estate gifts. Our Web site has now an account executive Robin Desormeaux Mouliere ’95 with Plan-It Interactive in details. And our gift officers are always is a pharmacist in Alexandria. Los Angeles. happy to talk with you about the choice that She and husband James Keith DeQuetta Olissa Sanders BGS fits your needs best. Mouliere ’93 have a 11-year old ’99, MEd ’05 is working on her daughter, Brooke Suzanne. Ph.D. in counselor education at James is a canine officer with Texas A&M-Commerce and is For more information, contact: the Alexandria Police employed with the university as Anne Lockhart, Director of Development Department. an undergraduate counseling University of Louisiana Monroe Foundation instructor and academic 700 University Avenue; Monroe, LA 71209 advisor. (318) 342-5426 [email protected] Visit our website at www.ulm.edu/giving

www.ulm.edu University of Louisiana Monroe 33 class notes

J.P. Pierce (B.S. ’77) majored University School of Law and graduated with a in pre-law for over a year Juris Doctor degree in 1998. when NLU accomplished Two years ago, J.P. and his wife of almost 30 something that changed his years, Lynette, purchased a 33-year-old course. specialty commercial construction company in “NLU became the first Fort Worth, Texas. university in the nation to Pierce, who was born in Bismarck, N.D., grew have its School of Construction accredited. I had up in Houston, Texas, and Shreveport. He was worked every summer in construction since I drawn to the natural beauty of the campus at was 13 years old, and I was very excited about then—Northeast Louisiana University. changing my major to building construction.” J.P., who has always remained connected to J.P. has been in the waterproofing and ULM—he served as president of the ULM building restoration business for more than 30

alumni Alumni Association and he participated in ULM years. Some of his more significant restoration Envision 2004—credits the university with work includes the Jax Brewery in New Orleans, giving him a solid foundation. The Adolphus Hotel, The Majestic Theater, The “Earning a degree in building construction School Book Depository, The Academic Building was a big boost. I also credit my other associa- at Texas A&M and the football stadium at the tions on campus and in the city, along with University of Oklahoma. the lifelong friends that I met there, to any When he turned 40, J.P. reconnected with an successes I have enjoyed.” earlier passion. He attended Texas Wesleyan

2000 2001

Gwen Giroir ’00 has purchased a home in Baton Joni Hunter McDonald ’01 received a master’s Rouge where she is a human resource analyst 3 degree from LSU in May 2002 and passed the with LSU Health Care Services Division. licensing exam in April 2006 to become a licensed clinical social worker (LCSW). Stacey Tiffee Green ’00 has two sons, Auden Gile Green, 3, and Braden Terry Green, 1. 2002

Justin Lewis ’00 and and wife Amy have a son Larry Wayne Cook BA ’02 was commissioned an Jack, 1. They live in Tucson, Ariz. officer in the U.S. Army on October 12, 2006 and is stationed at Ft. Lewis, Wash. (near Tacoma). Jeffrey Ratcliff ’00 has been promoted to project manager with The Beck Group of Dallas. He and 2003 his wife Julie will relocate temporarily to San Antonio, Tex. for approximately 18 months. He Celeste Holley ’03 has accepted the catering will be responsible for a hospital construction sales manager position with Elite Caterers in project in Boerne, a suburb of San Antonio. Monroe, where she will be booking events for two local restaurants. Russell Suire ’00, ’02 obtained his nursing facility administrator’s license after he received his master’s in gerontology in 2002. He is employed by Management Seven, LLC. He was recently promoted to a regional administrator position. He and his wife live in DeRidder.

34 University of Louisiana Monroe www.ulm.edu class notes

2004 Jason Andrew Ossman BBA ’05 Andreas Lefconikiatis BBA ’06 is now working as a financial is currently studying at Bowling Jason Philip Deal BS ’04 is advisor at Merrill Lynch in Green State University for a working as an estimator with Monroe. master of accountancy with a Performance Contractors, Inc. of concentration in information Baton Rouge. He and wife Anna Jared Adrian Prudhomme AA systems audit and control. Lisa Greer and children Jake, ’05 is attending the Jefferson almost 2, and infant Sarah, live Parish Sheriff’s Department in Geismar. Training Academy. 2005 2006

Crystal Acree Huff BA ’05 is Lashanda Ellis BBA ’06 is a currently completing her programmer in ISD at the Wal- master’s degree in social work Mart home office in Bentonville, at LSU. Ark. alumni

Ralph Brown assistant pro- In Memoriam fessor of his- Timothy Lee Ernst BA ‘82 Dorothy Frances Henry Dean ‘36 tory, received Patricia Joan McBroom BS ‘82 Majorie Brown ‘37 one of only Robert Hubbard EdS ‘84 Roy V. Norman ‘41 20 prestigious Dennis James Ezell BS ‘87 Martin L. Coleman Jr. ‘43 fellowships to Shana Danielle Faylor BS ‘91 Hugh D. Smith BS ‘48 the 2006 West Frank C. Webb BBA ‘92 Mary Roberson BA ‘57 Point Summer Charles J. Cody BS ‘93 C.B. Roberts BA ‘57 Seminar in Warren Allen Strickland Jr. BS ’01, John D. Salter BS ‘57 Military History. MS ‘04 Glenda Williams Zametto MEd ‘57 Brigitte Armruster Rainwater BS ‘03 Austin “Bernard” Love ‘61 Ann Lindsey Avery BS ‘04 Sue Ellen Dorris Carlson ‘62 Ann Elizabeth Lindsay BS ‘04 Carolyn Jo Smith Richardson ‘65 Kathleen “Kat” D. Shackelford MEd ‘65 Diane Rose Bannister BA ‘69 Faculty/Staff/Friends Peggy Marie DeBlieux Cayer BA ‘69 Dr. George C. Brian Donnie Inzina Johnston BA ’69, MEd ‘96 Linda Christmas Wayne Burney ‘70 Thomas “Sonny” D. Day William S. Gannaway, BBA ’71, MEd ‘81 Phillip S. Fishman Ida Lee Davis White BA’72 Dr. John Goorley Pamela Odom Rushing BS ‘73 Dr. Roy H. Ledbetter Jr. Henry Atkins Glover MBA ‘75 Lee Anna Sens Sharon Faye Parsons Graves MEd ‘76 Dorothy Ward Edmon Ray Youngblood Jr. BBA ‘78 Ann Bailey Havard BS ‘81

www.ulm.edu University of Louisiana Monroe 35 36 University ofLouisiana Monroe My course was taught in the traditional afternoons, with a three hour mid-day break. university, founded in the 10th century. which lays claim to being the world’s oldest courses taught at Qayrawiyin University, speakers of local origin, with advanced micians such as myself. Instructors are native graduate students and itinerant senior acade instruction for business people, diplomats, locally as the “Centre Americain.” standing association with the U.S., known college students and individualized advanced schools there. Locally, it enjoys a long- reputable of the many Arabic language Arabic alphabet), is one of the oldest and most (which is also the name of the first letter in the American travel. tt Dprmn’ ls o sf cutis for countries safe of Department’s list State the onrelative stabilityreputationisand and and Islamic traditions. It is also a country with lated while holding dear its Arabic languageArabic its dear holdingwhile lated crossroads,Moroccoremainssomewhatiso cultural these at being Despite together. come n te ide at all East Middle the and ated where Europe, Africa as “the Meghreb,” is situ study abroad program. Fez as a potential site for ULM’s summer of visiting this ancient city was to explore language courses at ULM. A secondary goal point ofL view Classes were held in the mornings and ALIF offers intensive Arabic courses for U.S. The Arabic Language Institute in Fez – ALIF- Morocco, also known known also Morocco, tion for the development of Arabic and the city of Fez, Morocco, in prepara ast summer I returned to North Africa - Assistant ProfessorofForeignLanguages James McKeithen SUMMER INMOROCCO share the human “People Same

- - everywhere - qualities fundamental standing and appreciating one’s own world. effective contribution toward better under different as that of Morocco, is, I think, an another culture, particularly one as initially qualities. Learning to know and understand where share the same fundamental human remarkable degree to which people every easier for the average person to appreciate the level of local language and culture makes it value of Morocco as a learning experience. unto itself, and this I think best expresses the night sky. Time spent in the desert is sufficient can breathe the pure desert air and watch the a nomadic Berber encampment where one ence in itself) out into the desert for a night in Sahara, and from there by camel (an experi consists of a van journey to the edge of the is, without doubt, the trip to the desert. It the Middle Ages or even biblical times. Fez is like a journey back in time, perhaps to trip to one of the mountain villages around the world with an active artisan tradition. A artisans at work. Fez is one of the last cities in missionary from Tanzania, a London lawyer teachers. My small class included a Lutheran jointly selected for the course by students and sion in Arabic of a prepared classical text A typical class consisted of classroom discus manner by two professors from al-Qarawiyin. Living in a foreign country on the ground However, the big event offered by the school

.”

watching the traditional various markets and wandered, visiting the Arabic at Harvard. Kansas who had studied and a woman from On the weekends, I www.ulm.edu - - - -

University of Louisiana Monroe E, LA RO 71 Non-Profit Org N 2 0 O 9 M U.S. POSTAGE Office of Alumni Relations PAID 700 University Avenue U . L . M . PERMIT NO. 219 Monroe, LA 71209-2500

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