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SPRING 2016 VOLUME 1, ISSUE 2

The Frontrunner

The Newsletter of the Alumni, Students, and Friends of the Thomas F. Freeman Honors College

Honors Dean’s Welcome Editorial: Mrs. Desa M. D. Weathers semester, I prepared a you want it to last 100 plus years. Editor talk for Honors College 9. Get up early. In Ameri- freshmen, and again ca, the prime Mrs. Renuka S. Nair things came in twelves. (traditional) time for Contributing Editor work is 8-5. If you are I offered my personal sleeping until 10am, Dr. Elizabeth Brown-Guillory advice about steps to some early bird is catch- Editorial Director ing the worm and only Interim Dean success, which include: droppings will be left for 1. No excuses (see “Sorry” you. It seems that Spring a poem from For Col- 10. Offer to help…to do 2016 was the season for ored Girls by Ntozake more than asked of Inside this issue: things coming in Shange). Don’t make you. In my childhood excuses when a consci- community, we were twelves. At the begin- entious, planned effort warned of avoid- ning of the semester, I will help you get the job ing the “skinny goat General Assembly 2 mentality,” which University/School Partner- worked with my staff to done. 2. Have a plan that in- means doing the least ship develop twelve initia- cludes Plan A, Plan B, possible to maintain a tives: the Honors In- and Plan C. Never give job. To succeed, be resourceful and creative Lecture Series 3 ternship Program, up if a well-made plan fails. Go to the next and determined to give Recruitment 4 Honors Chautauqua, plan. more than is required of 3. Learn to say, “I’m sor- you. Freshman Seminar 5 Model United Nations 11. Read relentlessly. Keep ry.” Asking for for- New Honors Minors Team, Honors Book giveness can lead to current and strive for life Club, Honors Yoga, incomprehensible heal- -long learning. Internships 6 12. Be cognizant of first Honors Life Skills ing. Symposium 4. Live according to your impressions. Studies show that first impres- Training (etiquette, means. If you don’t have Corpus Christi 7 leadership, financial it, don’t spend it. sions take less than 30 5. Volunteer. Giving is, in seconds, according to Faculty Fellows Corner 8 literacy, time manage- many cases, more satis- Princeton professors ment), Tutoring, Peer- fying than receiving. Janine Willis and Alex- Honors Support Team 9 to-Peer Counseling, What you put out there ander Todorov, in First will be given back to Impressions, July 2006 Chautauqua 10 Honors Dress for Suc- issue of Psychological you. Model United Nations 11 cess Closet, Popcorn 6. Seek a mentor. Accept Science. Speak and dress appropriately for Tuesdays and Fridays, the wisdom of those who 12 have lived a life filled the occasion at hand. Alumni Weekend Movie Night, and In- College with reflection. Connect I was blessed with men- teractive Game Night. to those who have 13 carved out a path of tors who recognized International Food The aim of these excit- Festival excellence so that you my potential and nur- ing activities is to offer can exceed theirs. tured me unselfishly. I as much enrichment as 7. Take a risk. If it means Tiger Pride: Alumni 14 something to you, the am choosing to give possible while fostering Spotlight on Honors 15 stakes are often high, back to students. I chal- student engagement. and you should not let lenge them to someday Honors Day Convocation 16 Student success is the fear deter you. 8. Keep Active. Your health do the same. Graduation Recognition 17 lifeblood of the Honors depends upon your College. Around mid- treating your body like Honors College Staff 20 THE FRONTRUNNER Page 2

HONORS GENERAL ASSEMBLY The Thomas F. Freeman assist scholars in preparing and on study-away trips. Honors College kicked off for real-world work experi- The Model United Nations the Spring 2016 semester ences while still in school. (MUN) Program is an aca- by hosting its biannual To qualify for placement, demic competition in General Assembly meeting scholars will participate in which students can learn on Saturday, January 16, a series of lectures and about diplomacy, interna- 2016. Honors also held a hands-on activities geared tional relations, and the second General Assembly to strengthening their in- United Nations. The MUN meeting on Tuesday, Janu- terview skills, along with Program provides Honors ary 19, for students who fine-tuning their resumes Scholars an opportunity to were unable to attend Sat- and cover letters. increase skills in research- urday’s meeting. Students The Honors Chautauqua ing, critical thinking, public were welcomed back to Program invites eager speaking, and writing, campus and to Honors. scholars to learn the art of while fostering teamwork The staff shared the Spring performing the lives of and leadership abilities. 2016 Calendar, which in- historical figures. The aim cludes several initiatives, The Thomas F. Freeman of the Honors Chautauqua such as the Honors Intern- Honors College prepares Program is to build confi- ship Program, the Honors the best of the best to con- dence in students by en- Chautauqua Program, and tinue to grow beyond their hancing their critical think- the Model United Nations normal surroundings. ing, writing, and public (MUN) Program. speaking skills. Chautauqua The Honors Internship Scholars will perform on Program is designed to campus, in the community,

BI-ANNUAL UNIVERSITY/SCHOOL PARTNERSHIP MEETING

On Tuesday, February 2, ticipants shared ideas to the Honors College. 2016, the Honors College about the various ways the hosted its spring semester recruitment process works University/School Part- at their individual schools nership Meeting. Counse- and the steps Honors lors, advisors, coordina- might take to increase the tors, principals, deans and gains of its recruitment other high school adminis- efforts. The ultimate aim trators joined Honors Col- of these partnership meet- lege staff to discuss new ings is to develop mean- and innovative ways to ingful relationships with reach high school juniors high school personnel and graduating seniors. In who will shepherd high a round table setting, par- academic profile students Page 3 VOLUME 1, ISSUE 2

HONORS SPRING LECTURE SERIES The Honors College began of Pharmacy Practice. In centered in New York its Spring 2016 Lecture his lecture “When Soap City, especially Harlem, Series on February 25, and Water are Not and hence became known 2016. Invited lecturers for Enough: Infection Preven- as the Harlem Renaissance. this academic semester tion Inside Healthcare Fa- Dr. Wintz shared several included TSU professors cilities,” Dr. Swan re- images of the famous Dr. Sunny Ohia, Dr. Josh- viewed four types of hos- Anita Bush and spoke ua Swan, and Dr. Cary pital-acquired infections about her talents and am- Wintz. All leading re- (bloodstream infection, bitious productions and searchers in their fields of ventilator-associated pneu- foray into the film indus- study, each delivered lec- monia, catheter-associated try. Not only was the lec- tures that encouraged deep urinary tract infection, and ture immensely entertain- thought and prompted surgical site infection) that ing, it also served to edu- engagement with audience are associated with sub- cate the audience on the members. stantial costs to the US ways the pioneers of Afri- healthcare system. Dr. can American theatre The first lecturer in the Swan focused on results of strove to dispel the myth Fredrick Douglass Lecture the CHG-BATH trial that that their only talents were Series was Dr. Sunny E. he conducted at Houston in singing, dancing, and Ohia, Professor of Phar- Methodist Hospital and slapstick comedy. macology and a prominent provided students with faculty member in the Col- ideas for becoming more lege of Pharmacy and involved in faculty research Health Sciences. His through extracurricular presentation, “The Impact projects. of Drug Discovery on Our Quality of Life: An Histor- On March 23, 2016, Dr. ical Perspective on Phar- Cary Wintz, the final pre- macy,” provided insight senter in the Fredrick into the benefits of drug Douglas Lecture Series, discovery. He explained enlightened the Honors that from the beginning of College with a colorful lec- time, man has always ture titled, “From Vaude- sought new techniques to ville to Theatre: The De- improve the quality of life, velopment of Black Thea- which has led to some of tre in the Early Twentieth the world’s greatest medi- Century.” Dr. Wintz spoke cal discoveries. about the birth of African American theatre wit- On March 10, 2016, The nessed during the early Great Thinkers Lecture 20th century. He noted Series featured Dr. Joshua that this development was Swan, Assistant Professor THE FRONTRUNNER Page 4

THE ROAD TO RECRUITMENT

During the course of the wide forums, the Annual Summer 2016 to recruit Fall 2015 and Spring 2016 Day Forum at the high academic achieving semesters, the Thomas F. George R. Brown Conven- students to our premier Freeman Honors College tion Center, and the HISD Honors College. visited over 60 schools, Summit for HBCUs. The participated in over 10 Honors College staff and open house/college fairs, students, often wearing the hosted 12 college tours in stunning maroon blazers, the Honors Auditorium, have taken tremendous and participated in the strides this past academic University’s Tiger Day, Dia year to build relationships del Tigre, and Transfer with personnel at high Day. The Honors College schools. Honors will con- also participated in ISD tinue its efforts throughout

Honors College Recruitment 2016-2017

Targeted Profile of Honors Recruits for 2016-2017 An ACT of 26 or higher or an SAT (Math and Critical Reading) of 1200 or higher, combined with a GPA of 3.5 or higher. Application Process All applicants must submit (a) a complete application, (b) copies of their transcripts, (c) a 750 to 1000-word essay (approximately 3 to 4 pages, with a central theme and sup- porting details) in which they respond to the question, “Who Am I ?” (d) copies of their SAT and/or ACT score reports, and (e) three letters of support – on the school’s letterhead – preferably from their teachers in English, mathematics, and any science. Deadlines: High School Seniors Early Admission: December 1, 2015 Regular Admission: March 2, 2016 Late Admission: June 1, 2016

For more information on Honors, visit our website: Website: http://www.tsu.edu/academics/colleges-and-schools/honors-college/ Page 5 VOLUME 1, ISSUE 2

FRESHMAN SEMINAR LUNCHEONS

The Honors College a lavish lunch and hear presented on topics dealing launched a series of initia- speakers on topics condu- with finances, etiquette, tives in Spring 2016, in- cive to each scholar’s aca- time and resource manage- cluding the Freshman demic and personal suc- ment, and communication. Seminar Luncheon. In Fall cess. Mr. Andrew Hughey, The modules presented by 2015, 18 recruits to the University General Coun- the GRAs facilitated peer- Honors College began sel, shared his experience to-peer counseling, aimed their educational journey at in school and in life during at fostering emotional, psy- Southern University. his presentation, “Lessons chological and social These first-time freshmen Learned about Leadership: growth among the Honors were required to take The Stories Nobody Told Scholars. The lunch and Freshman Seminar 102: Me.” Dr. Brown-Guillory lecture series has proven to Introduction to Honors in lectured on “12 Steps to be a great benefit to the their first semester. In or- Success,” wherein she gave scholars and will remain a der to continue the sup- the scholars a road map to staple in the Honors Col- port and encouragement being successful in all that lege. for this cohort, Interim they aim to do and become Dean Brown-Guillory initi- in life. Other guest speak- ated the second semester ers included Honors Grad- Freshman Luncheon and uate Research Assistants Lecture Series. Scholars (GRA) Belema Ibama, assembled every first Mon- Da’Monica Hunter, and day of the month to enjoy Chizara Nwakanma, who

NEW MINORS IN HONORS While researching best minors, including the Legal able graduates to effective- College and is designed to practices at over 120 Studies Minor/Dual En- ly empower the disenfran- complement any under- Honors Colleges/ rollment in TMSL, the chised and underserved by graduate field of study that Programs across the na- Creative Arts Minor, the shaping social and public requires the selection of a tion, the staff discovered Medical Studies Minor, and policy in the minor field of study. While that the best ones work the Leadership Studies Mi- and around the world. the minor is coordinated collaboratively with the nor. While three of these While the minor in legal by the Honors College, traditional colleges on minors are awaiting final studies provides students there is a partnership with their campuses to design a approval, the Legal Studies with the fundamental at- the Thurgood Marshall series of minors that are Minor/Dual Enrollment in tributes of the legal system School of Law that pro- coordinated by the Honors TMSL is ready for launch in our intricate, globally vides students with the Colleges. This data-driven in Fall 2016. connected society, it also ability to earn admittance decision to strengthen the provides an avenue for into the law program and academic identity of the It will promote the inter- graduate and professional begin studies with dual Honors College prompted disciplinary study of law, studies preparation. admittance during their the staff, in collaboration combining the contribu- senior year of undergradu- with academic deans at tions of faculty at Texas The minor in legal studies ate studies. TSU, to develop several Southern University to en- is housed in the Honors THE FRONTRUNNER Page 6

THE INTERNSHIP... The Honors College information to students sis, resume preparation, launched its much awaited about internships. dressing for success, and Honors Internship Pro- In celebration of this mo- interviewing skills for all gram this past January for mentous new stride, the applicants. She matched all Honors Scholars in Honors College hosted qualified applicants with good standing. Serving as career preparation seminars potential employers and the coordinator of the in- all week from January 25th placed all applicants (100% ternship program, Ms. Re- to January 29th to help placement rate) within the nuka Nair, Director of Ac- prepare the scholars to put internship positions early ademic and Student Ser- their best foot forward. Ms. in the semester. vices, partnered with the Nair provided workshops TSU Career Services Cen- in interest and skills analy- ter to provide optimum

UNDERGRADUATE RESEARCH AND CREATIVE ACTIVITIES SYMPOSIUM

The Honors College host- that participated in the lish Department, Dr. J. ed its semi-annual Under- Study Away/Recruitment Marie McCleary who led graduate Research and trip to Corpus Christi the department for more Creative Activities Sympo- shared their experiences than 20 years. sium on May 5th and 6th, and their pictures, while With over 44 presenters, 2016. This two-day event the Honors Model United there were a total of 52 featured the academic Nations Team spoke about topics of expression across achievements, scholarly their travels and their suc- the scholarly and/or crea- research, and artistic ex- cess as TSU’s representa- tive spectrum. Honors pressions of the Honors tives at the North Carolina Scholars shone bright no Scholars spanning across Consortium for Interna- matter the content of their all four classifications. tional and Intercultural presentations: some played While the symposium is Education Conference. the piano or read poetry, primarily a platform for The Honors Chautauqua while others presented pa- upperclassmen to show- Scholars impressed their pers that they had spent case the outcomes of their peers as they performed countless hours research- Course Augmentation Pro- excerpts from their living ing. Though participants posals (CAPs), freshmen history portrayals of prom- were given 5-7 minutes to and sophomores seized inent TSU alumni Con- present, the presentations this opportunity to present gresswoman Barbara Jor- were captivating and elicit- their Core Course En- dan and Congressman ed many queries from the hancements (CCEs) to Mickey Leland, and the audience. their peers. The students crown jewel of TSU’s Eng- Page 7 VOLUME 1, ISSUE 2 OH THE PLACES WE’LL GO: AN EXCURSION TO CORPUS CHRISTI

On April 14, 2016, the Gardens, the Lydia Ann Pier, Blackbeard’s on the Honors College staff along Lighthouse, and the histor- Beach, and Fins Seafood with a stellar group of ical Old Bayview Ceme- Grill in Port Aransas. The Honors College Scholars tery, which is the oldest Scholars also indulged in boarded Continental Trav- federal in delectable frozen treats els Motor Coach and em- Texas and the burial site of from Scoopy’s Ice cream barked on the College’s veterans from five wars, shop which had closed for second Study Away/ including the civil war. the day but re-opened just Recruitment Trip this aca- Walking the grounds of the for the Honors College demic year. Old Bayview Cemetery troop! were eye opening experi- Prior to visiting this idyllic The high points of the trip ences for the Honors city, the Honors Scholars were the two plays: the Scholars, who were in- were provided with a study hilarious Our Lady of the spired by the history and packet that included infor- Tortilla and the highly ener- interesting anecdotes of mation on Corpus Christi’s getic Chicago. the multitudes of war vet- places of interest as well as erans and their families During their time in Cor- its fascinating history. Af- who were buried there pus Christi, the Honors ter submitting an essay over the last one hundred staff and Honors Scholars based upon the study pack- and seventy-one years. visited three high- ets, the participants were Scholars also experienced performing high schools to given their own copies of cultures of the Far East at recruit students to the Viktor E. Frankl’s Man’s the Texas State Museum Honors College: Collegiate Search for Meaning to read for Asian Cultures. They High School, Incarnate and discuss during the trip enjoyed the wonders of Word Academy, and Mary as part of the Honors nature on an hour and a Carroll High School. The Book Club, a Spring 2016 half-long boat ride during Honors Scholars spoke initiative. the Dolphin Watching eloquently about their ex- During the study away Tour in Port Aransas. The periences and represented portion of the trip, stu- scholars were treated to a the Honors College and dents experienced the simulation of a live record- TSU with poise and grace. unique charm of Corpus ing thanks to Mr. Abraham The Study Away/ Christi’s eclectic history Quintanilla, Jr. (father of Recruitment Trip to Cor- and culture by visiting sites late artist Selena) at the pus Christi helped the such as the Old St. Antho- Selena Museum! In the Honors College Scholars ny Church and Museum, Marina Arts District, Hon- not only to appreciate the the Sidbury House in Her- ors Scholars enjoyed Tex- rich history of the Texas itage Park, the 167 year old Mex style food at the Gulf Coast, but also to Centennial House, the fa- prominent Dos Comales search for a new meaning mous Harbor Bridge, the restaurant and browsing in their lives, thanks to Selena Memorial on the through various shops for Frankl’s riveting book, , the trinkets along the bay. Man’s Search for Meaning. Texas State Aquarium, the They feasted on Texas- South Texas Botanical style seafood at Snoopy’s THE FRONTRUNNER Page 8

FACULTY FELLOWS CORNER

The Honors College Faculty Fellows Profile As an Honors College we are dedicated to making the student experience as full and rewarding as possible. With that, the Thomas F. Freeman Honors College has en- gaged award-winning, internationally renowned Honors Faculty Fellows to mentor Honors students. This team of Fellows is comprised of faculty from a variety of disci- plines across the TSU campus. For more information on the Faculty Fellows’ responsibilities, please visit: http://www.tsu.edu/academics/colleges-and-schools/honors-college/faculty- fellows.php

Profile of Dr. Audrey Player

Dr. Audrey Player, an As- proaches. Her research focused on characteriza- sistant Professor of Biolo- focuses on analyses of ba- tion of the genomics of gy in the College of Sci- sal-like aggressive breast skin cancers, were done at ence, and cancers with a long-term the University of California Technology at Texas goal of identifying genetic (San Francisco, CA) and Southern, teaches general signatures that might the NIH in Bethesda, MD. biology courses and since someday be considered for Dr. Player has served dili- the Summer of 2012 has their clinical utility. Recent- gently on the Honors Col- maintained a research la- ly, she and two Thomas lege Admissions/ boratory at TSU. Prior to Freeman Honors College Scholarship Committee for joining TSU, Dr. Player students published a schol- two years as well as deliv- spent most of her life em- arly article titled ered several lectures to ployed as a research scien- “Preliminary characteriza- Honors students and alum- tist, first in the Cancer Di- tion of IL32 in basal-like/ ni. vision of Bayer Diagnos- triple negative compared to tics (Berkeley CA), then at other types of breast cell the National Cancer Insti- lines and tissues” in the tute of National Institutes journal BMC Research Notes. of Health (NIH), and final- Dr. Player earned an un- ly a short tenure at the dergraduate degree in Biol- University of Texas MD ogy from the University of Anderson (Houston, TX), North Texas (Denton, TX) where again her studies and a Ph.D. in Interdisci- focused on the characteri- plinary Science from zation of cancers with an Wright State University additional emphasis on (Dayton, Ohio). Her post- bioinformatics-based ap- doctoral studies, which Page 9 VOLUME 1, ISSUE 2

HONORS SUPPORT TEAM CORNER MS. JANIS NEWMAN

The Honors College is tacted Ms. Newman to let monies, including the grateful for the contribu- her know that the area Honors Day Convocation tions that Ms. Newman around the College was Committee, the Com- has made in the past two dark and foreboding, and mencement Committee, years as a member of the she responded, “Let there and the Founders Day Honors Support Team, the be light.” The very next Committee. Her support extraordinary group of fac- morning, light fixtures has helped move the ma- ulty and staff who help were repaired and/or in- chine in countless ways for turn challenges into oppor- stalled. On another occa- Honors, and we celebrate tunities for the College. sion, Honors staff contact- her dedicated service. If Described by Dr. Brian ed her about restrooms in she is, indeed, a “quiet Dickens as “a quiet Honors needing repairs, storm,” Honors has been storm,” Ms. Janis Newman and before the day was blessed to have her block- has removed obstacles out, all repairs had been ing/diverting the winds quickly and efficiently made. She has served ad- and encircling the College when asked for help by the mirably on a number of with sunshine. Honors College staff. One committees charged with evening, Honors staff con- overseeing university cere-

DR. BRIAN K. DICKENS Dr. Brian Dickens recently cess. He also showed his accepted a higher level po- support for Honors by sition and will be moving attending many events and to New York to serve as activities sponsored by the Vice President of Human College, which demon- Resources at Ithaca Col- strated his interest in and lege. The Honors College concern for the Honors staff will miss his dedicated College students and staff. service to the College as a As Dr. Dickens moves to member of the Honors his next level of responsi- Support Team. During the bility, the Honors College recent reorganization of acknowledges his deep af- the Honors College, Dr. fection for the Honors Dickens lent his support Scholars. We celebrate his and the support of his outstanding service to the highly qualified staff to Honors College. guide and direct the pro- THE FRONTRUNNER Page 10

HONORS CHAUTAUQUA—PUBLIC SPEAKING AT ITS FINEST! The Honors College and Department Chair of the Honors College’s Study launched its Honors Chau- English for more than 30 Away/Recruitment Trip as tauqua Program this year years and for whom the well as in high schools in to further its efforts to en- University’s only faculty Greensboro, North Caroli- hance students’ skills in excellence award is named. na, during their attendance researching, writing, critical Mr. Knubian Gatlin, a jun- of the Model United Na- thinking, and public speak- ior Dietetics , per- tions conference. These ing. Chautauqua dates back formed the life of Con- dedicated scholars also to the 19th Century when gressman Mickey Leland, a performed during the teachers, entertainers, TSU alumnus who earned Honors Alumni Weekend preachers, artists, etc., an international reputation College event on April brought culture and enter- for his success at securing 2nd, at the Undergraduate tainment to the rural areas. close to a billion dollars to Research and Creative Ac- It was not uncommon for feed the hungry in Africa. tivities Symposium on May farming communities to Miss Darlise Goodlow, a 5th and 6th, and at the gather under huge tents to freshman Marketing major Honors Graduation witness a scholar perform- and Visual and Performing Recognition Banquet on ing the life of an historical Arts minor, highlighted the May 13th. Serving as one or literary figure. Today’s life of Congresswoman of two featured keynote Chautauqua generally in- Barbara Jordan, a TSU speakers on April 27th, volves a scholar research- alumna who became the Miss Goodlow performed ing and writing a publisha- first Black state senator in Congresswoman Barbara ble essay about the histori- Texas and the first Black Jordan’s life at the Univer- cal figure, developing a woman to deliver the key- sity Honors Day Convoca- script, and performing the note address at the Demo- tion, a major event where piece publicly, including a cratic National Convention 3,184 students were hon- question and answer peri- in 1976. After nearly six ored for high academic od with the scholar fielding weeks of intense training, achievement. While the questions in character and the three young Chautau- students may publicly ad- then as the scholar who qua Scholars performed on mit that getting an oppor- engaged in the research. campus from March 21-24 tunity to perform at vari- ous venues was exciting Under the directorship of on the steps of the Sterling and, perhaps, life changing, Honors Interim Dean Student Life Center to they will privately remi- Brown-Guillory, three crowds of students during nisce about the home- Honors Scholars were se- the lunch hour while Hon- cooked meals they enjoyed, lected for specialized train- ors staff served popcorn including gumbo, pork ing in Chautauqua. Miss and distributed Honors roasts, stuffed chicken Jordan Gordon, a sopho- memorabilia to winners of breasts, and crawfish, at more Chemistry major, trivia quizzes on the histor- Dr. Brown-Guillory’s recreated the life and ical figures. home. achievements of Dr. J. Ma- The young scholars also rie McCleary, a TSU icon performed in high schools who served as Professor in Corpus Christi during Page 11 VOLUME 1, ISSUE 2

MODEL UNITED NATIONS TRIUMPH IN GREENSBORO, NC

The Honors College (NCCIIE). The six young ing stunning maroon Hon- launched its Model United Honors College Scholars ors blazers or Honors polo Nations (MUN) Program traveling to Greensboro shirts with black trousers. this past January. What is included Omoikhefe They were impressive in- the MUN? It is an academ- Eboreime (Sophomore, tellectually and aesthetical- ic competition that enables Computer Science major), ly! students to learn about the Dorian Fernandez At the closing ceremony, United Nations, diploma- (Freshman, Pre-Pharmacy the conference executives cy, and international rela- major), Lorin Shirdon singled out the Honors tions, while teaching them (Freshman, Pre-Pharmacy MUN Team members by researching, public speak- major), Derrick Smallwood creating a new category ing, debating, critical think- (Senior, Finance major), specifically for them, the ing, writing skills, team- Javonna Smith (Junior, Ambassador Award. The work, and leadership. The Political Science major), Honors MUN Team Honors College’s name- and Julius Wilson brought back beautiful cer- sake, Dr. Thomas F. Free- (Sophomore, Political Sci- tificates of achievement, an man, has devoted his adult ence and Administration of acknowledgement of the life to teaching public Justice double major). credibility that the team speaking in one form or While some of the other brings as it represents the another, and it seems fit- teams may have elected to Honors College and Texas ting for the college to ex- observe before participat- Southern University. tend the legacy of one of ing, the Honors College America’s great debaters. team jumped right into the Mr. Shandon P. Neal, As- competition to demon- sistant to the Dean and strate that active participa- Program Coordinator in tion is a far better way to Honors, serves as the learn than observing from MUN coach, a leadership the sidelines. The Honors position for which he is MUN Team performed well qualified because of exceptionally well, staying his training in political sci- up late hours researching ence. diplomatic issues sur- On April 21-24, the MUN rounding the three coun- Team traveled to Greens- tries assigned to them up- boro, North Carolina, to on their arrival by the con- compete for the very first ference convener: Japan, time at a Model United Ukraine, and Cuba. Nations conference, the Throughout the confer- North Carolina Consorti- ence, team members drew um for International and positive attention because Intercultural Education it was the only team wear- THE FRONTRUNNER Page 12

1ST ANNUAL HONORS ALUMNI WEEKEND COLLEGE

On Saturday, April 2, 2016, Journey,” Associate Pro- Darlise Goodlow as Con- the Honors College hosted fessor of Biology, Dr. gresswoman Barbara Jor- its first Honors Alumni Audrey Player, who dis- dan, and Knubian Gatlin Weekend College event, cussed, “Why is Breast as Congressman Mickey which was the culmination Cancer Such A Formidable Leland. They also delight- of a year-long attempt to Foe,” and retired Associate ed in recitals by three identify and reach alumni. Professor of Education, members of the Model The Honors staff designed Dr. Cherry Gooden, who United Nations (MUN) a day-long program that lectured on “TSU’s Hon- Team, Javonna Smith, included a mixer over ors College Alumni…Too Omoikhefe Eboreime and breakfast, a series of lec- Hot!” It was a phenomenal Julius Wilson. During tures delivered by distin- return to the classroom for lunch, Dr. Oby, accompa- guished professors, several some alumni who had nied on piano by Dr. Jane performance pieces by graduated from TSU more Perkyns, Associate Profes- Honors students, a lavish than 20 years ago. sor of Music, entertained banquet, and special recog- guests with three extraordi- Two other highlights of nition of alumni. nary musical selections. At the day were student per- the close of the day, Hon- The alumni enjoyed dy- formances and musical ors staff cheered alumni namic lectures by Profes- selections. Alumni enjoyed and their guests with door sor of Music, Dr. Jason performances by the Hon- prizes and other special Oby, who presented, “The ors Chautauqua Scholars, tokens of appreciation. American Negro Spiritual: Jordon Gordon as Dr. The Soundtrack to Our Johnnie Marie McCleary, Page 13 VOLUME 1, ISSUE 2

1ST ANNUAL INTERNATIONAL FOOD FESTIVAL

The Honors College host- ca and Latin America. apple bread pudding. The ed its much-awaited First Honors Scholars, Honors festival fostered sharing of Annual International Food Faculty Fellows, Honors cultures and experiences Festival on Friday, April staff and invited guests while bonding over per- 29, 2016, in the Honors dined on exotic entrees, sonal stories. This was a College Auditorium. The such as curry and jerk great culminating event for event celebrated the di- chicken, Jamaican beef the semester and demon- verse population of schol- patties, lo mein noodles, strated to the students that ars in the College and fea- egg rolls, bourbon chicken, regardless of ethnic back- tured authentic dishes meatballs, tacos, gumbo, ground, Honors is a melt- from regions around samosas, fried plantains, ing pot where everyone is a world, namely the Caribbe- and macaroni and cheese. part of the family. an, , United States, For dessert there was ice India, China, Sweden, Afri- cream with bunuelos and THE FRONTRUNNER Page 14 TIGER PRIDE: HONORS ALUMNI CORNER Niki Khoshzamir Moore, Pickering Hale & Dorr providing skills training to a graduate of Texas South- LLP. In 2011, Ms. Moore new and aspiring attorneys. ern University Frederick was recognized as one of Ms. Moore grew up in Douglass Honors Program the top “40 under 40” pro- Tehran, London, and Vi- (2000), is a leading attorney fessionals by Silicon Valley enna. She immigrated to and entrepreneur. After Business Journal. the United States alone at receiving her Juris Doctor- Ms. Moore is currently a age 19 to attend college at ate from University of Cal- lecturer at Berkeley Law TSU; she currently calls the ifornia-Berkeley School of and the Chief Executive Bay Area home. Law, Ms. Moore worked Officer of PracticePro for several years as a litiga- LLC (www.practicepro.cc), tor at the international law a San-Francisco company firm of Wilmer Cutler

Dr. Lamont Terrell grad- completed a two-year post- of increasing responsibil- uated salutatorian from doctoral stint at Stanford ity, primarily focusing on Texas Southern University University. cardiovascular disease as a Fredrick Douglass targets. Currently, he is a He began his career in Honors Scholar earning a Team Leader in the Flexi- drug discovery as a medici- B.S degree in Chemistry in ble Discovery Unit Me- nal chemist at Glax- 1995. He earned his Ph.D. dicinal Chemistry Center oSmithKline in 2003 in its in 2001 in Organic Chem- of Excellence. He is listed cardiovascular medicinal istry from Michigan State as an author/co-author of chemistry group. For the University (MSU). Upon six publications in peer- last 13 years, he has completion of graduate reviewed journals- worked at GSK with roles studies at MSU, he also cont. p19

Malissa Wilson’s diverse facet of litigation, including successful careers as a law- work experience spans two arguing before the state yer, journalist and crisis decades and three profes- Supreme Court and trying management specialist at sions. As a professional cases that have all resulted Texas Southern Universi- journalist, Ms. Wilson in wins. Her appellate ty’s Frederick Douglass made her mark as a report- practice is equally impres- Honors Program where er in one of the country’s sive. She has briefed mat- she graduated Magna Cum largest media markets. She ters on the state court and Laude with a major in expanded her expertise in federal court levels with a Journalism in 1995. She journalism to public rela- number of favorable rul- graduated from Columbia tions in three major media ings to her credit. Her University Graduate markets. She quickly creat- strong work ethic garnered School of Journalism and ed a niche in crisis manage- her the “Client Distinc- The University of Missis- ment and communications. tion” award from Martin- sippi School of Law. As a civil litigator, Ms. Wil- dale-Hubbard. She laid the son has engaged in every groundwork for her now Page 15 VOLUME 1, ISSUE 2 SPOTLIGHT ON HONORS–CELEBRATION OF ACHIEVEMENT

Lorin James Shirdon, II, year in high school. He demic success has earned took the North Carolina is a freshman, soon to be graduated from Manvel him great honors this se- Consortium for Interna- sophomore, Pre-Pharmacy High School in the Hou- mester. He was selected to tional and Intercultural major at Texas Southern ston Metropolitan Area in present the Invocation Education Model United University. He is pursuing the top 10% of his class, all during TSU’s Honors Day Nations Simulation Con- the Doctor of Pharmacy while lettering in two varsi- Convocation Ceremony, ference by storm in degree and currently main- ty sports: football and April 27, 2016. During the Greensboro, NC. The tains a 4.0 GPA. Mr. Shir- wrestling. He is also a de- ceremony, he received Honors College is proud don is an active member in voted mission worker for recognition in all four cat- to honor such an amazing the Pre-Health Professions the Christian faith, includ- egories: 4.0 GPA, Presi- scholar. Club, Model United Na- ing actively leading college dent’s List, Dean’s List, tions (MUN) Team, and ministry at Sagemont and the Honor Roll. Mr. holds the title of President Church as well as high Shirdon has also traveled for the Honors College school/middle school min- as an ambassador for the Ambassadors Association. istry at Friendswood Com- newly established Model Originally from South Car- munity Church. United Nations Program olina, Mr. Shirdon moved Mr. Shirdon’s hard work in Honors. Accompanied to Texas during his senior and dedication to his aca- by his team members, he

Derrick Smallwood is a Originally from Oklahoma the MUN Team to senior Finance major at City, Oklahoma, Mr. Greensboro, NC, to par- Texas Southern University. Smallwood has lived in ticipate in the North Car- In addition to being an many parts of Texas. He olina Consortium for In- Honors College Scholar, attended DeSota High ternational and Intercul- Mr. Smallwood is a mem- School in DeSota, Texas, tural Education Model ber of the Model United and has resided in Houston United Nations Simula- Nations (MUN) Program over the past four years. tion Conference. While in Honors, National Socie- Throughout his college there, he engaged in de- ty of Collegiate 100, and career, he has held intern- bates on diplomacy and has served as the Econom- ships with ExxonMobil international relations for ic Development Chairman and Wells Fargo, has been Ukraine. work over the past four and Secretary for the TSU a life coach with Voice of In Fall 2015, while still years has prepared a genu- campus Collegiate 100 or- Hope Ministries, and completing his senior ine, hardworking, intelli- ganization. Mr. Smallwood served as an undergraduate year, Mr. Smallwood in- gent young scholar for the earned a cumulative GPA research assistant in the terviewed for and secured road of success ahead. of 3.87 and received his Honors College from Feb- a position with ExxonMo- Bachelor of Business Ad- ruary 2013 to December bil and is slated to begin ministration in Finance, 2016. In April 2016, Mr. after graduation. His hard May 14, 2016. Smallwood travelled with THE FRONTRUNNER Page 16

HONORS DAY CONVOCATION CEREMONY

Honors College Interim students with certificates dan. President John M. Dean Brown-Guillory reflects the University’s Rudley and Provost Ward quickly responded to the efforts to encourage more each offered congratulato- call from Provost James students to strive for aca- ry remarks to students who W. Ward to oversee the demic excellence. worked hard to earn excel- lent grades. The celebra- University Honors Day Faculty, staff, students, tion concluded with a re- Convocation held on April alumni and community ception for the honorees, 27, 2016, where 3,184 constituents enjoyed two where students enjoyed an (nearly 40%) students who dynamic speakers. The opportunity to greet the earned a 3.0 or better were Reverend Dr. Patricia Wil- president, provost, deans, honored. The Honors staff liams, the founding direc- department chairpersons, enlisted the help of a team tor of TSU’s Frederick and faculty. Texas South- of faculty and staff from Douglass Honors Institute ern University produces across the University to (now the Thomas F. Free- high quality students, and coordinate this massive man Honors College) and the Honors Day Convoca- effort. The deans from the currently the Minister of tion serves to foster TSU colleges and schools gener- Congregational Care and pride. ously provided key staff Development at Wheeler and faculty to assist with Avenue Baptist Church, students and to distribute offered an inspirational certificates, a much needed message to students about collaborative effort given ways to succeed. Following that this year marks the the Reverend Dr. Williams, first time that all students Honors Scholar, Miss being honored were pro- Darlise Goodlow, fresh- vided with certificates, not man Marketing major, per- just those who earned a formed the life of Con- 4.0. This validation of all gresswoman Barbara Jor- Page 17 VOLUME 1, ISSUE 2

MAY 2016 GRADUATION RECOGNITION BANQUET

Rounding out a remarkable semester, the Honors College hosted its Spring 2016 Graduation Recognition Banquet, Friday, May 13, 2016. The Honorable Dr. Thomas F. Freeman, the College’s namesake, delivered the Invocation and Benediction. The Honors College showcased the Honors Chautauqua Scholars and the Honors Model United Nations Team, both of which performed with poise and grace. Dr Jason Oby, an Honors Faculty Fellow, Professor Jolie Rocke Brown, and Dr. Lucian Zidaru, all faculty of the Department of Music at TSU, provided exquisite musical selections. However, the highlight of the night was the 13 graduating seniors accompanied by family and friends who graced the Honors College for the last time as undergraduates. The Honors staff celebrated the achievements of these outstanding Honors Scholars by providing Honors stoles, certificates of completion, and gifts. Please join us in congratulating the Honors College graduates as they embark upon the next chapter in their lives. Profile of a Thomas F. Freeman Honors College Graduate Janay Bailey Oluwaseyi Fasiku Ms. Bailey, a Texas resident, gradu- Ms. Fasiku, a native of Nigeria, ated with a Doctor of Pharmacy graduated with a Doctor of Phar- degree from the College of Phar- macy degree from the College of macy and Health Sciences. Her Pharmacy and Health Sciences. overall GPA is 3.43. Upon gradua- Her overall GPA is 3.75. Upon tion, Ms. Bailey will pursue a post- graduation, Ms. Fasiku will pur- graduate residency at Wesley Medical Center in Wichita, sue a pharmacy practice residency at Baylor St. Luke's Kansas. Medical Center, Houston, TX. She aspires to practice as an oncology pharmacist at an academic medical Tiffani Boston center and provide mentoring and preceptorship for Ms. Boston, a Texas resident, grad- pharmacy students. uated from the College of Science, Ayanna Freelon Engineering and Technology with a B.S. in Biology and a minor in Ms. Freelon, a native of Grena- Chemistry. Her overall GPA is da, , graduated with 3.48. Ms. Boston plans to pursue a a B.A. degree in Music and a career as a medical doctor. minor in Theatre. She has an overall GPA of 3.25. Upon Chibueze Ezeudu graduation, Ms. Freelon will Mr. Ezeudu, a native of Nigeria, travel to Italy for a month to study opera, and then graduated from the College of Sci- she will pursue a master’s degree in Voice Perfor- ence, Engineering and Technology mance at Morgan State University in Baltimore, Mary- with a B.S. degree in Biology and land. Chemistry. His overall GPA is 3.29. LaMonde Howard In the fall, Mr. Ezeudu will pursue a Doctor of Pharmacy degree at the College of Pharmacy Ms. Howard, a native Texan, and Health Sciences. His long-term goal is to pursue a graduated from the School of career as a medical doctor. Communication with a B.A. de- gree in Speech Communication

THE FRONTRUNNER Page 18 and a minor in Radio, Television and Film. She earned an Reese Selman overall GPA of 3.96 and was the valedictorian of her Mr. Selman, a Texas resident, gradu- class. Ms. Howard plans to return to TSU to pursue a ated from the College of Science, En- master’s degree in Digital Communication. She aspires to gineering and Technology with a B.S. continue producing and writing for television and films. degree in Maritime Transportation David Igwegbe and Security Management. He has an overall GPA of 3.65. Mr. Selman Mr. Igwegbe, a native of Nigeria, plans to return to TSU in the fall and pursue his Juris doc- graduated from the College of Sci- torate degree at the Thurgood Marshall School of Law ence, Engineering and Technology and eventually transfer to Texas Tech School of Law, with a B.S. degree in Biology and a where he will specialize in Maritime Law. He aspires to minor in Chemistry. His overall become a maritime law attorney and eventually sit as a GPA is 3.42. Mr. Igwegbe plans to judge in Houston’s high courts. return to TSU’s Graduate School in the fall to pursue a master’s degree in Environmental Derrick Smallwood Toxicology. His long-term goal is to become a Cardiolo- Mr. Smallwood, a Texas native, gist. graduated from the Jesse H. Jones Tommy Quach School of Business with a B.B.A. degree in Finance. He has an overall Mr. Quach, a Texas resident, grad- GPA of 3.87. He plans to launch uated from the College of Science, his career as a financial analyst for Engineering and Technology with ExxonMobil. He also plans to at- a B.S. degree in Biology and a mi- tend the University of Texas at Austin to pursue a mas- nor in Chemistry. Mr. Quach’s ter’s degree in Business Administration. His long-term overall GPA is 3.71. Mr. Quach goal is to engage in a life of entrepreneurship and partici- plans to attend graduate school at either Tulane Universi- pate in company start-ups and consulting work. ty for a master’s degree in Pharmacology or return to TSU for a Ph.D. in Environmental Toxicology. His Donnel Umeh long-term goal is to pursue a career as a medical doctor. Mr. Umeh, a native of Nigeria, gradu- Alejandra Ramos ated from the Jesse H. Jones School of Business with a B.B.A. degree in Ms. Ramos, a native of Fort Myers, Finance. His overall GPA is 3.86, and Florida, graduated with a B.S. de- he graduated Magna Cum Laude hon- gree in Interdisciplinary Studies ors. Mr. Umeh has accepted the posi- (Curriculum and Instruction) from tion of financial analyst for Chevron. the College of Education. Her con- He also has intentions of pursuing an MBA degree in the centration is ELA/Reading. Her near future. overall GPA is 3.58. Ms. Ramos will return to TSU next fall as she pursues her master’s degree Gabrielle Ward in Education. She plans to become a college advisor to Ms. Ward, a native of Louisiana and first-generation college students in the greater Houston the brand new mother of one month area and eventually serve on the Texas Board of Educa- old Baby Eli, graduated from the tion. College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences with a B.S. degree in Clini- Page 19 VOLUME 1, ISSUE 2 Lamont Terrell cal Laboratory Sciences. cont.- and an inventor/ Her overall GPA is 3.44. Ms. Ward will prepare to co-inventor on eight pa- write the certification ex- tents. In addition to his am for Medical Technolo- work as a leading scientist, gy. She plans to pursue a Dr. Terrell is passionately career in the healthcare involved with community field. and outreach efforts. He leads the GSK chemistry recruitment team for mi- nority conferences, serves as the lead for the African American Alliance em- ployee resource group and is a pioneering leader in GSK’s inclusion and di- versity efforts. THE FRONTRUNNER Page 20

MEET THE HONORS COLLEGE STAFF

Dr. Elizabeth Brown- liaison to the Texas Higher experience as a theatre scholar Guillory is Interim Dean of Education Coordinating Board and practitioner. the Thomas F. Freeman Hon- and oversaw the development ors College, a position she has and assessment of academic held since Summer 2014. She is programs. responsible for recruiting, re- Prior to joining TSU, Dr. taining, and graduating some Brown-Guillory was employed of the most intellectually gifted as Professor of English for students from across the na- twenty-one years at the Univer- tion and around the world. sity of Houston (UH). She has Prior to May 2015, Dr. Brown- over the course of her career at Guillory served as Associate four different institutions won Provost and Associate Vice five teaching excellence President for Academic and awards, published four books, Faculty Affairs for six years at ten plays, and numerous schol- Texas Southern University. As arly articles as well as delivered Associate Provost, she collabo- over 200 lectures and/or per- rated with senior leadership to formances nationally and inter- synergistically link academic nationally. Dr. Brown-Guillory affairs to non-academic units. holds a B.A., M.A., and Ph.D. She served as the University’s in English with 35 years of

Ms. Renuka Nair is the Di- ensure completion of Honors the symphony, museums, rector of Academic and Stu- enrichment core courses for STEM experiences, study away, dent Services in the Thomas F. freshmen and sophomores and study abroad, etc. She collabo- Freeman Honors College at course augmentation proposals rates with the Office of Admis- Texas Southern University. As (CAPs) for juniors and seniors. sions in evaluating admissions the Director of Academic and She also oversees the Honors portfolios of Honors prospects Student Services, Ms. Nair’s College’s undergraduate re- and with the Office of Student principal role is to serve as an search and creative activities, Affairs in developing and as- advocate for the Honors including organizing the annual sessing programs for student Scholars. In that capacity, she Undergraduate Research/ retention. Ms. Nair has spent provides leadership, direction, Creative Activities Symposium more than 15 years in the field and assistance to the Honors in spring semester. Additional- of education, and shares the Scholars, with academic advise- ly, she is responsible for assist- TFF Honors College passion ment, records management, as ing with assessment in the for student success and well as personal and/or career Honors College. Ms. Nair achievement. Having lived in counseling. She is responsible works collaboratively with the various parts of the world, for assisting with curriculum Honors College’s Director for including India, the Middle development and oversight of Outreach and Engagement in East and Canada, she brings a the minors housed in the Hon- designing, implementing, and global perspective to her ad- ors College. Ms. Nair investi- managing the Honors Intern- visement. Ms. Nair holds a B. gates Honors students’ aca- ship Program and the Honors S. in Biology and Psychology demic concerns and addresses Service Learning Program. Ms. from the University of Toron- student questions related to Nair oversees Honors student to, Canada, and an M.A. in academic matters. She moni- organizations as well as over- Clinical Community Psycholo- tors all Honors students to sees excursions to the theater, gy from TSU. Page 21 VOLUME 1, ISSUE 2

Mr. Shandon P. Neal is the ing the Honors College at as- designed for enrichment of Assistant to the Dean/ signed events, all of which Honors students and for cam- Program Coordinator for the round off a myriad of responsi- pus-wide enjoyment and ap- Thomas F. Freeman Honors bilities in his quest to ensure preciation. Mr. Neal is respon- College. In this role, Mr. Neal effectiveness and efficiency in sible for building strong rela- provides executive support for the operation of the Honors tionships with the Office of the dean while managing the College. His routine duties also Scholarships, the Office of day-to-day operations of the include monitoring and manag- Financial Aid, and Housing to office. He assists the Dean of ing expenditures, thus func- ensure that Honors Scholars the Honors College by screen- tioning as the business officer enjoy a smooth transition to ing and prioritizing mail/ for the college. Additionally, campus and that they remain phone calls, planning and within the Honors College he worry free about such matters. scheduling meetings and ap- works collaboratively with the A native Houstonian, Mr. Neal pointments, and making travel Director of Academic and Stu- holds a Bachelor of Arts de- and guest arrangements. Mr. dent Services in staffing stu- gree in Political Science and a Neal researches and writes dent activities, including local Master of Education in Educa- memos, analyzes documents, field excursions, study away tional Leadership/ and prepares research reports and study abroad program- Administration from Prairie for the college as necessary. He ming. He also works with the View A&M University. Be- assists the dean in managing college’s Director of Outreach cause he is a committed leader the Honors admissions pro- and Engagement to provide and lifelong learner, he plans to cess. He is also responsible for creative ways of drawing stu- complete a terminal degree (an evaluating programs, managing dents to the Honors space for Ed.D.) in Educational Leader- projects, editing and preparing a myriad of events and lectures ship with a focus on Higher correspondence, and represent- Education.

Ms. Desa M. D. Weathers is pipeline of high performing activities, including production the Director of Outreach and students for the Honors of the Honors College newslet- Engagement in the Thomas F. College. Additionally, Ms. ter, brochures, flyers and all Freeman Honors College. As Weathers assists with corpo- marketing/PR materials. Ms. Director of Outreach and En- rate fundraising and Weathers holds a Master of gagement, Ms. Weathers has donor relations in an effort Education (M.Ed.) degree in several major responsibilities. to provide scholarships for Counseling Education from She is charged with planning a Honors College students. Texas Southern University and a variety of events that will foster Her outreach work positions Bachelor of Arts degree in Early engagement of currently en- her to work collaboratively Childhood Education with a rolled students in the Honors with the Honors College’s concentration in Children’s College. While working to Director of Academic and Studies from Brooklyn College- build Honors as the intellectual Student Services in design- CUNY. Ms. Weathers is cur- and social hub of the campus, ing, implementing, and man- rently pursuing a Doctorate of she simultaneously assists with aging the Internship Pro- Education (Ed.D.) in Curricu- establishing and maintaining gram and the Honors Col- lum and Instruction at TSU. strong ties to public and pri- lege’s Service Learning Pro- vate schools, businesses, indus- gram. She is responsible for try, churches, etc. She works planning and overseeing collaboratively with middle and fundraising events, ceremo- high school personnel, includ- nies, special events, and re- ing counselors, principals, ceptions hosted by the Hon- deans of curriculum, and assis- ors College. She is also re- tant superintendents to create a sponsible for a host of other The Frontrunner PLEASE PLACE STAMP HERE

Texas Southern University Thomas F. Freeman Honors College 3100 Cleburne St. Houston, TX 77004 Phone: 713-313-7625 Fax: 713-313-6772 [email protected]