No.21 | winter 2009 crystal Overachieving UnderDogs win clear

alum of the year Connie Howard makes us look good sam wyly ‘Opportunity is everywhere’ on-campus evolution See grow – and grow

Louisiana Tech University www.latech.edu Alumni Association Officers John Allen Lomax Napper contents – President – Vice President Cliff Merritt Kenny Guillot – Treasurer – Past President Daniel D. Reneau – Ex-Officio

Board of directors John Areno, Darryl Asken, Chris Bentley, Ayres Bradford, Gabe Bratton, Joe Brown, A Word from the Allison Bushnell, Mark Colwick, Nathan Darby, Lee Denny, Alumni Director Teena Doxey, Brennan Easley, Ben Haley, Andrew Hicks, What a great time it is to be a part of the Tech Family! Justin Hinckley, Marsha Jabour, If you weren’t at the game, I hope you watched on ESPN’s national telecast as the Larry Jackson, Chris Jordan, Bulldogs became Independence Bowl Champions. This is a source of pride and excitement Tim King, Fred McGaha, for the entire Tech Nation! This issue gives a great recap of a highly successful season. James Moore, Bob Prestridge, The I-Bowl Championship is not the only source of excitement for Tech; many other Caroline Reaves, David Rentrop, significant accomplishments are taking place on the campus. If you’ve not visited recently, Michele Robinson, Richard Simmons, I encourage you to make plans to visit the campus very soon! The campus landscape is Stephanie Sisemore, Michael Stephens, changing dramatically with additions and renovations to the athletic complexes as well as Ricky Stubbs, Trey Williams the much-needed construction of new on-campus housing. 4 Exciting things are taking place not only on campus, but also in the lives of you, our Alumni association staff alumni. This issue of the Tech Magazine features the Alumni of the Year for Corre Stegall 2008, the Distinguished Alumni of each college, and as always the News About You section – Vice President for University Advancement and insert that includes births, marriages, and deaths. Please send information so we can 8 16 18 Ryan Richard let your classmates know if you have recently been married, have a new bundle of joy, have – Director of Alumni Relations had a job change, or have received some type of special recognition. You can send that via Jackie Stevens the News About You link on our interactive Web site www.latechalumni.org. – Coordinator of Advancement Programs Speaking of the Web site, I encourage you to stay connected to Tech between issues of the Louisiana Tech Magazine by visiting the Web site. The most up-to-date information on Barbara Swart 2 From the 16th Floor 11 Distinguished College Alumni academics, athletics, and alumni events is posted on the Web site on a daily basis. – Administrative Coordinator Sharing the view Shirley Porter Reagan, Sharilyn Gasaway, Sandy Price If you prefer to have information sent to you via e-mail, be sure to sign up for one Johnson, Virgil Orr, Tim Brandon of the electronic newsletters, The Tech Update or the E-news. A new feature recently Editorial and added to the Web site is a student referral link, enabling you to send information on a 3 A Day in the Life Design Team high school student who may be interested in becoming a part of the Tech Family. Who SGA president Laura Hogan 16 Sam Wyly better to help continue to recruit the brightest and best students than current members of ‘Opportunity is everywhere’ Dave Guerin 4 A Fall to Flip Over – Director, Marketing and Public Relations the Tech Family? All of these links can be found on the main page of the Web site www. latechalumni.org in the left hand column. Overachieving UnderDogs finish season with I-Bowl 17 That’s the Spirit! Teddy Allen In the coming months, the Alumni Association is planning numerous events including victory – Senior Writer/Editor A new place for minds young and old to Park crawfish boils, a spring football game tailgate, road shows with various members of the Mark Coleman Athletics Department including Coach Dooley, overseas travel opportunities, pre-football 6 Q and A with 18 Model of Leadership – Designer, Louisiana Tech Department of Marketing and game activities at Auburn, Navy, and LSU, and of course home tailgate activities in the Tech’s deputy athletic director has some game Take a tour around your evolving, expanding campus Public Relations Argent Pavilion. I hope you will participate in the events in your area or on campus and Donny Crowe continue to be an active member of the Alumni Association. To ensure that you receive 7 Taking Care of Business 20 Randy Moffett – Photographer, Louisiana Tech Department of Marketing invitations to events, please notify the Alumni Association of any changes in your mailing LaTech Sports Properties is born – and growing UL System’s new president a ‘North Louisiana guy’ and Public Relations address and e-mail address as soon as possible. This can all be done on the Web site Brian Schutza www.latechalumni.org or by contacting Barbara Swart at the Marbury Alumni Center at 8 Alum of the Year: Connie Howard 22 News Around Campus – Student Photographer, Louisiana Tech Department of 318.255.7950. Always in Style Marketing and Public Relations 26 Foundation Spotlight 10 Young Alum of the Year: Ben Ewald Louisiana Tech Magazine is published On the ball for his students 28 News About You semiannually by the Louisiana Tech Alumni Association. We welcome your letters: Louisiana Tech Magazine Ryan W. Richard P.O. Box 3183 | Ruston LA 71272 P.S. Find your Tech classmates by logging on to our Web site www.latechalumni.org. www.latechalumni.org a

from the day 16th floor in I have discovered the best part of having my office on the top floor of the tallest building in Lincoln Parish. It’s the view. The oaks and pines and maple and dogwood, the expanding campus, the wonderful town of Ruston. You can see it all from up here. the But like many of you, I see more than that. I see promise. I see perseverance. I see, quite positively, everything I’ve come to love about our community and everything we love about our university, about what we call “the Tech family.” I see our continual quest to be better than we were the day before. life The unequaled quality of our faculty, staff and students. The quiet resolve of alumni who have never forgotten where they came from, who have never forgotten that this was home, and that home it will always be. laura hogan I see a gracious and welcoming place mixed with the grit and sweat necessary to earn all we’ve gained. I see our Bulldog attitude. Much of that view is captured in this edition of our Louisiana Tech Magazine. The Being president of a student body sounds regal. student, but these organization presidents can gain access to the Tech family beams at the accomplishments of our distinguished alumni honored this High and mighty. Automatic Teacher’s Pet. info I have and spread it to their groups and affect the entire year, at the continuing improvements on and expansion of our campus, and at much Only it doesn’t work that way. Laura Hogan, president of the campus,” said Hogan, a senior English major and prospective law more, including the autumn campaign of a resurgent, scrappy Bulldogs football team. Louisiana Tech Student Government Association, will tell you the school student. This young never-say-die team had to come from behind in seven of its eight wins, position is more about service than Secret Service. Hogan was surprised to discover last fall that so much of the including its final one: a 17-10 victory in the 33rd annual Independence Bowl. The Tech A senior from Choudrant, she’s in her campus office in Tolliver SGA president’s responsibilities involved off-campus duty. Besides Bulldogs raising a championship trophy at midfield after a bowl game is always a pretty Hall around 7 most mornings; by-laws in the SGA’s constitution coordinating many campus activities and attending administrative picture, one that had been a while in coming. But surpassing expectations is what this require she maintain 20 office hours a week. And she attends lots meetings with Tech faculty and staff, she’s been to monthly team was about. They were a sight to see and, like you, I can hardly wait to see them play of meetings, both after office hours and out of town. functions throughout the state for meetings with other Louisiana again in the fall. “Student Body President” is about service, not being served. It’s university SGA presidents; this council of student body presidents Which reminds me of something else I see from the 16th floor: the future, the a concept she embraced early, one she explained through her Web works on initiatives for the school year. blending of a remarkable past with an exciting present. To be a part of it should make site and to her fellow Tech students when she ran for the position This year the state chose to focus on a program that began at each of us very proud, very hopeful, very willing to help push each other to be the best in the spring. Tech, one that reaches out to underprivileged children in Lincoln we can be so Louisiana Tech will be the best it can be. “I recognize that 12,000 as a whole is more important than Parish. As chair of the council’s Executive Initiatives Committee, Thank you for continuing to support your University in every way. Linda and I hope myself as one,” Hogan wrote. “True leadership is submissive Hogan oversees the implementation of the program statewide. that 2009 is, for you and for the entire Tech family, the best year yet. service. As your Student Body President, I will strive to make every Besides the mentoring program, the council is behind the day of my term not about me, but about you.” statewide Walk for ALS this spring; just contact the Tech SGA And this: “I am an ordinary girl. I am a part of an ordinary to participate. The council is also working to get textbook prices class. The world is composed of ordinary people. However, I lowered. believe extraordinary things happen when ordinary people work “The biggest misunderstanding students have about the SGA is together for the benefit of everyone.” that they don’t really know what SGA does,” Hogan said. “But we’re Daniel D. Reneau Hogan’s “Townhall” is an example of that. This year she began a involved with everything from legislative issues to explaining to once-a-month meeting in which the head of a campus organization students how their fees are spent.” addresses the presidents of all the student organizations in a Such “little things” are what Hogan takes extra pride in. She townhall meeting atmosphere. Among the special guest speakers takes students to coffee and fixes problems that are small – but have been football coach Derek Dooley, vice president of student only small until it’s you who has them: a mysterious fee, a puzzling affairs Jim King, director of orientation Travis Napper and director rule, a problematic dorm room. of recreation Bobby Dowling. “Students get confused and need answers,” she said. “We can help.” “It’s difficult to convey all the information I have to every

2 | Louisiana Tech Magazine www.latech.edu | 3 they’re a part of this program.” teams in our league. How we responded made all the difference.” If you missed being part of the 2008 season, don’t miss another Tech beat Fresno State, 38-35, then got its first road win of the chance: Tech’s post-season victory on national television in the season, a 21-0 shutout at San Jose State. Independence Bowl capped a season memorable for all the right “I thought that,” Dooley said, “was the defining moment for this reasons: t e am .” • Tech’s eight wins were the most for the Bulldogs since Tech then won twice more, beating Utah State at home and New 1999. Mexico State on the road. • Tech came from behind in seven of its eight victories. By winning four in a row, the ’Dogs rose from 3-4 to 7-4 before • The bowl victory was the program’s first since winning watching a 17-point second-half lead slip away in a 35-31 loss to the 1977 Independence Bowl. in the regular season’s final game. Dooley said immediately • The visited Stadium – afterward that it was a game his team should have won. And still, a and left a loser; Tech beat State, 22-14, in the there was much to be proud of in a locker room filled with bowl- season opener. bound young players and new coaches. “When we were flying home from Army, I don’t think anyone • The bowl appearance was Tech’s first since the 2001 trip would have thought that we would be sitting here in this position, to the Humanitarian Bowl. except our players and coaches,” Dooley said. • The Louisiana Sports Writers Association named Dooley fall The Bulldogs earned their spot in postseason, then made as the state’s Coach of the Year, and junior safety Antonio the most of it. Lifting the crystal trophy at midfield in Baker was named the All-Louisiana Independence Stadium on that cold night in late December was an Team’s Defensive Player of the Year. accomplishment that carries with it memories to last a lifetime and to • Tech placed a program-record four players on the All- advantages felt immediately. WAC first team. “The exposure your program gets from going to a bowl game • Three-year starter Quin Harris became Tech’s first is very important in recruiting and a sign that your program Scholar-Athlete, earning an $18,000 postgraduate is moving in a winning direction,” said the 40-year-old coach. flip scholarship. Though he missed several games with a “Another benefit is the 12-to-15 extra practices you get that teams broken wrist suffered in the season opener, Harris was that don’t go to bowls won’t have, so we got to continue to develop one of 15 finalists for the Draddy Award, given each our team. And finally, the bowl game is great for the fans. It allows year to the student-athlete who best combines on-field your fan base to walk a little taller, to maintain that pride in your over performance, academic success, and community service. school; it’s a real ‘feel good’ experience. “Something we’re trying to do is create a program all our alumni will want to give to. You get a lot more satisfaction when you give to a program because that makes you a part of it; we want every member of our University to feel they’re a part of this program.” What started in - Derek Dooley In the Independence Bowl, Tech got Player of the Game “We were in the fortunate position to have options of where midsummer with sweat Tech finished in the middle of the pack in most WAC season performances out of both cornerback Weldon Brown and receiver/ we’d go to a bowl game,” Dooley said. “Having several want you statistics, including 6th in total offense and 4th in total defense; kick returner Phillip Livas. A senior from Bossier High, Brown is a good position to be in. We felt since we’d been to just two and hope ended in late leading the league in turnover margin helped. But mostly it was recorded 14 tackles, an interception, a fumble recovery and a bowls since joining 1-A, there was no better way to give a boost sweat and work and want-to and will that landed the Bulldogs in couple of big pass-breakups and hurries. Livas returned a first- to the program than to play in the city that boasts our largest winter with smiles and the 2008 Bowl Bash. Only 12-1 Boise State won more games than quarter kickoff 97 yards for the touchdown that tied the score at alumni base. I thought playing in Shreveport was great for Tech this year in the nine-member WAC. 7-7 after Northern Illinois had scored early. the Independence Bowl, great for our team and a tremendous promise – and a bowl Dooley hopes this is only the beginning, the resurgence of a Though those two individual performances were highlights, the experience for our fans. And I think the proof’s in the pudding, program strong in tradition, a program with most of its success championship trophy. Independence Bowl victory was a solid example of Tech’s step-by- because we sold our ticket allotment and had a large turnout for ahead, not behind. step, not-too-flashy but very effective season. the game.” Picked to finish in the bottom half of the Western Athletic “We’re proud of our two-year body of work,” he said, “but the “We never went out and overwhelmed anybody with talent,” More than 41,000 paid to see the Bulldog victory against NIU’s Conference, Louisiana Tech’s 2008 football team instead finished measure of a program is consistency in your performance each Dooley said. “We’re not a team that would roll over you, not a team favored Huskies. But as loud as the season’s I-Bowl high note was, second and beat Northern Illinois 17-10 in the 33rd Independence year. The expectation will be different now than what it’s been the that could finish you off when we were ahead. But we were a team it can be heard only so long. The 2009 season has already started, Bowl in Shreveport to complete a workmanlike and surprising 8-5 past two years. that kept fighting and never gave up. Not ever.” at least in the minds of Dooley, his coaches and players. Road trips season, one in which the Bulldogs slipped and slid for sure, but “The way our alumni can help is two-fold,” Dooley said. “One Tech bounced around through September and October, more to Auburn, Navy and LSU await, as does the always demanding simply refused to surrender. is more of the positive support they’ve been giving: coming to the unpredictable than a fumbled football. The Bulldogs won two of WAC schedule. “What I’m most proud of with this team is its chemistry: this is games, talking about the program and showing a lot of pride in the their first three, then lost three of their next four. “We surpassed expectations the past two seasons; this year, really a ‘team,’” said second-year head coach Derek Dooley, who program. “Any good team always goes through adversity,” Dooley said. people will expect a lot more, given what we did this year and the took over a program that was 3-10 in 2006, then started turning “Second, they can make a huge difference by giving to the “We had a lot of it on the road early in the season. We had some number of players we have back,” Dooley said. “The challenge now the ship around with a 5-7 record in his rookie season and a bowl program, through LTAC and other ways. We have a long way to tremendous wins at home but some real struggles on the road; that is to start all over, just like you have to do every year. Chemistry title in his second. go to get our program to where we want to be and to where our reached its peak in the Army game.” doesn’t just happen; every team’s unique. “There was never once a sign of friction from within, from the alumni want their program to be. Giving is a key component Following a 46-14 blowout of Idaho in Ruston, the Bulldogs “Everybody feels good about the season, but we have a lot of coaching staff or the players,” said Dooley, who became Tech’s because we are very, very far behind compared to other schools in took a 3-3 record and momentum to West Point – and left with a work ahead of us,” he said. “This season shows what we’re capable athletic director as well before the season began. “Everybody annual giving from our alumni base. Something we’re trying to do sloppy and lifeless 14-7 loss. of, but this is going to work only if everybody comes together believed in each other and how we were doing things. We just kept is create a program all our alumni will want to give to. You get a lot “I thought that was a real crossroads for our team, after the and does their part. Otherwise, you can’t sustain success. With working harder, and generally, when you do that, good things tend more satisfaction when you give to a program because that makes Army game,” Dooley said. “We were about to play two of the better teamwork and everyone doing their part, we can.” to follow.” you a part of it; we want every member of our University to feel

4 | Louisiana Tech Magazine www.latech.edu | 5 body. When conferences evaluate criteria for alignment of schools, facilities are certainly at the top of the list. Taking Care of Business Are you involved with football scheduling, and what Athletics signed a blue chipper of the business world. can Tech football fans expect in future schedules? Learfield Sports was contracted in the fall to operate LA I work closely with Coach Dooley in regard to our football Tech Sports Properties. Here are some vital statistics, both scheduling. Our goal is to secure a competitive yet balanced on what this nationally known athletic marketing company schedule that meets our budgetary needs. Factors such as game is about and how its addition to the Tech team will affect guarantees, recruiting, geographic footprint of the opponent and fans of Louisiana Tech athletics. competitiveness are all taken into account. We would like to play • Learfield Sports has been a leader in the collegiate institutions that are in the same region as Tech because it helps us sports marketing arena since 1975 and partners with in recruiting, reduces travel costs and allows for our fans to travel such schools and conferences as Alabama, , to the away games. Mississippi State, the WAC and the Big Ten. • The company handles multimedia rights for more than With an eight-game conference schedule, that leaves just four non- 50 colleges and universities and provides exclusive conference games to schedule. We would like to have six home sports programming to more than 1,000 radio stations games per year but that will be a challenge in 2009 because we had throughout America; it’s also involved in consulting, three openings up until early fall, and normally schools schedule naming rights, market research and marketing three or four years in advance. Increasing our ticket sales is vitally partnerships. important so our team can play six home games and not have • Learfield means more shoulders on the grindstone. to play more than two “guarantee games” per year for budgetary Think of it as an expanded marketing and sales roster. “Now we have a complete team, with Learfield purposes. managing our corporate sponsorship sales and multimedia rights,” said Eric Buskirk, Associate Athletics Director for As far as other sports scheduling, it is delegated to the coaching External Affairs. staffs. We are involved administratively, reviewing all game Buskirk joined Tech in the summer of 2007 to oversee contracts and monitoring student athletes’ missed class time. A vision of fundraising, ticket sales, marketing and promotions, branding, event management and the corporate sponsorship Is Tech increasing revenue in licensing, corporate department. Learfield will now handle the corporate sponsorships, concessions, ticket sales and television? excitement, sponsorship duties, including sales for radio, game-day It is imperative we continue to increase our revenues so that our programs, signage, in-game promotions, and corporate operating budgets are competitive with our peer institutions’ sponsorship sales. While acting as the point man in Tech’s excellence, operating budgets. Our fiscal year ’09 budget is $12 million; relationship with Learfield, Buskirk can now concentrate however, the average budget in the WAC is nearly $20 million. more on the other aspects of marketing and revenue In order for our programs to be successful, we need to increase generation for Tech athletics. Plus Tech gains the expertise and enthusiasm operating budgets across the board for our sports programs. We of Learfield’s upper-management players in its satellite office have seen incremental increases in all categories, but expectations in Dallas and its home office in Kansas City, Mo. are much greater now and will continue to be in the future. Our “The Learfield partnership is another positive step in contract with Learfield – outsourcing our media and marketing the evolution of Tech Athletics. Not only will Tech fans In the spring of 2008, Bruce Van De Velde began his first year as the Deputy Athletic Director/Chief Operating rights – is a step in the right direction in generating more revenue. immediately feel and see a positive impact due to Learfield, Officer for Louisiana Tech. He brought impressive credentials: Director of Athletics at Iowa State and Utah State; Ultimately, it is our fans, student body and alumni who purchase the structure has now been put in place for Tech Athletics to senior administrator at Oklahoma, Missouri and Kansas State; more than 20 years’ experience as an administrator in tickets and join LTAC who will determine how high our programs succeed well into the future,” said Buskirk. go and what level of success they attain. • Tech games are carried by two Louisiana radio intercollegiate athletics. Van De Velde came to Ruston from Iowa State, where he increased the total annual operating stations; Learfield will secure affiliates throughout the revenues for the Cyclone athletic department by a third over a five-year period and helped grow the National Cyclone How has life for you and your family been in Ruston state -- and more television broadcasts. Club by more than 2,000 new donors. Here he shares some of his plans and early visions of Tech’s athletic future, since May? • More professional staff in Ruston means a higher My family and I have successfully transitioned to Ruston. We have quality product in broadcasts, game atmosphere including how you can become more involved. been impressed with the warmth and kindnesses of the athletic and print production, including game-day programs, department, university administration and community. We look schedule cards and posters. At Iowa State, you raised more than $25 million for developed by Derek Dooley and President Reneau is one that will forward to a bright future with Tech. Go Dawgs! • In one year, total corporate sponsorships at Tech have capital projects in five years. Talk about your goal create excitement and enthusiasm with our fans, student body and risen from $425,000 to $1.3 million. here; is that a big part of your job? alumni, and ultimately our stakeholders will want to invest because • Who doesn’t love an in-stadium video board? Joe Aillet Increasing operating revenue and securing private funds for facility they will see we are committed to excellence. Stadium will have one in the fall of 2009; Learfield will improvements is one of the most important responsibilities of pay a portion of its costs. athletic administrators today. Our goal at Louisiana Tech is to How can the athletic facility improvements help the • Fans will also notice both improved signage at increase revenue across three categories: ticket sales, corporate University? Bulldogs and Lady Techsters games and improved marketing before events. sponsorships and private giving. Fundraising is something all of Improving our athletic facilities is a top priority for the athletic our alumni and fans can participate in by joining the Louisiana department and the University. First class athletic facilities attract Tech Athletic Club (LTAC). Supporters can join through different the best and brightest students and generate enthusiasm and giving levels – from $50 to $10,000 per year – and receive benefits financial support for the University. Alumni, the community and based on their giving level. Increasing LTAC membership and the state of Louisiana take great pride in the way our campus ticket sales is a top priority in order to improve our athletic looks, and stakeholders want to invest in a vision that is committed program, along with raising private funds to improve our athletic to excellence. Improved facilities demonstrate an institutional facilities. I believe the strategic vision for our athletic facilities commitment to both intercollegiate athletics and the student

6 | Louisiana Tech Magazine www.latech.edu | 7 always Alum of the Year Connie Martin Howard makes the world look better in style

People think interior decorating is a coffee table here, a candle “Connie’s contributions to Louisiana Tech’s there, a pillow and a rug and it’s on to the next room. pursuit of excellence are many. She gives freely Not true. Decorating can be a bear. of her resources and talents, and she uses Or a cape buffalo. Even a giraffe. her influence to encourage others to actively Consider the big-game trophy room Connie Howard is support Tech.” - Corre Stegall decorating in a client’s Alexandria home. Howard, Louisiana Tech’s Alumnus of the Year and holder of a master of fine arts degree, has never had to deal with things this stuffed. Her game is more along Ruston businessman Johnny Maxwell doesn’t claim to know a the lines of overstuffed couches or throw pillows. lot about interior design, but he knows a professional when he sees “Do you know how big a white rhino is?” Howard asked. one. Howard and Maxwell’s late wife, Jo Anne, were friends and The same size as three armoires? Two king-sized beds and a frequent collaborators on improvements to the Maxwell home. alum of the year nightstand? “You paid for her services, but it was more like she was just “This rhino is eight feet from shoulder to snout,” she explained. doing things for her friends,” Maxwell said. “That’s her gift – or connie “He’ll project into the room eight feet!” one of them. That’s her personality. You don’t realize how talented Plus she’s got to squeeze in the cape buffalo. “The buffalo’s been she is because she’s such an unimposing person; she doesn’t try to martin an issue,” she said. “And don’t forget the giraffe.” overwhelm you with her skill.” ‘69 | ‘00 Who could? As fancy as some of her decorated venues might be – she’s howard This doesn’t describe a normal day for Howard, but it does decorated both Squire Creek Country Club and, in 2005, the Hometown: Shreveport illustrate that things can get wild in her business. Though not a Southern Living Idea Home on the club’s property – she decorates Resides: Ruston big-game hunter, she is a big-time decorator. Her clients stretch in a manner that makes visitors want to relax. Spaces might look from Colorado to Florida, from small homes to country clubs, like pictures in magazines, but they beg you to kick your shoes off. from bustling businesses to recreational retreats. “I like a few things that give the space an air of elegance,” “You do something, somebody sees it and likes it, and before Howard said, “but it should be casual enough so everybody feels • Owner, Woodvale Interiors, Ruston you know it,” she said, “they’re hiring you to do another one.” comfortable coming in and sitting down and relaxing.” As it is with her growing Ruston business, Woodvale Interiors, This “casual elegance” is the sort of design and decorating on • Only Historic Paint Consultant in Howard’s dash into both decorating and commerce has been display in the refurbished office of Tech president Louisiana, East and Mississippi largely unrehearsed. After earning her degree in English education and in the recent renovation of the lobby and board room of the Marbury Alumni Center. Besides donating her services for the • Interior Designer for Southern Living from Tech, she married and taught school for seven years, then Idea House at Squire Creek Country quit teaching to rear children. But she never quit decorating. The design and makeover of each of those, Howard also influenced Club, Choudrant daughter of a painting contractor in Shreveport, color and texture many donations of materials and labor for those key projects. and “feel” was in her blood; she changed the colors of the bedroom “Connie’s contributions to Louisiana Tech’s pursuit of excellence • Client base includes Louisiana, she grew up in at least four times. are many,” said Tech Vice President for University Advancement Mississippi, Texas, Colorado and “My favorite was when we did it lavender and white,” she said. Corre Stegall. “She gives freely of her resources and talents, and she Florida “But it was also wallpaper one time, yellow one time, blue-green uses her influence to encourage others to actively support Tech.” one time…” Howard’s touch has long been felt at Tech. She was president of Never, though, did she imagine interior design to be a the alumni association for three years leading up to the celebration Q: Was there a defining event or profession for which people got paid. “I thought all women just of the Tech Centennial in 1994, a key figure in assisting in the moment when you knew for knew how to do it,” she said. University’s capital campaign. She continued serving her school as certain you’d be an interior In 1970 while teaching English in , she took a a Director of the University Foundation and now holds the status designer? course in interior design from , “just educating of Privileged Director of the Foundation. A: No, it was a gradual process of myself for my own purposes,” she said. But years later when she “Connie,” said Stegall, “is truly one of Tech’s greatest realizing that my love for all things helped “fix up” a friend’s house, word got around and “strangers cheerleaders.” decorative was an indication of started asking me to help them,” she said. “That’s when I figured Despite the compliments and her credentials, Howard knows untapped talent. out, ‘This must be a business.’” her creations are for others, not for herself. This keeps her sitting on her hands when she returns to a home or a room she’s Q: When I think of Tech, the first She started taking more classes after her first child left for decorated and sees things rearranged. thing I think of is… college in 1994. By then she was back in Ruston pursuing a “I want to move the things around again!” she said. “But A: Gratitude – for all I learned and the graduate degree and building both a business and a reputation. “She’s a good listener, very perceptive about things,” said everybody has a different esthetic, so I try not to touch it. Besides, friends I made. longtime friend Elizabeth Green. “Plus you’re talking about I want to have friends who will still invite me over.” someone who’s overcome a lot of adversity, who went back to school and mastered an entirely new discipline. She’s a very special person.”

8 | Louisiana Tech Magazine www.latech.edu | 9 2008 distinguished alumni of the colleges HAVING A BALL ‘team’ captain for tech The lowest grade Shirley Reagan ever earned for a class as a Louisiana Tech TEACHING THE LAW undergrad was a “C” in swimming. By family law, history teacher Ben Ewald was practically sentenced from Not too bad when you consider she didn’t know how to swim. She escaped birth to support Louisiana Tech as both a student and as a fan. with a passing grade, and still breathing. His Aunt Nettie Lou earned her teaching degree from Tech in the mid- Since then, she admits to being frightened about jumping into challenging 1920s. His dad was a history major. He’s sat through a driving rainstorm in the academic pools she found – or ones that found her – during the next 35-plus Tuscaloosa, Ala., football stadium with his 70-plus-years-old great uncle and years of her career as a teacher and administrator at her alma mater. But ever aunt to watch Tech beat Alabama, and he’s turned around at Thomas Assembly the trooper and innovator, Reagan discovered she didn’t need to swim, not if Center to see that same great uncle, James Kelly, rooting for the Lady Techsters she could keep the ship afloat. shortly after his heart surgery. So she sailed, an accomplished but very human personality who left a “Had a bandage over the hole in his chest,” said Ewald, “but he was right “permanent imprint on this university and on our hearts,” said Elizabeth there in the stands.” Wibker, associate dean in Tech’s College of Business. Talk about bleeding red and blue. Reagan’s resume is wave after wave of accomplishment, honor, service “Tech’s a family tradition,” said Ewald, the 12th member of his family to and volunteerism. But the high-water mark might be this: Reagan is the only attend the University. person ever to serve as dean of two different academic colleges at Tech, and the “Tech was pretty much it for me,” he said, “as far back as I can remember.” only woman to be Dean of the university’s College of Business. Those memories include his first Tech football game at : In 1996 she became the first academic dean for the merging College of Life there was dad, mom, Uncle Carl, the family’s old van, a driving rain, plastic Sciences and College of Human Ecology, a college she began working in from rain gear…and 3-year-old Ben Ewald. the basement of Carson-Taylor Hall in 1970 as the instructor of a food science He’s grown now, 31 years old, married, and as a teacher and mentor has course. carried Tech’s can-do spirit into Centennial High in Frisco, Texas – but not Then in 2002 she walked across campus to the College of Business and, onto the soccer field, where he made his mark as a coach. Wibker said, “had the quiet, galvanizing ability to win over every person “His aspiration at Tech was to get a Ph.D. in kinesiology,” said Boyd Maher, among us.” Reagan did it, Wibker said, with her effective management and a college roommate and frequent with Ewald to many away games interpersonal skills, with her “Shirleyness.” during the late ’90s. “He wanted to be like legendary Tom Osborne at Nebraska Though it wasn’t always smooth sailing, Reagan had a talent for assuring – a professor of football.” colleagues and students the wind would change. Her “Shirleyness” worked in Instead, a love of coaching gave way to an intrigue of history and the law seas fair or foul. and his passion for students. He created statewide high school curricula for “She has the awesome ability to see beyond one’s current status and see their both constitutional and civil law and founded the Mock Trial program in potential, even when the individual is not able to see it,” said Lori Myers, now a Frisco, Texas, so his students now compete against other schools for a state Ph.D. but formerly – and evermore – a student of Reagan’s. title. The courtroom is the field, the judge is the official, the law and witnesses “She believes in and invests in people,” Myers said. the intangibles, the opponent the other team. Reagan has her own heroes, mentors and colleagues: The reason he left soccer behind? “So many more students are affected by Agnes Miller, the Dean of the College of Home Economics, who hired her our law academy,” he said. as an instructor; Dean of Women June Dyson, a model of professionalism; college of applied and “Ben inspires his students to invest themselves in the study of their country’s E. Carl Jones, who inspired her toward her doctorate; and Jeanne Gilley, “the natural sciences governance and in the inner workings of our judicial system for the purpose of consummate professional and administrator,” Reagan said. young alum of the year keeping our system strong,” said Centennial High principal Randy Spain. “He’s Today Reagan’s busy as a servant for her church, a grandmother to five shirley truly a credit to Tech and an asset to our district.” grandkids all under the age of 4, and the “not-for-pay” president of the new ben He’d like to be in athletic administration at the college level one day, maybe Louisiana Health Foundation, an organization whose mission is to improve porter health care for all parish residents. ‘00 | ‘01 even on a familiar campus. ‘68 | ‘80 ewald “Ruston is the one place in Louisiana I would come back and live,” he said. “One simple motto I’ve tried to follow is ‘Leave everything better than you reagan “I had such a great time at Tech. I met my wife there; several of the people I found it,’” Reagan said. “I hope I’ve done that.” Hometown: Vivian met at Tech are my best friends to this day.” Hometown: Farmerville Resides: McKinney, Texas Resides: Ruston

Q: What would former classmates be most surprised to learn Q: What do you do for fun? about you? • Associate head coach, Ruston High A: Play with our five grandchildren, travel A: That I’m no longer coaching. • Served as Dean of both College of Applied and Natural Sciences and boys soccer district champs, 1998-99 and garden with my husband, quilt College of Business Q: My least favorite subject was… • Co-founder, Legal Studies Academy, and knit with friends, and read. A: Math. I probably shouldn’t say that because my wife’s uncle (Cecil Frisco (Tx.) Independent School District • Tech Distinguished Service Award, ’07 McBride) taught mathematics at Tech for more than 30 years, but it’s true. Q: As a child what did you want • One of 60 teachers chosen nationwide • President, Lincoln Health Foundation and Lincoln Health System Board to be when you grew up? Q: Your advice to Tech students? to attend Supreme Court Institute in A: Archeologist and astronomer. I believe A: Keep your options open. It’s great to be focused at an early age, but you • First Baptist Church Ruston, Board of Trustees Washington those thoughts came from my early never know what opportunities will present themselves. Work and keep a interest in history and the solar system. positive outlook and anything can happen.

10 | Louisiana Tech Magazine www.latech.edu | 11 2008 distinguished alumni of the colleges 2008 distinguished alumni of the colleges A FORTUNE 500 The sky’s hardly COMPANY’S NO. 1 the limit To reach the stars, it helps to be well-grounded. ‘GREEN’ KEEPER Before Sandy Johnson became president of Barrios Technology in 1993, Both as a little girl in Shreveport and later when she was struggling to before she grew the Houston-based aerospace services company from 150 make that “D” on a Procedures test in law school at Memphis State, Sharilyn employees to 560 and from $10 million to $70 million in annual revenue, Gasaway never dreamed she’d do any of the following: before she began earning awards for quality and service in business and for Become CFO of a wireless company with more than 13 million customers humanitarian efforts through public service, she was a math education major and $8 billion in annual revenue; at Louisiana Tech from Minden who despised the required P.E. classes but Be named “Alum of the Year” of her alma mater’s college; showed up anyway, worked as a “runner” for the campus newspaper, and Take up golf, and; enrolled in summer school just to cram four years of college into three. Play at charity events with several pros, including Tiger Woods. Even before she began supplying NASA and the Department of Defense and Sometimes, even dreams you don’t have come true. their contractors technical and engineering services, she’d adopted a motto “I took an accounting class in high school and it made sense to me,” said made famous by Gene Kranz, the storied and heroic flight director of NASA’s Gasaway, wife of Brent, mom of 8-year-old twins Logan and Lauryn, and CFO Apollo 13 mission – and one of Johnson’s mentors: “Failure is not an option.” of Alltel, the world’s fifth largest wireless carrier. “I loved math, so after talking Kranz said that now-famous phrase as the Apollo crew was limping home to some others in the profession, I decided accounting was the route for me. I from an ill-fated trip to the moon. As was depicted in director Ron Howard’s never dreamed it would evolve into this.” “Apollo 13” movie, NASA worked in unrehearsed steps to successfully Not everyone is so surprised. complete what might have been the program’s finest hour. Johnson has done “She’s steady, very dependable, someone you always knew was going to be a the same thing on an earthly scale on her journey from Tech student to success,” said Margaret Davison, her best friend since 7th grade. business owner to Alum of the Year. “I just figured things out,” she said, “as I “She’s honest and humble like she’s always been, but at the same time she went along.” can hang with the brightest in the business world; that’s a big challenge,” Though she never taught in school, her Tech degree in math education gave Davison said. “Genuine, genuine, genuine. And also really funny! I think going her both the people skills needed to show her employees what she wants and through the fire of the business world made her sense of humor increase.” the analytical, problem-solving skills needed to run a business. Humor helps keep things in perspective in the corporate world. With $24 “Who would think,” said Tech’s former Outstanding Senior Math student, billion of debt on the books after Alltel went private, Gasaway has to make “that a math education degree would prepare you to run a business?” good decisions every day and find a money-making balance between treasury It also made her sensitive to the needs of the community; much of her functions, sales, marketing costs, and most importantly, her relationships. service work is geared toward educational causes. “College isn’t all about making a 4.0 and accounting isn’t all about “It’s gratifying to know the College of Education trains people for such a numbers,” she said. “It’s ‘people’ business.” wide variety of vocations,” said Dr. David Gullatt, the college’s dean. “Sandy’s a She even took up golf so she wouldn’t be left out. “I’m terrible,” she said, great example.” “but I will not allow you to exclude me from a golf outing because of that. I’m A master of business administration degree from Houston-Clear Lake – just saying let’s all get together and just be ourselves.” she’s an Alum of the Year there, too – earned her the business training she What she decided wouldn’t let her be herself was a career in corporate law, needed. She’s also on Tech’s Engineering and Science Foundation Board. something she considered after graduation. “I wanted to do more of the people “But,” said Gullatt, “we claim her. She’s our property.” college of business side of it,” she said. So she plugged along – and ended up in boardrooms with Her post-Tech career began ominously when she participated in the shortest college of education CEOs and at charity events with pros like Woods and Jack Nicklaus. graduation ceremony in school history. As then-president F. Jay Taylor offered SHARILYN “Timing is everything,” said her brother Wayne Smith, a former Tech opening remarks in Joe Aillet Stadium, the skies turned from dark blue to sandy price pitch black. He stopped his speech, had the seniors stand, conferred degrees ‘89 basketball star, “but she made this happen. No one is more deserving.” ‘78 GASAWAY She still balances the family checkbook, does taxes for her sister and parents, in an instant, and told everyone to head for their cars and high ground. Rain johnson even pays her own monthly wireless phone bill. poured moments later. Hometown: Shreveport “She doesn’t care who knows what she’s done, as long as her family is proud As usual, Johnson saw the silver lining. “All the parents were really Hometown: Minden Resides: Little Rock, Ark. of her,” Smith said. “She’s just that loyal and humble.” disappointed,” she said. “Of course, all of us students were thrilled.” Resides: Houston Some of them, like Johnson, had places to go.

• President, Barrios Technology, Houston Q: Who are your heroes? • Executive Vice President, Chief Financial Officer, Alltel Corp. Q: As a Tech student, did you ever imagine yourself a future A: My parents and grandfather really set Alum of the Year? • Member, Executive Board, United Way the best examples for me. They always • Played major role in Alltel’s transition through largest private equity buyout A: Absolutely not! First, in college, you never imagine yourself being that old. of Greater Houston and Bay Area chose the high road and did the right in telecom industry history -- $28.1 billion – and in pending sale to Verizon Second, those types of awards seemed to go to really smart, successful Houston Economic Partnership thing. Wireless leaders -- and mostly men back then. • Awarded NASA’s Distinguished Public Q: Your advice to Tech students? • Advisory Board Member, Louisiana Tech School of Accountancy Q: I’m glad I went to Tech because… Service Medal, 2004 A: Balance the college fun with the focus • Board member and audit committee, American Red Cross of Greater A: …I had the opportunity to get to know my professors and they got to know on learning. You need both to be well- • Clear Creek Independent School Arkansas rounded! me – I believe a key to my success in college. District’s Citizen of the Year, 2007

12 | Louisiana Tech Magazine www.latech.edu | 13 2008 distinguished alumni of the colleges 2008 distinguished alumni of the colleges A colorful – and Blueprint for Success A remodeled building on Cypress Street in Tim Brandon’s West Monroe continuing – career hometown is open and modern and filled with the kind of youthful energy that Louisiana Tech will have to engineer another award should it wish to honor makes re-used materials like beams and light fixtures seem new again. Virgil Orr again. Orr, the school’s Vice President Emeritus, has already touched This is TBArchitecture and home base for Brandon, a self-employed every base on the award diamond. architect for just six years but a student and passionate practitioner of the field • Tower Medallion Award, 1994. for nearly 20. Around him are young pros, only toddlers when he started this • Top 100 Alumni, 1995. business in his mind; of his 14-member staff, 10 are Louisiana Tech graduates. • Distinguished Service Award, 1995. “I don’t have to stop and train someone when we hire a Tech graduate,” • Alumnus of the Year, 1996. Brandon said. “They’re so far ahead of the game; the skill level of these Tech “They need to quit,” said Orr from the Choudrant home he shares with wife students exceeds anything else we’ve looked at. They’re already highly qualified.” Mrytis on land near her childhood home. “I thought the ‘award days’ were past TBArchitecture’s Chris Ferchaud, a 2006 Tech grad and only 26, designed for me.” the University’s new Argent Alumni Pavilion. Intern Rod Waynick works here Maybe Tech would quit – if Orr would. Here’s a man who, in his mid-50s 20 hours a week but is only a sophomore. “All my friends remind me every in 1980, retired from more than a quarter-century of service to Tech. He was day I’m so lucky to work for a firm in general, but especially one this forward just getting started. The past three decades have seen Orr active in banking, thinking,” Waynick said. politics and volunteer civic service, though nothing on his calculated schedule Their roads here were a little different from Brandon’s, whose blueprint for has lessened his involvement with either his alma mater or his church, Temple building his architectural career is up to specs – it’s just not standard. Baptist, where he has taught Sunday school since 1952, the same year he began A freshman year at Tech was the equivalent of a condemned building, teaching at Tech. something Brandon can smile shyly about now. He joined the Army, graduated “I don’t know if I ever even thought about living as long as I have,” said Orr, from officer candidate school as a 2nd Lieutenant and was active Army for three 85. “My dad died at 82 and my mom made it almost to 93. I’ve had good genes years. “I came out of that,” he said, “with a different head on my shoulders.” and always resolved that Myrtis and I will be involved as long as we’re able to For the next eight years he was active National Guard and a West Monroe- put one foot in front of the other.” area businessman at the same time, building schools in third-world countries “Dr. Orr is an inspiration both to our students and to the faculty in our for the military and learning the “nuts and bolts” of the architecture business college,” said Stan Napper, College of Engineering and Science dean. “He’s both overseas and at home. an inspiration because he’s been involved in so many different aspects of “He’s always willing to go the extra mile, and he’s always had a drive,” said serving, from public service to the legislature to education and other specific Robert Ellis, a former classmate and real estate business partner of Brandon’s. community engagements. He’s an inspiration because he continues to learn; “We renovated a lot of houses,” Brandon said. “Learning how to swing a he’s an example of a lifelong learner, which is something we’re always trying to hammer and use a saw expands your understanding of the business. A lot promote among our students. of people know how to design better than I do, but I’m very clear about the “And he’s an inspiration,” Napper said, “because he cares about people. He’s details, the mechanics of what it takes to make a building come together.” proven that over and over.” He worked both with Ellis and for an architect for about 10 years and, along He’s long been an avid maker of stained glass; Myrtis is just as passionate with his military experience, was seasoned and ready when the opportunity about quilting, embroidery and gardening. They are at church, at ball games, came to build his own business. at cultural events, and at the heels of four grandchildren and eight great “He was a very competitive student and very hard on himself,” said longtime college of Engineering grandchildren – everywhere but at a standstill. School of Architecture secretary Jill Goulart. “Once he decided he was going to and science “My father’s favorite expression was ‘Don’t give up the ship until the ‘get the job done,’ he could accomplish anything he put his mind to.” college of liberal arts smokestack goes out of sight,’ and ‘A steady knock makes a hole in a rock’ was The boy who’d always loved building and creating things like his virgil my mother’s favorite,” he said. “Translated those mean to work hard – and grandfather, a South Louisiana contractor, now has projects like St. Denis tim don’t ever be a quitter.” Hotel on historic Front Street in Natchitoches and the first ever new car ‘44 ‘94 orr dealership, Interstate Dodge, in West Monroe. In design is a state-of-the-art brandon elementary school for Sterlington. Hometown: Glenmora “I still call professors and ask them questions,” Brandon said. “Without my Hometown: West Monroe Resides: Ruston education from Tech and the continued support from the staff there, I don’t Resides: West Monroe think we’d be sitting here.”

• Joined faculty as professor, 1952 • Dean of the College, 1963-70 Q: I’m glad I went to Tech because … Q: What would your former classmates be surprised to A: I received a good education at the basic level on which to build the rest of • President, Founder TBArchitecture (TBA), West Monroe • Vice-President Academic Affairs 1971- my life. And, I met Myrtis Chandler there! learn about you? 1980; one year interruption as director, • Decorated with Army Achievement Medal for service in both Belize and Korea A: My hair is about seven inches long; State Board of Education Q: Where did you meet Myrtis? I’m growing it out for St. Jude’s Locks A: In the food service at Tech where we both worked. She had a number of • Civic service includes work with Habitat for Humanity, VOA, and youth sports of Love program. • Former state representative, member boyfriends hanging around but the U.S. Navy took some away and then • Donated design of new Argent Alumni Pavilion at Tech; benefactor of Tech’s Louisiana House of Representatives I learned she was having difficulty in Organic Chemistry, so I felt sure she Q: The thing I wish I could do over School of Architecture and mentor for many of its students Board of Ethics needed some tutoring. As she expresses it, “Our chemistry worked well as a Tech student is… together,” and so it has. We’ve been married 63 years. • Organizer and Director, American Bank A: …study harder! of Ruston

14 | Louisiana Tech Magazine www.latech.edu | 15 1,000 Dollars & An Idea: Entrepreneur That’s the Spirit! Meditation, reflection, encouragement the purpose of to Billionaire Louisiana Tech’s new Spirit Park Author: Sam Wyly

Publisher: Newmarket, Sept. 1, 2008

Pages: 256

Price: $24.95, hardcover From “Publishers Weekly” review: ‘Country boy makes good in this down-home tale of self-made multimillionaire Wyly. In his humble post-Depression Louisiana roots, Wyly learned his first business lessons from football strategy, his father’s tiny newspaper business and his mother’s bargaining skills...Wyly stresses the power and privilege of self-creation and speaks honestly about what he’s learned: that failure is crucial to achieving success, independent thought is imperative, luck John D. Caruthers unveils the statue serendipitous and power of Albert Einstein at the dedication of useless unless it is wielded Louisiana Tech’s Spirit Park. Looking on in for good…’ appreciation are Caruthers’ wife, Jane; Nina Huntsman and her husband, Don, the park sculptor; and Linda and Dan Reneau.

‘Opportunity is everywhere’ On the south edge of campus, tucked neatly between Cecil Harris, president of Tech’s Class of ’50 and a catalyst for Sam Wyly: Tech alumnus, businessman – and now an author Davison Hall and the Biomedical Engineering Building, Albert the concept and completion of the original park, wrote in a letter Einstein, hair combed and smile playfully sophomoric, waits to Caruthers that improvements made the park “not only beautiful for anyone who wishes to discuss the more tricky side streets of but also sobering and thought-provoking…With those beautiful The only former 155-pound noseguard in the history An active proponent of clean air through clean energy, Wyly science. statues, it should not take Tech students long to be up to speed of the Delhi High School football program to make Forbes’ created Green Mountain Energy, America’s leading provider of To his right, Martin Luther King Jr. wears the stare of the on the lives of the four. And maybe by learning about them some magazine’s “1,000 Wealthiest People in the World” list, Louisiana cleaner commercial and residential electricity and carbon offsets. undefeated. Next to him, tiny Anne Frank holds both a book and a student will live a better life…” Tech alumnus Sam Wyly is also now an author. “There is opportunity in all sorts of industries,” the highly look of hope, willing to share either. Caruthers praised Voltaire’s appeal for reason, free speech and Add that to his other titles: billionaire, entrepreneur, benefactor respected visionary told the Student Center crowd, which included And finally, Voltaire, one of the 18th century’s most prolific tolerance, King’s desire for all to be treated as equals, and Frank’s and, in October 2008, lecturer – at least sort of. many budding economic students. “I have lately been watching writers, casts a look of resolve toward his three bronzed Louisiana innate faith in the goodness of people. Following the publishing of his autobiography in September, clean air through clean energy with Green Mountain Energy. I see Tech contemporaries. Einstein, chosen by Time magazine as its “Person of the 20th Wyly joined Tech president Dan Reneau on stage in the Student huge growth for that, but really, opportunity is everywhere.” Bronze busts of these four prominent thinkers and Century,” challenged previously unchallenged presuppositions of Center for an informal yet inspirational and educational visit. Called a “maverick” in business and investing circles because humanitarians highlight the autumn’s enhancement of Spirit Park, science to set in motion – whether he intended it or not – all sorts Wyly shared with the Tech community, students and area of his reputation for taking direct action, Wyly has been the a golden anniversary gift in 2000 to Louisiana Tech from the of revolutions, not only in science, but in all areas of culture. residents stories from his new book, along with his thoughts on cornerstone of success for such internationally respected university’s Class of 1950. The original park included benches and And in theory, he’s never been more relevant in Ruston than he entrepreneurship and economics. companies as University Computing, Sterling Software, sidewalks. is today. Said Caruthers, “I was told students were going by and “It’s really great to see someone of his stature, especially a Sterling Commerce, Earth Resources, Gulf Insurance, Bonanza Benefactors of the park’s upgrade, Class of ’50 member John D. rubbing Einstein’s head for good luck.” Louisiana Tech graduate, take time out of his busy schedule to Steakhouses, Michaels Stores, and Maverick Capital and Ranger Caruthers and his wife Jane, enhanced the gift with a fountain, Spirit Park is bordered by holly, gardenia and Red Sunset Maple. come talk to students and give us valuable advice on how we Capital. extensive landscaping, a bronze university logo at the park’s center The bottom of the shallow, two-level perpetual fountain, 30-by-13 can become successful in our own lives,” said Andrew Clayton, a He and his brother Charles, also a Tech graduate, have made and the four bronze busts mounted on brick columns. feet, is Black Galaxy granite; its gold specks glisten when reflecting graduate student from Alexandria in Tech’s Accountancy program. several donations to their University which led to the creation of Those memorialized were selected for their timeless gifts to either the sun or the artificial lights under each of the fountain’s “It’s encouraging to know that a simple man from humble Wyly Tower, Wyly Athletic Center, the F. Jay Taylor Endowed Chair mankind, despite adversity and opposition each faced. In remarks four heads. means can become a large player in the business world,” said of Journalism, as well as several professorships and scholarships. during the Oct. 16 dedication of Spirit Park, Caruthers said he and Architects for Spirit Park were Bill Willoughby and Guy Alisan Morris, a senior Finance major from Farmerville. “I believe “Sam Wyly,” Reneau said, “has truly lived the American Dream.” his wife hope “someone will sit here and meditate in this serene Carwile, both of the Tech School of Architecture. The contractor that Mr. Wyly can be an inspiration to us all.” environment and come up with an idea to benefit mankind.” was Triad Builders of Ruston.

16 | Louisiana Tech Magazine www.latech.edu | 17 ENTERPRISE CAMPUS: This might be Tech’s best example of recognizing and Model of leadership pursuing opportunity with confidence and will. Construction is set to begin later this year on Tech’s southeast corner, where research and business and opportunity will blend Evolving, expanding Tech campus reflects commitment to excellence to form a research park. The city of Ruston is working with Tech to evolve the multi- million dollar vision, one that combines space and opportunity for enterprises both old If you’re a new nail or brick or board and you’re looking for some steady work, and new. Louisiana Tech has a place for you. The University continues to evolve as it maintains its commitment to remaining ahead of the educational curve. Until The Visual Arts Building between Prescott Memorial Library and the College of Business will be renovated, renamed the Entrepreneurship and Innovation Center, and you can visit again, join us on this quick tour of what your campus looks like, will serve as the home for CEnIT, the Center for Entrepreneurship and Innovation remodeled in efficient and exciting “early 21st century” style. Technology. What does that long title mean? Put more simply, the technology- rich environment of the building will incorporate some of the latest in information technology and communication tools, will be adaptable to accommodate many different INTRAMURAL uses, and will give Tech the space, equipment and furnishings needed to support all the SPORTS CENTER: It was state-of-the-art growing entrepreneurship and innovation activities on campus. when it opened in the early 1980s; it will be “These changes are not only changing the face of our campus but are transforming again in the fall of 2010. A multi-million dollar our impact on the future of the community and the state,” said , Tech’s vice updating of and addition to the recreational president for research and development. facility will begin early this spring. PARK PLACE: At the “This will be a tremendous addition to the intersection of Everett Street and University’s recreation and wellness program,” Mississippi Avenue, this is the third said Jim King, Tech’s vice president for student phase of University Park, which affairs. “It should prove to be an excellent puts more students in apartment- facility for students, faculty and staff, and style residence halls and within easy alumni. The additional exercise space, new access of both recreation options pools, food service and climbing wall will be and the classroom. University Park- unmatched in Louisiana. The new addition at Phase II opened in the fall. the Sports Center and the new student housing will make this a vibrant part of the campus.” The new bowling alley is already complete. Still to come: two swimming pools to anchor a new aquatics center, plus food service and more classroom and meeting space. It’s all about giving the Tech family more social and recreational opportunities.

ARGENT PAVILION: Little time was wasted christening this new multi-purpose facility; the pavilion proved a first-class tailgating spot for Bulldog fans this fall. Alumni were responsible for its design and construction through the efforts of the Louisiana Tech Alumni Association and its president, John Allen.

ATHLETICS: Everyone was a winner in athletic facilities improvements this year. • The Jim Mize Track and Field Complex was dedicated Nov. 1; cost of resurfacing the 37-year-old track was $800,000. Tech will host the Western Athletic Conference championships in 2010. • New tennis courts were also dedicated Nov. 1. • Joe Aillet Stadium received a facelift that included cleaning inside and out, painting, and huge colorful banners representing some of the football program’s biggest legends. • J.C. Love Field at Park has a new scoreboard and press box and new chair backs. •  not only received a new maple wood, custom-designed floor from SPIRIT PARK: This meditation area between Davison Hall and the Biomedical former Tech basketball star Karl Malone, but improvements were made to the men’s basketball Engineering Building was funded by alumni John D. and Jane Caruthers at a cost of offices, video room and locker room. And a $50,000 donation from Malone to the women’s $225,293, and dedicated to John’s parents. A golden anniversary gift in 2000 to Tech from volleyball program allowed for upgrades in both equipment and morale. Smartly displayed banners the University’s Class of 1950, the park was upgraded by the Caruthers to include benches, of Lady Techster and Bulldog basketball legends are among the improvements to the TAC’s statues, a fountain and extensive landscaping. concourse. Waterproofing (cleaning and painting) the TAC’s exterior cost $359,621 and was funded with deferred maintenance money, as was the TAC chiller replacement, at a cost of $694,521.

18 | Louisiana Tech Magazine www.latech.edu | 19 know. But the career he chose has taken him to one of the top Tech, including undergrad degrees for daughters Julie and Melissa. educational posts in the state. After serving as president of His son Jeff is a Southeastern grad. Wife Barbara earned her degree Southeastern Louisiana University for the previous seven years, at Northwestern, where Moffett earned a master’s. All the Moffett Moffett was selected this summer by the Board of Supervisors for children then earned advanced degrees. the UL System as the seventh president of the state’s largest public “The education the girls got at Tech and Jeff got at Southeastern university system. is as good as you can get,” Moffett said. “It enabled them to do “I have known Dr. Moffett for many, many years as a post-grad work and do it well. I think that’s a testimony to all of professional colleague and personal friend,” said Tech president our campuses. More and more people are realizing that with TOPS, Dan Reneau. “He was superb as president of the University we’re getting a lot of our best and brightest to attend Louisiana of Southeastern Louisiana and is doing an outstanding job as universities, and data shows that 70 percent of graduates will stay president of the University of Louisiana System.” in the state where they went to school.” “Randy is a proven leader with a rare combination of The public can best help increase that percentage by being an people skills and technical skills,” said Hammond attorney and advocate for Louisiana’s public education system, Moffett said. Southeastern graduate Andre Coudrain, who has served on the “We really need the public to understand that the way our state Board of Supervisors for the UL System since 1996. “I’ve known gets better is all about improving education,” he said. “The public Dr. Randy Moffett left, with him for more than 30 years and seen him work in a variety of thinks education is expensive, but if you look at higher education Louisiana Tech president Dan settings with staff, students, faculty, alumni, community and in Louisiana, it’s a great bargain for the results you get and the Reneau at Tech’s fall graduation in November; Moffett gave the political leaders. He’s equally at ease and effective with all of these opportunity it creates for graduates. commencement address. Below: groups.” “Support them,” Moffett said. “Be involved as alumni. Help Moffett and his wife, Dr. Barbara As Coudrain suggests, UL System president is a job that calls for identify people who can be donors. Help recruit and retain the Moffett, head of Southeastern good quarterbacking skills: versatile; nimble; able to see the whole outstanding faculty we have. And never think a gift is too small. School of Nursing. field; conditioned to adjust; willing to take a loss now and then for I think Dan and any other university president will tell you that a gain later. whatever you give can be used, and sometimes a person who gives “There’s never,” Moffett said, “a dull moment.” a small gift can help identify other people who can become givers. The president’s role is to interface between the eight campuses Any support helps, and all of that is part of being a strong advocate and the 16-member policy-setting Board of Supervisors. This for the system.” could involve any number of matters, from supporting faculty to Moffett is one of the system’s products. He taught civics and dealing with student issues. Louisiana history and coached back at his Jonesboro high school In Baton Rouge, Moffett is the voice of the eight campuses, a after Tech, living his dream of being a teacher and coach, trying mix of public relations whiz and businessman who meets with to influence students the way he felt his teachers and coaches had legislators on matters of funding and policy and any number of influenced him. education-related problems or triumphs. Fate and ability combined to push him up the ladder quickly. “Randy is both quiet and competitive,” said Sally Clausen, Very early in his high school teaching career, an assistantship was the state’s Commissioner of Higher Education and Moffett’s offered to him at Northwestern, and “that’s where the path really predecessor as UL System president. “He understands his influence switched from high school to a university,” Moffett said. as System president and yet acknowledges the academic and His career at Southeastern spanned more than three decades political strength of campus leadership.” and numerous positions, from assistant registrar to dean to “The day might start out one way, what you think is your day, department head to vice provost to president. but then things come up and what you thought was your day isn’t “He still makes people feel at ease; at the dinner table, at the your day at all,” said Moffett, 62. “But no matter what happens, it’s golf course, he’s always been the same kind of guy,” said son-in- easy for me to be an advocate for this group. The UL System has law J.P. Love, a Ruston native and 1999 Tech graduate. “Barbara’s UL SYSTEM PRESIDENT As a high school quarterback for Jonesboro-Hodge been very good to my family.” the same way, the glue that holds it all together. And he’s always in the mid-1960s, Randy Moffett never suspected he’d one day be “Randy represents higher education and Louisiana very well in very approachable. We attend some of these functions with them randy moffett calling signals for eight universities in his home state. both state and national settings,” Clausen said. “He’s just an all- and you can’t even talk to him at these things because he’s so busy But that’s the way the ball bounced. In July, the 1969 Louisiana around good leader. No wonder – he’s a Tech graduate!” talking to everybody else. I mean, hey, he’s a North Louisiana guy.” Tech University graduate was named president of the University of Moffett counts “eight or nine” college degrees in his family from Louisiana System. still “I’ve never regretted having gone to Tech,” said Moffett, whose family is infused with Tech colors and diplomas. “I feel I had a Randy Moffett Bio UL System solid education, with the people I got to be around and the great faculty there. And of course, being a Tech grad, that has a nice • Graduate of Louisiana Tech, education, 1969 With a total operating budget of more than $740 million, true the University of Louisiana System enrolls approximately ring to it. When you say you’re a Tech grad, especially if you’re in • Master’s, education, Northwestern State, 1971 Louisiana or anywhere in the Southeast, you don’t have to clarify • Doctorate, educational administration, LSU, 1980 80,000 students at the following eight universities: Grambling State that. People know that. I think that speaks a lot for the reputation • Completed studies at Institute for Educational Management, Louisiana Tech to his of the school.” Harvard, 1998 Though as a high school senior he earned a football scholarship McNeese State • Served in several administrative and faculty positions at Nicholls State to Northeast Louisiana (now the University of Louisiana at Southeastern Louisiana University for 25 years before Northwestern State Monroe), Moffett decided to follow his gut – and a lot of his school becoming president, Dec. 2001 Southeastern Louisiana Jonesboro-area friends – to Ruston. • Active in numerous educational and community service University of Louisiana at Lafayette “I figured there wouldn’t be much future in being a sixth-string projects and organizations. University of Louisiana at Monroe quarterback,” Moffett said. How that college football career would have gone, we’ll never

20 | Louisiana Tech Magazine www.latech.edu | 21 news around campus news around campus

Global Campus takes Tech Gullatt: Man of the Year Tech a ‘Top 100’ in Tech faculty ranked second worldwide Music was playing public college nationally by RateMyProfessors.com Even if enrollment had decreased and no new facilities had been and everyone was value The faculty at Louisiana Tech has standing and clapping built on campus, Louisiana Tech would have still gotten bigger in Kiplinger’s, one of the nation’s most distinguished itself in the eyes of its most as Dr. David Gullatt, September. respected personal finance publications, important and valued constituents: its students. dean of Louisiana Tech’s That’s when Tech’s Global_Campus was established. cited Louisiana Tech at #93 in its list RateMyProfessors.com, a student-generated Web College of Education, Global_Campus is a highly interactive, electronic learning of the Top 100 Best Values in Public site that rates college and university professors, received his Man of platform that allows Tech to combine its academic and faculty Colleges for 2008-09. ranks Tech at No. 2 in its 2008 Top University the Year award from strengths with the power and convenience of the Internet and other Kiplinger’s bases its college rankings Faculty List. the International distance delivery methods. It offers a variety of degree and certificate on several measures of academic quality Tech is one of only two institutions in the state to be ranked in the top 10. Association of Truancy programs as well as general education courses to students all over the including SAT (ACT) scores, admission Southeastern Louisiana University, ranked No. 4, was the other. The University of South and Dropout Prevention world. rates, freshman retention rates, student- Alabama received the list’s highest ranking. in Las Vegas. Its mission: position Tech as a world-class leader in electronic faculty ratios, and four- and six-year Other institutions to make the top 10 include the University of Houston, Kennesaw “It was like the learning, offering new educational opportunities for a global graduation rates. State University, Florida International University, Brigham Young University, Northern Academy Awards,” community that meets the needs of undergraduate, graduate, and Each school is then evaluated based Kentucky University, Stony Brook University (SUNY) and Virginia Commonwealth Gullatt said. “It’s a once non-traditional students – anytime, anywhere. on cost and financial aid factors such as University. in a lifetime experience.” “Global_Campus focuses on total cost for in-state students, average “Tech’s professors and teachers make lifelong impressions on their students,” said Gullatt received the service award for his work for providing complete online and cost for students with and without need, Pamela Ford, dean of enrollment management for Tech. “If I were just beginning my training supervisors, principals, superintendents and distance education services to average percentage of need met by aid, college search, I would certainly feel confident about choosing a school whose very own others as hearing officers for truancy cases. He joined the military, international, dual and average debt a student accumulates students rate their teachers as high as the students did at Louisiana Tech University.” association in the early ’90s when he was a principal in the enrollment, adult and continuing before graduation. Out-of-state rankings RateMyProfessors.com is the Internet’s largest listing of collegiate professor ratings, school system and now works to train others on the rights education students,” said Dr. are calculated using total costs for out-of- with more than 8 million student-generated ratings of over 1 million professors at more of students. James Smith, who leads state residents and average costs after aid. than 6,500 schools across the , Canada and Great Britain. the program. “Traditional The association honored Gullatt because of his efforts to students will also be be a child advocate and because of his work with adults to GLOBAL_CAMPUSTM afforded more options and help them understand student rights. flexibility in their academic Tech’s depository program schedules.” celebrates 60 years In October, Louisiana Tech’s Prescott Memorial Library celebrated the 60th anniversary of the school’s Louisiana State Documents Depository Program. Reputation for The program has been in operation at Tech since innovation grows 1948, providing free public access to state-produced A good university uses its intellectual and innovative strengths for documents and information, and consists of manuals, the betterment of the institution. A great university uses these assets official documents and consumer information released for the betterment of us all. by the state. Once again, Louisiana Tech is leading the way in measures of Mike DiCarlo, dean of library services, said Louisiana innovation productivity and delivering new ideas to the marketplace. was second in the nation to develop a state depository “We cannot help but be amazed at the discoveries of our program and that Prescott Memorial was originally one faculty this past year and the breadth of their inventions,” says of 14 libraries to become a depository. Dr. Richard Kordal, director of the Office of Intellectual Property Prescott’s depository program receives an average of and Commercialization (OIPC). “These inventions span a wide 6,000 state documents each year. range of scientific disciplines from nanotechnology to biomedical engineering.” Tech had a total of 27 Reports of Invention (ROI) this past year Tech researchers, Italian scientists disclosed to the OIPC. This averages out to about 20 ROIs per $10 million R&D expenditures, approximately five times the national recognized for collaboration average. Louisiana Tech and the Italian National Nanotechnology Laboratory’s Six new patents were issued to Tech this past year, giving the joint project, “Nano-carriers for Cancer Therapy,” was selected among the university a total of 25. Of the newly issued patents, three of them 20 most important scientific projects for Italy-USA Collaboration by the have already been licensed to companies. Tech also filed a total of 18 Progetto Bilaterale Italia-USA. The collaboration was led by Dr. Yuri Lvov new patent applications. (pictured far right), professor of micro and nanosystems at Tech’s Institute for Tech has signed nine new licenses/options during the past year Micromanufacturing, and Stefano Leporatti of the NNL. (5 licenses and 4 options) giving a percentage of licenses/option The primary purpose of the collaboration was to develop new nano-carriers executed to ROIs received of 33%. In just the past five years, and to study their uptake in cells for development of new cancer therapies. Louisiana Tech’s license/options activity has more than quadrupled. The current project is based on NNL’s research on advanced optical and In the past year, two new Louisiana-based start-up companies scanning probe facilities, and Tech’s expertise in developing advanced nano- Tech professor Dr. Ville Kajaakari shows off a new device that, when were formed based on technology licensed from Tech. Both of these carriers for cancer drug delivery developed at the IfM benefited the work. paired with a shoe, can actually companies have opened offices in Tech’s business incubator. With In addition to the medical applications, the project will be useful in the harvest walking power. these new additions, Louisiana Tech’s two business incubators are at multi-disciplinary training of graduate students in the bio/nano technology full capacity. environment.

22 | Louisiana Tech Magazine www.latech.edu | 23 news around campus news around campus

Tech’s economic impact subject of study Tech enrollment Tech student-athletes state champs in Louisiana Tech is participating in a University of Louisiana System-sponsored study to look increases 3.23 graduation rate again at the economic and quality of life impact the university has on the community, region and state. percent A Baton Rouge-based company is conducting the study to determine both the regional New options, both for nontraditional economic and quality of life effect that each of the eight ULS institutions has on its region and students and in online education, helped the system’s collective impact on the state. Results of the study are expected by late spring. increase the student population this fall. The data will be used by Tech to clearly communicate the volume and strength of its The university saw an increase of 343 contributions to the state’s economic development initiatives. Annually, much of the economic students, a bump up of 3.23 percent from growth in north Louisiana is proportionate to the innovations and opportunities created by Tech last year. The university’s reputation and students and faculty. move to offer more distance learning classes no doubt impacted the student increase. Engineering, science foundation Tech gains new eminent The freshman class boasted seven celebrates golden anniversary chair, professorships National Merit scholars. A total of 19 National Merit scholars, the most in recent In November, Louisiana Tech’s College of Engineering and memory, attended Tech this fall. Science Foundation celebrated its 50th anniversary. The average ACT score of first-time Of the 67 original incorporators, six were present for the incoming freshmen is also the highest luncheon and were honored along with the foundation’s current in the history of the university – 23.3. In officers. The event was held Saturday, November 8, on the 2006, the average ACT score was 22.7, and Louisiana Tech campus. in 2007, it was 23.2. The foundation was founded in 1958; then engineering dean Also, 2,315 graduate students were Derek Dooley with eight of his football team’s seniors who hit graduation paydirt: from left, Josh Wheeler, Al Hawkins, Nolan Darby, Stevon Howze, Dooley, Brad Oestriecher, Earl Ben Bogard met several times during the year with a group of 65 enrolled this fall, 21.1 percent of the total Griffin, Shane Womack, David Accardo. engineering graduates. They decided there was a need to provide enrollment. The total fall enrollment a means for alumni to support and maintain contact with the – 10,950 students – was the then College of Engineering and the University. As a result, the largest university enrollment For the second consecutive year, Louisiana Tech leads the state in student-athlete Engineering Foundation was incorporated Nov. 8, 1958. The name in north Louisiana. graduation rate, according to the 2008 Federal Graduation Rate Report released by the was changed in 1997 to the Engineering and Science Foundation NCAA. when chemistry, mathematics and physics were added to the The report is based on graduation rate figures from the freshman class of 2001-02. college’s curriculum. In the NCAA’s report, Tech recorded a student-athlete graduation rate of 66 percent, The foundation manages assets of about $20 million and has higher than the national average of 64 percent and the highest in the state. funded endowed scholarships, professorships and chairs. Opal Rhodes was on campus to present to president Dan Among four-year colleges in the state, Tech’s graduation rate tops that of Tulane COES is one of 12 colleges nationwide to become affiliated Reneau and Louisiana Tech the University’s first $2 million chair. (64), Northwestern State (61), McNeese State (59), UL-Lafayette (53), Grambling with the prestigious Center for Advancement on Scholarship in State (52), Centenary College (51), LSU (49), UNO (46), Southeastern Louisiana (46), Engineering Education (CASEE), a unit of the National Academy Louisiana Tech received a check for $960,000 from the Southern (45), Nicholls State (44) and UL-Monroe (28). of Engineering. Board of Regents to match donations for a $2 million eminent Tech also ranks No. 1 in the Western Athletic Conference, edging out Utah State The foundation board currently consists of 68 members, scholar chair and four $100,000 professorships. (65), Idaho (63), Boise State (56), Nevada (54), Hawaii (53), Fresno State (49), San Jose directors, associate directors, program advisory board leaders and The Herman A. “Dusty” Rhodes Eminent Scholar Chair State (41) and New Mexico State (36). life directors. in engineering is Tech’s first $2 million chair. Laura Opal Wilkins Rhodes, the widow of Dusty Rhodes, donated the $800,000 for the chair. Dusty Rhodes was a 1934 electrical and mechanical engineering graduate who served in the oil Political science major and gas pipeline industry and pioneered the use of microwave crowned Miss Tech communications in that industry. He died in 1999 in Houston. Lauren Abshier, a junior political science major from Monroe, was crowned as the The four professorships are the James. W. and Jeanne H. 2009 Miss Tech during the annual pageant in December. Adams Professorship in electrical engineering, the Bobby E. Abshier is the daughter of Virgil and Laurie Abshier, and her platform is cystic Price Professorship in civil engineering, the Thomas O’Kelly fibrosis awareness. Mitchiner Professorship in the College of Business and the First runner-up was Nicole Fairburn, a junior finance major from Covington. Contractor’s Trust Professorship in engineering. Fairburn is the daughter of Dale and Rhonda Fairburn. Second runner-up was Nancy The James W. and Jeanne H. Adams Professorship is Hedgemon, a senior kinesiology and health promotions and business administration funded by James and Jeanne Adams, of Greenville, Texas. major from Shreveport. Hedgemon is the daughter of Abner and Helen Hedgemon. The Bobby E. Price Professorship is funded by alumni and Third runner-up was Lexie McKenzie, a sophomore accounting major from Minden. friends of the College of Engineering and Science to honor McKenzie is the daughter of Mark and Misty Wise. Fourth runner-up was Sarah Vance, Price for his years of service to Tech and its students. a junior marketing major from Tioga. Vance is the daughter of James and Debra Vance. John and Martha Jane “Me-J” O’Neal Jr., of Choudrant, Lacy Thibodeaux served as Miss Tech 2008. The other contestants were Rebecca funded the Thomas O’Kelly Mitchiner Professorship in honor Price, a freshman nursing major from Bossier City; Jessica Hill, a junior psychology of Me-J’s father, Tom Mitchiner. major from Ruston; Elizabeth Drobina, a junior aviation management major from The Contractor’s Trust Professorship is funded by the Celebrating the golden anniversary of the growing engineering Haughton; Savanna Marie Pace, a junior animal science major from Alexandria; and foundation they helped begin are, from left, George K. Reech; H. L. Contractors Educational Trust Fund, whose mission is to Kari Alayna Austin, a freshman nursing major from Quitman. Henry; Dr. Milton R. Johnson; Travis L. DeFreese; Dr. Virgil Orr; F. Earl promote programs used for contractor educational purposes. Hogan This is the second engineering professorship at Tech funded by the CETF. 24 | Louisiana Tech Magazine www.latech.edu | 25 Parish. The professorship in memory of Gladys Rogers was Scholarships: gifts that designated to Music because of her talent and love for music; she played the organ and piano for 41 years at Smackover Methodist keep on giving Church. Homer and Gladys Rogers were longtime residents of What do you give the person who has everything? That Smackover, Arkansas, where Homer was a successful attorney. was the question facing the employees of Caldwell Wholesale President Dan Reneau of Louisiana Tech expressed the deep Company, Inc., in Shreveport several years ago as they searched foundation appreciation of the university. “Louisiana Tech University is for a Christmas present for their boss, President/CEO Kenneth Members of the Louisiana Tech University Foundation offer private spotlight humbled that the Rogers family has chosen to honor their parents Caldwell. They finally decided that Kenneth, a 1958 Tech graduate gifts for a pure and public cause: to support the educational in such a special and meaningful way. These professorships will in business, might appreciate a gift made in his honor to Tech. mission of the University. For information on how to be a part of provide a positive and lasting impact at Louisiana Tech.” So the employees took their pooled resources and surprised him the Foundation’s distinguished history, call 1-800-738-7950. Endowed professorships are private gifts of $60,000 that with the “Kenneth G. Caldwell Business Scholarship,” awarded to a are matched with state funds of $40,000 to create a $100,000 student from the Shreveport area. endowment that helps the university attract and retain outstanding “I was very pleased and honored that they chose to benefit a faculty. Additional contributions can be made to either endowment local student in business at Tech with a scholarship in my name,” Hinckley: ‘we love tech’ theater productions; we bowled and played ping pong and tennis. by sending gifts to the Louisiana Tech University Foundation. says Kenneth. “It was a very special and memorable gift.” The Will Rogers once said, “I never met a man I didn’t like.” For We also were able to hear several fascinating speakers that came response from all concerned was so positive that the employees Tech alumnus Justin Hinckley, a 1978 graduate in Computer to campus,” says Justin. Those speakers included future president Team Tech 100 have chosen to honor Kenneth with a similar gift at Christmas Science, an appropriate quote might be: “I never met a giving Ronald Reagan and Soviet Foreign Minister Andrei Gromyko. several times since then. During his tenure as Louisiana Tech opportunity at Louisiana Tech I didn’t Justin also fondly remembers watching the Gifts given in honor and memory of University Athletics Director, Derek like.” Though Tech is blessed with a first Lady Techster basketball game ever special individuals are common at the Dooley has continually emphasized that large number of alumni and friends who played. Louisiana Tech University Foundation, but the success of Tech’s athletic teams is tied financially support the University, few can “Those experiences left us with it seems that named scholarships, whether directly to the support given by alumni match Justin for his interest in virtually impressions and great memories and endowed funds or one-time awards, are and friends. every area of the Tech campus and the planted an interest in supporting all increasingly being given to commemorate “Success isn’t about one coach, or sheer number of gifts he makes to different areas of campus,” says Justin. “All the holidays, anniversaries, retirements, and one supporter, or one player. It takes a programs and projects. Put simply, the parts together make up the whole of the other occasions. collective effort from all members of man is a philanthropic machine. university, and we really want all the Jeff Peterson, a 1976 graduate in the Tech family,” says Dooley. Tech fans More accurately, Justin is part of a parts to do well. We’ve also established forestry, recently celebrated his 30th have responded by making gifts to LTAC philanthropic duo with his wife Jeanette, a relationships that have led to an interest anniversary as Forester for the Stream (Louisiana Tech Athletic Club) in record 1978 Tech graduate in English Education in certain areas. When you visit with Companies in Lake Charles, La. The numbers, establishing a solid foundation with a minor in Library Science. “I’m the Norm (Dr. Pumphrey, Director) and company has a tradition of honoring for future growth. one who pokes around actively looking for Stacy (Gilbert, Director of Co-curricular 30-year employees with a gift, and Building on the success of LTAC, the opportunities to help Tech,” says Justin. Activities) about the BARC, and you gain when asked for a recommendation, Jeff athletics department recently established a “Jeannette isn’t as active in seeking out an understanding of the needs and the suggested they make a donation to the new initiative called Team Tech 100.Team things, but she’s very supportive. We both benefits of their program, you want to get Forestry Program at Tech. As a result, the Tech 100 is designed to generate significant love Tech.” involved to help our students succeed.” “Jeff Peterson Forestry Scholarship” will private gifts to provide immediate capital A listing of the areas supported by As an alumnus, Justin is especially provide scholarship assistance to Tech for two primary athletic objectives: Justin and Jeanette over the last few years cognizant of Tech’s academic reputation students over the next two years. Jeff, who Justin and Jeanette Hinckley improving the competitive level of play Kenneth Caldwell and Dr. Reneau reads like the Tech catalog: College of and how Tech is perceived. “One thing keeps tabs on the Forestry Program by (scholarships, facilities enhancements, Business, BARC (Bulldog Achievement that resonates with me is that Tech will visiting regularly with faculty at forestry academic support, etc.) and developing an infrastructure to Resource Center), Theatre, Management and Information Systems, always be my alma mater, and Tech’s reputation will always be meetings and conferences, was thrilled to provide the impetus for a enhance future revenue streams (staffing, marketing, advertising, GTM renovations, First Year Experience, 300 Blue, scholarships based on its current status. That’s why I think it’s important for gift that benefits Tech students. event management, etc.). (Amy Myers, Sue Holder), Wakeboarding team, fund to buy new alumni to sustain and enhance Tech’s rich academic tradition. Similarly, Louis Brill (a 1963 graduate in accounting) recently Team Tech 100 members are individuals, couples, or businesses mascot – Tech XX, Sporting Clay tournament, and new banners to Tech’s reputation reflects on all of us.” retired from Temple-Inland Inc. after serving as Vice President that commit to an investment of at least $25,000 per year for four decorate the Tech campus. And that’s just a partial list of gifts that The passion Justin and Jeanette have for Tech and their interest and Chief Accounting Officer. Louis joined Temple-Inland Inc. years. Members get additional benefits for their generosity but support academics and student life. and support for all areas of the university brings to mind another after a long and successful career with Ernst & Young. In honor are primarily interested in building a brighter future for Tech Justin and Jeanette also support Tech’s NCAA student-athletes Will Rogers quote: “People are marvelous in their generosity, if and recognition of his service to Temple-Inland Inc., the company athletics and supporting a program that is important to them. John with contributions to LTAC (Louisiana Tech Athletic Club) and they know the cause is there.” made a very generous charitable gift and allowed Louis to select Rogers, former Bulldog football letter winner and 1996 graduate in individual gifts to practically all of Tech’s 16 varsity sports. They the recipient organization. Louis chose Tech to receive the business, described his reasons for participating. also make gifts to support the Gameday Experience and the ROGERS FAMILY award, and the gift created the “Louis R. Brill Family Endowed “I’m honored to be a part of Team Tech 100. The core values activities of the Sports Information Department; they created Scholarship” which will initially be awarded to accounting students ESTABLISHES ENDOWED and life lessons that were instilled in me by the Tech Family have an Athletics Enhancement Endowment to provide a source of in the College of Business. been invaluable. Contributing to Team Tech 100 is my way of annual funds for improvements and enhancements to the athletic PROFESSORSHIPS Louis and his wife Lynn, together with their three daughters, are saying ‘thank you’ and honoring the coaches who made such a program. “I’m proud that athletes at Tech really are student- Louisiana Tech University recently received two new endowed currently in the process of expanding the scholarship to increase positive impact on my life.” athletes, and that our coaches have standards and want to win the professorships. Brothers Bill Rogers of Ruston and Dr. Henry the award and to include other colleges and departments to honor The Team Tech 100 roster currently includes 16 members. “I’m right way.” Rogers, and wife Georgia, of Little Rock, Arkansas established friends who studied in those areas. excited about the initial, positive response to Team Tech 100,” says Justin attributes their interest in all things Tech to their time as the professorships to honor the memory of their parents. The The gift of a scholarship can be made in any amount, named, Dooley. “The contributions are already making a difference to students when they attended events and activities on campus. “We Homer T. Rogers Endowed Professorship will benefit the School of and designated to a particular academic area. Please contact the success of our athletic program, and I invite all Tech fans to took advantage of everything that was available to us,” says Justin. Forestry and the Gladys Lawson Rogers Endowed Professorship in the staff of the Tech Foundation for more information about consider membership in this special group.” “We were especially interested in things that were free, because Music will benefit the School of Performing Arts. scholarships and other gift opportunities. For more information about Team Tech 100, LTAC, or other we didn’t have any money. We watched movies on Sunday nights The professorship in memory of Homer Rogers was designated opportunities to support Tech Athletics, contact Adam McGuirt at in Howard Auditorium; we attended weightlifting matches and to Forestry because of his interest in family timberland in Bienville the Marbury Alumni Center at 800-738-7950.

26 | Louisiana Tech Magazine www.latech.edu | 27 news about you

What’s new with you? Affiliate. He will be instrumental in assisting the Do you have news to share in the News About You section? We want to share the stories of your accomplishments and AHA with fundraising and educational projects MICHELLE DAWSON milestones. Photos are always welcome, too. Submit your information for News About You online at throughout the four-state region of Texas, BIOENGINEERING SUCCESS Oklahoma, Arkansas and New Mexico. He is www.latechalumni.org where you can then click on “News About You.” managing partner of McConnell, Jones, Lanier Hometown: San Jose, Calif. & Murphy, LLP in Houston. Now resides in: Arlington, Mass. 1969...... Virginia Chan Rider, animal science (master’s Degree: 1999, B.S., Biomedical Engineering jason barton zoology 1977), is the first winner of the Sidney Danny Arnold, accounting (master’s business A. McNairy, Jr. Mentoring Award through Further education: 2005, Ph.D., Chemical and Biomolecular SPREADING SOME LYRICAL LOVE administration 1972, doctorate business the National Institutes of Health. The award, Engineering, Johns Hopkins University; 2008, Postdoctoral Fellow, Massachusetts General Hospital and Harvard University Medical Hometown: Gilbert, LA. It is actually a village. It doesn’t have the administration 1973), has been named dean which will be given to one professor in the School’s Edwin L. Steele Laboratory population to be considered a town. of the College of Business Administration at nation every two years, honors faculty for their Missouri State University in Springfield, Mo. dedication and focus mentoring students. She is How I got to Tech: My husband’s family started a sweet potato farm Now resides in: Spring Hill, Tenn., a suburb of Nashville, with a biology professor at Pittsburg State University in Delhi, Louisiana. His parents wanted us to move to Louisiana my wife, Jennifer (who is also a Tech alum), and our two boys, Don W. Britt, agricultural business, a in Pittsburg, Kan. so they could be closer to their one-year-old granddaughter. I was Jake (4) and Jonah (2). northeastern Louisiana agricultural lender working full time and taking night classes and not making much progress on my education. They for more than three decades, retired as vice ...... Degree: 1999, BA, Music. It hurts to say that date. Has it been president from Louisiana Land Bank. He began 1977 offered to pay for my husband and me to go to school, so we moved to Ruston. that long already? his career there in 1977 at the Federal Land Charles R. What I do now: I had my second daughter in my fourth year at Tech, so I took one semester off to be a profession: Frontman for 33Miles. Bank of Lake Providence. Carnahan, mom and then went on to Johns Hopkins to get my doctorate. marketing, has How I got to Tech: I fell in love with Tech visiting my older Donna Harrell-Lubcker, elementary education been named chief How Tech prepared me for a competitive doctoral program: The biomedical engineering program at brother, Brad, when I was in high school. I loved the campus, (master’s home economics education 1981, administrative officer Tech was an excellent preparation for my graduate studies at Johns Hopkins. Since I changed majors, the people, and knew early on that Tech was the place for me. I knew it was a place where I could doctorate curriculum and instruction 2004), has and treasurer for the I had to take five additional undergraduate courses, but overall my preparation was very good. been selected dean of the School of Education at flourish because I felt completely safe and comfortable…just like home! United Methodist An average day in my lab: East Texas Baptist University in Marshall, Texas. The life of a Harvard postdoctoral fellow is very busy. I need to be in the after graduating: I actually traveled the country with a vocal group out of New Jersey and then General Board of lab almost every day of the week – to take care of my animals and cells. I am doing very important Discipleship based in came back to Tech to work in the Admissions office as an Admissions counselor and a recruiter to Randy Moffett, education, became the seventh pre-clinical research, which may one day alter the direction of patient care. The Steele lab uses multi- Nashville, Tenn. He save money to make the move to Nashville. The summer I spent as an Orientation Student Leader president of the University of Louisiana System, photon laser scanning microscopy to image tumors grown in live mice. Tumors are grown under a will head the agency’s really paid off when I came back! in July. He previously served seven years as cover of glass, which is surgically mounted to the mice using a skin-fold chamber or cranial window financial and operational areas, including president of Southeastern Louisiana University preparation. This is a very unique imaging technique, and I am fortunate to work in one of the only when i knew music was my career path: I won a talent show in the 5th grade and knew then that accounting, human resources, building services, in Hammond. labs in the country that uses this technique. music was my calling in life, but didn’t really know what that meant or how to accomplish strategic systems and communications, in acquiring a career so to speak. It even took me two years as an undecided major before I took the Memories of Tech: My bioinstrumentation project – investigating the effect of caffeine on fetal and ...... addition to providing general oversight of the plunge to get a music degree. 1971 agency’s fiscal affairs. maternal heart rate. I was the perfect subject since I was about six months pregnant at the time. Where i see myself (or 33Miles) in five years? In five years, I see myself and 33Miles still growing Raymond A. Hicks, education, was named I knew I was grown up when: Grown up is all relative. I felt grown up after graduating from Tech, then and expanding our audience. It is hard for me to say things like winning Grammys and Dove a winner of the 2008 Angel Award presented 1979...... I went to Hopkins and I was a freshman all over again. If you set big goals you will have to struggle by Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Louisiana. awards because although those things are awesome it’s not why I do what I do. I just see myself political science, to achieve them and this can make you feel like a child all over again. He coordinates service training programs Charles E. McMichael, still plowing ahead trying to create music that moves people’s hearts all while trying to be the best has been elected national head of Sons of for African-American boys in Caddo A triumph in my life: Just going to college would have been a triumph. What I have accomplished is husband and father I can be. Confederate Veterans. He was elected at the Parish through the Alliance for Community somewhat of a miracle. I am a first generation college student. My father was a mailman and my heritage society’s 113th national reunion in Most important thing I learned at Tech: The most important thing I learned at Tech was loving Development. mother worked in food service. My family was too poor to send me to school, so I didn’t go after people. I know that might sound kind of weird but for the first time in my life this little country Mount Pleasant, N.C. The group is the nation’s high school. When I had the opportunity to go to school, I took it very seriously. boy was surrounded by people from all different walks of life. I ran into people that were so James D. Wilson, business administration, has largest Confederate heritage organization. He is If I’ve learned one thing in life, it is: Follow your dreams. different than me and I learned to love and appreciate them for who they were and not look down been appointed as the first executive director a 20-year veteran high school history and civics on them because of our differences. It made me solidify who I am, what I believe, and what kind of of the Danville (Pa.) Business Alliance. He was teacher in Caddo Parish schools. person I wanted to be. a former senior attorney for the Army Tort Sharon Kay Miculek, animal science, helped Claims Division and has more than 30 years of Regents, which oversees the state’s public higher 1981...... her team win a gold medal in the Ladies education, by Governor Bobby Jindal. The professional experience in institutional risk and James J. Jones, Open Pistol division team competition at the Gonzales-based attorney is vice president and ...... engineering, emeritus, at Massachusetts liability. music education, 1964 International Practical Shooting Confederation’s general counsel for the Excel Group, a company Institute of Technology. He also serves as a has been promoted John Dienes, business administration, has World Shoot XV in Bali, Indonesia. Miculek specializing in construction and maintenance. member of the FIRST Executive Advisory 1975...... to Brigadier been appointed as Managing Director, Capital finished sixth overall. Board; FIRST is a national organization which General. He is the Structuring with Harwood International, a John Lewis, business, has been named promotes youth involvement in science and Paul D. Miller, civil engineering, has been 1980...... Commander at the niche real estate developer and value-add interim vice president for development at technology. named Louisiana’s Assistant Secretary of the 55th Wing, Offutt investor with offices around the globe. He has Stephen F. Austin. He has been a member of Gary E. Johnston, civil engineering, has Office of Environmental Assessment. He Air Force Base, Neb. more than 44 years of experience in the banking the SFA faculty for 39 years and is currently a assumed command of the U.S. Army Engineer has more than 11 years of experience in the He is responsible for and financial services industry. 1967...... finance professor. The office of development Research and Development Center in electric utility industry, six years of experience Vicksburg, Miss. He will be responsible for organizing, equipping Alan C. Gravel, civil engineering, has is responsible for development activities on at the DEQ and has worked in the timber and all ERDC installations and will oversee all its and training six ...... been appointed by Georgia Governor campus and fundraising activities for the 1966 woods products industry. He has nearly 30 support elements, including assisting the ERDC groups and 31 squadrons executing worldwide Sonny Perdue to the Lake Lanier Island university. Woodie Flowers, mechanical engineering, years of professional experience in various directors in planning and execution, identifying reconnaissance, intelligence, information Development Authority as the board’s At Large received an honorary doctorate degree Wayne McConnell, accounting, was appointed environmental fields. soldier requirements and acting as a liaison to warfare, command and control, presidential Representative. He is president of Willow from Worcester Polytechnic Institute. He as the 2008-2010 Chairman of the Board for Corps districts, military installments, and the support and treaty verification missions. Construction, Inc. in Marietta. Joseph C. Wiley, chemical engineering, is Pappalardo professor of mechanical the American Heart Association South Central Army’s Engineer Regiment. has been named to the Louisiana Board of

28 | Louisiana Tech Magazine www.latech.edu | 29 news about you

Suzanne Harper Stinson, business technology Brian Harrison, instrumentation technology 1991...... clients in the Houston area. He joined KPMG (business 1988, master’s business administration and electrical engineering technology, became in 1996 in the firm’s Baton Rouge office and BILL PETERSON Thad Gailey, electrical engineering, has been 1992, master’s industrial/organizational the Naval Support Activity’s 56th commanding transferred to the Houston office in 2003. His selected to lead the Information and Technology FULL COURT PRESS psychology 1994) was elected President Elect for officer in Algiers. responsibilities include providing multinational position for Chevron Australia’s Major Capitol the National Association for Court Management clients with corporate tax compliance and Hometown: Dayton, Ohio Project, Wheatstone.This project, based (NACM) at their annual conference held in Kevin Michael, accounting (master’s provision services. in Perth, Australia, plans to develop a new Now resides in: Milwaukee, Wis. Anaheim, Calif., and was appointed to the accounting 1986), has been named by Australian liquefied natural gas (LNG) project, board of directors of the National Center for KemperSports general manager of Newport Degree: 1990, M.A., Industrial/Organizational Psychology based on its 100 percent-owned Wheatstone 1996...... State Courts at their board of directors meeting Dunes Golf Club. It is a newly-constructed natural gas discovery. How I got to Tech: I came to Tech to be a graduate assistant. At the in Anchorage, Alaska. She is currently Court Arnold Palmer signature golf course at Newport Denny Burk, time, the basketball coach at Tech was . A friend got Administrator for the 26th Judicial District Beach and Golf, a resort community on Texas’ history, has been ...... him to hire me. I taught class while I got my master’s. It was a Court of Bossier and Webster Parishes, where Mustang Island. Newport Dunes is surrounded 1993 named dean of Boyce College, the Southern great experience. she has been employed since 1982. by the Gulf of Mexico and Corpus Christi Bay. Scott F. Abernathy, health and physical Baptist Theological He will be responsible for all daily operations of education, has become head football coach at After graduating: I became the head coach at Union College in Seminary’s ...... the club. North DeSoto High School. Barbourville, Ky. 1982 undergraduate school What I do now: Tony Boutté, voice and tuba, recently 1986...... Eugene W. “Gene” Bryson, III, English, has in Louisville, Ky. I’m an assistant coach with the Milwaukee Bucks in the National Basketball performed with the Mercersburg (Pa.) Area joined the law firm of Pringle and Herzog as He was associate Association. I specialize in player development. Community Chorus for its holiday concert. W. Jay Luneau, marketing, will continue his professor of New partner. The new partnership of Pringle, Herzog How I caught the basketball bug: Ever since I was a kid, I loved to play basketball. I was a decent A tenor, he made his professional operatic service as the 6th District representative on the Testament at Criswell & Bryson will continue to be a general practice player, not a great player. I played on the college level as an undergraduate at Eckerd College in St. debut as Orfeo in the Monteverdi Cycle, and Board of Governors for the Louisiana State Bar College in Dallas with a focus on wills and estates, title work, Petersburg, Fla. During that time, I found a job coaching a high school team and discovered that I has since appeared in a wide range of roles. Association. He is the owner of Luneau Law since 2004. family law, criminal law and business law. really liked coaching. He is currently on the voice faculty of Towson Office in Alexandria. University in Baltimore, Md. He made his Christine Frames Cushman, English, 1997...... An average day in my job: When I first get in, I answer calls and watch a tape of an opponent we’re Carnegie Hall debut in 2006. 1987...... has joined the firm of Schnader, Harrison, going to play. After our staff meeting, I go onto the floor to watch younger players work out. Segal & Lewis, LLP as an associate resident Jo Ellen Gates, medical technology, received Lisa D. Odom, health information After practice, we stay on the floor to work with the younger guys on shooting, ball handling and Gretchen Haien Millet, art, recently had in the Philadelphia office. She will practice her master’s of business administration degree administration, has been named executive conditioning. After that, we meet, eat lunch together and talk about what we’re going to do the her work showcased in a special presentation, as a member of the firm’s Tax and Wealth from Stephen F. Austin on May 10, 2008. She is director of information excellence for Truman next day. I usually come back to my office to prepare for the next game. Working in the NBA is a “Gretchen Haien: Photographs from SeaZen Management Department, Tax and Business laboratory director at Shelby Regional Medical Medical Centers in Kansas City, Mo. She has dream job for me. and Interior Frontiers,” at the Walter Anderson Planning Group, as well as the Trusts and Center in Center, Texas. been with TMC since 2001. How Tech prepared me for the NBA: Museum of Art’s Jo Love Little Gallery in Ocean Estates Practice Group. She earned her J.D. in The coaches I worked with – Andy Russo, Steve Welch, Tommy Shannon Robinson, biology (master’s chemical Springs, Miss. She received the Mississippi Arts 2001 from the University of Texas School of Joe Eagles – were superb men. Tech had a great atmosphere for learning. Karl Malone was in my engineering 2006), has been promoted to plant and Letters Award in Photography and is an 1989...... Law in Austin and earned LL.M. in Tax from weightlifting class and also played on a team with me. We’d play in little towns in Louisiana my manager for the VeraSun Energy Corporation’s associate professor of art, gallery coordinator, New York University School of Law in 2002. third year, which was his freshman year. It was a fun time. Don D. Riser, wildlife conservation, has Charles City, Iowa facility. He helped lead and senior seminar coordinator at Belhaven been appointed by Governor Bobby Jindal to Memories of Tech: I lived with great roommates in a duplex by the Tech farm. I enjoyed going to Philip H. Jordan, finance, has been appointed startup operations for VeraSun’s biorefineries at College in Jackson. the Louisiana State Board of Examiners for football games with them, going to Shreveport for the state fair game, coaching basketball – and president of the Northwest Regional Banking Linden, Ind. and Albion, Neb. Sanitarians. He is a sanitarian for the Office working with a great player like Karl Malone. The people who I met and the relationships that I Center for Business First Bank in Shreveport. 1983...... of Public Health’s Franklin Parish unit in Thomas Russell, agricultural business, was developed were most important. Also, I had good teachers and classes that prepared me to deal He will manage continued growth of the Winnsboro. promoted to commercial manager for Bunge with people and problems. Michael J. Dominique, history, was promoted regional bank, including expansion of product North America’s Southern District. In this role, to colonel in the U.S. Army and was awarded services for business clients and continued Triumphs in my life: My ability to overcome diversity has served me well. I’ve been fired from a few ...... he will manage the day-to-day commodity the Order of St. Barbara. He just completed 1990 assembly of a team of loan officers and private jobs; I lost a daughter in a car accident. Without my faith in God, or grace and mercy, I wouldn’t be trading activities, financials and logistics for the a 15-month tour in Iraq, where he received bankers. where I am today with my family. Maribel Tuten Childress, elementary Southern District’s grain handling operations the Bronze Star Medal. He and his family are education (master’s counseling 1993), was over a six-state area. If I’ve learned one thing in life, it is: Never, never, never give up! You can’t give in when things get stationed at Carlisle Barracks, Pa., where he is named Arkansas principal of the year for 2008...... attending the Army War College. 1995 tough. Life’s about relationships, it’s not about you. She will represent the state at the meeting ...... of the National Association of Elementary Jeff Lynn Matocha, computer science, has 1998 joined the staff of Ouachita Baptist University 1984...... School Principals in Washington, D.C. in the Douglas M. Harwell, mechanical engineering, in Arkadelphia, Ark. as associate professor fall of 2009. She is the principal of Monitor has been named operations manager for Barrett Broussard, psychology, is new vice of computer science. Prior to that, he was an Services as well as other departments on campus. Elementary School in Springdale. Southern Star Energy, Inc. He will manage the 1999...... commander at the 349th Reserve Wing at associate professor in the computer science Travis Air Force Base, Calif. In his new post, he development drilling program in the Sentell Susan Hernandez Craig, finance, has been department at the University of West Georgia Corey D. Cascio, speech, has been working Marty W. French, accounting (master’s will assist the wing commander of the largest Field, located north of Shreveport. He has 10 hired as senior vice president and treasury and a tenured assistant professor at Xavier as a field service tech for ETC in Munich, accounting 2001), has been selected by the Reserve Associate Wing in the Air Force to years of oil and gas experience. management director for Arvest Bank Group University of Louisiana. Germany. He is responsible for supporting Society of Louisiana CPAs to become a CPA provide combat ready crews and support for the in Little Rock. She has been in the banking Carrie Jackson German-speaking Europe and Eastern Europe. Ambassador. He is a certified public accountant C-17 Globemaster III, C-5 Galaxy and KC-10 James Michael He is working as a freelance lighting technician with Booth Giger & DeWitt in Monroe. industry for 16 years. Lewis, nursing, and Extender aircraft. Vinson, accounting, for the National Opera, the National Theater her husband Shannon Susan Johnson Guy, elementary education has been admitted and other theaters in Munich...... Zazell V. Dudley, petroleum engineering, has were appointed to 2000 (master’s counseling 1991), has been named into the partnership joined Kennedy Wilson’s Fund Management serve in southern Lane Humphreys, industrial/organizational the Texas Elementary Economics Teacher of of Big Four John R. Davidson, business administration Group as managing director for the Northwest Sudan as missionaries psychology, has taken command of the 49th the Year 2008. She will be speaking at various accounting firm, (master’s business administration 2001), has Louisiana Community Development Fund I with the International Test and Evaluation Squadron at Barksdale Air events promoting Economics in the Classroom KPMG, LLP. He accepted the position of Vice Chancellor (the “Fund”). The Fund will finance local real Mission Board. Force Base. He previously served as director of as well as presenting at the NCEE’s National provides tax services for Administrative Affairs at Arkansas State estate projects which will help revitalize low- operations for the 49th TES. Convention in Biloxi, Miss. to energy and other University-Mountain Home. He will oversee and moderate-income communities across industrial markets various departments including Human Northwest Louisiana. Resources, Financial Aid, Security, Computer

30 | Louisiana Tech Magazine www.latech.edu | 31 news about you Stay connected Join the Louisiana Tech Alumni Association today.

Thomas Jake Lee, chemical engineering, as economic director is to bring the kind of Environmental Design) Accredited Professional. thank you for your support. received his medical degree from the University jobs into the parish that will offer young people She has been with the Southeastern office of of South Alabama College of Medicine Mobile, high-paying jobs and a steady future. the national architecture, planning and interior The Louisiana Tech Alumni Association salutes these Lifetime Members: Ala. on May 3, 2008. He was the recipient of design firm since August 2006. the Charles M. Baugh Award for excellent 2003...... academic performance in medical biochemistry. William M. Wassell, professional aviation, has Joshua P. Adams Andy & Mary Elizabeth Halbrook E. Donald Reilly, Jr. He will start his residency program in pediatric Alan Jaschke, mechanical engineering, has pinned on silver wings after graduating from Billy & Debra Barnes Howard S. Ham & Cathleen A. Ivy Chris & Anne Richardson medicine at Brooke Army Medical Center in been named client services manager at Caesar Specialized Undergraduate Pilot Training at Fred & Judy Bennett Frances V. Harrison Ron & Beth Riley Systems to enhance the company’s strategy Key Field in Meridian, Miss., and earned an San Antonio, Texas. Louellen A. Berger Jeffrey M. Harriss Tommy & Beth Rogers formulation, asset modeling and business aeronautical rating of pilot in the Air Force. He Kevin W. Reeves, sociology, has been planning advisory services to the upstream is a 2nd Lt. in the Air National Guard. Douglas A. Blackshear Earl & Bobbie Hogan Justin & Sarah Routon promoted to captain and named commander of oil and gas industry. He joins the Houston- Randall & Curtissa Boyer Robert E. Holladay, IV Scott & Amy Rypkema state police Troop F. Troop F covers more than headquartered company with more than 11 2008...... Terry P. Bradshaw James & Jenna Justiss Christopher & Laurie Anne Scott 10,000 miles of highway and 12 northeastern years of experience in many aspects of the oil Candice M. Breaux Robert Kennedy Andrea K. Searor Louisiana parishes. He previously served as the and gas E&P sector. Heather Breitenbach, engineering and Tim & Jollie Brandon Richard H. Koll Dennis M. Shockley Supporting Louisiana Tech Troop F executive officer. technology management, has joined Alliance, ...... Inc. in Shreveport and McKinney, Texas, as an Stephen & Lauri Brunner W. Edwin Koss Mike & Janet Shoffner is more important now than 2004 engineer intern. Troy & Sarah Callicoatte Lauren Pennywell LaFleur David L. Sims ever before. The faculty and 2001...... James “Cody” Goodwin, civil engineering, has Christopher M. Caplis, Jr. Christopher J. LeBrun Bill & Lydia Sneed students are excelling in ways received Professional Engineer designation from Amanda Kattengell, architecture, has joined Chad A. Guice, chemical engineering, has Katie E. Carr Rusty & Danna Mabry Shannon Spigener that were unimaginable a few joined Sutherland as an associate in the firm’s Halff Associates, Inc. He joined Halff in 2007 the East Texas architectural firm Eubanks, years ago. Your membership Harris, Roberts, Craig Architects of Tyler as an Jerry Crooks Nadine K. Mathis James & Frances Tatum Intellectual Property Practice Group, where he as a civil engineer in the Houston office. He is in the Alumni Association is intern architect. Chris & Anne-Michelle Daniel Kyle & Tisdale McDonald Kay Lynn Tettleton will focus in chemical patent prosecution. He a certified floodplain manager and has a wide an important and meaningful will be based in the firm’s office in Atlanta, Ga. range of design experience in both municipal Bill & Christine Delmar JoAnn Meyer Steen & Ronda Trawick Brian C. White, way of supporting our and private sector projects and has a strong Christopher M. Delmar Drake & Ann Marie Mills Edwin D. Tuma Vince Miller, marketing (industrial/ computer University, and I urge you background in water resources. William J. Delmar, III Glenn & Kitty Murphy Kent & Carmel Veron organizational psychology 2004), was recently information systems, to join today and actively hired as director of special projects for the Alicia Price, business administration, earned was promoted to Gordon & Judy Dutile Bryan & Frankie Novak Todd Viator participate in whatever ways Division of Student Affairs and Enrollment the Doctor of Optometry degree from Southern the rank of 1st Najib & Angela Fares Harold & Bonnie Odom you can. Tech provided untold Management at Georgia Southern University College of Optometry in Memphis. She will be lieutenant with the Leigh McCready Gass Mike & Candace Pearson opportunities for us, and each Louisiana Army in Statesboro. He is responsible for the practicing at Wallace Eye Surgery in Alexandria. Kelly H. Haber Joan D. Pettigrew generation must step up so National Guard. He development efforts of the division and securing that the legacy of excellence funding for scholarships, internships and Brent Tippen, speech, has accepted a position has been a member These names have been added to the lifetime roster since the previous issue of the magazine. continues. It’s our turn now… corporate sponsorships. in the San Francisco Bay area with Chevron to of the National handle public and media relations. His primary Guard for six years be an Alumni Association member; it really does matter! ...... responsibilities will include media relations, and is currently the 2002 crisis communication, internal communication, battalion’s intelligence officer and also serves Brian Crawford, industrial/organizational and communication planning. He completed as the officer in charge of the convoy security Please cut along dotted line and send to the following address or join online at www.latechalumni.org/association. psychology, has been selected as the Chief of his master of arts in communication from the team. the Shreveport Fire Department. He is a 24-year University of Louisiana at Monroe in May. veteran of the Shreveport Fire Department. Alumni Information Update – mail to: Alumni Association | P.O. Box 3183 | Ruston LA 71272 2005...... Heather Lanius Malone, psychology (master’s industrial/organizational psychology 2004), has Yomi Oluwole, architecture, an Associate AIA ______been named director of the Concordia Parish of Rees Associates, Inc. in Atlanta has earned Name: Last First Middle/Maiden Class Degree Economic Development District. Her mission the status of LEEDR (Leadership in Energy and ______Spouse’s Name: Last First Middle/Maiden Coll./Univ. & Class Degree ______Home Address: Street City State ZIP Home Phone # ______time out for tech Employer Bus. Address Bus. Phone # Position ______Spring back to Ruston and bring your high school student Spouse’s Employer Bus. Address Bus. Phone # Position ______or friend to visit our campus on Saturday, April 18! Email Address Spouse’s Email Address

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32 | Louisiana Tech Magazine Louisiana Tech president R.L. Ropp greets the students at the 1957 Homecoming Pep-rally held on the steps of Howard Auditorium. Louisiana Tech’s football Bulldogs finished 6-4 that fall and John David Crowe of Springhill won the Heisman Trophy at Texas A&M, but other things besides football were happening. Elvis Presley had three songs in the year’s Top 10, “The Bridge On the River Kwai” won the Academy Award for Best Picture, “Gunsmoke” was a television favorite, and the Russians launched Sputnik on Oct. 4, marking the beginning of the Space Age.

Louisiana Tech Alumni Association 900 Tech Drive nonprofit org. P.O. Box 3183 u.s. postage Ruston, LA 71272-0001 paid miamisburg, oh permit no. 222