ABOUTABOUT NSUNSU 2008-092008-09 Women’sWomen’s BasketballBasketball NSU OVERVIEW NSU: The Promise of a Quality Education For more than seventy-two years, has provided an atmosphere in which the youth of the region could acquire a quality and affordable education. Norfolk State University has been a beacon of hope for high school graduates from all socio-economic backgrounds seeking a college degree.

The mission of Norfolk State University is to provide an afford- able high-quality education for an ethnically and culturally di- The mission of the Ethelyn R. Strong School of Social Work is to verse population, equipping each student with the capability to provide social work education programs which prepare students become productive citizens who continually contribute to a global with the competence to develop and deliver services that and rapidly changing society. strengthen and/or empower individuals, families, groups, organi- zations, and communities. The school and its program emphasize The promise of a quality education at Norfolk State University the values of social justice, social responsibility and respect for involves powerful learning environments, relevant programs in high human rights, dignity and diversity. The school is especially demand areas, forward-thinking instruction, opportunities that committed to addressing the strengths and challenges for enhance learning, and high-tech, high-touch student-focused an ethnically and culturally diverse client population in an evolv- services. The faculty and administrators are among the most ing global community. qualified, experienced, and diverse professionals in the country. They demonstrate the highest competencies of accountability, Norfolk State University is accredited by the Commission on Col- leadership, communication, responsiveness/customer care, leges of the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools to decision-making, critical thinking, innovation, integrity/ethical award associate, baccalaureate, masters, and doctorate degrees. behavior, and business mindedness. Contact the Commission on Colleges at 1866 Southern Lane, De- catur, Georgia 30033-4097 or call (404) 679-4500 for questions NORFOLK STATE UNIVERSITY HAS THREE about the accreditation of Norfolk State University. ACADEMIC SCHOOLS AND TWO COLLEGES. Located near some of the world’s most breathtaking waterfronts THEY ARE AS FOLLOWS: and coastlines, Norfolk State University’s 134-acre campus is The School of Business prepares students for careers in all types located in southeastern Virginia in the City of Norfolk and close to of organizations and for continued academic study. This is the shores of Virginia and the Outer Banks of North Carolina. accomplished in a learner-centered community that promotes Norfolk State’s heritage is an historic part of what makes academic achievement, professional growth, and recognition of the Norfolk great! importance of diversity, technology, globalization, and ethics in the workplace and society. The faculty is engaged in intellectual con- tributions and professional development to remain current in their NORFOLK STATE UNIVERSITY teaching fields and to promote student success and is committed to University and community service. QUICK FACTS

The School of Education is responsible for providing leadership, Location: Historic Norfolk, Va.; 134-acre campus 2 miles coordination, and evaluation of all teacher education programs at from downtown Norfolk the University. Its central purpose is to provide pre-service and Extended in-service educational programs to prospective teachers, in-ser- Campus Center: Virginia Beach Higher Education Center vice teachers, administrators and others engaged in educa- History: • Founded in 1935 as the Norfolk Unit tional activities in other agencies. of Virginia Union University • Became the independent Norfolk The mission of the College of Liberal Arts is to develop analytical, Polytechnic College in 1942 skilled, and competent professionals who will become productive • Became an independent institution in 1969 citizens in today’s society, and to offer academic programs that • Granted University status in 1979 facilitate learning consistent with changing employment opportunities Enrollment: 6,325 and life experiences in a global society. President: Carolyn Winstead Meyers, Ph.D. The strategic mission of the College of Science, Engineering and Faculty: 300 + full-time equivalent Technology is to transform Norfolk State University into a Degree Offerings: 2 associate degrees; 32 bachelor’s degrees; “Science and Technology Powerhouse.” In keeping with this mis- 16 master’s degrees; 2 doctoral degrees sion, there are a number of significant initiatives underway to ex- Athletics: 15 intercollegiate teams (Division I; competing pand and enhance academic programs across all academic in Mid-Eastern Athletic Conference – MEAC) departments in the school. Initiatives include web-enhancements Student for the courses deemed critical for student success — the gate- Organizations: 125 way courses. Additional scholarships, mentoring, and other spe- cial programs are available to assist students. Website: www.nsu.edu

For more information on Norfolk State University, its academic programs and community service projects, research, campus facilities, and other amenities, please call the Office of Communications and Marketing at (757) 823-8373.

48 NORFOLK STATE UNIVERSITY | 2008-09 BASKETBALL MEDIA GUIDE HAMPTON ROADS

The vibrancy of city life, the charm of the seashore, the verdant dating back to 1636; and Mount Trashmore, a project that turned a countryside, the wild preserves and the historic landmarks are just mountain of solid waste into an innovative recreational compound a few of the features found in Hampton Roads. The area, which with bicycle trails, picnic areas, and soapbox derby and cross- includes the cities of Norfolk, Virginia Beach, Chesapeake, country courses around two lakes used for a myriad of recreational Portsmouth, Newport News, Hampton and Suffolk, has a growing water sports. The unique 17-mile Chesapeake Bay Bridge Tunnel population of about 2 million. links Virginia Beach with Virginia’s Eastern Shore and a national wildlife refuge. There are numerous attractions within each city. Norfolk has its Wa- terside, a festive marketplace similar to those in Baltimore, St. Louis The Virginia Sports Hall of Fame and the Children’s Museum are and Boston. The financial and cultural hub of Virginia, Norfolk is the located in Portsmouth. Newport News has the Mariners’ Museum, home of the world’s largest naval installation and serves as head- which houses one of the world’s most extensive nautical collections, quarters for the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO). As a while Hampton is home of the Air and Space Museum. cultural center, its features include the Chrysler Museum, the NSU is just off Interstate 264 within walking distance of downtown Douglas MacArthur Memorial, the Nauticus National Maritime and other major area attractions, such as the Scope, Chrysler Hall Center, the Virginia Symphony and several theater companies, and MacArthur Center Mall. including Norfolk State University’s own NSU Players. Hampton Roads has three daily newspapers, one African-American Besides a long and beautiful coastline, Virginia Beach offers weekly, three independent TV stations and more than 30 radio stations. numerous landmarks, including the first landing cross (where the first settlers touched the shores of the New World in 1607, 13 years before the Pilgrims landed at Plymouth Rock);The Adam Thoroughgood House, probably the oldest brick house in America,

NORFOLK STATE UNIVERSITY | 2008-09 BASKETBALL MEDIA GUIDE 49 NSU ADMINISTRATION

Carolyn W. Meyers, Ph.D., the fourth president of Norfolk State Uni- versity, previously served as provost and vice chancellor for Academic Affairs and a tenured professor in the College of Engineering at North Carolina Agri- cultural & Technical State University. Meyers holds a bachelor’s degree in mechanical engineering from Howard University, a master’s in mechanical engineering from the Georgia Institute of Technology (Georgia Tech), and a Ph.D. in chemical engineering, also from Georgia Tech. She has completed postdoctoral work at Harvard University’s Institute for Educational Manage- ment. Her career in higher education spans more than 30 years and includes both academic and administrative experiences. Highlights from her career include the following: • Served as the first chair of the Board of Directors of the National Institute of Aerospace. • Held membership on several boards including the Board of Trustees of the North Carolina School of Science and Mathematics and the Carolyn Winstead Meyers, Ph.D. Moses Cone Health Systems. President • Holds membership on the Board of Trustees of Norwich University, MentorNet, the Hampton Roads Chamber of Commerce, the Center for the Advancement of Engineering Education, the Board of Governors for RTI International, the Advisory Board for the Journal of Engineering Education, the Board of Directors of Riverside Health Foundation, Hampton Roads Partnership, the Greater Norfolk Corporation, Nauticus, the Innovative Technology Authority, and the Historically Black Colleges and Universities Capital Financing Advisory Board. Also serves on the Regional Board of Directors for the Hampton Roads Chamber of Commerce and as an Advisory Committee Member for the Extraordinary Women Engineers Project. • Currently is serving a second term as a member-at-large of the ASME Committee on Honors and is a member of the State Council of Higher Education for Virginia’s 2007 Assessment Task Force. • Appointed to the American Council on Education Commission on Effective Leadership beginning July 1, 2007. • Served as the first associate dean of research for the College of Engineering at Georgia Tech and was later appointed professor and dean of the College of Engineering at North Carolina A&T State University. • Inducted into the Academy of Distinguished Engineering Alumni at Georgia Tech. • Served as a program officer in two divisions of the National Science Foundation—the Division of Undergraduate Education and the Division of Human Resource Development. • Received the NSF Presidential Young Investigator Award, Society of Automotive Engineers’ Ralph A. Teetor Award, and the National Society of Black Engineers’ Golden Torch Award. Dr. Meyers is a native of Newport News, Va. She is the proud parent of three adult children and grandmother of two.

50 NORFOLK STATE UNIVERSITY | 2008-09 BASKETBALL MEDIA GUIDE NSU ADMINISTRATION

Marty L. Miller has Miller is no stranger to winning. His career record as base- been called many ball coach was 718-543-3. Miller first started making a name things during his for himself as a player at NSU from 1965-68. He hit .380 as tenure at Norfolk State a sophomore; .438 with eight doubles, two triples, three University. Some have homers and 27 RBI as a junior; and .406 as a senior, when called him a rock. Oth- he became the first Spartan player to be named an NCAA ers have referred to College Division All-American. him as one of Norfolk State’s greatest am- Miller graduated with a bachelor’s degree in mathematics in bassadors. Regard- 1969. An ROTC member in college, Miller was commis- less of the label, sioned a second lieutenant in the U.S. Army after he gradu- what’s clear is that ated. While on active duty, Miller was signed by the Miller has served his Minnesota Twins. Miller returned to his alma mater in 1972 alma mater in various as an assistant to baseball coach Bob Andrews. The next capacities for more season, Miller inherited the head-coaching job, which he than 35 years, provid- held until early in 2005. Marty L. Miller ing NSU with stability Director of Athletics in times of need. His coaching beginning was modest. Miller’s first team at NSU, the 1973 edition, went 0-12, but that would not last. His professional career at Norfolk State has included stints The next year, NSU went 7-1 against CIAA competition as in the areas of financial aid, career services, student affairs Miller served notice that the Spartans would be a force for and athletics. After winning more than 700 games as the some time. school’s baseball coach, Miller was named NSU’s acting athletics director on December 16, 2004. He was appointed Miller is the winningest baseball coach in CIAA history, hav- to the permanent athletics director post on March 18, 2005. ing led the Spartans to a 584-374-3 record in their years in the league. Miller’s ledger in the CIAA includes 17 confer- Early in Miller’s tenure, he was confronted with many chal- ence championships, including seven in a row from 1987- lenges, the biggest one being the hiring of a football coach. 93; 12 post-season appearances; 15 CIAA Coach of the Year Miller and his search committee worked during the Christ- awards; six All-Americans and 22 players signed to pro con- mas and New Year’s holidays to find a football coach. The tracts. He also won the 1980 NAIA District 19 Coach of the hard work paid off when the decision was made to hire Pete Year award after his team won the District 19 title. Adrian from Bethune-Cookman College. With approval of then-President Dr. Marie V. McDemmond, Adrian became In 1997, NSU honored Miller by building the Marty L. Miller the first white head coach in any major sport at NSU and the Baseball Field. One year later, Miller led NSU to the MEAC second ever in MEAC football history. Tournament championship round in the Spartans’ first year in the league. He was named the MEAC Coach of the Year Shortly thereafter, with help from alumni, fans, friends and in 2000, and NSU reached the championship round again in the Department of Facilities Management, the athletics de- 2001. partment was able to raise funds to renovate and purchase new equipment for the weight room. In 2007, the school The year 2003 was also a special one for Miller. In February, completed a major renovation of the NSU Softball Field, Miller was inducted into the CIAA’s John B. McLendon Hall which included the installation of new team dugouts and a of Fame. In May, Miller earned his 700th career win with the press box. Bleacher renovations to Joseph Echols Hall were Spartans when sixth-seeded NSU upset No. 2 Delaware completed for the 2008-09 basketball season. State in the MEAC tournament. In August, Miller the player was honored as one of eight inductees into the Norfolk State Another highlight of his tenure as athletics director includes University Athletics Foundation Sports Hall of Fame. NSU capturing the last four Talmadge Layman Hill awards, given annually to the top men’s sports program in the con- Miller, a native of Danville, Va., also serves on the Norfolk ference. NSU received $25,000 for winning each award. Sports Club Board of Directors and is a board member of Miller was also presented in March 2006 with the Tom Fer- the First Tee of Hampton Roads YMCA. He and his wife Liz gusson Memorial Award, given annually to the area’s top have one son, Marty Eric, a former NSU outfielder. sportsman by the Norfolk Sports Club.

NORFOLK STATE UNIVERSITY | 2008-09 BASKETBALL MEDIA GUIDE 51 NSU ATHLETICS HIGHTLIGHTS

NSU Athletics Three-Year Highlights (2005-Present)

The Norfolk State University Athletics program has experienced The following is a list of accomplishments and unprecedented success at the NCAA Division I level during the past improvements the NSU Athletics program has three years (2005-08). This period of progress has been highlighted experienced since 2005. by improvements and upgrades in virtually every area critical to transforming NSU Athletics into a highly competitive program that will consistently challenge for Mid-Eastern Athletic Conference (MEAC) and NCAA Division I championships.

The catalyst for these advancements has been Marty Miller, who was appointed athletics director at NSU in December 2004. Miller believes that the mission of the athletics program is as an extension of the mission of Norfolk State University. He places an emphasis on areas that impact the welfare of student-athletes. Improving graduation rates, gender equity, and the retention of student-athletes are equally, if not more important, than winning conference and national championships. However, the effectiveness of the programs and initiatives designed to enhance the student-ath- lete experience and improve the overall administrative process, are directly related to the success the teams and individual athletes have achieved since 2005. Sherie Cornish (Asst. AD/Business Operations), Alisha Tucker (Asst. AD/ Compliance) and Jacqueline Nicholson (Academic Counseling) were hired to meet the The graduation rate for NSU student-athletes has department’s increasing demands in their respective areas. increased 15% over the last three years.

A host of new head coaches joined the staff signaling new ACADEMICS beginnings in several sports. They included (Football), Claudell Clark (Baseball), Anthony Evans (Men’s Basketball), Jen- • Had 31 student-athletes (sophomores or higher) named nifer Fry (Volleyball), Kary Kankey (Softball), Wilhelmenia Harri- to MEAC All-Academic team (min. GPA: 3.0) in 2004-05 son (Bowling), and Tara Owens (Women’s Basketball). • Had 36 student-athletes (sophomores or higher) named Kenneth Giles (Men’s Track) and Ronda Berard (Women’s Track) to MEAC All-Academic team (min. GPA: 3.0) in 2005-06 were promoted from interim to full-time head coaches in their • Had 34 student-athletes (sophomores or higher) named respective sports. to MEAC All-Academic team (min. GPA: 3.0) in 2006-07 • Had 42 student-athletes (sophomores or higher) named Giles’ cross country and track teams have dominated the MEAC. to MEAC All-Academic team (min. GPA: 3.0) in 2007-08 Adrian, who captured several coach of the year honors in 2007, has • Had 63 student-athletes earn honor roll status in fall 2007 orchestrated the steady progress of the football team, which came • Increased student-athlete graduation success within a game of capturing its first MEAC title. Evans capped his rate from 40% to 55% first season with co-MEAC Coach of the Year honors while guiding • David Kemboi was one of 50 student-athletes nationwide the Spartans to their best finish in the MEAC and Division I. Kankey named to the 2006-07 Division I Men’s Cross Country and Clark led their teams to runners-up finishes at the MEAC All-Academic team as selected by the United States Track Championships in their respective sports while Fry’s volleyball team and Field and Cross Country Coaches Association advanced to the MEAC Volleyball Tournament in her inaugural (USTFCCCA) season. It was the team’s first appearance at the MEAC Championship since 2004. Harrison guided the bowling team to its Administrative first MEAC Championship semifinal. • Hired full-time assistant sports information director (Jan. 2007) The accomplishments of NSU student-athletes in the classroom • Hired full-time athletics academic coordinator since 2005 have been equally impressive. More than 30 student- (March 2008) athletes are annually named to the MEAC Commissioner’s • Developed comprehensive gender-equity and All-Academic Team. catastrophic incident guideline plans • Hired a full-time strength and conditioning coach (August 2008)

52 NORFOLK STATE UNIVERSITY | 2008-09 BASKETBALL MEDIA GUIDE NSU ATHLETICS HIGHTLIGHTS

Football • Matched 2005 and 2006 win total (8-14) in 2007 with a record of (8-3) • Record 10 NSU players named All-MEAC in 2007 • Pete Adrian named NSU’s first MEAC Football Coach of the Year in 2007 • Earned school’s first-ever national FCS/I-AA ranking in 2007, reaching as high as 23rd

Football Attendance • Ranked 20th in Division I FCS (I-AA) in 2005 • Ranked 23rd in Division I FCS (I-AA) in 2006 • Ranked 7th in Division I FCS (I-AA) in 2007 The NSU Softball Field was renovated in 2007 • Had the 2nd and 3rd-largest crowds in Stadium to add new dugouts and a press box, one of history in 2007: vs. Hampton (27,756) several recent facilities upgrades. and vs. Virginia State (26,970) • Set a stadium record in average attendance in 2007 (17,220 average for 6 games) Facilities • Completed softball field renovations in 2007-08, including Men’s Basketball construction of a press box, dugouts and restrooms • Renovated weight room in Gill Gymnasium in 2005, increasing • Won 16 games in 2007-08, a 5-win improvement size of existing room and purchasing new equipment over the previous year • Completed refurbishing of women’s sports locker rooms • Finished 2007-08 with program’s first overall in Gill Gymnasium winning record (16-15) since 1998-99 • Replaced the outfield wall at the Marty L. Miller Baseball Field • Renovating the Joseph G. Echols Memorial Hall basketball arena (August 2008)

The NSU men’s track and field team has won a total of six MEAC championships the last three years. Program Awards Men’s Cross Country • Won the last 4 MEAC Men’s All-Sports Awards • Won MEAC championships in 2005 and (Talmadge Layman Hill Award) and earned the NSU Athletics 2006, extending its conference record Department $100,000 from 2005-2008. to seven straight titles • Had the baseball, men’s basketball and football teams all post • Sent a runner to the NCAA Division I winning records in 2007-08 for the first time in the Division I era National Cross Country Championship for the first time in school and MEAC history in 2006 (David Kemboi)

Track & Field • Became first MEAC men’s track program to win both the indoor and outdoor David Kemboi was an all-region cross country runner conference championships who also was named an academic All-American in 2006. for three consecutive academic years (2006-08)

NORFOLK STATE UNIVERSITY | 2008-09 BASKETBALL MEDIA GUIDE 53 ATHLETICS ADMINISTRATION

Craig Cotton Mitch Callis She was a four-year letterwinner and was team captain her final three seasons. Mitch Callis is in his 24th year as Craig Cotton is in his eighth year A native of Severna Park, Md., Cornish earned her bach- assistant athletics director for sports as associate athletics director for ex- elor’s degree in sports administration from Morgan State in medicine at Norfolk State University. ternal operations. He is also in his fifth 2002 and her master’s in sports management from Temple One of the leading practitioners in the year as executive director of the NSU in 2004. Athletics Foundation. Cotton joined field of sports medicine in Hampton Roads, Callis is known both regionally the NSU athletics staff after serving as Dr. Delanyard Robinson marketing manager at Howard and nationally for his outstanding con- University. tributions to the field of sports Dr. Delanyard Robinson is in his Cotton’s primary duties at NSU in- medicine. 16th year as faculty athletic represen- clude developing and managing marketing and public rela- Prior to accepting his position at Norfolk State, Callis was tative for the Norfolk State Athletics tions projects with particular focus on the “Team Spartan an athletic trainer for the Major League Baseball’s Philadel- Department. Robinson is also a pro- Corporate Partners Program,” a comprehensive sports mar- phia Phillies franchise. During the fall of 1983, Callis served fessor in the Psychology Department keting initiative designed to attract corporate sponsorship as head athletic trainer for the Phillies’ Florida Instructional at Norfolk State. and funding for the athletics program. League Team in Clearwater. Robinson is a native of Bessemer, Previously, Cotton worked for seven years in the Callis has also served as a graduate assistant at the Col- Ala. He earned a bachelor’s degree in Delaware State University Public Relations Office. He ar- lege of William & Mary and at Old Dominion University. social sciences in 1965 at Tuskegee In- rived at the Dover, Del.-based institution in 1992 and served A native of South Hill, Va., Callis received his bachelor’s stitute, where he as a four-year letterwinner in football. as sports information director for two years before his ap- degree from Radford University. He earned his master’s de- Robinson received his master’s degree in experimental psy- pointment as the university’s director of public relations and gree in sports medicine from Old Dominion. chology from St. Mary’s College (Tex.) in 1971, and in 1980 marketing in 1994. Callis and his wife, Sharon, are the parents of five chil- he received his doctorate in clinical psychology from Rut- From 1988-1992, Cotton was associate director of sports dren: Michelle, Scott, Jordan, Taylor and Justine. gers University. information at Temple University. He worked for seven years Dr. Robinson and his wife, Barbara, have two sons, Roby (1981-1988) as sports information director and administra- Alisha Tucker and Michael. tive assistant to the director of intercollegiate athletics at the Alisha Tucker is in her third year as University of Maryland-Eastern Shore. assistant athletic director for compli- Matt Michalec Cotton was also was a press operations manager for the ance at Norfolk State. Previously, she Matt Michalec is in his sixth full United States Olympic Committee (USOC) at the 1996 Sum- served as the athletics eligibility spe- year as sports information director at mer Games in Atlanta, Ga.; 1995 Pan American Games in cialist and curriculum coordinator at NSU. He is in charge of coordinating Mar del Plata, Argentina; and the 1994 U.S. Olympic Festi- Marshall University from 2005-06. media relations efforts for all 15 of val in St. Louis, Mo. Tucker began her career as an as- NSU’s athletics programs. His duties Cotton is a native of Greensboro, N.C., and a 1980 grad- sistant compliance coordinator at include the production of press uate of North Carolina A&T State University, where he Michigan State University from 2001- guides, fielding media requests, keep- earned a bachelor’s degree in English-mass communica- 02, and then earned a promotion to compliance coordinator ing statistics at all home athletic con- tions. He received the M.Ed. degree at Temple at MSU in 2003. Tucker also worked as director of compli- tests, and maintaining the university University in 1995. ance at Villanova from November 2003 to June 2004, then athletics web site. In 2006, he was named the Black College Cotton and his wife, Cynthia, reside in Norfolk, Va. was assistant athletics director for compliance at the Uni- Baseball SID of the Year. versity of Richmond from June 2004-January 2005. Previously, Michalec worked for two years as a part-time Dr. Emma R. Best Tucker earned her bachelor’s degree in English literature sports reporter and editorial assistant at the Daily Press Dr. Emma R. Best is in her 10th and composition from the University of Virginia in 1996. She newspaper in Newport News, Va. year as associate athletics director for earned her master’s in sports management from Old Do- Michalec graduated magna cum laude with a bachelor’s internal operations at NSU. Her duties minion University in 2001. degree in English and a minor in communications from Old include managing the budget, over- A Hampton native, Tucker was a track and field athlete at Dominion University in 2002. He served as sports editor for seeing facilities and equipment and Hampton High School. She was also a sprinter and hurdler ODU’s student newspaper during his time there. He got his assisting coaches with administrative on the U.Va. track team. Tucker was also the liaison be- professional start by working for two years as a sportswriter responsibilities. She is also entering tween the student-government and the athletics department at the York Town Crier and Poquoson Post newspapers in her second year as the department’s serving on various committees. She is also a member of York County, Va. Senior Woman Administrator (SWA). Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Inc., and currently resides Michalec and his wife, Annie, live in Newport News and Prior to coming to NSU, Best served for 28 years in var- in Hampton. have one son, Brandon. ious capacities at the University of District of Columbia. From 1986 to 1988, she was interim athletics director. Her duties Sherie Cornish Karen M. Carty included budgeting, event and facility management, and Sherie Cornish is in her third year Karen M. Carty is in her second team scheduling. Best was also assistant professor in the as the assistant athletics director for full year as assistant sports informa- Department of Health, Physical Education and Leisure Stud- business operations at NSU. Previ- tion director. Previously, she worked ies, and was even head volleyball coach during her tenure ously, Cornish worked as the senior on a part-time basis in the NSU sports at UDC. administrative assistant in the Ameri- information office for two years. Her Dr. Best is a past president and treasurer of the National can University athletics department primary duties include assisting in the Athletics Steering Committee and past chair of the NCAA during the summer and fall of 2005. day-to-day operations of the sports in- Women’s Committee on Committees. She also served two Cornish also served as an athlet- formation office, the publication of terms on the NCAA Minority Opportunities and Interest Com- ics department intern at the University media guides, and the coordination of mittee and NCAA Professional Sports Liaison Committee. of Maryland in 2004-05 and as an assistant women’s bas- game day operations with an emphasis on the women’s bas- She also served on the NCAA Division II South Atlantic Re- ketball coach and recruiting coordinator at her alma mater, ketball, women’s cross country, women’s indoor and outdoor gion Men’s basketball selection committee from 1987-1990. Morgan State University, during the 2003-04 school year. track, volleyball and softball programs. A native of Valdosta, Ga., Best earned her bachelor’s de- Cornish currently serves on the National Association of Carty graduated summa cum laude with a bachelor’s de- gree in health and physical education from Fort Valley State Collegiate Women Athletic Administrators (NACWAA) Spon- gree in general business with an emphasis in marketing from University in Fort Valley, Ga., and her master’s degree in sorship Committee and the College Athletic Business Man- NSU in 2004. She was a member of the women’s tennis physical education from Indiana University in Bloomington, agement Association (CABMA) Program Committee. team and was named to the 2004 MEAC Commissioner’s Ind. Best earned her doctorate in educational administration Cornish was an accomplished basketball player at Mor- All-Academic team. She is also a lifetime member of Golden from American University in Washington, D.C. gan State, where she scored more than 1,000 career points. Key International Honour Society and Beta Gamma Sigma,

54 NORFOLK STATE UNIVERSITY | 2008-09 BASKETBALL MEDIA GUIDE ATHLETICS ADMINISTRATION an honor society for business majors. Warren, whose teams have won more than 80 percent Reese Bridgman The St. Croix, U.S.V.I. native is currently pursuing her of their matches and boast the highest grade-point average Reese Bridgman is in his first year as master’s degree in sports management through the dis- of NSU’s athletic programs, also holds a master’s degree in the Spartans’ strength and condition- tance-learning program at the United States Sports Acad- administration from NSU. ing coach. Bridgman will oversee the emy in Daphne, Ala. strength and conditioning efforts for all William Wright 15 of NSU’s sports programs. Shirley Whitaker William Wright is in his sixth year Bridgman previously served as the Shirley Whitaker, Administrative as the head equipment manager at strength and conditioning coach for the and Program Specialist III, has been NSU. Previously, Wright worked as a Newport News Apprentice School’s a part of the NSU Athletics Depart- parking supervisor in NSU’s Office of football program from 2005-07. He was ment for more than 30 years. Parking and Transportation. He has also the Builders defensive coordinator in 2007 after coach- Whitaker, who joined the athletics de- also served as a security officer at ing the defensive line in 2005 and 2006. partment in 1971, began working with NSU. Before moving to the Hampton Roads area, Bridgman was the department under then-athletics di- A native of Portsmouth, Wright let- the head strength and conditioning coach for the University rector William Archie. Since then she tered in football, basketball and track at of Central Florida from 1997-2003. Bridgman helped train has assisted succeeding athletics di- NSU in the early 1980s. He was a member of the 1984 CIAA 20 UCF football players who went on to make active NFL rectors , William “Dick” Price, Orby Moss and championship football team. rosters, including the likes of Daunte Culpepper, Asante the department’s current director, Marty Miller. Wright earned his bachelor’s degree in interdisciplinary Samuel, Travis Fisher, Atari Bigby, Steve Edwards, Bran- Whitaker’s duties cover a variety of specialized areas to studies and a minor in physical education in 1995. He is cur- don Marshall and Rashad Jeanty. Other top-notch ath- include administrative, technical and compliance support for rently pursuing his master’s in administration. letes he helped tutor at UCF include Major League pitcher the athletics department. Wright has four daughters, Chiquita, Nikeya, Britney and Mike Maroth. Whitaker is a native of Newport News, Va., and a 1971 Ashley, and a son, Arial; and one granddaughter, Kyra. Along with his strength and conditioning expertise, Bridg- graduate of NSU, where she received a bachelor’s degree man has an extensive background as a football coach at the in business education. She earned a master’s degree at Jacqueline Nicholson high school, college and professional levels. Bridgman NSU in urban affairs with an emphasis in human resources, coached two seasons in the Arena Football League. He Jacqueline Nicholson is in her first planning and administration. coached linemen and was the strength coach for the year as the athletics academic coordi- Orlando Predators in their ArenaBowl runner-up season of nator at NSU. Nicholson’s responsibil- 1995. The following year, he worked in the same ca- ities include advising all NSU pacity for the Milwaukee Mustangs (now defunct). Shirley Brooks student-athletes on issues of NCAA Bridgman’s one stint as a head football coach came at Shirley Brooks is in her ninth year eligibility requirements and monitoring East Central Community College in his home state of Mis- as the football administrative assistant progress toward their degrees. Nichol- sissippi from 1992-94. He has also worked as an assistant for the NSU athletics department. son is also in charge of coordinating football coach at NAIA Georgia Southwestern College and at Brooks oversees all administrative of the academic support efforts for each a pair of Division II schools, Southeast Oklahoma State and the program, including coordinating team along with the academic enhancement counselors. East Texas State (now known as Texas A&M-Commerce). special events, player files and main- Previously, Nicholson worked as an academic coordina- He also was men’s track coach during his tenure at South- taining the recruiting database. tor intern at Virginia Tech during the 2007-08 school year, eastern Oklahoma State. A native of Hertford, N.C., Brooks assisting with the Hokies football team. She also served as Bridgman, a native of Tylertown, Miss., got his foot- has three children: Derek, Dietrich and a graduate assistant in the university academic advising cen- ball coaching start at Hattiesburg (Miss.) Prep in 1983. Verletita. She is currently working toward her degree in ter at Virginia Tech from 2005-07. Bridgman, 46, received his bachelor’s degree in ath- tourism and hospitality management at Norfolk State. A native of Clayton, N.J., Nicholson was a four-year let- letic administration and coaching from the University of terwinner for the Hokies track and field team as a sprinter Southern Mississippi in 1985. He earned his master’s in and hurdler. She was a member of the Virginia Tech all-aca- Meghan Antinarelli physical education with an emphasis in exercise physiology demic team and athletics director’s honor roll. She earned Meghan Antinarelli is in her from East Texas State (Texas A&M-Commerce) in 1986. her bachelor’s degree in human development in 2005 and eighth year as an athletics trainer at Bridgman is certified through the National Strength her master’s in educational leadership in 2007, both from NSU. Antinarelli, who is originally from and Conditioning Association, the Collegiate Strength Virginia Tech. Wellesley, Mass., received her bache- and Conditioning Coaches Association, and the Na- lor’s degree in health and physical ed- tional Association of Speed and Explosion. He and his wife, ucation from the University of Nate Bell Kelly, reside in Chesapeake. Massachusetts in 1998. She received Nate Bell is in his 13th year as assis- her master’s degree in athletic training tant equipment manager for the Nor- at Old Dominion University in 2001. folk State University athletics She and her husband, Joseph, live in Suffolk and have one department. A native of Norfolk, Va., son, Nicholas. Bell is a 1994 graduate of Maury High School, were he lettered in football, and wrestling. Bell and his wife, Nathaniel Warren Jeanette, reside in Norfolk. Nathaniel Warren is in his eighth year as facilities coordinator at Norfolk State. Warren, who earned a bache- lor’s degree in health, physical educa- tion and safety from NSU in 1969, also serves as head men’s and women’s tennis coach. He is responsible for starting the men’s tennis program in the 1992-93 season and the women’s in 1994-95.

NORFOLK STATE UNIVERSITY | 2008-09 BASKETBALL MEDIA GUIDE 55 JOSEPH G. ECHOLS HALL

Joseph G. Echols Hall has served as Norfolk State’s bas- ketball arena, primary athletics facility and the home for the school’s Army Reserve Officer Training Corps since it opened its doors in November 1982. It has a seating capacity of 7,000 people, making it the second-largest in capacity among Mid-Eastern Athletic Con- ference teams. Echols Hall also serves as the home for NSU women’s volleyball contests. The building was named after the late Joseph Echols, who dedi- cated more than 20 years to the advancement of athletics, health and physical education at NSU.

A native of Englewood, N.J., Echols was a multi-sport standout at both St. Cecelia High School and Virginia State University before beginning a professional baseball career with the Newark Eagles. After that, Echols served in the Air Force, where he reached the rank of First Lieutenant. In 1955, Echols came as an instructor to the Norfolk Division of Vir- ginia State College (now NSU), where he later helped pioneer the development of an overall athletic program at the school. It was his foresight that led to the creation of varsity sports in baseball, track and field, wrestling, swimming, tennis and golf.

During his illustrious career, Echols served as an official in the CIAA, the Virginia Interscholastic Association and the Virginia High School League, and also as commissioner of the Hampton Roads Board of Officials. He was eventually named president of the International Association of Approved Basketball Officials, and later was in- ducted into the NSU Athletics Foundation Sports Hall of Fame.

56 NORFOLK STATE UNIVERSITY | 2008-09 BASKETBALL MEDIA GUIDE SPORTS MEDICINE/STRENGTH AND CONITIONING

SPORTS MEDICINE Under the direction of Mitch Callis, Assistant Athletic Director for Sports Medicine, the Norfolk State University Sports Medicine program provides athletic training services to more than 200 Spartan student-athletes. Callis is one of the leading practitioners in the field of sports medicine in Hampton Roads, and is known both regionally and nationally for his outstanding contributions to the field of sports medicine. The NSU Sports Medicine Center is located adjacent to Gill Gym- nasium. The 3,000 square foot facility has 10 training tables, an office, and a wide variety of rehabilitative equipment and therapeutic modalities. Callis oversees a staff of one full-time and one part-time certified athletic trainer, as well as four certified graduate assistants. As many as three of his student trainers have gone on to work with him full-time and many more have gone on to excel in the field of sports medicine. Some of the other medical professionals that work with the sports medicine program are team chiropractor Dr. Morgan Joe, nurse practitioner Ruby Haynes, orthopedic surgeon Dr. Larry Schall, and William Penn, certified athletic trainer.

Spartan student-athletes also have access to athletic training services in the training room located in Echols Hall. The room is mainly used for the women’s volleyball team and the men’s and women’s basketball teams, and offers student-athletes basic “The main goal of the NSU Sports Medicine program is to deliver treatment services. state-of-the-art sports medicine care to the student-athletes,” says Callis. “One very important factor to our program’s success has The sports medicine program provides pre-practice preparation, been the cooperation of all of the people involved with our treatment, and rehabilitation of injured student-athletes on a student-athletes.” daily basis.

STRENGTH AND CONDITIONING The goal of Norfolk State University’s strength and conditioning pro- gram is to better prepare all of NSU’s 200-plus student-athletes for competition by teaching proper exercise techniques and nutrition habits. All Spartan athletes have access to the NSU weight room, which is located on the second floor of Gill Gymnasium. Norfolk State University completed a renovation to its weight room during the summer of 2005. More than $22,000 was donated to expand the existing weight room and purchase new weight equipment. The funds were contributed by more than a dozen alumni associa- tions, alumni and supporters. The project added approximately 20 feet in length and 33 feet in width onto the original room. In addition, the money helped purchase new power racks, platforms, bars, benches, weight, and more.

“This is going to help our student-athletes become more competitive,” NSU Athletics Director Marty Miller said. “I think this is just the beginning of the type of cooperation we’re getting from our fans.” “This was one of the first projects we wanted to undertake,” said NSU football coach Pete Adrian, who helped raise the funds along with many others. “We have a very nice-looking, much safer environment where all the athletes at Norfolk State can work. The community responded to us, so that’s a great indication of their commitment to the program.”

NORFOLK STATE UNIVERSITY | 2008-09 BASKETBALL MEDIA GUIDE 57 SPARTAN TRADITIONS

Why “Spartans”?

Norfolk State’s athletic teams weren’t always known as the Spartans. The school was at one time the Norfolk Division of Virginia State Col- lege’s system and was nicknamed “Little State.” The athletic teams were known as the “Baby Trojans,” derived from Virginia State’s nick- name. By 1952, school president Dr. Lyman Beecher Brooks and his administration realized that the Norfolk Division would eventually eclipse the mother institution. They began the process of establishing a new identity for the school by changing the nickname from Baby Tro- jans to Spartans. In Greek mythology, the Spartans were a warlike peo- ple who were traditional enemies of the Trojans. When the Norfolk Division achieved its independence in 1969, the Green Bay Packers were the dominant football team, leading the school to adopt its cur- rent colors, green and gold.

NSU Fight Song Alma Mater Say Hey! Words and music by For the victory that’s sure to be Dr. Carl W. Haywood (1971) For NSU we’re here to fight. And we will fight for By Virginia’s golden shore, The Green & Gold, our Alma Mater There’s a place that we adore We pledge our loyalty. Where Norfolk’s sun shines bright Say Hey! (Hey!) Down on our campus site. For the Victory! The walls of Brown Hall Say Hey! Hey! Hey! Will always give a call For NSU we’ll fight, fight team To all striving to succeed, Fight on to victory Forging onward bound to lead. For N-S-U. Though the years we spend are few, You will teach us what to do. In splendor we’ll relive The glorious time you give. We’ll wave the green and gold To praise thee a thousand-fold. A guiding light to us you’ve been Unwav’ring to the end

Chorus Oh, Norfolk State we love you. Oh, Norfolk State we’ll always be true. And when we leave we’ll shed a tear, For to us you’ve been so dear. And leaving shed a joyful tear For our Alma Mater dear.

58 NORFOLK STATE UNIVERSITY | 2008-09 BASKETBALL MEDIA GUIDE NSU ATHLETICS FOUNDATION Norfolk State University Athletics Foundation

A BRIEF OVERVIEW Founded in 1980, the mission of the NSU Athletics Foundation is to provide funding to Total Sports - 15 the NSU Athletics program that will enable student-athletes to achieve excellence in both academics and athletics. Additionally, the NSUAF will support overall Women’s Sports Basketball program enhancement including funding for scholarships, facility improvements, Bowling equipment, and services and programs that promote a high-quality intercollegiate Cross Country athletics program. Indoor Track & Field Outdoor Track & Field Norfolk State University’s proud legacy of achievement in intercollegiate athletics Softball began at the NCAA Division II level as a member of the Central Intercollegiate Tennis Athletic Association (CIAA). NSU was one of the league’s most dominant pro- Volleyball grams, winning championships in each sport. Men’s Sports In 1997, NSU was admitted into the Mid-Eastern Athletic Conference (MEAC) – Baseball one of only two NCAA Division I conferences comprised of historically black Basketball colleges and universities. Other conference members include: Bethune-Cookman Cross Country University, Coppin State University, Delaware State University, Florida A&M Football University, Hampton University, Howard University, University of Maryland-Eastern Indoor Track & Field Shore, Morgan State University, North Carolina A&T State University, South Outdoor Track & Field Carolina State University and Winston-Salem State University. Tennis

NSU made an immediate impression within the conference in 2000-01 when the Spartans won the Talmadge Hill Award - presented annually to the member institution whose men’s teams compile the most points based on team finishes in NORFOLK STATE UNIVERSITY conference play. ATHLETICS FOUNDATION

The Spartans won the Talmadge Hill Award again each year from 2005-08. In all, BOARD OF DIRECTORS NSU has won conference titles in men’s and women’s track, men’s cross country Fran Steward, President and women’s basketball during its brief tenure in the MEAC. Mervin Pitchford, Vice President Phillip Brooks, Treasurer Why Support Norfolk State University Athletics? Craig Cotton, Executive Director • NSU competes at the nation’s highest level of intercollegiate athletics Marty Miller, Athletics Director competition – National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) Division I - and is a member of the Mid-Eastern Athletic Conference (MEAC). Robert Boyd Edward L. Brown Sr.* • The need to increase funding for scholarships for deserving student-athletes Jacob L. Cheeks motivated by achievement both in athletics and academics. Randy Forrest • Improvements and maintenance of equipment and facilities that will enable Harold Hagans NSU student-athletes to perform at their full potential. John Hornbeck • A competitive athletics program of the highest quality is consistent with the * institution’s mission of “Achieving With Excellence.” Langston Powell • A competitive athletics program contributes to the enjoyment of the William "Dick" Price student-athlete experience. Zackery Rodgers James Satterfield* Donna Sample Smith John Warren

* - Emeritus

NORFOLK STATE UNIVERSITY | 2008-09 BASKETBALL MEDIA GUIDE 59 MILLION DOLLAR CLUB

NSU Athletics Foundation Echols Hall, Room 161 • 700 Park Avenue • Norfolk, VA 23504 Contact: Marty Miller, NSU Athletics Director Telephone: (757) 823-9539/Tax: 823-2566 • Email: [email protected]

60 NORFOLK STATE UNIVERSITY | 2008-09 BASKETBALL MEDIA GUIDE