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Compass Fall 2004

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INSIDE 4 Hola, Equador 8 Remembering Bob 14 International Garden emerging

A quarterly publication of Armstrong Atlantic State University Profile in Leadership James Anderson

airline tickets, it didn’t In 1999, Anderson and interim cost Armstrong any- AASU president Frank Butler flew to thing,” Anderson recalls Argentina to meet the Chase Founda- proudly. tion president, Duncan Chase. Within hours of their first meeting, the men The trips started small had mapped out an exchange for the and grew continually. next summer involving a visit by In 1989 Anderson AASU jazz musicians to work with organized jazz concerts students and musicians in the Prov- on’t cry for Jim Anderson. in Colombia with fellow AASU ince of Cordoba. He plays the piano and clarinet. musician Randall Reese and two D He’s a music educator. And, well-known Savannahians, Ben In 2001 Anderson succeeded Adams through a series of serendipitous Tucker and Teddy Adams. The next as special assistant to the vice presi- meetings, he practically commutes year, he returned to Colombia with dent for international education. to Argentina. 14 musicians. “Those experiences Anderson credits Adams for his opened doors,” Anderson said. support in providing funds for his With a doctorate in music education early travels and with building a from the University of Texas-Austin, At this time, the few international strong foundation upon which to the Missourian was just a few years out contacts the college had were prima- expand the program. of college when he became director of rily through London trips arranged by bands at Louisiana College. He the late Roger Warlick, former head of He started his new job by taking a couldn’t know when he took a group the Department of History. personal study abroad trip. He and his of students on a three-week tour of wife, Carol, spent a month in Europe that he was foreshadowing a When the Republic of Georgia Cordoba, Argentina, living with radical change in his career. invited the City of Savannah to Chase and his wife, Susan, immersing discuss cultural exchanges, Anderson themselves in the Spanish language. In 1985 he came to Armstrong State took part in the Tbilisi talks that led College as head of the art and music to a sister city relationship between With an introduction from Chase, department. Under his leadership, Savannah and the Georgian seacoast the Andersons spent a few days with theater was added in 1998. city of Batumi. The arrangement a family in the small town of Marcos brought 15 European students to Juarez. Anderson recalls, “On a cold Then he met Lucho Pacini, a Colom- Armstrong for a summer arts camp. summer Sunday in July, I visited bian living in Hilton Head. Pacini the community band building. became a mentor, teaching Anderson By now, Anderson was working with The musicians eyed me suspiciously, how to set up cultural exchanges, plan Joseph Adams, his predecessor in the until one mentioned he would like to complex itineraries, cultivate con- Office of International Education, to have the sheet music for Pomp and tacts, and raise money. In the late actively seek out and develop new Circumstance.” ’80s, Anderson arranged five ex- opportunities for students. The mid- continued on page 15 changes in two-and-a-half years. ’90s saw a flurry of trips building on “With grants and free and reduced his earlier contacts in Argentina.

Profile in Leadership seeks members of the Armstrong Atlantic community who have demonstrated effective leadership skills, broadly defined. Those recognized must be knowledgeable, thoughtful, and will have demonstrated the ability to put leadership values into practice. Compass especially seeks to identify unsung heroes among AASU students, faculty, staff, administrators, alumni, and supporters who have made a positive difference in the community.

To nominate someone, contact Leary Bell, vice president for external affairs, at [email protected] or mail your nomination to: AASU Leadership Initiative, Office of External Affairs, Armstrong Atlantic State University, 11935 Abercorn Street, Savannah, GA 31419.

2 THE WORLD OF International Education According to James Anderson, Bentley has taken three AASU- special assistant to the vice sponsored trips with Michael Hall, an president for international associate professor of history. In 2002, studies, participation during it was to Peru where the group visited the academic year was up the fabled Inca archeological site of 32 percent. One hundred Machu Picchu. In 2003, he returned eighteen AASU students to South America for two-and-a-half attended university-sponsored weeks in Ecuador. Three weeks during summer programs in 11 the summer of 2004 were spent in nations in Europe, Central Brazil. and South America, and the Caribbean. Others studied in In most instances financial help may 10 University System of be available. Some colleges provide Georgia (USG) programs in institutional aid. The Georgia HOPE Europe, Central and South scholarship can be used for course America, Asia, and Australia. credit hours, but not for the cost of transportation and other travel- Some students stay in one city related expenses. living in a hotel, college dormitory, or with a host “While they may be in class four to family. Others, like the five hours a day,” Anderson explained, tudents climb the pyramids of Ecuador group (see page four), may “the rest of the time is spent soaking Mexico. A resident of Shanghai explore a nation from end to end by up the culture. They are learning S displays her calligraphy skills at airplane, bus, boat, and train. about the economy, food, transporta- a campus festival. Teachers visit a tion system, and history.” world-class game preserve in South The time spent abroad also varies. Africa. A student spends his weekends Most programs last two to three exploring the Australian Outback. On weeks, some as long as five or six Community abroad the wind-swept slopes of Ecuador’s weeks. Some are only eight or nine Study Abroad adventures are open to tallest volcano, a Savannah media days long. everyone. Participants have included executive completes an arduous climb. a gardener, school teachers, a dog Derek Bentley, an AASU history sitter, university staff members, and These are all voyagers in the world of major, has made five trips abroad over even a judge. To get involved, one international education at Armstrong the past three summers. In 2002 and must formally enroll in the course, Atlantic. 2003, he spent two weeks studying attend all the required classes, and Spanish in Cuernevaca, Mexico. The finish all of the assignments that may Study abroad first year he stayed in a dormitory, but include completing a reading list, in 2003, he lived in total language book reports, or keeping a journal. Most students participating in the immersion with a Mexican family. Study Abroad program spend two or Derek said the experience of continued on page 10 three weeks during the summer living with a non-English exploring the world. They may study speaking family really helped Spanish in Spain, history in Greece, him polish his skills. education in Belize, nursing in Guyana, art in Ireland, computers in the Czech Republic, or any number of other options.

Front cover: (From top to bottom) Education majors Stacy Haskell, Kim Kirby, and Debra Puckett climb the Mayan Temple in Lamanai, Belize. Above: Art major Kim Massey enjoys a pensive moment at the land’s end in Ireland. At right: Stacy Haskell, an early childhood education major, teaches a weeklong practicum at St. Mary’s Anglican School in Belize City, Belize.

3 a Study Abroad Odyssey

he dinghy closed the mile gap attempt to preserve a small part of rocks—and steeply upward through through the choppy water Ecuador’s slowly vanishing natural high bunch grass and jutting rocks. In T between the cruise ship and history heritage. the cold thin air, at an altitude in the volcanic island in less than 20 excess of 11,000 feet, the hike was minutes. The welcoming committee The lodge is a rustic affair powered by challenging for the group that had left to Isla Isabella included a scampering a constantly running truck. What it Savannah’s muggy sea level two days crew of bright orange Sally lightfoot lacks in amenities, it more than makes before. crabs, a flightless cormorant drying its up for in charm and its dramatic stubby wings in the early morning sun, setting. The rewards, however, were great. and several lethargic sea lions lolling Wild horses grazed among the trees. on the stone path. The essentially undeveloped property The rugged trail took them beside a proved to be a little more “Indiana lovely waterfall. From above the This was the second day of cruising Jones” than some in the group had timberline, they could look across the the Galapagos Islands for 27 Arm- bargained for. Unimproved trails led green valley below and watch the strong Atlantic students and their through the paper trees, across narrow setting sun glinting in shades of rose professor, Michael Hall. Divided into streams on rough log bridges— and gold off the Andean peaks two groups, they made a dry landing sometimes, on just loose logs and beyond. on a spit of rock protruding from the island. The next day, the group piled back on their bus. Each student had an Making their way up the rocky assigned responsibility. For some, grade, past weathered graffiti left by the day started early, collecting seamen of bygone eras, they baggage and loading it onto the bus. climbed the highest peak on the Then came the “water boys,” island for magnificent views of passing out the bottled water Darwin’s Lagoon, several volcanoes, needed to maintain hydration at and Tagus Cove where their ship, high altitudes. the Ambassador I, was anchored. Moving south, they stopped at After a two-week odyssey that took crafts villages and the colorful them from a pristine nature artisans’ marketplace of Otovalo. preserve near the Colombian The students, many bargaining border, trekking through the expertly in Spanish, did their part Avenue of the Volcanoes, to the to support the local economy, Pacific port of Guayaquil, only a hauling off bulging bags of ponchos, few days remained in Ecuador. tapestries, alpaca sweaters, and other regional products. Their journey began at the Polilepis Lodge in the northern highlands. Nathan Brown, an AASU econom- Named for its forest of 200-300 ics major, said, “I found it a whole year-old paper trees, the five acre lot easier to tackle my Spanish class tract was purchased in 2000 by having been to a country where Ferdinand Acosta in one man’s Study Abroad students straddle the hemispheres at the Spanish was the native language.” Mitad del Mundo (Center of the World) monument.

4 As the bus passed between mountain The students spread out across this Accommodations near Baños were at slopes where century plants clung in moonscape. They scrambled up a the sprawling Hacienda Leito. Late profusion, the students made copious steep grassy hill to explore the one evening, the affable host, Don entries in their obligatory journals or Salutera archeological site, a double Carlos Leito, quietly hauled out worked on one of the three required walled Inca fortress dating back to the several wooden fruit baskets and book reports. Their book list included 16th century. began removing the newspaper- Charles Darwin’s The Voyage of the wrapped contents. As casually as Beagle and The Origin of Species. Throughout the trip, the students setting a table, he lined up several Throughout the trip, all were continu- experienced those wonderful interac- rows of priceless pre-Columbian clay ally engaged in these extensive tions with the Ecuadorians that are figurines with origins dating back a writing assignments. not part of any itinerary. En route thousand years. For the rest of the from Cotopaxi to Baños, the bus evening, he left the breathtaking For the second time in as many days, rolled into the tiny Andean village of collection lying unguarded on a they re-crossed the equator into the Patate. A group of pre-teen boys was counter. Southern Hemisphere and the capital enjoying an evening pick-up game of city of Quito with its Old City, a soccer in the town square. Into their At 20,700 feet, Chimborazo is one big World Heritage Site. midst charged two Armstrong rock! From its parking lot, a hardy Atlantic students intent band of about 20 students set out to on joining the game. climb to the shelter at the 16,300 foot The niños toyed with level. At a distance of only 800 feet, the Americans—still in it’s not a particularly long climb need of some latitude except for the cold, wind, and adjustment—by expertly altitude. An hour later, only seven controlling the ball. had completed the climb and four of After a few minutes of them were over 45 years of age. spirited fun, the AASU “hospitality committee” The following day was divided treated the children to between two completely different and gifts of pens and candy. widely separated epochs. In the pre- The exchange will dawn hours, the group boarded its probably long be own private railroad car at Riobamba remembered in Patate as and took the exciting ride through the the night the gringos mountains and around the hairpin Michael Hall delivers a shipboard lecture. came to town. It will curve known as La Nariz del Diablo— certainly be a contact the Devil’s Nose. Most of the students with the “real” Ecuador that the rode—Ecuadorian style—on the roof After a day of exploring the beautiful students will never forget. of the car. plazas and cathedrals of Quito and the Mitad del Mundo equatorial monu- The resort town of Baños was a continued on page 6 ment, it was on to Volcan Cotopaxi. welcome respite from the cold At 12,200 feet, Cotopaxi is the tallest winds of the Limpiobungo active volcano in Ecuador and clearly Plain. Baños, located in visible from the capital. It rises a temperate valley at the majestically, a perfect cone, above the gateway to Ecuador’s Limpiobungo Plain. Amazon basin, is named for the mineral baths fed The plain is a vast, barren dry by Volcan Tunguraha. riverbed strewn with massive volcanic rocks. On the hardscrabble floor of In and around Baños, the plain, delicate yellow and purple the group explored three wild flowers struggle to survive. The towering waterfalls and constant wind blowing across the took a hair-raising plain has stunted the low grasses excursion across the creating a tundra like effect. Fast deep Pastaza River gorge running streams and the low vegeta- on a creaky, ancient tion support bands of wild horses, one cable car. Definitely Jonathan and Lauren L’Hommedieux come face to face with the of which swept past the hikers. an E-ticket ride. iguanas of the Galapagos Islands.

5 Ecuador (continued from page 5) The day ended beneath a rainbow shopping arcades, gardens, play- arching over the misty ruins of grounds, and restaurants. Every few Ingapirca, a 16th century archeologi- yards, large solar collectors trap some cal site. While not as grand as Machu of the energy used to power Malecon Picchu, Ingapirca remains silent enterprises. witness to the territorial reach of the once mighty Incas. Prepared by Hall’s earlier history lesson, the students sought out The Not far from Ingapirca is the colonial Rotunda. The monument features city of Cuenca with its central square, statues of Simon Bolivar and José de colorful flower market, and gem of a San Martín who, in 1822, met nearby museum, the Museo de las Culturas to settle the future and leadership of Aborigines. Ecuador after the ouster of Spain.

Venturing into the hills outside the Guayaquil is the jumping off point for city the students visited two more the flight to Isla Baltra in the crafts villages: Chordeleg, noted for its Galapagos Islands. From the Baltra silver jewelry and Sigsig, renown for waterfront, the students were trans- Selithia Wilson stands at the base of Volcan its Panama hats. At the Association of ported by dinghy to their cruise ship. Cotopaxi. Panama Hat Weavers, a painting on the outside of the building and a Over the next four days there were about their origins during his 1835 shrine in the courtyard depict a Virgin both wet and dry landings on six more sojourn in the archipelago. and Child, each topped off with a of the archipelago’s 17 islands. At first jaunty Panama hat. they appeared alike: barren volcanic Selethia Wilson, an AASU criminal islands, sparsely covered with lava justice major, commented, “The En route to Guayaquil on the coast, cactus and other exotic vegetation, all individuality of the islands and the they descended through cloud forests in dramatic contrast to the deep blue- animals broadened my perception of and passed miles of agricultural fields. green of the Pacific. Later, subtle life.” Hall delivered a lecture on the differences, such as sand color, became economy using the best of all visual apparent. At every opportunity, the students aids as the bus passed between fields of snorkeled in the cold water amidst sugar cane, bananas, cacao, and Most of the animal species live in schools of fish and the occasional coffee. close harmony. Some islands shelter curious sea lion or sea turtle. large colonies of sea lions, or dense The pride of Guayaquil is its Malecon collections of black lava iguanas On Puerto Ayora on Isla Santa Cruz, 2000, a river walk on the west side of crawling over one another’s backs. the ambiance is more like the South the Rio Guayos. It includes monu- From the beaches, one could fleet- Pacific with lush, imported palms and ments, a Moorish clock tower, ingly spy diving penguins and the acacias. The islands’ largest town is heads of giant sea home to Charles Darwin Station turtles. where a concerted effort is being made to preserve the giant Galapagos Led by biologists tortoises. The visitors, somewhat in from the boat, awe of the venerable tortoises living at the students the institute, enjoyed posing for learned about the pictures with them in their pens. differences in the animals— As their last day in the islands waned, tortoises, finches, the students boarded the dinghies and others — shuttling back to the ship, Puerto and how they Ayora silhouetted against the Pacific started Charles sky now streaked in bands of deep Darwin thinking blue, rose, and gold. ᨖ

Nathan Brown gets to know the Galapagos turtles at the Darwin Institute.

6 Students and professors serve Volleyball team in China communities abroad The Great Wall. The Forbidden City. Tiananmen sk English major Chris McCormick what he liked Square. All exotic locales in most about summer school, and you’ll be surprised one of the most ancient and A by his answer. He toured Mexican pyramids at mysterious countries in the Teotihuacan, Cholula, and Cacaxtla. He viewed Ireland’s world: China. Book of Kells and the Neolithic tombs of the Boyne Valley. But the most lasting impression on McCormick came from The Armstrong Atlantic playing with children and hammering nails. As part of his volleyball squad experienced studies abroad, McCormick learned from community it all in July, flying to China service as well as from his college courses. “You learn more for a two-week preseason than you could in any museum,” he said. “It’s hands-on tour. Head coach Alan learning.” Segal’s squad played five scrimmage matches against McCormick’s experience is one example of how the Regents Traci Knuth shows the Chinese teams in Beijing and Global Ambassador Travel Grant provides students with Chinese her own Great Shanghai during the tour. financial assistance for studies abroad. Each participating Leap Forward. university must match University System of Georgia funds. This was the first overseas tour Another stipulation of the grant is that students perform for any AASU squad since the men’s basketball team community service in the countries where they study. took a preseason trip to the French West Indies in 1982.

McCormick participated in two study abroad courses over Eight players represented the Pirates in China, includ- the summer semester. While traveling with Bill Deaver ing 2004 AVCA South Region freshman of the year in May for Spanish classes in Cuernavaca, Mexico— Traci Knuth and All-PBC players Candice Modlinski McCormick volunteered at the Nuestros Pequeños and Darcey Krug. Senior Ashley Lavender, sophomore Hermanos orphanage. “I feel sort of guilty because it didn’t Lauren Good and freshmen Amber Stewart and Stacia feel like work,” McCormick said. “I had so much fun McCoy also represented the Pirates. They were playing with those kids.” accompanied by assistant coach Jen Michael.

During two weeks in June, as a student in Jill Miller’s While in Beijing, the AASU players visited The Great art history class, McCormick helped construct a house Wall, the Forbidden City, the Summer Palace, in Belfast, Northern Ireland, for Habitat for Humanity. Tienemen Square, the Hutong district and the Temple “It’s different from what you see in the rest of Ireland,” of Heaven. It quickly turned out that the Pirates were McCormick said. “They try to take Catholic and Protestant considered a tourist attraction. Everywhere they went, volunteers to work at the same site. These are people who Chinese families and tourists wanted to take pictures may have in the past thrown pipe bombs at each other. with the tall visitors from the United States. To me this was not just any Habitat for Humanity project. We were bridging religious differences.”

McCormick and Miller fact that it was still standing was sobering,” Miller said. also visited the Peace “There’s some healing going on, but it’s still very painful.” Wall, a corrugated metal The two added their inscriptions to the wall. wall constructed to separate Catholics and Inspired by his experience, McCormick said, “We’ve talked Protestants. Over the about getting the Honors Program involved in Habitat for years, citizens of Belfast Humanity (in Savannah). Or even going back to Belfast. have covered the wall with It’s a great cause.” murals and messages of peace. The wall demon- McCormick says the community services activities during strated to them the his studies abroad are “the best thing I’ve ever done.” healing power of art. Chris McCormick (right) takes a Information about the University System of Georgia’s break with his Belfast Habitat for “It reminded you of prison financial assistance programs for studies abroad can be Humanity supervisor, Rab Branney. or the Berlin Wall and the found at www.usg.edu/oie/catalog/scholarships.phtml. ᨖ

7 His vision for Armstrong State underrepresented groups. By the fall of College was of a vibrant urban 1998, 30 percent of the student body institution of higher education with came from minority backgrounds. an atmosphere of open communica- tion, strong faculty governance, and To attract students of exceptional superlative planning and assessment. academic ability, the Honors Program He urged the college on to a level of was reinvigorated. He strengthened growth and recognition. the athletics program to offer addi- tional resources for students. The first erhaps it was the twinkle in his “Dr. Burnett’s extraordinary leadership exchange agreements with foreign eyes. Or maybe it was his warm brought about a transformation of the universities were negotiated, and an P smile and voice. Whatever the institution into a state university widely International Programs Office was chemistry, you always knew that Bob recognized to be of major significance created to encourage students and Burnett was a man who was sincere, within the University System of faculty to study abroad and to assist interested in what you had to say, and Georgia (USG),” said Frank Butler, international scholars during their willing to help if he could. former vice president and interim stay at Armstrong Atlantic. president of AASU and now vice When Robert Adair Burnett died on chancellor for academic, faculty, Joseph Adams, dean of arts and June 19, 2004, at age 70, his distin- and student affairs at the USG. sciences emeritus, remembers, guished career had spanned nearly “A number of faculty and several of 40 years. During Burnett’s presidency, Arm- us who served as administrators strong Atlantic State University’s appreciated the fact that Dr. Burnett Barbara Fertig, an associate professor enrollment more than doubled from helped carve out funds in the univer- of history, remembers Burnett’s 2,500 to nearly 5,700 students, with sity budget to support the (interna- humanity. “I thought of him more as a significant growth in the number of tional) program. He also took a companion in our efforts to educate,” students from outside of Chatham personal interest in its development Fertig said. “Always approachable, County and from historically and growth.” never distant, he seemed to know us all for who we were.”

He began his academic career at Pfeiffer College as an assistant professor of history, then spent 12 years at the University of Louisville, serving in the capacities of assistant professor, associate professor, professor, chairman of the history department, and university ombudsman.

Burnett arrived at Armstrong State College in 1978 as dean of the School of Arts and Sciences and a professor of history. He later progressed to vice president and dean of faculty, and then acting president. In 1984, he was appointed the fifth president of the institution, a position he held until his retirement in 1999. Bob and Mary Burnett.

8 Burnett enjoyed frequent contact “He performed a difficult job during a with students and kept himself keenly difficult time and he performed aware of their needs and concerns. gracefully, fluently, and expressively, As a result, student services were while making the business look like significantly expanded. fun,” said Frank Clancy, an assistant professor of English. “He had a tremendous vision of what this university could be,” said Academic quality was enhanced as Joseph Buck, vice president for admissions standards rose, and student student affairs. “He drove us toward achievement on state, regional, and our goals, ensuring that the most national tests remained well above the important consideration in our minds average. In a rare commendation, the was taking care of the students before Southern Association of Colleges and anything else.” Schools lauded Armstrong Atlantic for its strong faculty governance. His ability to think strategically, Excellent scholars were recruited, and coupled with his keen understanding faculty development became a of the legislative process, led to a priority. marked increase in funding for AASU. The university’s total budget Armstrong Atlantic remained a strong more than quadrupled to $44.7 teaching institution, but research and million, and funding was obtained for scholarship expanded under Burnett’s half-a-million square feet of new guidance, with the total value of academic space. During his tenure, university grant and contract awards the university’s total endowment increasing significantly to $2.1 million skyrocketed from less than $200,000 in 1998. to $5.4 million. “Bob encouraged his academic deans Burnett established an institutional and department heads to be willing to advancement office to oversee compete within the state and outside programs and services in alumni affairs the state with our academic programs,” and development. The number of recalled Emma Simon, formerly head active alumni increased significantly, of the dental hygiene and health and private financial support soared. science programs and dean of the Foundation assets grew from $200,000 School of Graduate Studies emerita. to $2.8 million. At this time, the Above (top to bottom): university received a $1.3 million Burnett took great interest in the 1980s — Burnett joins in at a student dance. 1994 — Burnett, student leader Kelly bequest, the largest gift in AASU physical development of AASU. Swain, and former Senator Sam Nunn talk history. A comprehensive, long-range facili- after graduation. ties master plan was created to guide 1999 — Burnett signs off on the construction The Burnett presidency brought the university’s growth. Under his plans for the Science Center. student computer labs, distance leadership, two new buildings emerged learning programs and facilities, and at AASU: the Sports Center and an infusion of technology across University Hall. In 1998, the univer- President Burnett and his wife, Mary, campus. As the first to integrate a sity received approval for a new each received an Honorary Doctor of fiber optics network in the University science center and student residence Letters at the university’s fall gradua- System of Georgia, the institution complex. tion ceremony, December 14, 2002. became a technological leader. Web- based instruction was introduced and President Burnett and his wife, Mary, He earned a bachelor of arts in hardware and software were upgraded. fostered the ideals of public and economics from Wofford College community service. They served on and a master of arts and Ph.D. in More than 25 academic majors were many nonprofit boards and made the history from the University of developed during Burnett’s presidency. university more responsive to regional North Carolina, Chapel Hill. ᨖ The institution regained autonomy— needs. He founded the Public Service absent for several years— to offer Center in 1991 to help Georgia graduate studies, and several master’s communities identify and resolve level programs were introduced. complex urban and regional issues.

9 Larry Collins: Serving With Distinction ieutenant Colonel Larry Collins has dedicated his During his brief hiatus from military service between 1945 life to serving his country. This decorated veteran and 1950, Collins found his way to Armstrong Junior L has been a leader throughout his military career and College and enrolled as a member of the class of 1947. into retirement. He recently made a most generous gift of However, his first taste of Armstrong came while he was $200,000 to Armstrong Atlantic State University. The gift still a student at Savannah High School. At that time, he will be used to endow the Charles L. and Mary G. Collins escorted his sister to college theater rehearsals at night. Leadership Lecture Series that hopefully will inspire others Famed Armstrong theater instructor Stacy Keach put him to similar service and leadership in their chosen fields. to work as a stagehand in The Importance of Being Earnest, and he became an unofficial student. Collins first experience with military life began when, as a teenager, he enlisted in the Army Air Corps in 1943. He After transferring to the University of Alabama and trained as a bombardier and was discharged just before taking courses there, he finally received his diploma Christmas 1945. He returned to service when he was from Armstrong in 1950. He then continued his commissioned in the Army Engineers in 1950 for duty in education at Alabama which was interrupted by the Korean War. Over the course of the next 40 years, he the Korean War and ultimately received a served in a variety of capacities for the Army. Most notably, bachelor’s degree in physics. he was a pioneer in the field of computer science. Something very important happened to Because of his background in physics, he was sent Colonel Collins while at Armstrong. to the Navy Mine Defense Laboratory at Panama He met his future wife, the former City, FL where he developed an interest in Mary Gnann, who was a member of computers and became a groundbreaking the class of 1949. They were married computer programmer. He created a program for fifty-two years. The lecture series that enabled Navy ships to navigate from their was established in her memory from berths and return with an accuracy of one the sale of a parcel of real estate he meter. He was then sent to Marshall Space donated to the university. The Flight Center where he used his programming lecture series will provide funds for skills to design the countdown and launch software for the speakers to come to campus to speak on a variety of Saturn rocket systems. His software successfully launched leadership topics. 30 Saturn rockets. When asked why he chose Armstrong Atlantic to be the The colonel has remained devoted to the military in his beneficiary of his generosity, he said that he has always “had retirement. He is a member of the American Legion and a soft spot” for this university. Armstrong Atlantic is cer- volunteers assisting fellow veterans. He also served as a tainly honored by his devotion and tremendously grateful member of the Madison County Alabama Military Com- for the wonderful educational opportunity that his endow- mission where he was instrumental in establishing a ment will offer the entire campus community. ᨖ memorial to honor the women veterans from that county.

International Education (continued from page 3) Semester abroad The world comes to AASU Spending a semester abroad is growing increasingly popular. All AASU students are exposed to the foreign students who During 2004, students studied for a semester in Argentina, attend school here. They come from 72 countries and share Australia, England, Estonia, and Japan. Next year, students their culture through campus clubs such as the Interna- will also study in Finland and Hungary. Anderson points tional Students Organization and Hispanic Outreach and out that students who normally live in university housing Leadership at Armstrong, and events like Celebrate AASU would find their overseas experience comparably priced to Day, International Week, and International Night. ᨖ attending school in Savannah plus air fare. “They get to use their HOPE Scholarships for the tuition just as they do at For information about Study Abroad opportunities with the AASU.” Anderson added. University System of Georgia, go to www.usg.edu/oie/catalog, and for Study Abroad opportunities with Armstrong Atlantic State University, go to www.intl.armstrong.edu.

10 ALUMNI SPOTLIGHT The Futrell Family

n the Fall of 2001, Hugh Preston and went to work at Futrell IV became the third Savannah Electric and I generation of Hugh Preston Power Company for 40 Futrells to enter Armstrong Atlantic years until his death in State University. Preston’s father and 1990. grandfather both preceded him in 1948 and 1978, and young Preston Bonnie Futrell attended decided to follow Armstrong State College the family (ASC) during the 1970s, tradition. but left to marry Hugh Preston, however, III and raise a family. is the third Seventeen years later, generation— when her fifth child twice over. His entered elementary mother, Bonnie school, Bonnie returned Dismukes Futrell to earn her bachelor’s and her father degree in history with a Hugh Preston James Alfred minor in historical Futrell, Jr. Dismukes also archaeology. She was Left to right from top: Bonnie Bartell Dismukes Futrell, graduated from awarded the Phi Alpha Hugh Preston Futrell III, Carmel Futrell, Preston Futrell IV, Armstrong. In Theta award for the Amanda Futrell, Victoria Futrell, and Lillian Futrell. fact, grandfather highest average in Futrell and history and was in demand as a A chemistry major, Preston is a grandfather teacher of archaeology to middle member of Kappa Sigma fraternity Dismukes both school students. and a U.S. Coast Guard reservist. graduated in the Amanda is a physical education major class of 1948. For 27 years, Hugh III has applied his with a desire to teach young children. ASC college background in biology, Carmel, a national storytelling The grandfathers chemistry, and health sciences to work champion, participated in early James Alfred left a strong as a firefighting professional. He enrollment at AASU while in high Dismukes academic legacy travels the U.S. teaching hazardous school and is leaning toward a career for their grandchildren to follow. materials chemistry for the National in the pharmaceutical industry. After serving in World War II, Hugh, Fire Academy, earned nationally Jr. attended Armstrong Junior College registered EMT-intermediate status, The two youngest Futrell sisters, Lily (AJC) on the GI Bill. He graduated serves as current president of the and Tori, excel in high school soccer, on the permanent deans list and Georgia Association of Fire Chiefs, softball, and academics. Lily takes applied to Emory Law School. and is the assistant chief of the advanced placement courses at HVJ Because of Armstrong’s strong Southside Fire Department. and will become a joint enrollment academic reputation, he was accepted student at the university next year. into law school with only an The five Futrell siblings of the latest Lily and Tori both hope to continue associate’s degree, graduating from generation have all taken their dual their sports careers at Armstrong Emory in 1950. He was a prominent legacies seriously. At Herschel V. Atlantic. ᨖ practicing attorney in Savannah for Jenkins High School (HVJ), all five 46 years until his death in 1996. were high honor roll students excel- If yours is a multigenerational Armstrong ling in academics, sports, and music. family that would like to be featured in a James Alfred Dismukes also graduated This fall, two of Preston’s younger future issue of Compass, call Patty from AJC in 1948, and continued his sisters, Amanda and Carmel, enrolled Parker, director of alumni relations, education at Georgia Tech. In 1950, at AASU. All three earned the Hope at 912.921.2343 or e-mail her at he graduated valedictorian of his class, Scholarship. [email protected].

11 Magazine’s “Georgia Super Lawyers 2004, Eric R. Filmer ’97 was ordained as a class’40s the ultimatenotes guide to the top lawyers in Roman Catholic priest at the Cathedral of Harriet Kanter Konter ’44 has been Georgia.” To further support his specialty St. John the Baptist in June 2004. selected by the Georgia Association of in the field of trusts, taxes, and estate Realtors for the Distinguished Service planning, Dickey is also a certified public Jeremy G. Watkins ’97 is a school Award of the National Association of accountant. counselor with the Clarke County schools Realtors. This prestigious nomination is in Athens, GA. given to only one person each year and is Daniel Massey ’76 ran for Superior Court chosen from 30,000 statewide members. clerk in Chatham County. At press time, James R. Gauthier ’98 has begun work on he was leading his challenger by 1,500 his master of arts in liberal studies at Col. Larry Collins ’48 visited the campus votes with 700 absentee ballots still to be Dartmouth College in New Hampshire. for two days in October. Col. Collins visited counted. with President Thomas Z. Jones, Vice Marion Gotz Lee ’98 has the distinction President C. Leary Bell and Col. James of being the first graduate of AASU’s Handley, head of the military science ’80s Honors Program in 1998. Since graduat- department. Col. Collins had lunch with Detra Thomas ’84 was named to the ing, she completed her Ph.D. at Georgia cadets in the ROTC program and took a AASU Athletic Hall of Fame in May Institute of Technology, and is currently tour of the campus. He also spent time 2004 for basketball. completing a post doctorate at the Max reviewing the university archives with Planck Institute for Biochemistry in archivist Caroline Hopkinson and hearing Kenneth Sellers ’85 has been named Munich. Her work has been published in about upcoming Golden Graduates events district manager for New England Finan- Biological Chemistry and in the Journal of from Patty Parker, director of alumni cial. Sellers, with the firm since 2000, Medicinal Chemistry. Additionally, she and relations. achieved agency builder qualification in her colleagues have submitted two patent 2002 and 2003, and top recruiter status applications, based upon their discoveries nfrom 2001-2003 of enzyme inhibitors that may be useful as ’60s antiparasitic agents. Jim Weeks ’68 and wife Joyce were Sandra Riggin ’88 earned a master’s cfeatured on the cover of the TWATL in counseling from the University of Tracy Forman ’99 is property manager for magazine after capturing first place in the Georgia, and obtained a professional the Bosley Real Estate Group, LLC in husband and wife club championship held counselor’s license from the state of Pooler. in June at the Landings Golf Club. Georgia in 1999. In addition to her current practice as a counselor, she George Carter Mobley ’99 is the office has recently written a book, Forbidden and branch manager for Savannah Bank’s ’70s Memories, a Journey of Healing. Riggin Medical Arts office. As a licensed finan- cial specialist, Mobley will be responsible James (Buddy) Hardy III ’70 has been has learned that writing down her own for small business and consumer lending. coaching baseball at Windsor Forest High personal abuse experiences not only helps School for 27 years. He plans to retire at others to recover, but helps her as well. Cathy S. Norman ’99 is branch manager the end of the 2004-2005 school year. for Sea Island Bank’s first Savannah ’90s location. She also serves on the advisory Mark Sussman ’73 was recognized at this board of South University’s physician year’s AASU Athletics Hall Fame cer- Bradley T. Squibb ’91 was named to the assistant program. emony with a Service Citation Award for AASU Athletic Hall of Fame in May his many years as the institution’s volun- 2004 for baseball. Michael Weeks ’99, after completing a teer business manager. Renee Robbins ’96, ’00 is a full-time sales master’s at AASU, moved to New York City to earn a second master’s from St. David H. Dickey ’74, a partner with associate for Coldwell Banker Greater John’s University in risk management. Oliver Maner & Gray LLP, is one of only Savannah Realty in Savannah. Currently, he is a second year doctoral three Savannah attorneys to be listed student in the Arnold School of Public among “Georgia’s 2003 Legal Elite” in Jeanine Christian ’97, an International Health at the University of South Caro- Georgia Trend magazine. The listing student from Columbia and a three-time lina. He expects to graduate in 2006. included 178 of Georgia’s most effective All-American women’s tennis player, was lawyers chosen from among their peers. named to the AASU Athletic Hall of Dickey was also included in Atlanta Fame in May 2004.

12 are believed responsible for major epidem- Marcus Scott IV ’02 recently completed ’00s ics of severe diarrheal disease in many his master’s in school administration at Sandra Cutchin ’00, an Honors Program developing countries. Cambridge College. He is teaching in the graduate, is now director of First Baptist Liberty County school system, coaching School in Coral Springs, FL where Dominique Driessen ’01 is employed by basketball, and working toward his children from 12 months to third grade are the Beaufort County Alcohol & Drug educational specialist in school adminis- taught. Abuse Department as a clinical counselor. tration. Driessen is also working toward her Ph.D. Radha Narayanan ’00, an Honors from Capella University, focusing on Luciana Spracher ’02 lectured on her Program graduate, is in the fourth year of human services with a specialization in latest book, Lost Savannah, at the Georgia her doctoral program at the Laser Dynam- criminal justice. Historical Society in August. The photo- ics Laboratory, School of Chemistry and graphic history of former Savannah Biochemistry, at Georgia Institute of Christina Grass Serrano ’01, an Honors historical structures depicts such sites as Technology. Her research focuses on the Program graduate, works for the student Union Station and the Old City Exchange size, shape, and surface characteristics of learning center at the University of that were torn down to make way for platinum nano-particles. Narayanan had Georgia. Serrano will be presenting some progress. Spracher hopes to reinforce the articles published in both the Journal of the of her research on the use of technology in importance of preservation so that other American Chemical Society and the Journal teaching at an upcoming conference. She important buildings won’t wind up being of Physical Chemistry. plans to enter graduate school. destroyed as well.

Laura Pell ’00, an Honors Program Becky Bennetch ’02, an Honors Program Brian White ’02 is head coach of the graduate, has recently completed her graduate, is finishing her master’s degree Savannah Swim Team. White is part of a master’s in speech-language pathology at in rhetoric and communications at the team that promotes life skills designed to the University of Georgia. University of Saskatchewan. At a recent have an enormous economic impact on rhetoric conference in Winnipeg, Manitoba, the local community. Gregory A. Zapf ’00, an Honors Program she presented a paper, The Gospel Accord- graduate, works as a programmer for ing to Glamour: A Rhetorical Analysis of Jonathon Long ’03 and Jarrett Walsh International Paper in Memphis, TN. He Revolve: The Complete New Testament. ’03, both graduates of the Honors Pro- is modifying his Deloreon with an eyes- gram, have co-authored a paper with their free vehicular personal computer that Michael Cherry ’02 is a sales associate mentors, Delana Nivens and Will Lynch, plays music, reads text files, and scans for with ERA Kelly & Fischer Real Estate in that is based on their senior project wireless networks. He will speak on these Savannah. research that was published in the Journal modifications this fall at the PhreakNic of Undergraduate Chemistry Research. convention in Nashville, TN. Tosha D Fowler ’02, an Honors Program graduate, is finishing up a theater intern- Jennifer Calver White ’03, an Honors Anne Stephanie Craig ’01, an Honors ship with the Actors Express Theatre Program graduate, was named chairman of Program graduate, is in the fourth year of Company in Atlanta. This past spring, she the educational advisory panel of Starfish her Ph.D. program in molecular genetics had a professional role in Spain. This fall, Aquatics, an organization that promotes and microbiology at the University of she will be performing in Killer Joe. While aquatics education throughout the nation. Texas at Austin. Her research focuses on pursuing an acting career, she also works as the genetics and regulation of virulence a merchandiser at the Americas Mart. Karen J. Terrell ’04 was inducted into the factors in the Shigella and Vibrio species Sigma Theta Tau International Honors of intestinal pathogens. These pathogens Jessica Sabiston Mudd ’02, an Honors Society of Nursing in December 2003. She Program graduate, is now employed at has plans to pursue her master’s degree in Memorial Health University Medical nursing through an acute care and critical Center as a medical dosimetrist. care internship at the University Medical Center at Duke University in Durham, NC. Small world engagements As Carolyn Leesch ’87 and her husband, Jim, were riding a bus across the Australian Outback last August, the driver played a tape of music Jaan A. Rooks ’03 to wed Ryan Marshall including Georgia on My Mind. As the song came on Carolyn started Crouso, June 10, 2005 pointing to the speaker and gesturing to Jim. This caught the attention of Barry Ostrow, director of university relations, who was sitting right continued on page 14 behind them. Ostrow asked if they were from Georgia. They explained they had lived in Savannah for many years and now resided in Reedley, CA, near Fresno.

13 Lara Herrin Harrison ’99 and her husband, Robert Harrison ’98: New Alumni Club Emma Nicole, July 21, 2004 Three Jacksonville alumni recently helped start the new Jacksonville Area Armstrong Club. The trio hosted a anniversaries luncheon at the River City Brewing Frederick W. Worrill ’79 and his wife, Company in June. President Thomas Z. Carolyn, celebrated their fiftieth wedding Jones greeted alumni from the area. anniversary April 14, 2004. Dodie Gay, vice president of the alumni Karen Weir Smith ’02 and her husband, association, represented the board. Kirkland, celebrated their first anniversary (L-R) Bill Beaudry ’84, Dawn Hostetler MacMillan ’00, Alumni Director Patty Parker, and Dale Lewis ’92. on July 19, 2004.

Krista K. Van Hall ’02 to William Wahl, in memoriam marriages June 26, 2004 Evie Laura W. Darling ’37, July 01, 2004 Lauren Paige Bragg ’03 to Jesse Brandon Nina Delk ’87 to Ralph L. Nickerson, John P. Skinner ’75, July 21, 2004 Butler, October 9, 2004 August 1, 2004 Gregory Breton Foss ’80, May 21, 2004 Nancy P. Collins ’03 to Travis John Shelley Segall ’95 to Gary Davis III, James Patrick Harte, Jr. ’87, May 31, 2004 Probst ’04, June 5, 2004 January 17, 2004 John F. O’Donovan ’88, January 30, 2004 Stacey M. Roby ’03 to Benjamin Screven Andrea L. Kramer ’96 to Ricky Thomas Robert Leon Davis ’90, May 24, 2004 Wells IV, November 8, 2003 Stringer, October 25, 2003 Deborah Fulmer Knight ’94, May 25, 2004 Angela R. Ward ’03 to Jason Edward Michell N. McComb ’96 to Terrance Jerry W. Kimball ’02, November 22, 2002 Knight, July 3, 2004 Millhouse, June 5, 2004 Meredith Clair Schuster ’98 to Anthony Lolisa Cole ’04 to Patrick J. Boleman, Lee Harden, July 03, 2004 July 4, 2004 Michele Dolores Street ’01 to Captain Robert Alan Kolodny, associate John Edwin Cole, May 08, 2004 professor of chemistry, died August 1. Brian S. VanHouten ’01 to Kimberly births He had served on the AASU faculty Williams, September 18, 2004 Kristi Seay Gauthier ’01 and her since 1991 and received the university’s Natalie Catherine Hankins ’02 to husband, James R. Gauthier ’98: H. Dean Propst Award in 1996 for his Michael Anthony Ferland, October 16, Mason Cade, August 10, 2004 prominent role in teaching, counseling, 2004 Elizabeth Rodgers Clarke ’90, and her advising, and actively supporting Mary Anne Simmons ’02 to Stephen husband, Wyatt: Lillian Kathleen, student involvement at the university. Gary Middleton, June 19, 2004 February 12, 2004

International Garden begins to emerge The International Garden, under development between Solms and Hawes halls, is beginning to take shape.

The garden’s centerpiece, the amphitheater of the European Plaza, progressed in October with the emergence of the curved, concrete retaining walls and the brick performance area. It is expected that the installation of drain lines, irrigation system, hand rails, and burmuda sod will complete the amphitheater by the end of the fall semester.

Planting was begun in two sections of the International Garden on the south end of the site. In the Australia section, over 20 species of Eucalyptus have been planted as well as species of Acacia, Banksia, Brachychiton, Callistemon, and Grevillea. In the South American section, numerous flowering perennials were planted including South American species of Lantana, Pavonia, Aloysia, Ruellia, and Dicliptera. More planting in the Australian and South American sections will occur this winter on the backside of the amphitheater as the berm is graded into its finished shape.

With completion of the European Plaza this winter, work will begin in the Asian section with the construction of a teahouse and rock garden.

14 James Anderson Deaver honored by Cuernavaca (continued from page 2) City Council Anderson promised he could In June, The City Council of Cuernavaca, Mexico arrange that and the ice was recognized William Deaver, associate professor of broken. The next summer, he Spanish, for his distinguished contribution to “the brought an AASU jazz quartet to promotion and strengthening of our city.” Marcos Juarez. They did work- shops for 3,500 students and jazz Deaver has taken students to the Kukulcan Institute musicians and performed half a in Cuernavaca for the last four years. In addition, his dozen concerts. “They just poured students completed a service project at the Nuestros their hearts out to take care of us,” Pequeños Hermanos Orphanage this year. Deaver also visited the Institute for Anderson said. Women, a shelter located next to the school. Sitting in his office, surrounded by This popular study abroad program averages 23 students each year. exotic foreign musical instruments and other memorabilia from his travels, Anderson talks about expanding study abroad opportu- Daugherty’s latest book torn from the headlines nities. In four years he’s seen destinations added from Belize to In Executive Secrets: Covert Action and program would somehow constitute Kazakhstan. During the last two the Presidency, William J. Daugherty, a ‘official’ confirmation of that program.” years, student participation has 17-year veteran operations officer grown by 39% and 32% respec- with the Central Intelligence Agency, Nevertheless, Daugherty provides an tively. Next year the program will addresses the perceptions about covert overview of the nature and proper use include new opportunities in action that have seeped into the of covert action as a tool of presiden- Brazil, the Czech Republic, and public consciousness. tial statecraft and discusses its role in Chile. transforming presidential foreign Daugherty explained, “What I’ve seen policy into reality. He is also working to vary the for years is that those who oppose educational experience. Once the covert action base their “While Iraq may be contro- domain of history and Spanish opinions on flawed versial, Daugherty said, majors, study abroad programs information. All I “it’s hard to imagine anyone have been created for students in wanted to do was to presenting a seriously argued education, economics, geology, correct the record.” position against using covert and other subjects. action methods—be it Daugherty cites congres- paramilitary, political action, In 2003, Anderson spearheaded a sional investigations, or propaganda—in the war successful grant proposal for a declassified documents, against Al-Qaeda and Fulbright-Hays grant to support and his own experiences terrorists.” general studies in Argentina by in covert action policy public school teachers and college and oversight to show Daugherty’s first tour professors. This was repeated in convincingly that the with the CIA was in Iran, the summer of 2004 with a grant CIA’s covert programs where he was one of to study in South Africa. Consid- were conducted specifi- 52 Americans held hostage for eration is being given to applying cally at presidential behest from 444 days during the Carter adminis- for a third Fulbright-Hays grant the agency’s founding in 1947. tration. He combines unique inside for Poland, the Baltic states, or perspectives with sober objectivity Brazil. His writing was, however, not without in judging the true nature and scope some challenges. “For the most part,” of CIA covert actions during the At this point in his interview, Daugherty said, “I was not allowed by last half century. Anderson had to excuse himself. the CIA or NSC to cite newspaper He had a plane to catch. ᨖ articles as an only source on programs Daugherty is an associate professor that had not yet been declassified. of government. He is also the author Their thinking was that my merely of In the Shadow of the Ayatollah: discussing an article on a still classified A CIA Hostage in Iran. ᨖ

15 Kenton Named Executive Ward Joins AASU Director of Leadership Foundation Development Dalton (D.) R. Ward has joined the Ken Kenton has been named Armstrong Atlantic State University executive director of leadership Educational Properties Foundation as development. In that position, financial advisor. he works with community leaders, in coordination with AASU faculty AASU President Thomas Z. Jones and staff, to enhance and further the university’s leadership said, “D. Ward is a solid addition to initiative through resource development, program develop- the foundation and university team. He brings invaluable ment, and community initiatives. financial acumen to the foundation at a time when it is rapidly building an infrastructure to support the university’s Leary Bell, vice president for external affairs, said, accelerating enrollment.” “Armstrong Atlantic is fortunate to have someone of Ken Kenton’s broad experience to lead the university in Following a 30-year career in banking, Ward retired as the its vision of leadership both within the institution and city president of Bank of America. He has served as in the community. At this time of significant growth, it is chairman of the YMCA of Coastal Georgia and the critical to foster dynamic leadership among AASU’s faculty Savannah Area Chamber of Commerce, and president of and staff, its students, and the community.” the Small Business Assistance Corporation. He has been a member of the boards of the United Way of the Coastal Kenton’s extensive career in institutional development Empire, and the Armstrong Atlantic State University began at Sweet Briar College where he spent five years as Foundation. director of planned giving. Next, he led the $50 million capital campaign for the business college at Emory University. His next post was as executive vice president Contributing writers to this issue: of the Northside Hospital Foundation in Atlanta where he Michelle Gordon, Chad Jackson, Barry Ostrow, was subsequently promoted to president and CEO of the Patty Parker, Nancy Remler, Elizabeth Sams, foundation. Later, he was named senior director of develop- and Philip Schretter ment for the DuPree College of Management at Georgia Tech where he raised more than $5 million. Most recently, Compass is written and designed in the he was tapped by Zoo Atlanta as senior vice president and Office of University Relations. chief development officer. Kenton raised over $6 million in new money during his tenure at Zoo Atlanta.

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