Fall 2006 Volume 32, Number 3

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’Southern A Publication for Alumni and Friends Fall 2006 Volume 32, Number 3

The State of the College Past, Present, and Future

BSC Birmingham-Southern College Editor’s Note USPS 087-600

As you will read later on in this fall 2006 issue of ’Southern Dr. G. David Pollick, President magazine, there is a lot of change headed to the Hilltop. James T. Stephens, Chair, Board of Trustees Efforts are under way to grow enrollment to 1,800, and a new environmental lake/park area soon to be under construction ’Southern magazine is published four times a year in winter, will serve as an outdoor classroom for the study of environ- spring, summer, and fall by the Office of Alumni Affairs and the mental issues as well as a place of leisure and recreation for Office of Communications at Birmingham-Southern College, students. New academic majors are being considered to meet Birmingham, Alabama 35254. Periodical Postage paid at Birmingham, AL 35203. Postmaster: Send address changes to: the demands of today’s students, and football is kicking off in Alumni Affairs, Birmingham-Southern College, 900 Arkadelphia fall 2007. These changes are just a few of the initiatives you Road, Box 549003, Birmingham, AL 35254; telephone will read about designed to strengthen our institution both 205/226-4909; or access at www.bsc.edu/alumni. financially and as one of the best liberal arts colleges in the country. Editorial Offices: If you’ve visited our Web site of late you’ll notice we have a 15 Stockham Building new look and feel to our Future Students area for prospective 900 Arkadelphia Road students. It was designed with high school students in mind Box 549004 and includes several new areas, such as faculty and staff web Birmingham, AL 35254 Phone: 205/226-4921 diaries and Ask a Student and Ask a Professor links. In the Fax: 205/226-4931 coming weeks, the main Web site at www.bsc.edu will have a E-mail: [email protected] new look and feel as well. You also might notice another change. This issue of Editor: Bill Wagnon, Vice President for Communications ’Southern is sporting a new look that we believe will be more appealing to our readers and that also is more consistent with Managing Editor: Patricia Cole, Communications Specialist other publications that the college is producing based on a new design concept put into place earlier this fall. Art Director: Tracy Thomas ’92, What we haven’t changed in the magazine is our commit- Associate Director for Communications--Publications ment to continue to deliver to BSC alumni and friends a Contributing Writers: publication that is both informative and interesting. Earlier Sarah Barbee, Assistant Director of Athletic Media this fall, the Office of Alumni Affairs conducted the first Relations alumni survey done by the college in a decade. We were Patricia Cole, Communications Specialist pleased to see that ’Southern was the No. 1 response when we Joe Dean Jr., Director of Athletics asked how alumni receive important information about BSC. Carol Cook Hagood ’70, Communications Specialist We were equally pleased to see that most alumni reported that Linda Hallmark, Communications Specialist they either read the entire issue when they receive it or scan it Barrett Hathcock, Communications Specialist and come back later and read it in depth. We pledge to Fred Sington, Director of Athletic Media Relations Bill Wagnon, Vice President for Communications continue to work hard to bring to you a publication that you will look forward to receiving and that will make you proud Photography: of your college. Marc Bondarenko As always, we invite you to offer feedback and suggestions Billy Brown that might help us continue to improve the magazine. Please Patricia Cole feel free to contact me at [email protected] or 205/226-4901. John Consoli We hope you enjoy this new look for ’Southern and the Carol Cook Hagood exciting news it brings you from Birmingham-Southern Randy Lee College. Dee Moore Bill Wagnon College Archives Office of Athletic Media Relations Submitted Photos Bill Wagnon Vice President for Communications www.bsc.edu

’southern Inside’Southern ’Southern magazine / Fall 2006 / Volume 32, Number 3 A Publication for Alumni and Friends

BSC Features 16 The President’s State of the College Remember the past, pay attention to the present, look forward to the future 28 Social justice and the law Departments Hess Center Fellows Program debuts at Birmingham-Southern 2 Community News 8 Faculty News 12 Student News 34 Alumni Affairs 40 Philanthropy 43 Athletics 50 ClassNotes 65 ’Southern Voices

On the Cover Traditions set against a changing landscape. What lies on the horizon for Birmingham-Southern? Take a look at our feature article on President David Pollick’s State of the College and get a glimpse of his perspective on our past, our present, and our future (page 16). fall 2006 COMMUNITY NEWS

thanked God for showing him the A Celebration of Healing way and introducing him to his extended family and home at Birming- Government leaders, pastors, church members ham-Southern. unite to restore hope in light of church burnings Birmingham-Southern was able to distribute more than $368,000 to by linda hallmark the churches through the Alabama Churches Rebuilding and Restora- tion Fund. It was established March Government leaders, pastors, and David Pollick and the college for its 8, the day the college learned two of church members were among a actions in the aftermath of the its students had been arrested for group of nearly 300 who gathered tragedies. arson and conspiracy in the fires. for a Church Restoration Celebration “I remember being in Washington The fund included more than Dinner in October at Birmingham- and seeing the president of this $55,000 from a joint effort of The Southern. school on CNN walk up to the National Conference for Commu- Alabama Gov. Bob Riley and U.S. microphone,” said Davis. “This man nity and Justice, AmSouth Bank, and Rep. Artur Davis were among those is not even from my state, but he FOX6/WBRC TV, and more than who attended to celebrate just made me proud to be an all that has been accom- Alabamian.” plished in the rebuilding In addition to Riley and Davis, and restoration of the 10 other speakers included Pollick; Alabama churches Dennis Leonard of FOX6 WBRC-TV; damaged or destroyed by Carolyn Warziniack, representing arson in February. The anonymous donors from Jackson pastors and as many as 20 Hole, Wyo.; Rev. Jim Parker, pastor members from the congre- of Ashby Baptist Church; and Rev. gations of each church Glenn Harris Sr., pastor of Spring also attended. Valley Baptist Church. “We came together in a The program also featured a vocal spirit of unity,” said Riley and piano performance by BSC U.S. Rep. Artur Davis addresses the more during his remarks at the student John-Mark McGaha and a event. “I have never been selection by the Young Voices of President David Pollick welcomes BSC than 300 gathered at the Church freshman Demetrius Foy to the podium Celebration Dinner. more proud to be Galilee youth choir from Galilee governor. We came Baptist Church. to deliver the night’s closing prayer. Foy’s together as Alabamians.” A closing prayer was delivered by home church, Spring Valley Baptist, was Davis echoed Riley’s remarks by BSC student Demetrius Foy, a damaged by arson. commending BSC President Dr. freshman religion/psychology major $33,000 from The Community from Gainesville, Foundation of West Alabama. Ala., and a member The fund was boosted by a of Spring Valley $150,000 contribution from a Baptist Church. Foy, Jackson Hole, Wyo., couple who who is a pastor at wished to remain anonymous. his church, was Unsolicited donations to the fund overcome with were received from individuals, emotion while corporations, and foundations expressing his grati- across Alabama and the nation. tude to the Lord, his “Dr. Pollick, you did it again family, his church, tonight,” said Davis. “He talked and his college. about responsibility. It is not about With tears, and an what I did to you, but what I owe occasional sob, he you as another one of God’s children.” Alabama Gov. Bob Riley (left) shares a healing moment with Rev. Jim Parker, pastor of Ashby Baptist Church. 2/ ’southern COMMUNITY NEWS

BSC named a top college, best value by BSC president to U.S. News, Princeton Review, and Barron’s serve on national committee of Birmingham-Southern climbed 14 places within its Methodist college top- tier category of the Best Liberal Arts Colleges in the country in the 2007 U.S.News & World Report rankings presidents of America’s Top Colleges. The publication also includes BSC among the top 16 liberal arts colleges in the nation Birmingham-Southern in terms of least amount of debt of students graduating President Dr. David Pollick will in 2005. BSC has been ranked among the best national serve on the United Methodist liberal arts colleges by U.S. News for 13 straight years. Higher Education Foundation The Princeton Review has listed BSC as one of the top institutions in the planning committee for its country offering students best value. The Princeton Review published its upcoming global ethics seminar. findings in the 2007 edition of America’s Best Value Colleges. The annual Pollick participated in the college guidebook profiles 150 public and private colleges with excellent annual summer meeting of the academics, generous financial aid packages, and relatively low costs. National Association of Schools, The Review also ranks BSC as one of 140 Colleges, and Universities of the Pollick Best Southeastern Colleges in another United Methodist Church held in publication. The Best 361 Colleges contains Rockport, Maine, during which he was two-page profiles on each college with invited to serve on the seminar planning information on academics, admission, committee. financial aid, student body, and campus The NASCUMC is a 123-member life. organization that strengthens ties In addition, Birmingham-Southern is between the church and its affiliated included in the latest edition of Barron’s educational institutions. The association Best Buys in College Education. The has expressed appreciation that BSC has college is one of 247 colleges chosen to chosen to become active at the national represent the best combination of data level of Methodist higher education. and student satisfaction. The association’s member institutions The college guides are available in include college preparatory schools, two- bookstores and online. year colleges, four-year colleges and universities, one professional school, and 13 United Methodist schools of theology, all located in the U.S. and Puerto Rico.

Story time in Harlem—Birmingham-Southern President Dr. David Pollick takes some time to read to schoolchildren in the library of St. Aloysius School in Harlem during a fall visit. BSC graduate Kirstin Anderson ’02 (left, in green shirt) is in her fifth year as music director at the school. St. Aloysius was able to hire Anderson and offer a music program through the generous support of BSC alumna Beverly Sims Hosokawa ’73, who was the recipient in 2005 of an Honorary Doctor of Humanities Degree from BSC. BSC First Lady Karen Bentley Pollick visited the school in November to perform for the children on violin. St. Aloysius draws students mainly from the Harlem neighborhood and offers extended classes from pre-K to grade 8.

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Dr. Neal Berte becomes president emeritus

With Chancellor Dr. Neal R. Berte’s announcement that he will complete his retirement effective Dec. 31, Birming- ham-Southern College Berte President Dr. David Pollick has announced that Berte will become president emeritus. Berte was honored with the title of chancellor in July 2004 upon his retirement after nearly 29 years as president of the college. In his role as chancellor, Berte has assisted in the presidential transition, while at the same time continuing his community service work, particularly in his role as co-chair of the 16th Street Baptist Church Restoration, chair of the Birmingham Civil Rights Institute Board, and member of the UAB Health Services Foundation Board. “It has been an honor to assist our new president and the college in this time of transition,” Berte said. “I am particularly grateful to the Board of Trustees during this time of change in the life of the college and in our lives. Anne and I feel richly blessed to have been a part of the Birmingham-Southern College family for these 30-plus years, and we will continue to be supportive of the college in any way we can in the years ahead.”

On the go—It’s recruiting time at Birmingham- Southern and the college’s nine admission counselors have “hit the road,” traveling to schools all over Alabama and its surrounding states in their quest for the fall class of 2007. As the college looks to grow its overall enrollment to about 1,800 students over the next few years, this admission staff, along with referrals from BSC alumni and friends, is searching for even greater numbers of new students this year and beyond. Shown (clockwise from bottom left) are Home away from home—New first-year Dean of Enrollment Management Sheri Salmon, Birmingham-Southern students arrived on campus Saturday, Jon Crook, John Hawkins, Mandy Johnson, Chris Aug. 26, for the traditional move-in day. They joined their Forsythe, Tyler Peterson, Stacey Burgess, Rebecca parents for convocation that afternoon in Bill Battle Coliseum. Kornegay, Ashley Frohock, and Charla Brown. Alumni Shown here is freshman psychology major Nicholas Blakely of and friends can recommend a student to the college Chattanooga, Tenn., with his parents Russ and Patsy Blakely. by completing the “Information Request” form online Faculty, staff, and returning students pitched in to help new at www.bsc.edu/futurestudents/form-request.htm. students and their families unload belongings and get settled in the residence halls.

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Three elected to Birmingham- Southern Board of Trustees

Birmingham-Southern has elected three new members to its Board of Trustees. New BSC trustees are Rev. Walker Epps of Marianna, Fla., Epps Franklin Wachob district superintendent of Marianna/Panama City District of the United Methodist Church; Denson N. Franklin III ’85 of Birmingham, a partner in the law firm of Bradley Arant Rose & BSC and a law degree from Vanderbilt University. His primary White; and Dr. Wesley Wachob of Pensacola, Fla., senior areas of practice include mergers and acquisitions, corporate minister of Pensacola First United Methodist Church. finance transactions, federal and state securities matters, and The elections were approved at the annual meetings of the general corporate counsel. He is listed in The Best Lawyers in North Alabama and Alabama-West Florida conferences of the America for 2005. United Methodist Church. Wachob received a bachelor’s degree from Southeastern Epps completed seminary at Boston University School of College, his master’s in divinity at Erskine Theological Seminary Theology. He has served several churches in the Alabama-West and the Candler School of Theology at Emory University, and Florida Conference of the United Methodist Church. Prior to his doctorate at the University of Chicago and Emory. Prior to becoming district superintendent, he served Enterprise First his present position, he was the senior minister of Glenn United Methodist. Memorial United Methodist Church on the campus of Emory, Franklin received a bachelor’s degree in political science from where he also taught in the Candler School of Theology.

First Lady wins Just Plain Folks Music Award

Birmingham-Southern First Lady and violinist Karen Bentley Pollick was awarded first prize at the Just Plain Folks 2006 Music Awards for an instrumental album recorded with pianist Bruce Hanifan. The selection, “Sands of the Printless Foot,” won Best Instrumental Song for 2006, as well. Their album, Ariel View: Tone Poems for Violin and Piano, was announced Best Instrumental Album at the music awards show in November at the Galaxy Theater in Santa Ana, Calif. Ariel View is a recorded selection of tone poems for violin and piano. This CD evolved from spontaneous improvisations to gentle songs that capture the ethereal spirit of Ariel, Shakespeare’s supernatural prankster from The Tempest. Most of the titles can be found within the play. The Just Plain Folks Music Awards, founded by Brian Austin Whitney as an informal way to recognize member music submitted throughout the year, has grown to become the largest music awards program in the world. Ariel View is available online at http://cdbaby.com/cd/kbentley2 and at the BSC Bookstore.

Bentley Pollick

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Writing Today conference set for March 9-10

Acclaimed journalist and author Gay Talese will be grand master of the 27th annual Writing Today conference set for March 9-10, 2007, at Birmingham- Southern. Talese’s newest work, A Writer’s Life, was published this past April chronicling the experiences that shaped his life and career, including the writer’s experiences as a student at the University of Alabama and in Selma during the Civil Rights era. Among Talese’s other nonfiction works are Honor Thy Father, for which he penetrated the New York Mafia’s code of silence to provide an inside look at the Bonanno family, and Unto the Sons, which follows the saga of his own family’s emigration from Italy. A pioneer in the field of literary journalism, Talese has written for The New York Times, The New Yorker, Harper’s, and Esquire, infusing his nonfiction with the detail and style of a fiction writer to create intimate portraits of his subjects. Rebecca Gilman, internationally recognized playwright and 1987 BSC graduate, will open the conference at a plenary session on Friday morning. Author, filmmaker, and well-known film critic Richard Schickel will keynote the Friday luncheon. Many other talented writers are included on the 2007 conference faculty. Writing Today is a world-class conference that offers inspiring yet practical Talese. Photo courtesy of Joyce Tenneson. information from local, regional, as well as nationally recognized authors, journal- ists, playwrights, and poets. Check out the Web site often (www.writingtoday.org) to get updates for major speakers and presenters who will provide workshops about the craft of writing, as well as valuable information on finding agents and getting published. The 2007 conference schedule and registration material will be posted in January. All events are held on the Birmingham-Southern campus. To be placed on the mailing list for updates and reminders, call the College Events Office at 205/226-4921 or e-mail [email protected].

Justice seeker—John Walsh (third from left), well-known victims rights advocate, crime fighter, and host of the television show America’s Most Wanted, delivered the 2006 Alex P. Stirling Lecture Nov. 16 at Birmingham-Southern. Walsh is the leading lobbyist who fought for the passage of the Missing Children’s Act, which then resulted in the founding of the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children. His dedication to this cause is rooted in the cruel experience of the abduction and murder of his six-year- old son Adam Walsh in 1981. The Stirling Lecture is sponsored annually by the BSC Student Government Association in memory of the Birmingham-Southern student who died of cancer in 1995. Pictured at right with Walsh are (from left) Cal NeSmith, SGA president; Peter Starr, SGA secretary; Molly Cowley, SGA second vice president; Raj Patel, SGA treasurer; and Jared Beam, SGA first vice president. 6/ ’southern COMMUNITY NEWS

Birmingham-Southern College Calendar of Events

Jan. 14-31 Southeastern Regional High School Art Competition and Exhibition, 8:30 a.m. to 4:45 p.m., M-F, Durbin Gallery, Kennedy Art Center/Azar Art Studios, awards ceremony is at 2:30 p.m. on Jan.14, 205/226-4928.

Jan. 25-28 As You Like It Theatrical Production, based on the Shakespeare classic, Jan. 25-27 at Hold very still—The Birmingham- 7:30 p.m. and Jan. 28 at 2:30 p.m., College Southern tradition of reaching out to the Theatre, Mainstage, 205/226-4780. community on Halloween continued this year on the residence hall quad. More than 1,000 trick-or-treaters participated in Jan. 27 The Winter Sky Planetarium Show, 2 p.m., the 15th annual Halloween on the Hilltop Robert R. Meyer Planetarium, 205/226-4771. held Oct. 31. The college’s Panhellenic Council—the governing body for campus Feb. 9-March 2 BSC Art Faculty Exhibition, 8:30 a.m. to sororities—sponsors the event for the 4:45 p.m., M-F, Durbin Gallery, Kennedy Art children of faculty and staff, as well as Center/Azar Art Studios, 205/226-4928. students from nearby schools. The council, along with the Residence Life Feb. 18 Whittington Competition Winners with Department, fraternities, and other the Red Mountain Chamber Orchestra, student groups on campus, set up 3 p.m., Hill Recital Hall, 205/226-4950. booths of games and goodies for the children. Other activities included a haunted house, trick or treating in a Feb. 24 Ancient Horizons Planetarium Show, residence hall, and a costume contest. 2 p.m., Robert R. Meyer Planetarium, 205/226-4771.

Feb. 24 Karen Bentley Pollick (violin) & Ivan Sokolov (piano), performing a program of Civil Rights Institute duos composed especially for them in Rome elects Pollick to board by BSC Associate Professor of Music Dorothy Hindman and BSC Professor of of directors Music Charles Norman Mason, 7:30 p.m., Hill Recital Hall, 205/226-4928. The Birmingham Civil Rights Institute recently announced the election of BSC March 2-4 BSC Student Dance Choreography President Dr. David Pollick to its board of Workshop, 7:30 p.m., College Theatre, directors for a three-year term. Mainstage, 205/226-4780. The election of Pollick expands the institute’s board members to 24, who are March 4 Chagall Trio and Friends, performing an made up of local business, civic, grassroots, all-American program, including Charles and educational leaders. Pollick also serves Ives’ Trio, 2:30 p.m., Hill Recital Hall, on the institute’s program committee. 205/226-4950. The Birmingham Civil Rights Institute’s mission is to promote civil and human March 9 & 10 27th Annual Writing Today conference, rights worldwide through education. campus, 205/226-4921.

All college events can be found at www.bsc.edu. fall 2006 / 7 FACULTY NEWS

have gotten bigger—the most Professor Randall Law: painful examples being 9/11, the Madrid bombings, and recent events in Iraq.” creating his own niche When he’s not teaching, a good in terrorism studies portion of Law’s time is being invested into the researching and writ- by pat cole ing of his inaugural book A History of Terrorism. “One of my goals has been to produce a core textbook for courses like the History of Terror- Dr. Randall Law’s campus office is widely, I realized that terrorism ism,” says Law. “People are craving filled with books, lots of them. And before the ’70s is rarely discussed. an understanding of the terrorism they clearly are the link through But by studying these older terrorist issue. Unfortunately, most of the which he discovered his interest over groups and events from 40-plus books and articles written on terror- a decade ago in the history of global years ago, we can better understand ism fail to treat it historically, as if terrorism. the role and significance of terrorism it’s a phenomenon that has existed An assistant professor of history at today. Terrorism is a fundamental for only a few decades. We can un- Birmingham-Southern, Law’s teach- part of the modern world given the derstand terrorism better and gain ing focuses on Russian and Euro- developments in violent technology, insight into possible counter-strate- pean history. The courses that he the uneven spread of democracy, gies by examining the history of it.” instructs include the Cold War, the and the presence of nationalism and Law is more persistent now about French Revolution and Napoleon, radical ideologies.” sharing his knowledge with the and the History of Terrorism. And Law believes the end of the larger audience and has become a “My interest in terrorism was Cold War and the massive multipli- frequent contributor this year to sparked by reading about all the cations of regional conflicts have commentaries published in The forms that political violence took in opened the door wider to the use of Birmingham News. His most recent Russia and the Soviet Union,” says terrorism. “Terrorist attacks have be- article “Terrorism Too Serious for Law. “Once I started reading more come much more prevalent and Political Fodder” ran in November. In this article, Law writes candidly about the nature of terrorism, the Bush doctrine, and the problems with the United States’ “war on terror,” as well as his observation that terms like “terrorist” or “freedom fighter” cannot be conclusively de- fined. “Terrorists choose targets not for their military value, but for their symbolism—their ability to inspire fear and their utility in prodding others to act,” he notes. “In some instances, terrorists have hoped that their heroic feats would inspire the masses to rise up in revolution.” Originally from Kansas, Law

Law

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earned his bachelor’s and master’s —this is as tremendous a group of degrees in Russian studies from colleagues as an academic could Amherst College and Yale and his hope for. And I’ve appreciated the Hagen elected Phi Beta Kappa doctorate in history from George- opportunity to teach some superb town University. “I had great men- students. Plus, the campus is cer- senator tors at Georgetown and got to spend tainly beautiful.” weeks on end reading and research- He ranks Russian Civilization at ing in the Library of Congress,” he the top of his favorite courses to says. “Most of my knowledge on ter- teach at BSC. “The class is a one- Dr. Susan Hagen, Mary Collett Munger Professor rorism comes from time spent read- semester survey of Russian history of English at Birmingham-Southern, recently was ing and reflecting. Although I’m a that puts emphasis on the culture,” elected a senator of the South Central District of Phi historian, I feel pretty comfortable he describes. “It’s gratifying to read Beta Kappa Forty-First Triennial Council. She is discussing the terrorism of today.” the student evaluations for that among 24 senators elected to serve a six-year term Law attributes his passion for course and their comments about on two councils. teaching to his family tree. “I come how my excitement for the material Senators are responsible to oversee the Phi Beta from a family of educators,” he says. got them interested in it.” Kappa Society, which currently has 276 chapters and “My father recently retired as a long- This fall, Law was selected by the more than 500,000 members. Hagen and the other time biology professor at the Univer- provost to receive the 2006 Bob senators will attend sity of Missouri at Kansas City, my Whetstone Faculty Development semi-annual meet- grandmother was a schoolteacher, Award, which is given to a junior ings of the senate at and my mom was in nursing educa- faculty member in recognition of his the society’s head- tion. So from a pretty early age, I or her teaching. “That really meant quarters in Wash- began to develop a lot of respect for a lot to me,” he says. “Teaching at a ington, D.C. teaching and a real love of educa- liberal arts institution like BSC is Hagen joined the tion, especially in the study of wonderful, but has its own unique Birmingham-South- history.” challenges. The primary one is ern faculty in After a year of dissertation research juggling the responsibilities of teach- 1976. in Moscow, Law followed his fiancée ing, scholarship, and service to the (now his wife, Hannah) to Nashville college. Since I find all of them so to support her career as a journalist. rewarding, I’m working on finding Their next move was to Salt Lake balance in doing all three.” City, where he accepted part-time He also is looking forward to a teaching positions at the University trip he planned to Russia next sum- Hagen of Utah and Westminster College. mer with a group of Birmingham- After finishing his doctorate, he was Southern students. Accompanied by a full-time sabbatical replacement at Law, the students will visit the cities Northwestern College in Orange of St. Petersburg and Moscow, and City, Iowa. In 2003, Law discovered take classes for several weeks at a permanent opening at Birming- Herzen Pedagogical University. ham-Southern. In the meantime, Law has plenty “My experience as an undergradu- to do teaching, working on his book, ate at Amherst convinced me that I and keeping up with the goings-on wanted to teach at a liberal arts col- of his favorite football team. “I’m a lege,” he says. “I have really enjoyed rabid Kansas City Chiefs fan.” working with the other BSC faculty

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Birmingham-Southern announces 10 faculty appointments

Birmingham-Southern welcomed 10 new faculty members to the campus this fall. The new faculty are: Dr. Kathy Chandler, assistant professor of education. Chandler received a bachelor of science degree in early childhood and elementary education from Samford University and a master’s degree and Ph.D. in early childhood education from UAB. Enrique Gómez, instructor of physics. Gómez received a bachelor of science degree from the University of California at Santa Cruz, and a master of science degree in physics from UAB. He currently is completing work on his dissertation and expects to receive a Ph.D. from UAB in December. Dr. Heather Meggers-Wright, assistant professor of psychology. Meggers-Wright received a bachelor of arts degree in psychology and political science from Westminster College in Missouri, and a master’s and Ph.D. in clinical psychology from the University of Missouri- Columbia. She recently completed a post-doctoral residency in primary care psychology in St. Louis, Mo. Dr. Gretchen Repasky, assistant professor of biology. Repasky received a bachelor of science degree in biochemistry from Lehigh University and a Ph.D. in cell and molecular biology from New York University. She also completed a four-year post-doctoral research fellowship at the University of North Carolina-Chapel Hill’s Lineberger Comprehensive Cancer Center. Dr. Joseph Smith, instructor of mathematics. Smith received a bachelor of science degree from King’s College in Wilkes-Barre, Pa., and a master of arts and Ph.D. in mathematics from Binghamton University, State University of New York. Dr. Timothy Smith, assistant professor of art history. Smith received a bachelor’s and a master of art history degree from the University of South Carolina, and a Ph.D. from Florida State University. Cooper (Bud) Spivey, instructor of art. Spivey received a bachelor of fine arts and a master’s of arts in education from UAB. Carol Standifer, instructor of education. Standifer received a bachelor of science degree in special education and a master of education degree from Auburn University. Dr. Peter Van Zandt, visiting assistant professor of biology. Van Zandt holds a bachelor of science degree in fisheries and wildlife from Michigan State University, a master of science in wildlife ecology from Utah State University, and a Ph.D. in biology from the University of Louisiana at Lafayette. Alicia Weaver, instructor of sociology. Weaver received a bachelor of philosophy degree in interdisciplinary studies from Miami University of Ohio and a master of sociology degree from Ohio State University. She expects to defend her dissertation and receive a Ph.D. from Ohio State.

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BSC faculty receive promotions, tenure for 2006-07

The Provost’s Office has announced the following awards for promotion and tenure this fall. Promoted from associate professor to full professor, the highest faculty rank, were Dr. Terry Goodrick, psychology, and Dr. Alan Litsey, theatre. Promoted from assistant professor to associate professor were Dr. Megan Gibbons, biology, and Dr. Jacqueline Leary-Warsaw, music.

Clockwise from upper left, Goodrick, Litsey, Gibbons and Leary-Warsaw. Photograph courtesy of the Alabama State Council on the Arts. Mark Gooch, photographer.

Stunda recognized for outstanding paper designation

Dr. Ron Stunda, associate professor of accounting at Birmingham-Southern, recently received the Outstanding Paper award in Accounting and Finance at the fall international conference of the Allied Academies, held this year in Reno, Nev. The conference was attended by representatives from 85 schools from the U.S. and abroad. His winning document “The Effects of Sarbanes-Oxley on Earnings Forecast,” was chosen from some 145 papers in a number of subject areas. Only 10-15 percent of the papers Stunda presented are selected to be published in the Allied Academies’ Journal. Stunda’s paper was distinguished as the most outstanding in his area and will be published in the next issue of the journal. Stunda joined the BSC faculty in 1995.

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only smoke damage and was covered Demetrius Foy: by insurance. So its then-pastor, Rev. Glenn Harris, asked if BSC could a wellspring of hope provide a scholarship for one or two of the congregant’s bright young Arson rebuilding paves way to generous gift ministers, rather than receive a donation from the college’s Alabama for student, pastor Churches Rebuilding and Restoration Fund. by pat cole Birmingham-Southern’s Financial Aid Office was able to put a package together that allowed Foy to enroll in the college at the start of the fall term in August. And Foy is grateful for the gift he’s received. While addressing members of the college community and congregants from the 10 burned churches, who gathered on campus in October for a Church Rebuilding and Restora- tion Celebration Dinner, Foy wept openly. He intends to take his gift and apply great effort toward completing his degree, he says. “My mom and dad taught me to work hard and to never give up on your dreams,” says Foy. “Because my parents had me at such a young age, they sacrificed a lot to raise me and my younger brothers. That drives me to be even more successful in life because someone gave up something for me.” Somewhat mild-mannered and Foy very spiritually-grounded, he already has become a popular face on the The arson of 10 Alabama churches even heard of before the church inci- campus. “I love to make people in February, though grievous, turned dents. And though Foy originally laugh,” says Foy, who is considering out to be a significant event in was University of Alabama-bound, a double major in religion and charting the future of Demetrius Foy. he is proud to be on the Hilltop. psychology. “I crack jokes around “I woke up on a school morning “The students, staff, faculty, and people a lot to keep their spirits up, and my dad told me our church had everyone else I’ve encountered on and mine too. been set on fire,” says Foy. “Bad campus seem to be passionate about “It also helps when communi- things happen, but God works all what they are doing,” he expresses. cating with people of opposite races, things together for good.” “The work ethic here is strong. It’s since I grew up in a segregated And since then, some really good not that each one is so smart, but school system. There are certain things have been happening to Foy. everyone works hard and that’s what things I can’t understand because of This fall, he received a generous makes BSC a great institution.” where I come from, and things white financial aid package to attend Foy’s church, Spring Valley Baptist students may not be able to relate to Birmingham-Southern as a fresh- in the small Sumter County town of because of where they come from. man—a school that he had never Gainesville, was one that suffered We can learn from each other.”

12 / ’southern STUDENT NEWS

BSC student wins 2006 Miss New York Chinese Beauty Pageant

Birmingham-Southern senior Sirena Wang of Madison won the 2006 Miss New York Chinese Beauty Pageant in August. Wang recorded top scores in the evening gown, swimsuit, and Foy addresses the audience during the recent Church Rebuilding and Restoration interview portions of the Celebration Dinner. pageant, on her way to winning a $10,000 At least one person on campus has Gainesville for his transition into the scholarship, a tiara worth learned plenty about Foy. His room- pulpit. “I tend to be bold and opin- more than $30,000, and mate calls him “pastor.” As a former ionated, but I don’t go overboard in the right to compete at the minister of the more than 200-mem- my sermons though,” remarks Foy. 2007 Miss Chinese ber Spring Valley Baptist Church, Foy “I tailor my messages as a voice to International Pageant in was sworn in as interim pastor this the older generation from young Hong Kong in January. She took the crown out past October—at age 18. people. The older generation can of the top 14 finalists from Despite his youth, Foy relies on his sometimes be too hard on youth be- an original field of more faith and his belief that with God all cause they forget where they’ve come than 100 contestants. In things are possible. “After my pastor from and how they used to be.” addition to the title, she announced his decision to move He acknowledges the increase of also won three of six pre- into evangelism, the church mem- responsibility and accountability for liminary awards including bers decided to work with who they being a pastor and student. “There Miss Talent, Miss Internet had in front of them, and I was the are really good people at my church Popularity (determined by most experienced minister,” says Foy. though,” he says. “They understand an online vote) and Miss Fitness. “With God promoting me to this what I’m trying to achieve with my Wang, a double major in position at such an early age, I college studies and they make it easy international business and Wang believe there’s something much for me. I’ll probably attend semi- music, is an accomplished greater down the road that he’s nary school after I graduate.” pianist and a member of the BSC air rifle preparing me for.” Foy is rather hesitant to voice any team. Foy has spent much of the past specific plans for his future, but he’s The Miss New York Chinese Beauty year ministering to youth, following excited about it. “BSC sort of fell Pageant is a scholarship competition held his decision to act upon his calling into my lap, but it’s a great place to annually for women ages 17 to 25 who to preach the Gospel of Jesus Christ. be,” says Foy. “I’m trying my best to were born in China or are of Chinese “Subconsciously, and for many stay faithful and study hard, and I descent. years, I didn’t want to do it,” admits know that everything else will fall Foy. “I figured I’d wait until I was into place. older to preach.” “When I reflect on my life over the But Foy eventually accepted his past year and all the good things that destiny. Each weekend now, he have happened to me … well, I get drives almost two hours from the emotional just thinking about it.” campus to his hometown of

fall 2006 / 13 STUDENT NEWS

BSC student’s film uses children to increase public awareness of diversity

Birmingham-Southern student Victoria Myers believes that even small children can wrestle with some pretty big issues when it comes to dealing with life. That’s mainly why she spent two months out of her summer to create the documentary “Diversity Through the Eyes of a Child: The Birmingham Project,” which was presented in November at Birmingham-Southern. “I originally came up with the idea for the film in May while coaching at Premier Gymnastics,” said Myers. “That’s when I overheard two children talking about race. I wanted to do a film to let the campus Myers with Hannah Grace, one of the children featured in the community and broader community witness what kids in their own documentary. ‘backyard’ are thinking.” The documentary length is 40 minutes. It, plus a longer-version DVD, was created from interviews with some 60 local schoolchildren of various ages. Both heart-pulling and humorous at times, the interviews offer a window into the hearts and minds of children who are dealing with an ever-changing world. A partial showing of the documentary was presented on campus in October when Myers was inducted as Birmingham-Southern’s 2006-07 Southern Diversity Delegate at an evening ceremony. Myers serves as the primary student spokesperson for BSC’s Office of Multicultural Affairs with an opportunity to sponsor cultural programs, promote community building, and facilitate cross-cultural understanding within the campus community. A senior political science major from Vestavia Hills, she also is founder of the college’s Multicultural Awareness Organization. In the future, Myers plans to promote her film to local and regional news venues. “You can learn so much from children because, even though they are small, they are a mature voice and speak honestly,” remarked Myers. “Doing the project taught me that the children of Birmingham, who are symbolic of the nation, are thinking differently from past generations. They show how history has changed in so many ways, and how it hasn’t changed.” Copies of the DVD are available by contacting Myers at [email protected]. Professionally produced copies of the DVD will be sold beginning in February.

Renfroe earns top scholarship to study at Birmingham-Southern

Rebecca Renfroe of Big Cove, Ala., commended student in the National Merit received this year’s McWane Honors Award Scholarship Program, charter member of to attend Birmingham-Southern. the History Club, and a 4.0 grade-point The four-year scholarship provides full average in the advanced and dual-enroll- tuition, plus an $11,000 annual stipend, ment curriculum. Her activities included and supports summer travel, internships, page journalist for The Huntsville Times, study abroad programs, and special singing, and horseback riding. projects. It is the college’s top academic The McWane Honors Award is sponsored scholarship award. by the McWane Corp., a Birmingham pipe Renfroe, a graduate of Madison County manufacturer. It is one of the most High School, is pursuing a degree in inclusive and prestigious undergraduate Renfroe English. In high school, her honors scholarships available at any college or included the National Honor Society, Class university in the United States. of 2006 “Most Likely to Succeed,”

14 / ’southern STUDENT NEWS

Birmingham- Thirty-one legacies join Hilltop family Southern student as new students Birmingham-Southern is proud that each year a considerable number receives French of children and grandchildren of alumni are found among the new travel award Woodruff students enrolling on the Hilltop. Among this year’s Legacy Class continuing their BSC family traditions are:

Birmingham-Southern student Cal Woodruff of Abbeville, La., Michael Barron of Huntsville, son of Susan McCarn Barron ’71; Galen has received the 2007 Alliance Française Travel Award. Boehme of Pace, Fla., son of Cathy Schipman Boehme ’83 and Arlan The award will pay for Woodruff to travel to Paris in the Boehme ’82 and grandson of Charlotte Woodard Schipman ’62 and spring. It is sponsored by the Alliance Française of Birmingham, Swinson Schipman ’62; Joshua Brasfield of Montgomery, grandson of a non-profit, privately supported association founded by area Lois Neely Brasfield ’58 and Milton Brasfield ’59; Lindsay Carter of Francophiles. Enterprise, granddaughter of Francile Cannon Carter ’50 and William The group aims at developing cultural exchanges between the Carter ’50; William Chang of Homewood, grandson of Merlee Sears United States and France. It also promotes the study of French Wagner ’48 and Frank Wagner ’48; Caroline Culver of Pinson, daughter while fostering friendship between French and American people of Dallas Culver ’77; Claire Davis of Talladega, daughter of Catherine mainly through the organization of social and cultural events Smith Davis ’77; William Donaldson of Montgomery, son of Elisabeth and French language classes. Donaldson ’82; Carleson Dozier of Vestavia Hills, son of Beth Curry Woodruff is a senior French/English major. Dozier ’82; Joseph “Dean” Elmore Jr. of Vestavia Hills, son of Joseph Elmore Sr. ’78; Kimberly Farris of Morris, daughter of William Farris ’90; Richard Feist Jr. of Pelham, son of Richard Feist Sr. ’82; Ansley Felkins of Sylacauga, granddaughter of Mahlon Felkins Jr. ’65; Michelle Goggans of Homewood, daughter of Michael Goggans ’80; Sarah Graffeo of Vestavia Hills, granddaughter of Barbara Allen Blackwell ’46; Michael Graham of Miss BSC 2007 Cullman, son of Nell Owens Graham ’75 and Michael Graham ’75; Meredith Ervin of Katelyn Hancock of Vestavia Hills, daughter of Linda Taylor Hancock ’79; Huntsville received the Evan Jones of Gainesville, Fla., grandson of Taylor Kirby Jr. ’49; Madeline title of Miss Birmingham- Laborde of St. Simons Island, Ga., daughter of Mary Bostock Laborde ’80; Southern College 2007 Brittany Laeger of Homewood, daughter of Therese Roach Laeger ’79 and during ceremonies Nov. 18 Kenneth Laeger ’78; Ronald MacBeth Jr. of Pensacola, Fla., son of in the BSC College Theatre. JeriLynn Brooks MacBeth ’81 and Ronald MacBeth Sr. ’81; Roger The freshman chemistry/ “Stephen” Morrow Jr. of Montgomery, son of Angela Baker Morrow ’76 dance major was crowned and Roger Morrow Sr. ’76; Sarah Persons of Foley, granddaughter of following casual, swimsuit, Elaine French Palmer ’57; Ashley Pittman of Enterprise, daughter of Paula talent, evening wear, and Andrews Pittman ’84 and Donald Pittman ’83; James Randolph of interview competitions. Jacksonville, son of Mary Hubbard Randolph ’81 and Christopher Her talent was ballet and Randolph ’79; Stephen Rumble (entered in fall 2005) of Aiken, S.C., her platform was Protect- grandson of Dr. Mary Ann Bagley McCollum ’53 and Dr. M. Gardner ing You/Protecting Me. McCollum ’53; Kristina Sanders of Fairhope, daughter of Dr. Donald She will next represent Sanders ’85; Jefferson Vaughan Jr. of Hoover, son of Jefferson Vaughan Sr. BSC in the Miss Alabama ’83; James Watters of Atlanta, grandson of Gilder Wideman ’51; Charles Pageant in June. Whitehurst of Mountain Brook, son of Susan Millican Whitehurst ’83 and Dennis Whitehurst ’83; and Austin Yancey of Homewood, son of LouAnne Williams Yancey ’81.

Ervin If we’ve missed anyone, please e-mail us at [email protected]. Any submissions we receive will have the chance to be published in an upcoming issue.

fall 2006 / 15 Remember the past, pay attention to the present, look forw

16 / ’southern The President’s STATE OF THE COLLEGE

by bill wagnon

“Respicio, aspicio, prospicio.” Those three words began Birmingham-Southern College President Dr. David Pollick’s annual State of the College address in late August to a room full of faculty, staff, students, alumni, and trustees. Most gathered that day didn’t understand the meaning of the words, but the campus community was soon to realize their importance. Following is President Pollick’s opening statement to Birmingham- Southern in its entirety, followed by a synopsis of his thoughts on the college’s ward to the future past, its present, and its future.

Above and left, BSC President Dr. G. David Pollick during two of his many addresses during this past exciting, yet challenging, academic year.

fall 2006 / 17 FEATURES

Aerial view of the college, circa 1925.

Respicio, aspicio, prospicio

“ om wasn’t Catholic, All purpose. After all, we weren’t me a portable manual typewriter for Mbut she still had a wealthy; in fact, we were rather poor. what she hoped would be my kind of blind faith So St. Christopher had great appeal. college days. It was a lovely gift and in the power of the saints. It prob- You only had to buy one medal. I really thought it was great. It was ably came from her Scotch-Irish Wear it all the time and you were small, modern, and in a really nifty roots. The saints were every- pretty well covered against many of carrying case. I was more than where and influenced everything. the really big threats a child could pleased. It was certainly enough—at I never really understood it, but run into in a normal day. I mean, least I thought so. But not for Mom. could never see any harm either. I you never know when you are going There was one more gift. A small, felt rather comforted by the thought to be attacked by an out of control carefully wrapped little package. The that there was what seemed like an fruit dealer or struck by a lightning final gift of the day. I unwrapped it endless supply of these holy souls bolt in a hailstorm. And not only in front of everyone and you can just who wanted to look over us. There did my brother and I have our St. guess what I found. My very own St. was a saint for almost any cause or Christopher medals, but everyone Christopher medal. I laughed and occasion. I always wondered how she knew, at one time or another, re- dangled it high so everyone could their duties were assigned. I mean, ceived their medal. This was simply see. I was about to start another how did St. Jude get the ‘lost causes’ one of the ways she showed her journey and Mom was determined I territory? It’s hardly what I would friends affection—all purpose, eco- wouldn’t be alone. But I noticed as consider a prime assignment. Or nomical, and the perfect gift for the medal spun about at the end of how about St. Cornelius, who covers every occasion. It didn’t matter to its chain that something was on the the territory of ‘twitching;’ or St. her that Rome was already planning back. Pulling it back before my eyes, Vitus, a patron of education and to remove poor St. Christopher from I saw that there were three words on over-sleeping. Now, that’s a combi- the roll of saints. (I suspect he was the back, Latin words (at least that’s nation that made sense. But for the becoming too powerful.) Who what she said), ‘respicio, aspicio, most part, Mom kept it simple. St. could possibly not want such a prospicio,’ followed by the inscrip- Christopher was her favorite. He charm? tion ‘Love, Mom.’ This was no could fix anything. “I don’t know how many St. normal St. Christopher; no all “Now, for those of you who Christophers I actually had during purpose charm to cure everything. haven’t kept up with this critical my childhood. There was one defi- This was a wish, a prayer, a mother’s body of knowledge, St. Christopher ciency with St. Christopher. He was sacred advice. The intention was, was technically assigned the areas of: not the patron saint of lost items. ‘Remember the past, pay attention to lightning, pestilence, archers, auto- He was constantly getting lost. But the present, and look forward to the mobile drivers, bachelors, boatmen, fortunately, my Mom seemed to future.’ That was my last St. Christo- bookbinders, bus drivers, cab have an endless supply. And each pher medal.” drivers, truck drivers, epilepsy, one was equally powerful. They floods, fruit dealers, gardeners, were all the same. Except for one, hailstorms, manners, sailors, porters, that is. sudden death, and toothaches. “When I graduated from high “This was my Mom’s kind of saint. school, I received the normal gifts He was every mother’s kind of saint. from relatives and friends. Mom got

18 / ’southern FEATURES

Current aerial view of Planned environmental the college. lake/park area (detail).

A birthday, Katrina, church fires

irmingham-Southern began the pated, they spoke profoundly to our written. Without second thoughts, B2005-06 academic year with a history and our values as an institu- without asking what’s in it for us, robust schedule of events to tion of higher learning birthed by without a search for the headlines. celebrate its Sesquicentennial, 150 the Methodist tradition of John This was ’Southern, birthed by the years of liberal arts education and Wesley. … ” social message of John Wesley and advancing the dignity of others A natural disaster of historic living that message without through service and education. The proportions hit New Orleans and reflection. … ” events included conferences, speak- the Gulf Coast region as the college’s ers, musical and theatrical perform- new academic year was barely under ances, and a tremendous birthday way. The effects of Hurricane party on campus that reunited Katrina devastated that city and friends and alumni in a joyful neighboring coastal states, and celebration. Birmingham-Southern found Alumnus Don itself opening its arms in a Brown’s book fashion consistent with its his- Forward, Ever: tory and mission and in keep- Birmingham- ing with its Sesquicentennial Southern College theme of “Advancing Human at its Sesquicen- Dignity.” tennial captured The college found a way to the quality and admit and give aid to 29 history of the col- students from the damaged lege. However, areas. They were welcomed amidst such a with open arms by the en- special celebration, tire campus community, the year quickly turned to one of and Birmingham-Southern used all challenge. of its various resources to help these “ … I have always thought it the young men and women continue philosopher’s part to seek perspec- their educations and to deal with tive, to stand off at some distance as their stress and health issues. Six of Gabrielle Williams was just one of the 29 students from a means of trying to understand the the 29 students decided to remain the hurricane ravaged Gulf Coast area that Birmingham- relationships that exist between all on campus after that first semester, Southern helped continue their educations in fall 2005. that takes place on life’s stage,” but “ … each was treated with Pollick said. “That was a challenge dignity and love. … ” this last year. The dramas were too “ … All feel a deep sense of grati- The spring semester brought more intense and spectators were not tude to this community,” Pollick challenges to the Hilltop. The story allowed. said. “This was not about a celebra- has been well outlined in the local “ … In the midst of our celebration of 150 years of advancing the and national media and in a previ- tion, other dramas began to be dignity of others. This was an in- ous issue of ’Southern magazine. In played out. And though unantici- stance of how that history was early February 2006, nine rural

fall 2006 / 19 FEATURES

Accomplishment

espite these challenges in Dwhich the college lived out the values of its history, there “Birmingham-Southern College was much to celebrate during the became a lightning rod for the best year. The quality and history of the we can aspire to as a community college played out the entire aca- committed to advancing the dignity demic year in Sesquicentennial of others throughout the world. events such as a kick-off musical per- Once again, in the same year that we formance at the Alys Stephens were celebrating our past 150 years, Center; a Women, Leadership, and we naturally, intuitively, and without Human Dignity conference; lectures a second thought, lived out our by F.W. de Klerk and world- values in the present. … ” renowned scientist E.O. Wilson; and The college’s Alabama Churches many more artistic, intellectual, and Rebuilding and Restoration Fund social events. brought in money from all over the Work continued on the proposed world—from friends and from Center for Global Human Dignity. Members from the 10 churches damaged or destroyed by arson gathered strangers. In July 2006, more than The Task Force for the Global Center, on the BSC campus in October for a Church Restoration Celebration $350,000 was distributed to the nine chaired by Provost Dr. Kathleen Dinner. churches, and to a 10th church that Murray, continued conversations Alabama churches were damaged or was damaged by an unrelated arson. about the center’s potential, drafted destroyed by arson. The accused Pollick shared one of the hundreds a mission and program, and met were two Birmingham-Southern stu- of e-mails he had received, this one with all the constituent groups on dents and one former student. The from a stranger across the nation: campus for further reaction. college responded quickly and in “ … The groundwork had been keeping with its long history of “I have just read the NY [New laid to establish a ‘virtual’ center serving others. York] Times article outlining (meaning no new building) that “ … Our response was immediate your school’s plight and its link would serve our disciplines in their and unequivocal,” Pollick noted. to the Alabama church arsonists. liberal education mission as they “While not responsible for the burn- I want to commend you on your prepare men and women in their ings, we recognized that there exists honest and straightforward re- roles as global citizens who are dedi- a larger responsibility for our neigh- sponse. It is rare that any organi- cated to service and the dignity of bors—in this event as in so many zation takes any responsibility others throughout the world,” others. … While condemning the for any adverse situation, espe- Pollick would announce. “The actions of our students, we did not cially one that has received as process reinforced our desire that the turn our backs on them and their much media attention as this center remain focused on amplifying families. … But with those affected one. … I don’t normally write and magnifying our mission as a in the churches, the students’ par- these sort of notes, but I think it United Methodist Liberal Arts ents, our students, and our faculty important to let you know that College whose highest priority is and staff, we joined arms and sup- there are those of us who appre- excellence in preparation for life ported one another. Our commit- ciate your frank and honest through the professions and the ment to aid in the rebuilding of the response. … Leading by example social involvement so deeply rooted churches on our own was taken up is difficult to find, even more in our Wesleyan tradition. … ” by others throughout the country. difficult to find moral based On the academic front, academic Our response struck a chord with leadership. Bravo for practicing divisions were reorganized into others who also believed that what your school preaches. … I academic departments in order to human beings share a special re- think it significant to note that improve communication and cen- sponsibility for one another, regard- my thoughts are not informed by tralize a number of functions to save less of religious, political, or regional any religious conviction as I am resources of time and money. differences. agnostic.” Pollick singled out the ongoing im- pressive activity of the faculty, including more than 100 papers or

20 / ’southern FEATURES in spite of challenge

articles presented at conferences or published; 14 exhibitions of creative work and 66 new sculpture, artistic creations, commissions, poems, or choreographed pieces; 59 performances, recitals, master classes given, compositions performed, and plays directed; 25 grants; and four special awards ranging from the Langum Prize for Historical Fiction to a Pulitzer nomination, just to name a few. Student accomplishments were tremendous as well, Pollick said, and too numerous to mention. Efforts to provide better service to the students included enhancements to the Academic Resource Center, such as upgrades to the Quantitative and Technology labs and the addition of subject-specific tutoring for all subjects. The student services functions of student accounts, academic records, and financial aid services were centrally located in the former North Alabama Conference United Methodist Center, now known as the Student Services Building. Major changes were begun in the Office of Institutional Advancement as the college prepares for its fundraising future, and the Con- trollers Office was restructured. The college embarked on the largest marketing campaign in its history, from which the television ads were selected as the best in higher educa- A giant fireworks show and birthday party for groups of all ages during Alumni Reunion in May capped a year tion during the academic year. The of Sesquicentennial activities. Information Technology Office continued to roll out major enhancements such as wireless Internet in the Norton Campus Cen- ter, Library, Coffee House, and common areas of the residence halls, and a wireless laptop lab in the Harbert Building, among other initiatives. “ … I continue to be amazed at how hard the faculty and staff work at ’Southern,” Pollick said. “In spite of our challenges this year, you didn’t miss a beat. … ”

fall 2006 / 21 FEATURES

the annual budgetary gap of $8 Securing financial stability million,” he said. “And while we are going to do everything we can to grow the endowment … the solution he biggest challenge facing age your own household budgets to our structural problem is going to Birmingham-Southern today is T and checkbooks, every one of you in be primarily enrollment. … achieving financial stability. A this room understands this. “ … Regardless of how well we do pattern of drawing down from the Whether it’s $100 or a $100 million, our business, if the students aren’t endowment for a number of years to when the end of the month rolls attending in the number they need help balance the budget has put a around, you can’t spend more than to, all else will be for naught. The financial strain on the institution, you make or have. It was concluded increased competition from the pub- including three downgrades by before I arrived that we were doing lic sector within Alabama, which has Moody’s, the college’s bond rating this and the prognosis was not going changed its mission, has driven service. Because of Pollick’s to improve unless we changed the home vividly just how vulnerable an philosophy of shared governance, way we were doing business, i.e., institution is that places too many of the faculty and staff were painfully more operational revenue against its eggs in one basket, i.e., 70 percent aware of the situation. Pollick and what we were spending. … ” of its enrollment from a single mar- his administration and the Board of A number of initiatives have begun ket (the state of Alabama), and tied Trustees have been addressing the over the past year and a half to help to programming that is not suffi- situation since July 2004. Steps are secure the college’s financial future. ciently unique as to claim a large under way to secure financial (Editor’s Note: These initiatives ulti- enough portion of the market. We stability. mately were organized into a “Plan for are aggressively addressing these “ … It became painfully clear to Growth” document that was presented issues. … ” the leadership of the Board and my- to the Board of Trustees at its October Among the initiatives under way to self that the financial challenges that 2006 meeting.) take advantage of the college’s I laid out in front of you and the strengths and competitive unique- board in the first year, and the future Enrollment, ness to boost enrollment are: of the college’s credit worthiness, enrollment, enrollment were not going to be resolved unless A restructuring of intercollegiate two things happened: First, stable, The No. 1 key to a stable financial athletics. In May 2006, the col- predictable revenues had to increase; future, Pollick said, is enrollment at lege’s Board of Trustees voted to and, second, expenditures needed to the right size. move the intercollegiate athletics either be reduced and/or redirected “ … It would take an additional program from NCAA Division I in the direction of efforts that would $100 million plus being added to to Division III. “ … Recognizing increase revenue. Because you man- the endowment alone just to close that significant enrollment

22 / ’southern FEATURES

Countdown to kickoff begins for BSC football opportunities, at a decreased cost, come from developing a strong and winning Division III athletic program, the board made the Are you ready for some football? The first football season for Birmingham-Southern since courageous and difficult decision to 1939 will be here before you know it. make the move,” Pollick said. “As Head Coach Joey Jones and his staff are working hard recruiting players in preparation for painful as this decision was, its effect the fall 2007 opening kickoff. Jones’ current staff consists of Defensive Coordinator Eddie will be to create an enrollment Garfinkle and Running Backs Coach Hindley Brigham. Joel Williams (offensive engine simply not available to us coordinator/quarterbacks), Brad McAbee (offensive line), and Kelvis White (defensive line) before. Though there will be an will join the BSC athletic family in January. enrollment transition period as BSC currently has 17 players on campus working out with a new batch expected to arrive on students and their families make campus in January. Jones and his staff will conduct spring practice from March 26 through their decisions about what kind of April 30 at the BSC intramural fields. academic community they wish to be Land for the new athletic complex, located across from the BSC Softball Park, was being in, the athletic program will evolve cleared during the fall, officially starting the countdown to kickoff. from having 200 athletes to easily The new complex will include state-of-the-art artificial turf with an eight-lane regulation 350 or more within a few years. track. Phase one of construction also will include an athletic building with a dressing room Moving past the one-time costs of for officials and locker rooms for football, lacrosse, track and field, and cross country. One creating the necessary fields for play, practice field will be constructed adjacent to the athletic complex. Later phases will include a the increased revenue will be a return press box, coaches’ offices, meeting rooms, and athletic training rooms, with the possibility for we will see every year. We will also additional fields. be in emerging new enrollment NCAA Division III rules allow BSC alumni to help in the recruiting process. Jones encour- markets where our true competitive ages everyone to forward names of any prospective players by contacting the BSC Football colleges currently reside, the world of Office at 205/226-7800. A prospective student-athlete questionnaire also is available online at national liberal arts colleges. … ” the football Web page at www.bscsports.net.

Since the board’s decision in May, the college has been accepted for membership in NCAA Division III and joined the prestigious Southern Collegiate Athletic Conference. The sports of football, women’s lacrosse, and men’s and women’s track and field have been added and coaches have been hired. Recruiting is well under way for the new sports, and new men’s baseball and basketball coaches are seeking players to field teams in the 2007-08 academic year seasons. Development for a new athletic complex just behind the BSC Softball Park for use in football, track and field, and lacrosse is under way. The complex will be built in phases. (Editor’s Note: More information on the college’s new football program can be found elsewhere on this page. Please also see Athletics Director Joe Dean Jr.’s commentary in ’Southern Voices on the inside back cover of this issue.)

Preliminary architect’s rendering of the new sports fields at BSC.

fall 2006 / 23 FEATURES

Academic program development. Campus enhancements. Ground effort to build a state-of-the-art Pollick said that new academic was broken in December 2006 on admission operation with the programs that will help drive a new Admission Welcome product that justifies the price in the enrollment toward the 1,800 goal Center. This donor-funded facil- parents’ and students’ minds, enroll- will be both curricular and non- ity will be home to the college’s ment will be limited to modest curricular. Non-curricular Admission staff and provide a improvement against a competitor development includes the afore- warm front-door welcome to that offers its product for free. I can’t mentioned consolidation of stu- prospective students and their say it any clearer or more frequently. dent services into one location, families. Development of a new Admit the problem, and the improvements to the Academic environmental lake/park area on solutions are at hand. Resource Center, and continued the west end of campus near the “The good news is that we as a discussions about retention to in- intramural fields will soon begin. community have recognized what clude advising and faculty/stu- This project also was donor- needs to be done. The board has dent relationships early on in the funded and is intended to be and is providing its support for our college career. Curricular efforts both an academic laboratory for initiatives. … ” include an internationalization of the Urban and Environmental the business curriculum and a Studies program and a place of Fundraising, fundraising, track for students who have a recreation and leisure for the fundraising special interest in International students. Both will be built in Business, development of a phases. “ … These will provide The second key to achieving finan- proposed new program in Urban Admission with yet another tool cial security, Pollick said, is a stable and Environmental Studies, and for their efforts. … ,” stressed fundraising operation that creates preliminary discussions regarding Pollick. (Editor’s Note: More lifelong relationships with alumni the development of a Film and information on the Welcome Center and generates support for enroll- Media Studies program. and lake/park are can be found on ment goals, programs, facilities, and page 25.) The college also has the endowment. Program enhancements and purchased the 15-building, 375- A reorganization and strengthen- promotion. The Honors Program bed Hilltop Terrace Apartments ing in the Office of Institutional has been restructured to be more just north of the baseball com- Advancement, led by Vice President attractive to prospective students plex to provide more attractive for Institutional Advancement Adelia much like those programs at state living options for students. The Thompson, is paving the way for institutions. The college also is apartment complex will be fully such a comprehensive and vibrant placing more emphasis on inter- incorporated within the college fundraising effort for Birmingham- national study by providing more campus, including a connecting Southern that will bring substantial overseas opportunities and finan- road and sidewalks. and ongoing voluntary support to cial incentives, including grants the college. A new Board of Trustees and scholarships. Alumni involvement. The col- Institutional Advancement lege’s Office of Alumni Affairs is Committee, chaired by trustee and (Editor’s Note: Not included in engaging alumni in student re- alumnus Bruce Rogers, and a new the State of the College address in cruitment, with a goal of 500 advice president for advancement August is a four-year guarantee plan ditional referrals a year, especially position on the Alumni Association that was announced in December from other states. Board of Directors, held by alumnus 2006 whereby Birmingham- Richard Yeilding, are further Southern is guaranteeing that full- “ … Without them [initiatives], we supporting the effort. time students can complete their simply will not be able to counter Pollick stressed that these efforts requirements for a baccalaureate the competitive threats that have will include building over the next degree in four academic years begun to erode our enrollment few years a reliable Annual Fund provided they follow college guide- base,” noted Pollick. “While we can that brings in a minimum of $2 mil- lines. If not, the college will provide and are improving our systems lion annually to support operations. free tuition for any additional across campus in every major opera- (Continued on page 26.) courses that may be required. The tion, and while we are making every college is placing great emphasis on marketing these enhancements to prospective students.) 24 / ’southern FEATURES

New environmental lake/park area and admission center to enhance college’s ‘welcoming’ atmosphere

Birmingham-Southern’s environmental lake/park area and Admission Welcome Center, once they are completed, are sure to bring some “oohs” and “ahs” to the Birmingham-Southern campus. The lake/park area will be not only a place of recreation and leisure for students, but also an academic laboratory for the study of environmental issues. The welcome center will provide a warm and welcoming Birmingham-Southern introduction for prospective students and their families. Together, the projects will enhance the aesthetic beauty of campus. Approved at the fall 2005 meeting of the Board of Trustees, construction on both privately funded projects began in December 2006. The dual-level campus lake and park will be situated on the western end of the campus down the hill from the residence hall quad near the old fraternity row site. Phase one of construction is scheduled to include a park area, road, and lights for the intramural fields. Later phases will include the lake with a 10-foot drop from upper lake to lower lake in a series of waterfalls, each five feet high; a pavilion; an amphitheatre; a lake house for student use; and an EcoHouse, as well as terraced seating that borders the college’s existing intramural fields and EcoScape garden. “From an academic perspective, the park area will provide a living laboratory for the college’s proposed Urban and Environmental Studies program,” says BSC President Dr. David Pollick. “Through the use of natural and indigenous plant life and materials, it will be well-suited as a study environment, as well as an example of state-of-the-art urban planning. From a college life perspective, the park will provide another set of locations which offer enhanced alternatives for recreation and leisure.” The new Admission Welcome Center will be located near the Striplin Fitness and Recreation Center so as to be visible as prospective students and other visitors enter campus. This stately manor, designed by regionally renowned architect Bobby McAlpine, will serve as the welcome center to campus and will host prospective students and their parents as they visit BSC during the college decision process. It also will increase office space for the admission staff. “The Welcome Center will be a beautifully designed facility that will function as the ‘first impression’ and front door to literally thousands of students and guests,” Pollick notes. “As the adage goes, ‘you only have one chance to make a first impression.’ And we want ours to be a welcome of hospitality and quality.”

Architects’ renderings of the environmental lake/park area (above) and Admission Welcome Center (right).

fall 2006 / 25 FEATURES

The college’s parents program, including the Parents Council and Respicio, aspicio, prospicio the parents giving program, also will be enhanced. “ s I have said, we will go into this year [2006-07 academic year] in a The largest major gifts campaign in Atransitional mode with our enrollment. …, ” Pollick would conclude his Birmingham-Southern’s history, the State of the College. “ … There are no surprises here. This was ex- 21st Century Campaign, was com- pected and will be offset by our developing new athletic programs. But I do pleted in May 2004 with more than see a full two-year transition. This is the price we pay for a far more secure $156 million raised over nine years. financial and academic future. We will weather this together as we prepare Such campaigns are commonplace for what I consider to be an enormously exciting period of growth in quality, and continuous in higher education, reputation, and enrollment. This is why I came—and this is why I’m staying. Pollick said, and the restructuring of You sold me on you. I believe in you and what you stand for. It wasn’t the the fundraising operation at BSC books or the accounts that brought me to you. And it wasn’t the prospect of will eventually lead to its next com- a man with another rung on the ladder to climb. It was you. It was your prehensive campaign. dream. And together, we are going to build the dream you painted for me. “ … There is no doubt that we are “Respicio, aspicio, prospicio. Love Mom. in a challenging period for fundrais- “Well, we have remembered the past—and it has been honored. We are ing,” he cautioned. “While we have paying attention to the present—and we have no illusions. And we are look- been the grateful beneficiaries of ing forward to the future—in fact, it already exists in the mind’s eye of every some large and generous bequests … one of us in this room.” these naturally are unpredictable. In contrast, annual gifting had become more difficult … indicating that much work needs to be done to re- verse that trend. We now have the operation in place to make that happen. Under Adelia Thompson’s leadership, she has an outstanding staff and a new trustee committee that, with my office, will form the structural backbone of our next successful campaign. … “ … This world needs this college and the kind of graduates it produces. We are losing students who ought to be here and who want to be here. Other institutions are able to provide more financial support for tuition and travel. We must grow programs, build our endowment, improve some of our buildings, and continue to launch programs that ensure our place as an undisputed leader among national liberal arts colleges in America. … ”

26 / ’southern ?!

Asking LOUD questions ?! ?! The interrobang. It’s a rarely used, non-standard punctuation mark—an exclamation point and a question mark superimposed over each other or used side by side to indicate a question being asked with excitement, or asking a question LOUD. Much like an interrobang, students at Birmingham-Southern have been asking LOUD questions with excitement for more than 150 years, seeking knowledge, truth, and non-standard answers while leaving their non-standard marks on the world. It’s a LOUD excitement that continues today, not only with our students, but with our entire college community. See more of what makes Birmingham- Southern “ask LOUD questions” when we unveil a redesigned Web site at www.bsc.edu in early 2007. BSC Birmingham-Southern College Social justice and the law Hess Center Fellows Program debuts at Birmingham-Southern

by pat cole

28 / ’southern FEATURES

irmingham-Southern students don’t have to wait until they’ve graduated to become Bimmersed in the world of advocacy. BSC officially launched this year the new Hess Center Fellows Program, which provided summer internships for eight students to examine approaches to shaping public policy. Building upon a 20-year BSC tradition of student volunteerism and leadership, the Hess Center Fellows Program follows the service-learning model of experiential learning to pair eight to 10 students with nonprofit agencies that are working for systemic change both locally and globally. The internships included conducting focus groups on tax reform in the Black Belt, working with the Birmingham City Council on HIV-related issues, and reevaluating Birmingham’s plan to eradicate homelessness, in which the students examined and addressed critical social and economic problems. “The fellowships were intended for students to develop understanding of the policy-making process on a macro level,” explains BSC Assistant Service-Learning Coordinator Sara Doughton, who helps coordinate the program. “We want students to not only want to effect change for a student they may tutor locally, for instance, but for all children throughout Alabama and the nation who don’t receive a quality education due to unjust or inadequate structures and policy.” Both during the summer months and through spring and fall reflections, the Hess Fellows applied concepts learned in academic classes and in pre- internship discussions to the economic, political, structural, and cultural realities of working with a nonprofit agency. “These issues could range from affordable housing and children’s welfare to ending hunger and environmental protection,” says Doughton. “The Hess Fellows are now exploring ways to share their experiences with the campus community.” After a written application and interview process, the following students were selected to serve as the inaugural Hess Center Fellows: (Continued on page 31.)

Farley Lord (blue shirt) and the Alabama Rivers Alliance staff canoed through Hatchet Creek, located southeast of Sylacauga. fall 2006 / 29 FEATURES

Marcus Dillender works with lobbying group to fight hunger

to the massive amounts of reading I did about different policies and strategies, I attended Senate briefings and informative seminars.” Dillender says his experience with Bread for the World restored his faith in the American government. “I felt sort of cynical at first about whether an organization like Bread for the World could really help some of the billion-plus people who are starving,” he remarks. “But I learned that they are doing a lot more than Dillender (left) with Birmingham resident Dr. Gayle Pelham, who sponsored his just throwing money on the internship. problem. There are programs being set up that will remedy long-term When it came time for Hess Center mental Relations Office at Bread for problems associated with hunger Fellow Marcus Dillender to select his the World, located within viewing and poverty.” summer internship, he wanted to distance of the U.S. Capitol. Besides With a goal to use his quantitative work for an advocacy group with an attending legislative meetings at the background to research public international focus. And Dillender Capitol, he used his quantitative policies in the future, Dillender has got just what he wanted after being background to analyze both farm his mind set on graduate school. paired with Bread for the World in bill proposals and domestic news on “This experience really opened my Washington, D.C., a hotbed for hunger issues and to write weekly eyes to the fact that poverty takes public policy advocates. updates for the agency’s head- on many forms, even obesity “I wanted to do something with quarters and regional offices. He sometimes, like when people try to hunger internationally and also also assisted in the delivery of survive off cheap food. I also wanted to have the opportunity to grassroots “offering of letters” to learned that poverty can’t be based go somewhere else and live for a legislators. on appearance. You never know while,” says the senior math/ “Each day, I read through a lot of what people are going through.” economics major from Rockwall, news sources and researched Texas. “I was excited to get both.” domestic issues like farm aid, wel- Editor’s Note: Bread for the World is a From June through August, fare, minimum wage, and immigra- Christian advocacy group working to Dillender worked in the Govern- tion,” notes Dillender. “In addition fight hunger worldwide.

30 / ’southern FEATURES

Kate Brantley, a senior English Ministries, where he assisted in the Amendment One (for tax reform), major from Madison, Miss., interned agency’s efforts on constitutional including statistical research and for Aletheia House, where she reform and organized fall rallies on organizing focus groups, and researched property ownership in college campuses statewide to assisted with the organization’s the Norwood community of highlight constitutional reform. participation in the Alabama School Birmingham and worked with Farley Lord, a senior French Readiness Coalition. VOICES asked various homeless agencies to expand major from Atlanta, interned for the Winfree to work for them again next use of food stamps for clients. Alabama Rivers Alliance, where she year. Marcus Dillender interned for worked with the ADEM Reform The fellows served for eight weeks Bread for the World in Washington, Coalition and Watershed coordi- during the summer and received a D.C. (see page 30). nator and wrote a paper on the $2,500 stipend with additional Mary Ivey, a senior interdiscipli- proposed #459 northern beltway funding available for living expenses. nary sociology/political science around Birmingham and its impact Generous support from the Joseph S. major from Hoover, interned for the on urban sprawl and environmental Bruno Charitable Foundation, the YWCA of Central Alabama where degradation. Next year, she plans to Dixon Foundation, and several she updated information on intern with an environmental private donors made the inaugural Eleanor’s Tree, an advocacy Web- organization in Paris. Hess Fellows Program possible. The based network; researched Lisa Owens, a junior chemistry college is already selecting commu- information on child support major from Huntsville, interned for nity agencies for internships for next legislation in Alabama; and worked AIDS Alabama, where she developed summer’s Hess Fellows Program, on problems between the housing publicity for AIDS Awareness Day, and donors are being sought to fund authority and a housing project for updated the organization’s Web the program. the elderly in Rosedale, Ala. Taking page, and created a new brochure on The Hess Center for Leadership advantage of her political science AIDS in Alabama. and Studies was established at BSC quantitative background, she also Maria Presley interned for The more than a decade ago to began a database for an initiative Carter Center (see page 33). encourage students to seek out the on racial justice. Brittany Winfree, a senior history means and opportunities to Eddie LaCour, a senior political major from Fairhope, interned for challenge and transform structures science major from Dothan, VOICES for Alabama’s Children, in government, society, economics, interned for Greater Birmingham where she analyzed the defeat of and culture that perpetuate injustice.

BSC Service-Learning Coordinator Kristin Harper (far left) and BSC Leadership and Environmental Studies Director Jeanne Jackson (far right) joined the inaugural class of Hess Center Fellows and their community agency directors at a dinner this past spring at ArchitectureWorks. fall 2006 / 31 FEATURES

Hess Center Fellow Eddie LaCour was one of several interns who assisted Greater Birmingham Ministries in promoting its message of constitutional reform for Alabama. 32 / ’southern FEATURES

Presley explores context of war, mediation at Carter Center

As the world faces ongoing get in the way of substantial summer though was traveling to violence in the Middle East, Africa, efforts at peace.” Plains, Ga., with the other interns and other conflict-prone regions, During her internship, Presley and coming face-to-face with Maria Presley’s summer internship researched the violence in Sudan, former President Carter and his with a peace and justice agency in northern Uganda, and Chad, and wife, Rosalynn, who founded the Atlanta couldn’t have been more explored the heated debates over center. “They are just as humble relevant. United Nations intervention in as they are engaging and intel- Presley was among five interns Darfur. “On a daily basis, I ligent,” she expresses. “They cared from around the world who analyzed events taking place in about getting to know each intern worked in the Conflict Resolution these countries and compiled personally, as well as encouraging Program at The Carter Center. As recommendations for former us all to believe in the possibility one of the college’s first Hess President Carter,” she explains. “I of peace during our lifetimes.” Center Fellows, she worked from also assisted with weekly news Presley is grateful for her mid-May through the end of updates in the Conflict Resolution experience and says it moved her August researching the dynamics Department at the Carter Center.” out of her comfort zone. “I now of international conflict, and Each intern also was assigned a see international service as a discovering ways to prevent the particular issue to study. Presley necessary extension to a liberal devastation that such conflict studied the post-conflict society in arts education,” she says. “I plan causes. Liberia and worked on the newly to join the Peace Corps after I “What intrigued me the most developed Liberia Project at the graduate, and I hope to end up in was learning about how the U.S. center. “President Ellen Johnson- a field which examines the views justice completely different Sirleaf asked the center to begin a intersection of religion and than the developing world does,” new civil society building project conflict resolution. I learned that notes Presley, a senior religion in Liberia,” says Presley. “I was coming up with ideas to resolve major from Tupelo, Miss. “This lucky enough to be assigned to the conflict as an individual is close to element alone can often impede job.” impossible, but with the help of a conflict resolution practices and She believes the highlight of her team, conflict resolution is much more promising.” She also takes pride from her experiences in knowing that she can now talk African politics with “the best of them.” “I read e-mails from the first fe- male president of an African nation and practiced Tai Chi [a martial art] with Mrs. Carter. It doesn’t get much better than that.”

Editor’s Note: In partnership with Emory University, the Carter Center has worked since 1982 to improve the quality of life for people in some Maria Presley visited the home of former President Carter and his wife, Rosalynn, 65 countries. in Plains, Ga., during her internship.

fall 2006 / 33 ALUMNI AFFAIRS

site as other main sources of BSC Alumni cite ‘pride,’ ‘satisfaction’ information. More than half of those polled said that they had to describe BSC experience registered for the college’s online community, BSC AlumNet (www.bsc.edu/ A love of books, a passion for the satisfaction and loyalty. Also, alumnet), a searchable arts, frequent travel, religious the majority of alumni said alumni directory that attendance, and a dedication to that they would be very likely provides users with a community service—these are the to recommend BSC to their convenient way to keep in hallmarks of Birmingham-Southern family and friends. touch with old friends. alumni. The main reasons for attend- Of particular interest were the For the first time in nearly 10 ing Birmingham-Southern were the volunteer and recreational interests years, the Birmingham-Southern size of the school, its intimate 12-1 indicated by alumni, with travel Alumni Association conducted a faculty-student ratio, the innovative (56.2 percent) and books (55.9 survey last October. The office classes, the scholarship and financial percent) topping the list. These were received almost 1,000 responses— aid opportunities, and its prestige. followed by religious attendance and nearly 15 percent participation—and Regarding how the Office of musical performances. Local community service also was a high The majority of alumni said that they would be priority, as were gourmet food and very likely to recommend BSC to their family wine. The results have provided an and friends. interesting and useful window into the opinions of BSC alumni. The the results were illuminating. Alumni Affairs communicates with survey’s results already have helped Here are some of the key alumni, 85 percent of respondents the Alumni Affairs Office develop highlights: said that they receive most of their activities and programs that better Asked what word describes the information about the college from serve alumni. single greatest feeling they have ’Southern magazine. The magazine “These findings will help us as we about Birmingham-Southern, pride was followed by the From the Hilltop continue to develop affinity group was the No. 1 response, followed by e-newsletter and the college’s Web programs, such as our new travel program, neighborhood wine tastings, and professional group clubs,” said Lisa Harrison, director of alumni affairs. A large percentage of alumni said they would be likely to support the Annual Fund, an important focus for the Office of Institutional Advance- ment and the Alumni Board. Birmingham-Southern currently lags behind peer institutions in alumni support for the Annual Fund. Notably, alumni responding to the survey recommended or informed the Alumni Affairs Office about 183 prospective students and legacies for BSC. The office feels that this Pensacola alumni gathered in August for a sunset cruise aboard Capt. Jerry number is the best compliment to Andrews’ ’80 (center) boat,“The Entertainer.” Talking to Andrews are (from left) the college—the fact that alumni not BSC President Dr. David Pollick, Jerilyn Brooks-MacBeth ’81, and Keith Thompson ’83 of the BSC Institutional Advancement Office.

34 / ’southern ALUMNI AFFAIRS

only think well of their education, but are actively seeking out and recommending potential students. The Office of Alumni Affairs thanks all of the participating alumni, and encourages all alumni to call or write with questions or suggestions to 205/226-4912 or [email protected].

I receive important information about BSC through:

‘Southern magazine 833 From the Hilltop e-newsletter 806 BSC Web site (www.bsc.edu) 395 other alumni 321 faculty and staff 142 media 119 you’ve made the friends. campus visits 76 BSC students 119 now keep them. church 55 other 34 AlumNet

A searchable alumni directory

A permanent BSC e-mail address

Make gifts BSC Birmingham-Southern College

www.bsc.edu/alumnet

fall 2006 / 35 ALUMNI AFFAIRS

Alumni events offer opportunities to network, socialize Alumni Affairs Frequently Asked Questions For the 14,000 BSC alumni across the world, there has never been an easier time to meet and greet fellow Birmingham-Southern graduates. Since last February, the BSC Office of Alumni Affairs has spearheaded a vigorous campaign of alumni get-togethers and affinity group meetings. Where do I go to find out about There have been over 20 alumni events in the past 10 months, with upcoming alumni events? typically three to four events per month. The events have ranged from Upcoming Chapter and Affinity Group events are opportunities for professional networking to socializing in various cities posted on BSC AlumNet, as well as in the across the country. monthly From the Hilltop e-newsletter. See what’s What’s more, none of the events are focused on fundraising for the happening next at: www.alumniconnections.com/ college. The events are purely social and aimed at keeping BSC alumni in BSCAOC. touch with one another. And alumni events have not been limited only to the Birmingham How do I join a chapter or volunteer? area. So far, there have been events everywhere from Alabama to New Go to the Chapter Pages section of AlumNet for York City, with Nashville, Atlanta, Quad Cities (Alabama), and Florida specific information on chapter Web sites and along the way. contact information: “Given the large concentration of alumni in certain cities, geographical www.alumniconnections.com/BSCAOC. alumni groups seemed unwieldy and impractical,” says Anil Mujumdar, the current Alumni Board vice president of chapter and affinity How do I recommend a prospective programs. “By organizing alumni gatherings according to hobbies, student? professions, and other existing interests, alumni have been able to meet On the Alumni Affairs page of the BSC Web site, in smaller, more meaningful settings.” there is a recommendation page: Events have included a pair of football preview parties in Tuscaloosa www.bsc.edu/alumni/request.htm. and Montgomery with BSC Athletics Director Joe Dean Jr. and the college’s new Head Football Coach Joey Jones to discuss next season’s Who’s on the Alumni Executive rebirth of the Birmingham-Southern football program. Board? In the Birmingham area, there has been a wine tasting in Mountain The 2007-08 Alumni Executive Board was selected Brook’s English Village. The most recent Downtown Birmingham at the Leadership Conference in November. They Alumni Business luncheon in September featured Cathy Gilmore ’68, are listed on the Alumni Affairs page of the BSC who spoke on “Making Birmingham an Arts Destination.” Gilmore is Web site: www.bsc.edu/alumni/questions/ the president of the Metropolitan Arts Center and the Virginia Samford board.htm and on pages 38-39 of this magazine. Theatre in Birmingham. Perhaps the most unique event was hosted by the Pensacola, Fla., What awards does the Alumni chapter of the BSC Alumni Association. The chapter held a sunset cruise Association give out? on a Friday evening last August. Aboard “The Entertainer,” approxi- The Alumni Association awards two honors each mately 25 BSC alumni cruised around Pensacola Bay. year at the Reunion Luncheon: the Distinguished Next year, there will be an increase in a different type of alumni Alumni Award and the Outstanding Young event—the affinity group. These groups tailor events to particular Alumni Award. Nominations are taken in the fall. professions or interests. The most active affinity group so far has been More information is available on the Alumni the Lawyer’s Club, which holds seasonal social meetings throughout the Affairs’ Web site at: www.bsc.edu/alumni/awards/ year and has a membership of more than 300 attorneys. default.htm. “The Birmingham lawyers’ alumni group has been very successful to date in bringing together lawyers and legal professionals every few Where can I get an alumni car decal? months to socialize in a relaxed atmosphere,” says Mujumdar. Karen Ellis, on the third floor of the Stockham The upcoming affinity groups for 2007 will include one in Building, will be happy to provide you with an Birmingham for doctors and dentists, as well as one for ministers, alumni decal. Stop by or contact Ellis at financial professionals, educators, entrepreneurs, and IT professionals. 205/226-4909 or [email protected]. Events also will continue to be organized in areas outside of Birmingham. How can I make a gift online? To make a gift online, please visit 36 / ’southern www.bsc.edu/egiving. ALUMNI AFFAIRS

Tag! BSC is it——Have you seen those Birmingham-Southern license tags? For just $50, you can show your BSC pride by both displaying a BSC license tag and supporting the college. And $48.75 of that cost comes back to the college in support of the Annual Fund. BSC collegiate license plates may be purchased at any time, regardless of your tag renewal month. Due to confidentiality laws, the Department of Transportation does not release the names of tag owners. To receive gift credit, contact Maggie McDonald in the Office of Annual Giving at 205/226-7737 or [email protected].

Mark your calendar now! Join us for all the fun at Alumni Reunion 2007. Come back to ’Southern and relive the past, while looking forward to the future. Weekend ’07 activities will include: rtheeu bestnio ofn times Alumni Golf Tournament Young Alumni Party Birmingham-Southern College Class Reunions for 2’s and 7’s Alumni Reunion Weekend Alumni Mini College Memorial Service April 27 & 28, 2007 Alumni Awards Luncheon Family Festival and Picnic 205/226-4909 www.bsc.edu/alumni/reunion2007 Dinner on the Grounds

... and much more ALUMNI AFFAIRS

“In today’s increasingly challenging and competitive environment for recruiting prospective students, I cannot stress enough how important and valuable it is for alumni to provide insight to the Admission Office about potential outstanding students in their geographic area.” John Watts, VP, Enrollment, BSC Alumni Board

Birmingham-Southern Colle

Executive

President- President---Julie Lockwood ’92 James Pen

VP, Chapter & Affinity VP, Service VP, Reunion Programs & Outreach Vicki Van Valkenburgh ’88 Anil Mujumdar ’97 Kristin Harper ’92

Regional Groups Chair Chaplain Liaisons Alumni Reunion & Committee Service Learning & Weekend Chair Chapters Lifelong Service Learning & Committee Birmingham Affinity Chair & Committee Class Chairs Groups Chair Center for Human Honor Class Chair & Committee Dignity Chair & Committee & Committee

38 / ’southern ALUMNI AFFAIRS

“Working on the Alumni Reunion has been a great experience. I love talking to BSC graduates from different generations and different parts of the country, because it is so easy to see the common threads that bind us all. Over and over again, I find an ability to see the big picture, a desire to change that picture for the better, and a confident, can-do willingness to step up and make a difference in the world. I look forward to celebrating these great qualities and being with those who share them at a terrific reunion in April.” Vicki Van Valkenburgh, reunion vice president, BSC Alumni Board

ge Alumni Board 2006-2007

Committee

- Elect--- Past President---John Burton ’85 n nington ’87

VP, Marketing VP, Advancement VP, Enrollment & Communications Richard Yeilding ’73 John Watts ’86 Karen Carroll ’87

Annual Fund Chair Regional Enrollment Marketing & & Committee Chair & Committee Communications Reunion Giving Chairs Graduate Programs Advisory Committee & Committee Enrollment Chair Class Fund Chairs & Committee Gift Planning Chair Birmingham Enrollment & Committee Chair & Committee

fall 2006 / 39 PHILANTHROPY

Who We Are … And How We Can Assist You

Annual Giving Maggie McDonald Erica Crump ’05 Director of Annual Giving Assistant Director of Annual Giving 205/226-7737 205/226-7738 [email protected] [email protected]

We can help you with: Annual contributions from alumni, parents, and friends Reunion giving Leadership gifts

Major Gifts and Planned Giving Martha Hamrick Boshers Pat Anderson-Flowers Director of Major Gifts and Assistant Director of Major Gifts Planned Giving and Planned Giving 205/226-4978 205/226-4979 [email protected] [email protected]

We can help you with: Establishing and supporting endowed scholarships and professorships Making stock gifts Setting up annuities, trusts, and will bequests

Alumni Affairs Lisa Harrison, MPPM ’85 Amanda Warren ’04 Director of Alumni Affairs Assistant Director of Alumni Affairs 205/226-4912 205/226-4908 [email protected] [email protected]

We can help you with: Chapter and affinity group activities Alumni events Reunion Alumni volunteer opportunities

Recent alumna named assistant director of annual giving

Erica Crump, a Winfield native and 2005 Birmingham-Southern graduate, has been named assistant director of annual giving. She formerly was employed with Sprint Nextel as an indirect sales support representative. At BSC, she was a work-study in the Student Affairs Office and worked as a summer conference assistant in the Office of Facilities and Events. She graduated with a major in sociology.

Crump

40 / ’southern PHILANTHROPY

BSC has new assistant director of major gifts

Pat Anderson-Flowers is the new assistant director of major gifts and planned giving. Flowers was employed more than 10 years with the Birmingham Children’s Theatre, most recently as artistic director. She formerly worked at Birmingham-Southern both as an adjunct and assistant professor of theatre and as coordinator of Southern Anderson-Flowers Volunteer Services, which now is Service-Learning. Flowers reports to the vice president for institutional advancement and is responsible for cultivating major gifts and planned gifts that enhance both the community and alumni relations. She is the wife of BSC Theatre Professor Michael Flowers. A native of Fayetteville, Tenn., she earned a bachelor’s degree in theatre/speech and English from Middle Tennessee State University, and a master’s in fine arts from the University of Mississippi.

New IRA rules benefit potential donors

Donating funds from an Individual Retirement Account is a great way to give to Birmingham- Southern. And with the Pension Protection Act of 2006, using your IRA to give to BSC just got much easier. Previously, distributions from IRAs often ran into taxation issues, because donors would have to declare the distribution from their IRA on their tax return, and then have to take a charitable deduction, with the possibility of having to pay more taxes after making a gift than if the donor had not given at all. But with the new act in place, that tangle is eliminated. Between now and Dec. 31, 2007, donors can make donations up to $100,000 per year without declaring the donation on their tax return. What’s more, the transfers count towards the taxpayer’s required mandatory distribution. There are a few conditions for this new scenario. For example, donors must be 70-½ years of age or older. The funds must come directly from an IRA or a Rollover IRA, and they must go directly to a public charity, rather than foundations, donor advised accounts, or charitable remainder trusts. But act fast: this new rule will only last until the end of 2007. For more information about planned giving, contact Martha Boshers, director of major gifts, at 205/226-4978 or [email protected].

fall 2006 / 41 192 acres 48 buildings 1,300 students 50 programs of study 33 states 16 foreign countries one1 life

The Power of One Birmingham-Southern Annual Fund

Maggie McDonald, director of annual giving 205/226-7737 [email protected]

Alumni Affairs 900 Arkadelphia Road Box 549003 Birmingham, AL 35254 www.bsc.edu/egiving BSC Birmingham-Southern College

www.bsc.edu/alumnet ATHLETICS

Women’s golf finishes fall season ranked 37th in nation

A strong fall season followed by Stupiansky in second for the Birmingham- with a one-under 143. Southern women’s The Panthers also won the Lady golf team wrapped Pirate Invitational hosted by East up with the team’s Carolina University in Greenville, third win in five events N.C. Freshman Sara Hunt claimed at the UAB Beach Bash in Gulf her first collegiate tournament win Shores in November. At the time of with an even-par 216, and BSC set a publication, the Golfweek/Sagarin new school record, shooting an rankings had the squad ranked No. even-par 288 in the first round. 37 in the nation. BSC finished tied for fifth at the The Panthers won the UAB event Lady Wildcat Invitational in by 50 strokes over Mercer University, Lexington, Ky., and tied for ninth at carding a 598 for the 36-hole The Derby, hosted by Auburn tournament. BSC had eight players University. crack the top 12 led by senior Jill McGraw, Hunt, and Stupiansky Stupiansky, who won the tourna- were named the Big South ment with a three-over 147. Conference Golfer of the Week for BSC opened the fall with a win at their respective tournament wins. the Birmingham Tri-Match at Bent The team will return to action Feb. Brook Golf Course in McCalla. 5 at the Baja Invitational hosted by Senior Shelley McGraw won the the University of Louisville in Baja, match with a three-under 141, N.M.

Jill Stupiansky won the UAB Beach Bash at par 72 at The Peninsula in Gulf Shores.

fall 2006 / 43 ATHLETICS

Thomas hired as new women’s lacrosse coach at BSC

Birmingham-Southern has hired Emily Thomas to lead its new women’s lacrosse program. The program will begin as a club sport for 2007-08 and will become a varsity sport for the 2008-09 season. “Lacrosse is one of the fastest growing sports in the South, and we are excited about providing new opportunities for women who love the sport,” BSC Athletics Director Joe Dean Jr. said. “Our head coach, Emily Thomas, played on two national championship lacrosse teams, and is a dynamic personality who is excited about building a quality Thomas Division III lacrosse program over the next several years.” Prior to coming to BSC, Thomas served as a coach with Tri State Lacrosse Club in New Jersey in 2005 and 2006, and was a coach with Future Elite Lacrosse Club in Washington, D.C., from 2002 to 2004. A native of Collingswood, N.J., Thomas earned her bachelor’s degree in corporate fitness from The College of New Jersey and her master’s in health promotion management from American University in Washington, D.C. She and her husband, Seth Thomas, reside in Hoover.

A legend retires— Former Birmingham-Southern assistant basketball coaches and players gathered on campus in November to pay tribute to former BSC Head Basketball Coach Duane Reboul (third from left) who announced his retirement in June. During his 17 years of coaching, Reboul led the Panther basketball team to two NAIA National Championships, in 1990 and 1995, and was the winningest basketball coach in BSC history. The night featured a tribute video with comments from former players and coaches and opposing coaches. Pictured with Reboul are former assistant coaches (from left) Mitch Cole, who is now BSC’s head coach; Mark McCaleb; Paul Arthur; Scott Stapler; and Paul Brown.

44 / ’southern ATHLETICS

Weisberg named new head baseball coach at Birmingham-Southern

Birmingham-Southern this fall “Jan worked for one of college announced the hiring of Jan baseball’s most respected coaches at Weisberg as the 11th head baseball Kentucky in Keith Madison, and is coach in school history. He replaces committed to building an outstand- Brian Shoop, who accepted the same ing Division III program, by virtue of position at UAB after 17 seasons on his experience as head coach at the Hilltop. Division III Transylvania University,” Weisberg led Transylvania said BSC Athletics Director Joe Dean University to a second-place regular Jr. “Jan is also keenly aware of the season finish in the Heartland tremendous interest in BSC baseball, Collegiate Athletic Conference, the and will work tirelessly to reach out highest finish in school history, and to all BSC baseball alumni and sup- to its first-ever conference tourna- porters during this academic year.” ment berth in 2006. He had seven Weisberg, 37, earned his bachelor’s players earn All-Conference honors, degree in economics from the Weisberg and he implemented academic University of Kentucky in 1993. He strategies that helped raise the team and his wife, Alyssa, have a three- GPA. year-old son, Jan Thomas.

Two school records fall in Birmingham-Southern men’s golf showdown

The Birmingham-Southern men’s golf team closed out its fall schedule in fine fashion, shooting a school record six-under 846 to finish third at the Buffalo Rock/Southern Showdown at Bent Brook Golf Course in late October. J.T. Clendenin Freshmen J.T. Clendenin and Robert Lindstrom led the charges for the Panthers during the earned Big South fall. Clendenin, who posted three top-10 finishes in the fall, was named Big South Conference Men’s Golfer of the Golfer of the week twice. He shot an even-par 216 at the Santa Clara Invitational on Oct. 23- Week honors two 24, and then earned his second honor a week later on the heals of a BSC 54-hole record eight- consecutive weeks under 205 at the Buffalo Rock/Southern Showdown. in October. Lindstrom posted two top-10 finishes, winning the prestigious MacDonald Cup, hosted by Yale University, with a plus-five 215, and finishing tied for ninth at the Buffalo Rock/Southern Showdown. He was named Big South Conference Golfer of the Week once after finishing 11th at the Raines Development Intercollegiate with a two-over 218. Freshman Nick Blakely also earned Big South Golfer of the Week honors during the fall.

fall 2006 / 45 ATHLETICS

Men’s and women’s cross country teams close successful seasons at NCAA meet

Successful seasons for the Birmingham-Southern men’s and women’s cross country teams came to a close in November at the NCAA South Senior Tricia Milton Sophomore Justin Region meet, hosted by the University of Tennessee in Maryville. The led the BSC women’s Leach was the top BSC men finished 23rd and the women claimed 20th among top cross country team in finisher for the BSC schools from the SEC, ACC, Ohio Valley Conference, Conference USA, 13-of-15 races during men’s cross country and the Sun Belt Conference. her two-year career on team in four-of-eight The Panther men posted two team victories in eight meets this the Hilltop. races in 2006. season, winning the UAH Invitational in Huntsville and the Coach O Invitational in Troy. BSC opened the season with a second-place finish at the Sewanee Invitational in Sewanee, Tenn., and later claimed a third-place finish at the Winthrop Invitational in Rock Hill, S.C. The Panthers finished seventh in their final Big South Conference Championships meet. Sophomore Justin Leach was BSC’s top finisher in four-of-eight races, including the Big South meet. Sophomore Forrest Boughner led BSC at the UAH Invitational with a fourth-place finish and was the top runner in the NCAA Regional. Senior Aalok Sharma blazed his way into the BSC record books, clocking a men’s 8K record 25:35.02 at the Auburn Invitational. On the women’s side, the Panthers claimed a second-place finish at the Coach O Invitational and posted fourth-place finishes at Sewanee and the Great American Cross Country Festival in Hoover. BSC finished sixth in its final Big South Conference meet. Senior Tricia Milton led BSC in six-of-eight races, wrapping up her two-year career leading the Panthers in 13-of-15 races. Milton also clocked six 5K top-10 times over two seasons, including setting a new 5K mark with 18:07.15 at Auburn. Freshman Karoline Briggs led BSC in the Big South and NCAA meets and set the freshman 5K record with 18:52 at Auburn and a top-10 time of 18:55.78 at the Big South meet. Briggs and Milton clocked top-10 6K times at the NCAA Regional.

Men’s soccer closes out tough 2006 campaign

Early season injuries and inexperience contributed to a slow start for Birmingham- Southern men’s soccer in 2006. BSC started the season 0-5 before going 6-5-1 down the stretch to finish 6-10-1 overall and a 3-3-1 Big South Conference mark. The Panthers wrapped up their final season as a men’s soccer participant in the Big South Conference as the No. 5 seed in the league tournament, falling to Liberty in the first round. Junior Gino Cozzolino, who led BSC with seven goals, four assists, and 18 points, was selected First-Team All-Big South and All-Academic Big South for the second straight season. Senior Doug Eckhardt and freshman Stefan Haben were voted to the Second- Team. Haben, who was second on the team with four goals and three assists, and Norman Baer were named to the All-Freshman squad. During their four years of eligibility in the Big South Conference, the Panthers won two Big South regular season titles, appeared in two Big South championship games, and made three semifinal appearances.

Stefan Haben earned Second-Team All-Big South Conference and Big South All-Freshman laurels for the Panthers in 2006. 46 / ’southern ATHLETICS

Women’s soccer finishes fourth in regular season Big South

After being picked to finish seventh in the 2006 Big South Conference Preseason Women’s Soccer Poll, this year’s Panthers, under the direction of Interim Head Coach Nikki Smith, surprised with a late-season run and finished fourth in the conference standings. After opening the season with a 2-6 record, the Panthers put together a five-game winning streak, including its first-ever victory over cross-town rival UAB. The Panthers also finished second at the Samford Invitational with a hard-fought 1-0 loss to the Bulldogs and a 4-0 win over Austin Peay. The squad went on the road and suffered two losses to Radford and Liberty, but closed out the season with home wins over Montevallo and VMI. BSC entered the conference tournament as the fourth seed and fell in the first round to UNC-Asheville in double overtime. Three Panthers earned First-Team All-Conference honors: seniors Brittney Jones and Jess Smith, and freshman Lydia Rice. Rice also was named to the All-Freshman squad, and Smith earned Academic All- Conference accolades. Junior Catherine Spiker was named to the 2006 All-Tournament team. Senior Jess Smith led the women’s soccer team Smith, who was named First-Team All-Conference three times during with six goals and an assist for 13 points this her career, ended the season as the team’s leading scorer with six goals season, and earned First-Team All-Conference and one assist. and Academic All-Big South honors.

Volleyball Panthers end season in conference semifinals

The 2006 volleyball team—made up of one returning senior, one returning sophomore, and eight freshmen—advanced to the semifinals of the Big South Conference Tournament this season before falling to top seed Winthrop. The squad struggled starting the season, dropping its first six matches before getting its first win of the season on the road against at the University of Tennessee at Chattanooga. The team went on to score wins over Samford and Nicholls State and Big South Conference Freshman Sarah foes Radford, Liberty, Charleston Southern, Coastal Carolina, and High Point. The Panthers Harris led the were picked to finish seventh in the Big South Preseason Volleyball Poll, but finished with an volleyball team in kills 8-6 league record and a No. 4 seed in the conference tournament. and points per game Several Panthers received honors this season. Freshman outside hitter Sarah Harris was this season. named to the Wyoming Cowgirl Classic and UTC Holiday Inn Express Challenge All- Tournament teams, freshman outside hitter Michelle Maciejewski was named to the Magic- Music City Classic All-Tournament team, and freshman libero Alex Norten earned a spot on the Loco’s Invitational All-Tournament team. Harris, Maciejewski, and freshman setter Milica Stojanovic also earned Big South Freshman of the Week honors this season.

fall 2006 / 47 ATHLETICS

Cozzolino earns ESPN The Magazine academic honor

Birmingham-Southern senior midfielder Gino Cozzolino added yet another honor to his résumé when he was recently named to the ESPN The Magazine First-Team Academic All- District men’s soccer team. The Milan, Italy, native holds a 3.72 grade-point average, majoring in business administration and management. He was named Big South Conference All-Academic and First-Team All-Big South Conference for the second time in two seasons in November at the Big South Cozzolino Conference Men’s Soccer Championship banquet. Cozzolino, who now advances to the ESPN The Magazine Academic All-American ballot, led BSC the past two seasons in goals, scoring seven in 2006 and 13 in 2005. He also led BSC with four assists and 18 points this season. Over the last two seasons, Cozzolino has earned First-Team All-Big South, Big South All- Academic, and was voted to the 2005 ESPN The Magazine Second-Team Academic All-District IV team.

Women’s basketball begins final Big South run

With second-year Head Coach Brad Hodge at the helm, the 2006-07 Birmingham-Southern women’s basketball team returned with three starters from last season in seniors Britni Ballard and Pam Thornborrow and junior Reba Ross, as well as three non-starters from last year and six new players. Ross led the Big South Conference in field goal percentage last year (.522), while Thornborrow was eighth in the league, averaging 2.96 assists and 1.67 steals per game. The team opened up the season at home in November with a victory over Conference USA team Southern Mississippi. The Panthers schedule includes games against in-state rivals Jacksonville State, Troy, and Samford; a trip to Thornborrow’s native Oregon for a date with Oregon State; and a visit to Alabama, as well as a 14-game conference slate. The season concludes in March with the 2007 Advance Auto Parts Big South Conference Women’s Basketball Championship in Asheville, N.C.

Junior Reba Ross led the Big South Conference in field goal percentage last season.

48 / ’southern ATHLETICS

Air rifle team ends successful fall season

The Birmingham-Southern air rifle team competed in six events in 2006, winning one and claiming four second-place finishes along the way. BSC opened the season with a second- place finish at the Memphis Invitational, totaling 2,244 points, and followed by 2,282 points to claim second at the Ole Miss Invitational. Junior Katie Furr led BSC in both events, targeting 517 points at Memphis and 566 points at Ole Miss. The Panthers defeated UAB in a dual Nikita Dees was BSC’s top shooter in three of six events in 2006. match with 2,267 points. Junior Tawnya Nylund had 571 points to pace BSC to the win. BSC competed at a Southeastern Air Rifle Conference meet at The Citadel, finishing second with 2,243 points. Nylund and sophomore Nikita Dees had 567 points to lead the Panthers. BSC had a 2,272 team total to claim second at the Panther Invitational Nov. 18. The Panthers targeted a 2,250 to close the year with a fourth-place finish at the Gamecock Invitational in Jacksonville Nov. 19. Dees led the BSC charges in both events with 575 and 579 points, respectively.

Christophel hired as new BSC assistant softball coach

Carrie Christophel is the new assistant coach for the Birmingham-Southern softball program. She was a four-year varsity softball letter winner at UAB from 2002-05, earning Conference USA Honor Roll and Commissioner’s Honor Roll honors in 2001. She also was on the Athletic Director’s Honor Roll from 2001-02. Christophel served as an assistant coach with the ASA Birmingham Bullets Softball Team Christophel from 2003-04, and has participated in community service by working with the Ronald McDonald House, inner city softball camps, and the UAB Children’s Hospital.

fall 2006 / 49 CLASSNOTES

ClassNotes

’35 first to Annapolis, then to sea for An article in the June 5, 2006, on- nearly five years. Following the line edition of the St. Augustine war, he was employed at First Record recounts Jack Massey’s National Bank of Birmingham (later memories of his dramatic experi- AmSouth). In retirement, he ences as an X-ray technician medic worked for 12 years as a volunteer in World War II. Massey lives in in the BSC Alumni Affairs Office. Founder of Veteran’s Day honored–Brenda Palatka, Fla., where his downtown Weeks Parker ’57 (above, in red) and her family recently jewelry and photo shop has been a ’40 gathered in Birmingham’s Linn Park for a special event in memory of her father, BSC alumnus Raymond Weeks ’30. landmark for more than 50 years. Earlier this year, Rachel Jackson of Jasper, at the age of 90, and as a The late Weeks led the first Veteran’s Day celebration in Birmingham in 1947, and continued to conduct annual Vet- longtime and highly regarded mu- ’39 eran’s Day events in the city for nearly four decades. The sician and piano teacher, held her Along with his recent gift to BSC, Veteran’s Day he championed was the first in the nation Thomas Moriarty of Dothan final recital featuring her final and led to the passage of the national holiday in 1954. shared details of his career follow- piano student. Over the past 55 During the 2006 Veteran’s Day weekend, Weeks’ efforts ing graduation from the Hilltop. years, Jackson has taught more were remembered with the first Raymond Weeks Walk of The day following Pearl Harbor, he than 1,000 students and held 180 Honor. At dusk on Nov. 10, a ceremonial parade of military joined the U.S. Navy and was sent recitals. According to an article in dignitaries, led by a color guard and preceded by riderless horses, began at the Tutwiler Hotel and ended at the Ray- mond Weeks monument in Linn Park. Former U.S. Army Lt. Gen. Hal Moore, author of the book We Were Soldiers Once and Young, gave a brief talk and presented a floral tribute. He also gave medallions of honor to Parker and AlumNews ’59 her sister, Barbara Weeks Minor. Other family members in the large crowd assembled for the event included Weeks’ grandson Brian Parker ’82. Other BSC connections of Raymond Weeks include his late wife, Jennie Robinson Weeks ’30, and his late grandson Keith Parker ’83.

the Daily Mountain Eagle, she “can former clients—and some new name a student from almost every ones—still call him for legal opin- Courtesy Aldridge Botanical Gardens family who lives in Jasper.” ions and advice. He supposes they will finally stop consulting Edgar (Eddie) Aldridge and his wife Kay (shown at him when he reaches 100! Hoover’s Aldridge Botanical Gardens) received two ’45 prestigious national awards this past summer. The In September 2006, teacher and ’52 Garden Club of America awarded the couple the fiction writer Nancy Huddleston Beverly P. Rives and husband Florens DeBevoise Medal for lifelong achievement, Packer of Palo Alto, Calif., pre- Robert Allison Rives of Hoover are and the American Horticulture Society’s Great sented a reading from her work at enjoying watching their water American Gardener’s Awards Committee presented the Appalachian State University as birds and other birds, ballroom Aldridges with the society’s 2006 Urban Beautification part of the Hughlene Bostian Frank dancing, volunteering at the Botan- Award. Visiting Writers Series. Earlier that ical Gardens, making a wildflower Aldridge and his family began the Aldridge Nursery day, she also presented a craft talk garden, and visiting with their Co. in 1954. They operated the landmark Birming- “Techniques of Fiction.” Packer seven children and 14 grand- ham business, with its garden center and greenhouses, taught for more than 30 years in children. Rives says that “life is until 1995. At that time, the couple conveyed the 30- Stanford University’s creative great!” acre family estate, located on the corner of Lorna Road writing program. and Rocky Ridge Ranch Road, to the city of Hoover to ’53 serve as a remarkably beautiful public garden show- ’49 In June 2006, the Leeds Arts casing hydrangeas and other picturesque plantings. Though Walter Cornelius of Birm- ingham no longer appears in court, Council presented a show of the retired attorney reports that mixed media works by artist Sally

50 / ’southern CLASSNOTES

Wood Johnson of Birmingham ’55 titled “Glyphic Wall.” Johnson’s Dr. Jasper L. Faulkner of Oneonta award-winning artwork has been and his wife, Eleanor, are world AlumNews ’66 shown in more than 150 juried and travelers, having enjoyed trips to group exhibitions, and she has six continents. He is past The Hon. Robert H. Smith was invested as a conducted workshops and given president of the Alabama Educa- judge of the State of Alabama Circuit Court in lectures and demonstrations tion Retiree Association and Mobile County in October 2006. throughout the Southeast. She serves on the board of the Na- The formal ceremony, which took place Oct. has been artist in residence at the tional Retired Teachers 20, included the participation of Presiding Judge State University of West Georgia Association. and visiting artist at Wesleyan Charles Graddick, judges of the Circuit Court, Alabama Supreme Court, and others. The oath College and Jacksonville State ’58 of office was administered by the Hon. Gorman University. Her work is included in Pianist Nancy Houston Jr., retired chief justice of the Alabama two bound publications, Contem- Whatley Supreme Court. The robing was performed by porary American Women Sculptors Wingard of Smith’s wife, Anne Sisson Smith ’67, and their and Functions of the Fantastic. Birmingham daughters, Claire Taylor, Katherine and Margaret Her husband is Dr. James C. John- was guest Smith. son ’52, and their children include artist at the For many years, Smith has been a partner in Susan Johnson Lawrence ’79 13th annual the firm of Galloway, Smith, Wettermark & (Jamie Lawrence) and the late Summer Music Everest in Mobile. Mark Johnson ’81. Camp held

Air Force Two pilot retires–Lt. Col. (Retired) Eric G. Moran ’84 has retired as pilot in command of Air Force Two. It formerly was his responsibility to deliver the vice president of the United States, the first lady, cabinet members, and foreign heads of state to destinations throughout the country and the world. A 22-year veteran of the U.S. Air Force, Moran (shown with First Lady Laura June 12-16, 2006, at the University Teacher of the Year. Her husband Bush and his family) piloted Air Force Two for three presi- of Mobile’s Center for Performing was the late Dr. Robert Wingard dential administrations. Arts. An adjunct professor at BSC, ’59, who taught religion at BSC Moran now is employed by SAIC, the largest employee- where she has taught piano and and held the Denson Franklin owned research and engineering company in the United music theory with the Conserva- Chair. States. SAIC engineers and scientists solve complex tech- tory of Music, Wingard has served nical problems in national security, homeland security, the Alabama Music Teachers Asso- ’59 energy, the environment, space, telecommunications, ciation and the Birmingham Music In November 2006, Dr. Thomas health care, and logistics. Teachers Association as president. Hearn Jr. of Winston-Salem, N.C., She was named 2005 AMTA received the North Carolina

fall 2006 / 51 CLASSNOTES

Award—the state’s highest civilian honor—for public service. Hearn retired last year as president of AlumNews ’79 Wake Forest University. His long tenure there was a period of great Capping a career of outstanding scholarship, Dr. Joel Martin has progress for the university. been named dean of the College of Humanities and Fine Arts at the University of Massachusetts Amherst. ’60 His research is focused on how different peoples responded to Rev. Joseph W. Raines of Al- contact and colonialism in America. It analyzes how the memory abaster, semi-retired, now is serv- or suppression of this history relates to power, defines communi- ing part-time at a small church in ties, and shapes narratives, art, and politics. Martin currently is Calera. Raines, who holds mas- researching the lives of New Englanders and Cherokees. ter’s degrees from Emory Univer- Martin is author of Sacred Revolt: The Muskogees’ Struggle for a sity and Princeton Theolo-gical New World (1991), which received the outstanding book award Seminary, retired from the North Courtesy University of on the subject of human rights in the United States from the Alabama Conference of the United Massachusetts Amherst Gustavus Myers Center for the Study of Human Rights. He also is Methodist Church in June 2005, co-editor of Screening the Sacred: Religion, Mythology and Ideology in Popular American Film completing 48 years of full-time (1995) and author of Native American Religion, published by the Oxford University Press ministry. (1999), reprinted as The Land Looks After Us (2001). He holds a master’s degree in theological studies from Harvard University and a ’64 doctorate in the history of religions and Southern history from Duke University. Dr. Jerry Phillips Winfield, a professor of Spanish literature, retired in December 2006 from Mercer

Greencastle, Ind. He is the longest-serving president in the Future BSC legacies–(From left) 170-year history of the school. Ethan Scott Harter, Aubrey Allen Ramsey The event was marked with II, Martha Louise Waters, and Sophia tributes by state and national lead- “Sophie” Elizabeth Hubbert, all of Birm- ers in higher education, citing the ingham, have been friends since birth. strong progress made by the uni- They attend First United Methodist versity under Bottom’s leadership. Church with their families and are the legacies of BSC graduates many times After serving for three decades as over. They have shared many mile- stones, and this fall, shared another— a medical administrator, James entering kindergarten, hopefully on their “Butch” Rowell of Birmingham has way to the Hilltop as full-fledged channeled a life-long interest in Birmingham-Southern legacies. woodworking into a new business. Ethan is the son of Scott Harter ’89 In April, he opened a local fran- and his wife, Ann Jennings Harter, and chise of Furniture Medic, a furni- the grandson of Dr. John Wells Jennings ’62 and Joyce Bostick Jen- University in Macon, Ga., after 35 ture restoration business with nings ’60. Other family alumni include uncle Rev. Charles Alexander years of service. The author of the more than 600 independently ’65, aunt Janet Jennings Alexander ’66, and cousin Dan Wells Walton book Twentieth-Century Spanish owned and operated franchises ’55. Poets, he has written many articles worldwide. Aubrey is the son of Terilane Ramsey ’87 and grandson of Aubrey on contemporary Spanish poetry Allen Ramsey ’64 and Trina Nannie Ramsey ’64. Aunts and uncles are and has been speaker at numer- Terri Nannie Glasgow ’64, Dr. Richard David Glasgow ’64, and Christo- ’67 ous international conferences. pher Trent Ramsey ’96. On Oct. 13, 2006, Dr. F. Cleveland Martha Louise is the daughter of Thomas Waters ’86 and Jennifer Kinney, UAB senior associate Howard Waters ’86 and granddaughter of Leon Waters ’58, Kathryn ’66 dean for clinical affairs, director of Voight Waters ’58, and the late Rev. Charles Howard ’55. Her aunt is Dr. Robert G. Bottoms recently geriatric psychiatry, and co-direc- Valerie Waters ’90. Other relatives include Jean Wamp Holt ’57, Fran celebrated his 20th anniversary as tor of the behavioral science Wamp Brindley ’57, Bill Voight ’44, Crystal Waters Hood ’86, and Dr. president of DePauw University in course, was named a Health Care Patrick Nasetta ’99. Sophie is the daughter of Andrea Brown Hubbert ’88 and her husband, Carl. Her aunt is Dr. Renée Brown Harmon ’83. CLASSNOTES

Hero by the Birmingham Business Recently Dr. Carol A. Newsom, Journal for his long and varied Charles Howard Candler Professor career as a medical educator. In of Old Testament at Emory Univer- BSC alumnae win international his decades of teaching in areas of sity in Atlanta, was the only North singing award–Natalie Kellum Allen ’86 expertise as diverse as gross American presenter at an interna- and Melissa McAnally McAdory’86 recently anatomy and geriatric psychiatry, tional conference on Job in won a first place rating at an international he has won numerous awards at Palermo, Italy. singing contest in San Antonio, Texas, per- the local, regional, and national forming with the Metro Nashville Chorus of levels, including the Nancy C.A. ’72 Sweet Adelines International. The Nashville group is Roeske M.D. Certificate of Excel- In recent elections, the Hon. Sam composed of 30 women who sing four-part harmony lence in Medical Student Educa- H. Welch Jr. of Monroeville, in the “barbershop” style. Allen is the choreographer tion from the American Psychiatric formerly circuit judge for Monroe of the chorus and both Melissa and Natalie are on the Association. and Conecuh counties, was suc- chorus’ music team. The group engages in the Sweet cessful in his bid for the Alabama Adelines competition each year and has won first ’71 Court of Criminal Appeals, Place 3. place regionally in their division for five years, allowing Sarah Wicker Haughton of Du- them to compete internationally, but this is the first luth, Ga., was named 2005 Key ’73 year the Nashville women have taken first place in Account Salesperson of the Year Celeste Geron Shibata of Se- their division at the international level. for Guno Inc. wanee, Tenn., is pursuing her third

master’s degree through a program in physics at the University AlumNews ’01 of Virginia. In addition to her bachelor’s degree in English from BSC, Fascinated from childhood with space, and Shibata already holds master’s de- gifted at science and math, Ansley Collins grees in English from Vanderbilt nevertheless wanted a broad and thorough University and in biochemistry education. When she chose a college, she from the University of Tennessee- was drawn to Birmingham-Southern’s liberal Knoxville. Her varied expertise arts range and challenging courses. serves her well at St. Andrew’s- The encouragement she found from faculty Sewanee School where she members on the Hilltop, along with specific assignments, such as her senior research teaches science and English. Last project on the history of the astronaut program, helped launch this young scientist on year, her science class was fea- her desired career trajectory. Following graduation, Collins used her math major and tured in the Chattanooga Times physics minor to win employment in the IT section of NASA’s Johnson Space Center in Free Press for a project in which Houston. they created valentines using For two-and-a-half years, Collins served as e-mail postmaster for the JSC, until she was purified DNA they collected and given a chance of becoming a flight controller in the Mission Control Center. Now processed in the school lab. posted in the ISS Trajectory Operations and Planning Office, which is responsible for the orbit of the International Space Station, Collins is following her dream of learning more ’74 about flight design and dynamics, and training to become a Trajectory Operations and Charles A. Guyton of Tallahassee, Planning Officer or “TOPO.” Fla., has been named to Florida She finds that working at NASA is every bit as rewarding as she had imagined, and she Super Lawyers 2006, a listing of is particularly interested in the international aspect of her particular focus. The ongoing the top five percent of Florida at- challenges of creating a cooperative research space in the International Space Station torneys. Super Lawyers are nomi- gives nations something positive to work on together, Collins says. Colleagues from nated by members of the Florida Russia or Japan are brought together not only by a common end goal, but by shared Bar Association, researched for ways of seeking working solutions. “Math is the same in every language,” she says. peer recognition and professional achievement, and evaluated by a Blue Ribbon Panel of preeminent peers in their practice area.

fall 2006 / 53 CLASSNOTES

Guyton is a partner with the firm of projects. Snuggs’ father is Wey- ham was returned to the bench for nus Raymond Weeks ’30. The Squire Sanders & Dempsey and is mon Snuggs Jr. ’49 and his grand- her first full term as a Circuit Court book also features profiles of one of only two attorneys selected mother was the late Miriam Milner judge. Alabama Gov. Bob Riley ap- Weeks and of National Veterans for the Utilities practice area. This Snuggs ’23. pointed Pulliam to the court in July Award honoree Lt. Gen. Hal good news was shared by his 2005 as a replacement for retiring Moore, who was co-author of We wife, Meg Hoagland Guyton ’76. ’80 Judge James Hard. Were Soldiers Once and Young Dr. Laurie and was por- In a periodic ranking by The [Lake- Adams ’81 trayed in the land] Ledger, the Hon. Bruce Frost of Claire Caldwell recently has re- movie “We Smith of Lakeland, Fla., remains in Huntsville turned to Birmingham following Were Sol- the top tier of 10th Judicial Circuit has spent two years of teaching at Temple diers” by judges. Smith ranked sixth of 25 the past Middle School in Temple, Ga. She actor Mel circuit judges this year and eighth five years presently is teaching art at Oak Gibson. of 22 circuit judges in 2004. working Mountain Intermediate School. Copies of on The Elements of His Dark Patriotism ’75 Materials: A Guide to Philip Pull- In October 2006, artists Dr. Don in Action Judy Gilmore Riley teaches man’s Trilogy. It was published in Stewart of Birmingham and his were science and physical education at September 2006 by The Fell Press wife, Sue Ellen Brown, took part in presented to Moore, the mayor of Skyline High School in Scottsboro. (Chicago). The book’s 12 chapters “A Night of Art and Healing” at the Birmingham, the governor of Ala- include annotated and indexed AmSouth Harbert Plaza in Birming- bama, and to guest speakers at ’78 entries on aspects of Pullman’s His ham. Sponsored by the Birming- the National Veterans Awards Father Chuck Schwartz recently Dark Materials trilogy: The Golden ham Art Association and The Banquet and the World Peace traveled to Oriental, N.C., to care Compass, The Subtle Knife, and Children’s Hospital, the event Luncheon in Birmingham in for a parish without a resident The Amber Spyglass, ranging from featured original artwork by November 2006. priest, and later to Lusk, Wyo., for character and places to applied patients of Children’s Hospital, several weeks to make possible a metaphysics, allusions, epigraphs, with selected works by Stewart Birmingham-based O’Neal Steel much-needed vacation for the technologies, natural sciences, and Brown and live entertainment Inc. was winner of a 2006 Best in pastor in that community. When and much more. Pullman is highly by the Alabama School of Fine Business Award from the Birming- not assisting in other parishes, he regarded in the UK, but less well Arts Chamber Players. An auction ham Business Journal, announced is senior associate pastor at St. known here, Frost says, but she of the artwork benefited the art in the June 16, 2006, edition of the Joan of Arc in Marlton, N.J. expects this to change in Novem- therapy program at Children’s journal. Craft O’Neal, named chair ber 2007 when New Line Cinema Hospital. of the ’79 releases a film adaptation of The company Coach Ralph Patton of Birming- Golden Compass starring Nicole ’84 in January ham, whose career as an educator Kidman. Dr. James E. Covan Jr. of Pen- 2005, is and adviser to young people has sacola, Fla., recently received his the third continued despite the challenges Clyde Mathis has been named Fellowship Award at the Academy generation imposed by a near-fatal car acci- new director for the Port of of General Dentistry’s annual of his fam- dent in 1999, has been nominated Pensacola. Mathis previously meeting in Denver. To qualify for ily to oper- as an Alabama hero in the ongoing served the Port of New Orleans as the award, Covan, who has prac- ate the Volvo for Life Awards project. executive assistant, overseeing ticed in Pensacola since 1989, business. Fellow BSC alumni can read marketing and business completed 500 hours of continu- Patton’s story at www.volvofor- development. ing dental education and passed a ’87 lifeawards. com. comprehensive written exam. In November elections, U.S. Rep. In Novem- Robert Aderholt of Haleyville won Weymon Snuggs of Lakeland, ber elec- Dr. David Dyson of Birmingham, a a sixth term in the U.S. House of Fla., now is market president for tions, the graduate of BSC’s first MPPM Representatives. Aderholt serves Bank of America, covering Polk Co. Hon. class in 1984, has co-authored a in the District 4 place. His wife is His responsibilities also will in- Teresa new book, Patriotism in Action. Caroline McDonald Aderholt ’90. clude overseeing Bank of Amer- Tanner The book includes a guide to ica’s local philanthropy efforts and Pulliam of Veteran’s Day in Birmingham, setting priorities for community Birming- which was founded by BSC alum-

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BSC alumni in the news

Notes on stories and reviews related to BSC alumni, appearing in the local, regional, and national press:

Norton Dill ’68 of Birmingham: profiled in the article “Ready for His Closeup: Filmmaker Norton Dill talks about his passion for storytelling,” in Portico, July 2006.

Howell Raines ’64 of Henryville, Pa.: his novel The One That Got Away reviewed in the June 2006 Southern Living.

Rev. Sam Mann III ’62 of Kansas City, Mo.: his lifetime of work in racial reconciliation celebrated in the Kansas City Star, Aug. 20, 2006.

Matina Johnson ’96: her success as head of the Library Theatre in Hoover profiled in Portico magazine, August Ron Wolfson/WireImage. 2006.

Seana McGaha Gunter ’02 of Los Angeles: pictured in People magazine, Aug. 28, 2006, onstage with actor Jack Black for a benefit performance.

Scott Bryant ’86: featured in The Birmingham News, Sept. 19, 2006. The highly successful developer of the SoHo project in Homewood now is planning to build an upscale boutique hotel at the old Homewood City Hall site. He won rights to build on the highly coveted spot over other bidders with his plans for a 106-room hotel featuring “urban-inspired” loft-like guest rooms.

Courtesy of Portico. Photo by Jason Wallis.

fall 2006 / 55 CLASSNOTES

’88 featuring performances by the tal- Richard Rosa Randall ’88). Mike Gooldrup now is chief infor- ’92 ented couple Dr. Margaret Jack- ’95 mation officer for Birmingham- On Jan. 1, 2007, Dwayne Murray son, an ethnomusicologist at Troy, T. Charles Fry Jr. of Birmingham, based O’Neal Steel Inc. He has will be- and her husband, Michael Hix, an an associate of the Johnston been with the company since come the adjunct to the university’s school Barton Proctor & Powell law firm, 1992, and most recently served as new fire of music and a nationally known has been selected to participate in vice president of information chief of performer who has appeared with the inaugural class of the Meritas services. Daytona the Boston Pops. Jackson holds a Leadership Institute. Beach, doctorate in voice performance ’89 Fla. He from Florida State University, a Trey Rosdick D.M.D. is practicing In July 2006, Anne Mitchell Whis- currently master of music and performer’s cosmetic and family dentistry in nant accepted a position at the heads the certificate in voice performance partnership with Dr. Andrew Craft UNC-Chapel Hill Office of Faculty Birming- and literature from the Eastman in Birmingham. A 2000 graduate Governance as director of re- ham Fire and Rescue Service. School of Music, and is working to of the University of Alabama search, communications, and complete a doctorate in School of Dentistry, he notes that programs. She formerly was Alyce Robertson has joined the ethnomusicology at FSU. fellow students there included employed at Duke University’s Montgomery law firm Beasley, several former fellow members of Franklin Humanities Institute as Allen, Crow, Methvin, Portis & Dr. Ellen Elisa Schendel of Grand the BSC tennis team, among them assistant director for communica- Miles, Rapids, Mich., has received tenure Dr. Will Chapman ’94, Dr. Kristen tions and programs. In her new serving and has been promoted to associ- Flowers Crowder ’94, and Dr. job, she facilitates the operation of with the ate professor of writing at Grand Anne-Marie McRae Dabney ’94— the elected faculty council and toxic torts Valley State University, where she all fine examples of BSC student- chair of the faculty, through which section. also is director of the Fred Meijer athletes. the UNC faculty voice their views Robertson Center for Writing and Michigan on a variety of matters of aca- previously Authors. Her husband is Amorak ’97 demic policy. Anne reports she is was em- Koehler Huey ’92. Brian Chapuran now is an assis- thrilled to be back at UNC, where ployed in tant district attorney in Chat- she finished her Ph.D. in history in the Ala- Jack Smith of Eufaula, former ed- tanooga, Tenn. He and his wife, 1997. For news of a recent bama Attorney General’s office. itor of the Eufaula Tribune, has Lisa, are expecting their second historical publication from her, see contracted for work with the Ala- child in December 2006. the Alumni Bookshelf section on In November 2006, Grover C. bama Press Association. He will the following page. Robinson IV of Pensacola, Fla., provide training for the group’s ’98 won a landslide victory in his bid member newspapers and assist Rachel Lee Caufield of Chicago is ’90 for the District 4 seat on the in its lobbying efforts in a candidate for a doctorate in David Benck of Birmingham, gen- Escambia County Commission. Montgomery. clinical psychology from Argosy eral counsel for Hibbett Sporting He previously had unseated three- University-Schaumburg at the Illi- Goods Inc., was recently named to term incumbent Tom Banjanin in a ’94 nois School of Professional Psy- the Birmingham Business Jour- September primary. Robinson is The May 2, 2006, online edition of chology. She will graduate as a nal’s Who’s Who in Law & Ac- president of the commercial real the Shelby County Reporter pro- member of Psi Chi, the national counting. estate firm founded by his late filed Morningstar United honor society in psychology. She father in 1977. Methodist Church in Chelsea and recently passed the oral defense ’91 its pastor Rev. Bryan Sisson. The of her clinical research project Ira H. Holt Jr. of Gadsden has ’93 piece outlined Morningstar’s plans “Development of a Psycho-educa- been named president of First LaDonna Griffith Hinesley of Foley for a second phase of growth, in- tional Drug Intervention Program American Bank’s Trussville has been named director of mem- cluding expanded classrooms, a for Adolescents: A Proposal Based Financial Center. bership and sponsorship for the family life center, youth and chil- on Current Research.” She will South Baldwin Chamber of Com- dren’s facilities, and a sanctuary. work as a psycho-education con- Doug McIntyre of Birmingham merce. She formerly owned a Sisson’s father and mother are Dr. sultant with the Center for Psycho- now is vice president for claims printing company in Gulf Shores. Jerry Sisson ’58 and Laura Boyer logical Services LLC, as she administration for Blue Cross & In October 2006, the Troy Univer- Sisson ’79. His brother and sister establishes a private practice Blue Shield of Alabama. sity Theater kicked off its fall sea- are Thomas Edward Sisson ’84 son with a “Lunchtime Carbaret” and Jayne Sisson Randall (Dr.

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Alumni Bookshelf

Brief notices of some new publications by BSC alumni:

Sarah Beth Coffey Gehl ’02 is deputy The Broken Jar, self-published in 2006, features director of the Atlanta-based “think tank” poetry by Dr. Daniel C. Potts ’88 of Tuscaloosa, Georgia Budget and Policy Institute. Her written in response to his father’s battle with Doing Better: Progressive Tax Reform for the Alzheimer’s disease and to other family and American South is a 176-page policy manu- memory-related themes. script published by the Center for a Better The book is illustrated by paintings done by South that has generated discussions in Pott’s father at Caring Days, an Alzheimer’s day- legislatures and newsrooms across the care center, which show both his father’s blossoming as an South, including press coverage from the Atlanta Journal- artist when the disease made other work impossible and the Constitution, South Carolina Business Review, Newport News diminishment of his artistic powers as the disease took Daily Press, Charlotte Observer, and Mississippi Public hold. Broadcasting. Proceeds from sales of the book go to support the work at In the July 30, 2006, Anniston Star, Jacksonville State Caring Days. History Professor Harvey “Hardy” Jackson ’65 wrote of the book: “instead of pounding readers with theories and plans, Noted author and educator it carefully lays out the problems and points to alternatives Sena Jeter Naslund ’64 of that might or might not work in a particular state. Louisville, Ky., has new work Solutions are left to those ‘thinking leaders’ for appearing in two recent publi- whom the book is intended.” cations. In All Out of Faith: Southern In September Women on Spirituality, an 2006, the Univer- anthology of essays from the sity of North Car- University of Alabama Press, olina Press Naslund joins other South- published Super- ern women writers, includ- Scenic Motorway: A ing Barbara Kingsolver, Sue Blue Ridge Parkway Naslund. Monk Kidd, and Cassandra History, by Anne King, in relating spiritual experiences that informed Mitchell Whisnant their lives and linked them, in one way or another, to the ’89 of Chapel Hill, Southern experience. N.C. In a very different style, Naslund’s new work of This book, on which Whisnant historical fiction from William Morrow, Abundance: worked for 15 years, draws upon the A Novel of Marie Antoinette, transports the reader extensive archival record of the now into the world—and into the mind—of the 14-year- 70-year-old parkway, the most visited old daughter of the Empress of Austria who would Whisnant. Photo by David Whisnant. site in the American National Parks become queen of France in a tumultuous era. system. It overturns many myths and Thanks to Naslund’s minute research, interesting follows the twists and turns of numerous never-before-told period images abound, whether of secret passages in stories about the road’s development. the hallways of Versailles or of masked balls at the You can learn more about the book at the Web site Paris Opera, but the chief charm of the work may lie www.superscenic.com. in the intimacy of the first-person account of scenes and events rendered in “‘Toinette’s” own voice. In a review Rockfish Gap originally broadcast on Alabama Public Radio, Dr. Don by Rowe, Noble, professor emeritus of English at the University of September Alabama, notes “Much has been said recently about Marie 1948. Courtesy Blue Ridge Antoinette’s clothing, and Naslund’s prose is like that cloth- Parkway. ing in a way. It is decorated, brocaded, embroidered, fairly formal, and almost always beautiful. Savor it.”

fall 2006 / 57 CLASSNOTES

client base. Prior to law school, he was named cine. She is continuing her dent Ben Moncrief ’99. Jamie Ashton Jackson of Birm- a Rotary International Ambassa- medical education in the internal Daniel Seigel of Baltimore re- ingham graduated in May 2006 dorial Scholar and received a mas- medicine residency program at ceived his graduate performance from UAB with a master’s in busi- ter’s degree in international Wake Forest Baptist Medical Cen- diploma in Opera in May from the ness administration. He was security studies from the Univer- ter in Winston-Salem, N.C. Peabody Conservatory-Johns elected into Beta Gamma Sigma sity of St. Andrews in Hopkins University. He earned his honor society. Scotland. Angel Strong Chambers recently master’s degree from Peabody in accepted the position of chief 2004, studying with world- ’99 An Oct. 10, 2006, article in Pine financial officer with Jeff Benton renowned bass-baritone John McKinley Hunter Manasco, who Magazine online profiles the Homes in Huntsville. Shirley-Quirk. This past season, currently is pursuing a doctoral career of John Lytle Wilson of Tal- Seigel, a baritone, was seen in the degree at the University of South lahassee. A painting and printmak- Lindsey Watts Giambrone has role of Ford in Falstaff and Frederik Alabama in Mobile, specializing in ing major at BSC, who holds a been elected president of the Eggerman in A Little Night Music autism and neurogenic communi- master’s of fine arts from Florida Huntsville Community Chorus at Peabody. This summer, he was cation disorders, recently has pub- State University, Wilson serves as Association for 2006-08. chosen as a Young Artist with lished a book The Way to A. The an adjunct instructor of art at FSU Opera North in New Hampshire. goal of the book is to help children and Valdosta State. He also is Brandon Haushalter has been In August, he was featured on with autism and other neurological artist in residence at 621 Gallery in named administrative director of Vermont Public Radio singing disorders replace aggression and Tallahassee. development and support services selections from this same role. In tantrum behavior with positive for Trinity Medical Center of Birm- October, he sang the world pre- behavior. ’00 ingham. He will be responsible for miere of composer Josh Daniel Daniel Feig has joined the Birming- the center’s business develop- Coles’ The Altar of His Country: Bradley Arant Rose & White LLP ham office of Rumberger Kirk & ment projects and support Letters from a Civil War Soldier in associate Benjamin M. Moncrief Caldwell PA as an associate attor- services, including dietary, security Syracuse, N.Y. He is the son of has been elected president of the ney practicing in general civil litiga- and environmental services, and BSC Personal Counselor Jane Downtown Birmingham Rotaract tion areas, including product pastoral care. Seigel ’80 and the college’s Club, a civic group made up of liability, casualty matters, and Joseph Hugh Thomas Professor of young professionals committed to contract disputes. In 2003, John Peinhardt and long- Music Dr. Lester Seigel ’79. personal, professional, and com- time friend Mike Mahon decided munity development. Rotaract Davis Goodson Jr. of Birmingham, to work together to create a dy- ’03 serves the Birmingham community formerly employed by Regions namic new organization for Birm- Carrie J. Kramer of Sylacauga and through quarterly service projects, Financial Corp., now is senior vice ingham’s young leaders. A recent David Raymond Saliba of Dothan an annual Rotary Youth Leadership president and manager of com- issue of Birmingham magazine both have received master’s de- Awards program, and its signature mercial banking at First American chronicles how, with the coopera- grees in divinity from Candler service project, Ready 2 Read. Bank. tion of the Downtown Birmingham School of Theology at Emory Moncrief is an associate in the Rotary Club, they co-founded the University. She is affiliated with firm’s Birmingham office and a ’01 Downtown Birmingham Rotaract the North Alabama Conference of member of the litigation practice Hutton P. Brantley recently was group to offer persons from 18-30 the United Methodist Church, and group. Before joining Bradley appointed chief medical resident a chance to “learn, socialize, and he is affiliated with the Alabama/ Arant, he served as a law clerk to for the 2008-09 residency year at serve.” The club has monthly West Florida Conference of the the Hon. Baptist Medical Centers in social meetings and twice-a- UMC. James Birmingham. month luncheons with notable Hancock speakers. The group also spon- Meredith Morrow of Fairhope has of the U.S. Christian Bradley Cherry, a re- sors the Ready 2 Read service joined St. Patrick’s Dance & District cent graduate of the University of project, supporting the develop- Theatre, which is part of St. Court for Alabama School of Law, has joined ment of quality libraries for sec- Patrick’s Catholic School’s Arts the North- the firm of Walston Wells & Bir- ond-grade classrooms. The Program and is open to students ern Dis- chall LLP in Birmingham. Birmingham Rotaract is one of the from all area schools. She will trict of largest and fastest growing in the serve as the instructor of ad- Alabama. ’02 nation. It is led by current presi- vanced and intermediate ballet, Candace A. Bouler is among the 2006 graduates of the University of South Alabama College of Medi-

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pointe, jazz, and tap. Liz Harris now is a project attending medical school at the 30, 2006. ’04 manager for the Birmingham pub- University of South Alabama in Valle Erin Marzella ’02 and John Last May, Katie Bradshaw served lic relations and communications Mobile. Richard Cox ’03, Sept. 16, 2006. as an intern in the Washington, agency Wagnon & Associates. Michael Otts Godwin ’03 and Al- D.C., office of U.S. Senator Richard She previously served with the Friends lison Currey Irvin ’04, Oct. 28, Shelby from Alabama. She is a Birmingham chapter of the 2006. second-year student at the Missis- National Conference for Chancellor Neal Berte was one of Lucy McCarty King ’03 and Paul sippi College School of Law. Community and Justice. six Birmingham community lead- Andrew Stanley, Oct. 28, 2006. ers named “Men of Substance” Alexandra Palmer Dauphin ’04 Margaret Amanda Ege is attend- In May, recent theatre graduate and honored at a September 2006 and Charles Drennen Goodrich, ing medical school at the Univer- Sarah Jones of Albertville was one reception hosted by Saks Fifth March 18, 2006. sity of South Alabama in Mobile. of 16 college and high school stu- Avenue. Proceeds of the event Courtney Juanita Harrison ’04 and dents selected to participate in the benefited cancer research at UAB. Joshua Lee Hebert, June 3, ’05 Young Playwrights Festival at the 2006. Candace Byrd now is coach of the Horizon Theatre in Atlanta. Follow- Melinda Rainey Thompson, a for- Hunter Russell ’04 and Lacey girls’ varsity basketball team at ing that event, she held a summer mer English instructor at BSC, is Barth ’05, Oct. 28, 2006. East Lawrence High in Decatur. internship at the historic Ogunquit author of SWAG (Southern Women Taylor Crawford Preston ’05 and Playhouse in Ogunquit, Maine. Aging Gracefully), released Ashley Mae Pope ’06, July 15, Madonna E. de los Reyes of by Blair Publishers in September 2006. Birmingham has been named Truman Scholar Webb Lyons now 2006. Begun as an informal Baxter Lee Baker Jr. ’06 and physician relations manager for is assistant to the president of the newsletter written just for fun by Dorothy Evelyn Nash ’06, July 1, the Children’s Health System. National Alliance to End Home- this mother of three, and sent to 2006. lessness, based in Washington, an ever-widening circle of friends, ’06 D.C. During the past summer, he the book is a collection of humor- Births and Former Rural Medical Scholar Na- completed an internship with the ous essays, notes, and lists mining talie Bruce of Guntown, Miss., has city’s Center for Law and Social the idiosyncrasies of Southern Adoptions begun medical school at the Policy. While there, he co- women. University of Mississippi Medical authored with Jodie Levin-Epstein, A son, Hugh Clare IV, Feb. 11, Center. an August 2006 report entitled 2005, to Hugh Clare Nickson III “Targeting Poverty: Taking Aim at a Marriages ’87 and wife Christine (sister, Alyssa Cummings of Gardendale Bull’s Eye,” which can be Isabel Wynne). Hugh IV and Michael Tucker ’89 and Mary is network administrator for the accessed online at the Isabel are the great-grandchil- Salerno, March 18, 2006. South Regions Minority Business clasp.org/publications Web site. dren of Era Belle Fain Veal ’37. Carol Ann Crump ’90 and Michael Council and the Alabama Minority Their uncle is Stephen Scott House, July 29, 2006. Business Opportunity Center. She George Augustus Nelson IV is Alexander Nickson ’93. Jennifer M. Allen ’97 and Timothy will oversee all aspects of the attending medical school at the Twins, Jackson Talmadge “Jack” A. Kuhn, May 6, 2006. organizations’ information University of South Alabama in and Elizabeth Grace “Eliza,” Dec. Louisa Elizabeth Perry ’98 and technology needs. Mobile. 28, 2005, to Susan Ware Bul- Christopher Paul Comeaux, July lock ’93 and husband Dou- 29, 2006. Tyler Davis has been commis- Ryan Omenski, the current Miss glas. Thomas Patrick Franklin ’99 and sioned as a United Methodist US-2 Trussville, placed in the top-10 A daughter, Amelia Elise, June 17, Kristin Leigh Forney, Aug. 12, missionary for the next two years. finalists in the 2006 Miss Alabama 2005, to Christina Killcreas Dut- 2006. He will serve as a caseworker with pageant. The former public affairs ton ’93 and husband Steven (big Dr. Dan Haggstrom ’99 and Mau- homeless and low-income persons and communications major won brother Steven Christopher). reen Richardson, April 22, 2006. in Detroit, and will assist with two the interview portion of the pag- A daughter, Molly Ann, July 7, Lauren Elizabeth Bradley ’02 and ministries of that city’s Central eant, as well as the community 2006, to Jennifer Johnson William Still Humber ’02, Dec. United Methodist Church: the service award. Luteran ’93 and husband Tom 17, 2005. church’s youth program and the (sister, Erin Kathleen). Sarah Beth Fontaine Coffey ’02 NOAH project, a program provid- Adam Wesley Watterson is A son, David Allen III, Aug. 4, and Thomas Q. Gehl, Oct. 7, ing services to the inner-city 2006, to Candice Jackson 2006. community. Ashburn ’94 and husband David Kelley Amanda Hewitt ’02 and (sisters Maddie and Annabelle). Matthew Robert Javinett, Sept. Two daughters, Cynthia Mireya, adopted in September 2006 at fall 2006 / 59 CLASSNOTES

wife Gina Maise Speagle ’98 Baker ’00 and husband Matt. (sister, Charlotte “Sydney”). A daughter, Adelyn Callahan, A son, Richard Allen Jr., Aug. 29, March 12, 2006, to Melissa 2006, to Patricia “Trish” House Bolen Heffner ’00 and husband McCluney ’97 and husband Jim. Richard. A son, Philip Arthur, Aug. 4, 2006, A daughter, Elizabeth Clark “Izzie,” to Anna Tillman Wilson ’00 and July 7, 2006, to Casey Carlisle Nathan Wilson ’00. Worrell ’97 and Will Worrell ’98 A son, Liam James, Sept. 6, 2006, (sister, Anna Carlisle and brother, to Stephanie Kelly Harvey ’01 William). and husband Stuart. A son, Jackson Charles, March 13, A daughter, Lena Kathryn, Feb. 8, 2006, to Crystal Mather Reimer 2006, to Rev. Julie Blackwelder ’98 and husband Christian. Holly ’01 and husband Michael. A daughter, Mary-Claire, Sept. 22, 2006, to Heather Fachet Bond In Memoriam ’99 and husband Christopher. A daughter, Caroline Camille, Sept. “BSC loves you”–Beginning with the BSC babies Helen Hasty Hildebrand ’24 of 19, 2006, to Cary Sawyer Cherry listed in the Births section of this issue, each new child Neenah, Wis., died Oct. 1, 2006, at born to a BSC family and announced in the pages of ’99 and husband David Michael age 104. Following graduation ’Southern will receive a bib with this warm message of Cherry ’00. from Birmingham-Southern, she welcome from the Hilltop. Shown here in their brand new A daughter, Kelly Jessica, Nov. 1, completed graduate studies in BSC bibs are twins Eliza and Jack, born Dec. 28, 2005, to 2006, to Dr. Joshua Moore ’99 social work at Columbia University, Susan Ware Bullock ’93 and husband Douglas. The twins and wife Kathleen (sisters Han- and later served as a school- were delivered by Dr. Wendy Riggins Gregory ’93. Their nah Elizabeth and Lacy Olivia). teacher and salesperson for Book pediatrician is Dr. Brian Dudgeon ’93. A daughter, Campbell Claire, July House books for children. Follow- 18, 2006, to Stephanie Campbell ing World War II, in which her hus-

18 months, and Alicia Rebecca, also adopted in September, at three months, to David Daniel ’94 and wife Ellouise. In Memoriam ’30 A daughter, Sophia Quinn, July 6, Wilhelmina Jane McPheron ’30 of 2006, to Melissa McAbee ’94 Birmingham died June 16, 2006. and husband John Hodges. After attending Birmingham-South- A son, Gregory Wright, Oct. 11, ern, she graduated from Florence State 2005, to Gregory Tapscott ’94 Teachers College (now the University and wife Lee (sisters Julia of North Alabama). She was em- Elhannon, Ann Lyles, and ployed by the Prudential Insurance Caroline Daffron). Co. of America in its Birmingham Re- A daughter, Eliza Strickland, Nov. gional Mortgage Loan and Investment 7, 2006, to Julie Hodge Perrigin Department for 38 years, retiring as a ’95 and husband Keith (brother, statistician in 1971. She was active in Jacob Howell). church work. A daughter, Galina Susan, age A resident of Mount Royal Towers four, and a son, Ivan Alexander, since 1983, she served several terms as age two, adopted Oct. 13, 2006, president of its residents’ board of from Rostov-on-Don, Russia, to directors. She was a member of the Dean Austin Wimberly ’95 and BSC Endowment Builders Society. Maris Ostrowski Wimberly ’96 (brothers Maksim and Artyom). A son, Michael “Grant,” July 24, 2006, to Scott Speagle ’96 and

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ment during World War II and, following the war, was employed in In Memoriam ’46 civil service, retiring from the Social Security Administration. Clyde Dilmus Baker ’46 of Gun- tersville died Sept. 4, 2006. After Dorothy Brough Worthington ’34 graduation from BSC, he earned a of Hoover died Oct. 18, 2006. A master’s degree in mathematics from teacher and counselor in Atlanta, the University of Alabama, and also she was later employed by U.S. completed studies at other colleges Reconstruction Finance Corp. and and universities in mathematics, the Federal Reserve Bank. BSC radar, rocketry, and space research. connections include her late sister, His lengthy career in the space pro- Frances Brough Point ’36. gram included service at the Marshall Space Flight Center and the Redstone George Herbert Acton ’36 of Birm- Arsenal. He received eight awards at ingham died Sept. 23, 2006. A the Redstone Arsenal, including member of the BSC Sports Hall of NASA’s Medal for Exceptional Scien- Fame, he was a member of the tific Achievement in 1971. In 1991, college golf team and manager of he was given the Pioneer in Space the 1934 Dixie Conference Award by the United Daughters of the Championship football team. He Confederacy. was a veteran of World War II, After retiring from the Redstone Ar- serving in the U.S. Army. Follow- senal in 1973 as chief of the Astrodynamics and Guidance Theory Division, Aero-Astro- ing the war, he was employed in dynamics Lab, Baker entered law school at the Birmingham School of Law. He became a the construction business and at lawyer at age 50 and established a practice in Guntersville, which continued until his Wood Chevrolet, where he won retirement in 1999. numerous sales awards. Survivors A supporter of Birmingham-Southern, Baker was a member of the Endowment include his wife, Betty Margaret Builders Society. Hasty Acton. Survivors include his wife, Mary Cobb Bennett Baker. Mary Enslen Duncan ’36 of North- port died Oct. 8, 2006. band served as a U.S. Navy flight and published two novels, Hill- building the headquarters of the Marjorie Yarborough Ackis ’38 of surgeon, the family established a town (1999) and Zeke (2004), and a Birmingham chapter. He was Hoover died July 20, 2006. She home in Wisconsin, where she memoir in the journal Southern author of a biography of his was active in civic and church pursued a life of service to family, Cultures titled “A Nine-Year-Old maternal grandfather, Rev. James affairs. church, and community. Boy’s Memories of World War I.” Alexander Van Hoose. Survivors include wife Frances Randolph Hallie Fleming Cooper ’39 of Win- Clara Warren Harrison ’29 of Lt. Alexander Van Hoose Davies Evans Davies ’36. ter Park, Fla., died July 20, 2006. Hoover died Aug. 19, 2006. She ’30 of Kirkwood by the River in Formerly a longtime resident of was an accomplished pianist and Birmingham, formerly of Mountain Louise Posey King ’33 of Birming- Birmingham, she was married for studied music at the Cincinnati Brook, died May 26, 2006. A vet- ham died Aug. 21, 2006. She was 65 years to the late Edwin P. “Ed” Conservatory of Music. eran of World War II, he served as the first city clerk for the city of Cooper Jr. ’37. a senior lieutenant in the U.S. Vestavia Hills and an active real Floyd S. Waldrep Sr. ’29 of De- Navy. He was employed at Moore estate agent into her 80s. BSC Ruth Alden Thomas Graham ’39 catur, Ga., died Aug. 15, 2006. Fol- Handley Inc., retiring in 1974 as connections include her late of Birmingham died May 27, 2006. lowing retirement from a career at vice president with 47 years of brother, Carl Posey ’35. Active in cultural affairs, she was a First National Bank of Birmingham service. He was active in civic and founding member and past presi- and as an accountant for the volunteer work and received the Elizabeth Nell Robicheaux ’34 of dent of the American Historical Dupont Co. and the Reynolds Met- Clara Barton Medal from the Amer- Spanish Fort died Oct. 2, 2006. Print Collectors Society. als Co., he studied creative writing ican Red Cross for his help in re- She worked for the War Depart- Nancy Thompson Wynn ’40 of Birmingham died Sept. 17, 2006. fall 2006 / 61 CLASSNOTES

many years in New Orleans and Houma. A pioneer in the develop- In Memoriam ’60 ment of the soft contact lens, he was past president of the Contact Rev. Daniel Zachery Kitchens ’60 of Lens Association of Opthalmology. Huntsville died Sept. 17, 2006. With graduate He was a member of the Southern degrees from the Vanderbilt Divinity School, Eye Bank, American Academy of he was a pastor with the North Alabama Con- Ophthalmology, and past presi- ference of the United Methodist Church for 45 dent of the American College of years. Cryosurgery. During the final years During that time, he served churches in of his life, he was devoted to the Birmingham, Anniston, Columbiana, several research and development of an in North Alabama, and was district superinten- antiviral drug which is expected to dent of the Huntsville District. He also served launch in 2008. He was past presi- as chair of the board of directors of the United dent and chair of the board of Methodist Children’s Home in Selma. Baltech Inc. Survivors include his wife, Emily Gannaway Kitchens, and children including Joel Daniel Joseph Wesley Braswell Jr. ’49 of Kitchens ’89. Pensacola, Fla., died June 16, 2006. With studies, and later service as a dean at Parsons School of Design, he was a noted She was a teacher in the Atlanta ingham and Philadelphia, died Navy in the Pacific during World interior designer. His work public school system and was June 1, 2006. Survivors include War II. Following the war, he grad- appeared in Architectural Digest, married to the late Carlton Terrell her husband, Dr. Howard L. uated from BSC and then from the and his list of famous clients Wynn Sr. ’40. “Sparky” Reese ’45. George Washington University included King Fahd of Saudi Arabia School of Law. He later joined the and Greek shipping tycoon John Erwin B. Self ’41 of Shelbyville Virginia Lassetter Sheffield ’44 of U.S. Army and served at Walter Latsis. After the events of 9/11, he died Oct. 16, 2006. A veteran of Birmingham died June 5, 2006. Reed Medical Center and in Korea. moved from New York to World War II, he served in the U.S. She was a talented musician, and Retiring with the rank of lieutenant Pensacola, where he had lived for Army Air Force and achieved the was active for many years as a colonel in 1968, he reflected on the past four years. rank of captain. Following the war, piano teacher and church organist. problems he had witnessed in the he was employed for 32 years Her husband of 64 years was the military justice system in a 1970 Walter Hamil Brown ’49 of Birm- with Uniroyal. Survivors include late Dr. Clay S. Sheffield ’41. UCLA law review article, the basis ingham died July 20, 2006. He wife Bettie Carroll Self. BSC con- Other BSC connections include for his 1977 book They Call it was a U.S. Army veteran of World nections include his sister, the late her late brother, James Lassetter Justice: Command Influence and War II with service in the Pacific. Mildred Self Summerford ’31. ’38. the Court-Martial System. His He was employed at the Bama Co. subsequent legal activism infor many years, retiring as presi- Cmdr. William Clarence Wilburn Jean Bell Mars ’46 of Vestavia Hills cluded efforts in establishing a Cit- dent. He then founded Brown Jr. ’41 of Baltimore, Md., died May died June 9, 2006. She was a bac- izen’s Tribunal Against War Crimes Brokerage Co. Survivors include 3, 2006. He was a retired career teriologist for the Jefferson County and as a speaker for Vietnam Vet- wife Omar M. Brown. naval officer, aeronautical engi- Health Department in the ’50s, and erans Against the War. Survivors neer, and World War II combat later served as the include his wife, Lelia Harris West. Joseph T. Scarborough ’49 of Tal- pilot, with service in the Pacific assistant librarian at St. Paul’s lassee died May 12, 2006. He was Theater. He earned a master’s Episcopal School in Mobile for Dr. Joseph A. Baldone ’49 of a veteran of the U.S. Navy and degree in aeronautical engineering nearly 20 years. Survivors include Houma, La., formerly a longtime served during World War II behind from the California Institute of husband William T. Mars. resident of New Orleans, died enemy lines as a radioman in naval Technology. Survivors include wife June 3, 2006. He was a veteran of intelligence. Following the war, he Elizabeth Pfeiffer Wilburn. Luther Charles West ’48 of Sev- World War II with service in the operated Scarborough Tree erna Park, Md., died Aug. 31, U.S. Army Air Force. With a med- Surgeons in Birmingham, and later Gene Smith Reese ’44 of St. 2006. West served in the U.S. ical degree from Tulane University, returned to his home in Perry Petersburg, Fla., formerly of Birm- he practiced ophthalmology for County to found Starlight Dairy

62 / ’southern CLASSNOTES

Farm. He also was founder of from George Washington Univer- Jane West Whitley ’52 of served in the U.S. Army, the U.S. Mid-South Land Sales and served sity. He also graduated from the Huntsville died May 9, 2006. A Air Force, and the U.S. Naval as a representative of the New Infantry Officers Advanced Course, talented artist, her work included Reserve. After graduating with a York Securities and Exchange the Command and General Staff murals in the Children’s Hospital in degree in physics from BSC, he Commission. He was active in College, the Armed Forces Staff Birmingham. An active volunteer attended the Birmingham School civic affairs. College, and with honors from the in the Huntsville community, she of Law. He was employed with Naval War College. He served 33 was a leader in cultural and civic Brown Engineering in Huntsville, Dr. Adelbert Edward “Bert” years in the U.S. Army and was organizations. Survivors include and later joined NASA as a nuclear, Bradley Jr. ’50 of Auburn died awarded many decorations in her husband, Dr. Milton Whitley. solid state physicist and aero- June 5, 2006. He was a U.S. Navy recognition of his service, includ- space engineer, working with veteran of World War II, serving in ing the Silver and Bronze stars. June Reynolds Pendergrast ’53 of Werner Von Braun’s staff on the the Pacific. Following the war, he Survivors include his wife, Elaine Arab died July 17, 2006. A pianist Apollo and Saturn missile projects. earned a master’s degree in G. Tutwiler. and church organist, she taught Survivors include his wife, Lillie speech communications at the piano lessons for many years and Tsimpiedes Babakitis. University of Alabama and a doc- Elizabeth Williams Copeland ’52 also was a teacher of music in toral degree at Florida State Uni- of Birmingham died Nov. 4, 2006. Arab city schools. She was named Sandra Hardy Jones ’56 of versity. He was on the faculty and After studies at BSC, she gradu- 2004 Outstanding Citizen for Arab. Vestavia died May 21, 2006. served as head of the Speech ated from the University of Survivors include her husband, departments at the University of Alabama and worked for several David Pendergrast. Asher Senor Bragan III ’59 of Richmond and the University of years at Loveman’s department Birmingham died Sept. 30, 2006. North Carolina at Chapel Hill store before retiring to devote her Capt. Nicholas Babakitis ’55 of He was a U.S. Army veteran with before assuming his position as time to family, church, and com- Paradise Valley, Ariz., died June 4, service in Korea. He was head of the Department of Speech munity affairs. Survivors include 2006. He was a World War II employed as a sales manager at Communications at Auburn Univer- her husband, Judson Copeland. veteran and flew more than 52 Gerdau Ameristeel. He lived in sity, where he served until ill health combat missions over Europe. He Pompano Beach and Jacksonville, led to an early retirement in 1989. Survivors include wife Jeanne Moore Bradley. In Memoriam Friend Beth Howell Broom ’50 of Hartselle died April 30, 2006. James Ernest Hill, Friend,of Survivors include her husband, Mountain Brook, a resident of Horace Broom. Kirkwood by the River since 2002, died in September 2006. Sam M. John ’50 of Tuscaloosa He was a graduate of Berea died March 31, 2006. He was College in Kentucky, who had employed in industrial purchasing taught science and math at a management with Gulf States private boys’ school in Mt. Zion, Paper Corp. and Sanderson Plumb- Ga. He came in 1937 to TCI ing Products Inc. He achieved cer- (US Steel) in Birmingham, tified purchasing management where he became head of the lifetime status and served three Metallurgy Department, mills years on the board of directors of works manager, and later head the Purchasing Management As- of sales. sociation of Alabama. Survivors Hill and his wife, the late Ora Lee Hill, were generous supporters of cultural and edu- include wife Betty D. John. cational organizations throughout the community, including Birmingham-Southern College, where they endowed The Ora Lee Hill and J. Ernest Hill Scholarship. At the Col. (Retired) Guy Isbell Tutwiler request of family members, donations may be made in his memory to Birmingham- ’50 of Auburn died Sept. 23, 2006. Southern College, through the Office of Institutional Advancement, 900 Arkadelphia After studies at BSC, he received a Road, Box 549003, Birmingham, AL 35254. bachelor’s degree from the Univer- sity of Nebraska at Omaha and a master’s in international affairs

fall 2006 / 63 CLASSNOTES

Fla., as well as Gastonia, N.C., Larry B. Ross ’65 of Birmingham and a master’s of divinity and a ployee of Hayes Aircraft and of before returning to live in Birming- died April 25, 2006. He was a vet- master’s in church music from the ACIPCO. ham in 1979. Survivors include his eran of the U.S. Navy, where he Southern Baptist Seminary in wife, Sandra Thornton Bragan. served on a destroyer for four Louisville, Ky. While in seminary, Friends years, including a tour of duty in he served as minister of worship Terence Carlin Brannon ’60 of Ves- Vietnam. He was employed as a at Springdale Baptist Church and Marguerite Jones Folkerth of tavia Hills died Sept. 19, 2006. He bailiff for 38 years in the Jefferson at First Baptist of Prospect, where Birmingham died Aug. 29, 2006. A was a retired banker. Survivors in- County criminal court system, retir- he was ordained. He also served talented musician, she had served clude his wife, Sybil Brown ing this past February. Survivors at other churches in Kentucky and as organist at Ensley Presbyterian Brannon. include his life partner and friend, Maryland. Survivors include his Church, at the Sixth Avenue Pres- Victor Fichtner. wife, Linda Morrison. byterian Church, and at Kirkwood Norma Smith Earnest ’60 of Eu- by the River Chapel. She was faula died June 25, 2006. A Patrick R. Lyle ’69 of Lebanon, Valeria A. Hinton ’80 of Birming- founder of a scholarship at member of the Alabama Music Tenn., died Aug. 25, 2005. ham died Oct. 31, 2006. Birmingham-Southern. Teachers Association and the Music Teachers National Associa- James Monroe Crowson Jr. ’70 of Jonathan Marcus “Jon Marc” Verle Eudean Jones of Birming- tion, she taught piano lessons for Mt. Olive died Aug. 8, 2006. He Rutherford ’87 of Atlanta died ham died Sept. 12, 2006. With a more than 40 years. Survivors in- had served as a lieutenant in the June 7, 2006. He was a gifted master’s degree in piano perform- clude her husband, O.B. “Buck” U.S. Army and was formerly em- musician and had held various ance from the Birmingham Conser- Earnest. ployed by Sonat. Survivors include music-related positions in both vatory of Music at Birmingham- his wife, Sarah Crowson. churches and schools in Atlanta Southern, he was involved in piano Hiram Oscar Hutto ’61 of Athens for nearly 20 years. Survivors in- performances for many years, died Aug. 29, 2006. He held William David Smith III ’76 of clude his partner, Dock Anderson particularly in ensemble recitals degrees in chemical engineering Huntsville died Oct. 1, 2006, in ’88. with instrumentalists and singers. from the University of Alabama Birmingham. After graduating At the request of family members, and in Greek from Birmingham- from BSC, he received a bache- Brian C. Key ’94 of Jasper died donations may be made in his Southern. He had served as a lor’s degree in architecture from July 17, 2006. With a degree from memory to the Barbara and Hugh preacher for more than 50 years in Mississippi State University. He the Cumberland School of Law of Thomas Scholarship at Birming- Alabama, Florida, and Illinois. Sur- was certified in construction Samford University, he was an at- ham-Southern College, through vivors include his wife, Rachel specifics and was the author of torney in private practice in Jasper. the Office of Institutional Advance- Batson Hutto. two books addressing major He was a member of the American ment, 900 Arkadelphia Road, Box issues of the building code. He Civil Liberties Union and the 549003, Birmingham, AL 35254. Monte Allan Brakefield ’62 of Hen- practiced in New Orleans, Mobile, Human Rights Campaign, as well dersonville, Tenn., died Jan. 21, and Huntsville, before he and his as various professional organiza- Dr. Margaret Millsap of Birming- 2001. wife established Holland Smith Ar- tions. His legal work had included ham died Nov. 3, 2006. She was a chitects in Huntsville. At the time years of pro bono service to BSC professor emerita of nursing Letitia Christian Arant ’64 of Birm- of his death, he was a member of special education students in Las and had served as director of the ingham died Sept. 22, 2006. For a the architectural and engineering Vegas, Nev. He also had served as nursing program at Birmingham- number of years, she held a posi- firm Rosser International Inc. in a teacher of English as a second Southern from 1981-88, retiring tion in the Center for Atlanta. His project experience in- language to students in the first from the faculty when the nursing Advanced Medical Studies at UAB. cluded facilities for the U.S. Army private college founded in Hungary program ended in 1988. Corps of Engineers, NASA, Mar- after the fall of communism in that Anne Ford Case ’64 of Jack- shal County Hospital, and the city country. At the request of family Mary Ellen Nicholas of Birming- sonville died July 8, 2006. She of Huntsville. Survivors include his members, donations may be made ham, wife of BSC Professor of taught school for 35 years, includ- wife, Laura Holland Smith. in his memory to Birmingham- History Bill Nicholas, died Oct. 2, ing 27 years at Saks Elementary in Southern College, through the 2006. Anniston, where she was named Gary Welba Morrison ’77 of Balti- Office of Institutional Advance- Calhoun County Teacher of the more, Md., died Oct. 25, 2006. ment, 900 Arkadelphia Road, Box Year in 1989, and at Price Elemen- After graduation from BSC, he 549003, Birmingham, AL 35254. tary in Birmingham from 1964 to received a master’s degree in Millicent D. “Millie” Williams- 1971. voice and opera performance from Moore ’99 of Birmingham died the University of Texas in Austin June 8, 2006. She was an em-

64 / ’southern ’SOUTHERN VOICES

Thomas, who played on two Our athletics future is NCAA Division III national championship women’s lacrosse teams at The College of New brighter than ever Jersey, as the new head coach. by joe dean jr. Coaching and staff changes did occur over the summer, most bsc director of athletics notably with the retirement of Men’s Basketball Coach Duane To begin with, let me say that the particular league is affectionately Reboul, and UAB hiring long- future of Birmingham-Southern known as the “academic league.” time Baseball Coach Brian athletics is very bright! The institutions are: Austin College, Shoop away from the Hilltop. As you are probably aware, there Centre College, Colorado College, Keidane McAlpine also left his has been a whirlwind of activity DePauw University, Hendrix College, position as the college’s head since May 25, when the Birming- Millsaps College, Oglethorpe women’s soccer coach to ham-Southern Board of Trustees University, Rhodes College, accept an assistant coaching voted to seek reclassification of the Sewanee--University of the South, position at Auburn University. college’s athletics program from Southwestern University, and Trinity All other coaches remain and NCAA Division I to Division III. University. Birmingham-Southern have embraced the new We have been accepted by the fits this conference in terms of size, direction of the college’s NCAA Management Council to mission, and academic quality. We athletics program with move to Division III, and we begin are excited about beginning compe- enthusiasm. the four-year transition during the tition with SCAC teams next fall. In conclusion, let me say 2007-08 academic year. The 2011-12 Over the summer, the decision once again that the future of Dean year will be the first one where BSC also was made to begin new Birmingham-Southern athletics competes for conference champi- Division III sports programs in foot- is very bright. It is brighter than onships and NCAA tournament ball, men’s and women’s indoor and ever. The berths. outdoor track and field, and addition of The college was fortunate in June women’s lacrosse. Joey Jones, college to gain admission into the Southern former University of football to Collegiate Athletic Conference, a Alabama star and success- our cam- Division III league made up of some ful Mountain Brook High pus will highly rated academic institutions. School coach, was hired create a new The 12 SCAC schools are sheltering to build the new football energy that institutions of Phi Beta Kappa program, which begins should add a chapters, and, in short, this play on our new on- great deal to the campus football field in spirit on the Hilltop. September 2007. Coach Our mission for the next few Jones and his staff are actively years is recruiting new students to traveling around the South recruiting ’Southern to help us build prospective football players for national championship-quality Birmingham-Southern’s new team. athletics teams that will make all Additionally, Cross Country Coach BSC alumni, friends, and support- Lars Porter was named as the track ers very proud. Thanks to every- and field coach as well, and started one for your past support, and we his new assignment with a bang by look forward to many fun and hiring Assistant Coach Mark Everett, exciting times ahead in the future. a three-time Olympian from Florida. Go Panthers! In women’s lacrosse, we hired Emily

fall 2006 / 65 2007 Birmingham-Southern College Football Schedule

(All times central) September 6 (Thursday) Mississippi College (junior varsity) 6 p.m. September 15 Rhodes College Noon September 23 (Sunday) at Maryville College (junior varsity) 1:30 p.m. September 29 at Trinity University TBA October 6 DePauw University TBA (*Homecoming) October 13 at Austin College TBA October 20 Centre College Noon October 27 Colorado College Noon November 3 at Sewanee TBA November 10 at Millsaps College TBA

*Tentative

Periodical Postage BSC PAID at Birmingham-Southern College Birmingham, Alabama

900 Arkadelphia Road Box 549003 Birmingham, Alabama 35254

ADDRESS SERVICE REQUESTED www.bsc.edu