LEADING the WORLD ALUMNI WORKING on the INTERNATIONAL SCENE [Page 24]

See how gifts impact students page 32

A UNIVERSITY OF NORTH TEXAS PUBLICATION FOR ALUMNI AND FRIENDS

VOL.64, NO.4 | Winter 2014 LEADING THE WORLD ALUMNI WORKING ON THE INTERNATIONAL SCENE [page 24]

Brian D. Sweany [page 14] Faculty Focus [page 22] A Season of Gratitude [page 30] Winter 2014 | northtexan.unt.edu | The North Texan 1 northtexan.unt.edu Folk Music Club [page 34] IS BEING OVERLY VIGILANT BAD FOR YOUR HEART?

We’re studying the role that stress and hypervigilance play in the development of heart disease — the nation’s No. 1 killer. Smoking, obesity and diet are well established influences on cardiovascular health. At UNT, we’re leading the way in measuring the effect that other equally significant variables contribute to this major public health concern. We hope our research helps create more effective coronary therapies.

— John Ruiz Assistant professor, psychology

1 The North Texan | northtexan.unt.edu | Winter 2014

FEATURES

14 Brian D. Sweany Alum’s drive for excellence steers him to position as Texa s Monthly editor-in-chief. By Jessica DeLeón

22 Faculty Focus UNT honors faculty as notable teachers, researchers and mentors. 30 A Season of Gratitude The university celebrates the close of The Campaign for UNT.

34 Folk Music Club A 1960s student club set the scene for collaborations that spurred songwriters, musicians and entrepreneurs. By Jessica DeLeón DEPARTMENTS

FROM OUR PRESIDENT • 3 Driven by creativity

DEAR NORTH TEXAN • 4 24 Logistics ... Food for thought ... Sounds of music UNT TODAY • 6 Factory for imagination ... Global Connection ... Leading the World Ask an Expert ... Mean Green FROM HELPING FIGHT THE SPREAD OF EBOLA AND EDUCATING YOUTH THROUGH MUSIC TO ADVANCING UNT MUSE • 17 In her own voice ... Real life in words ... ECONOMIES IN THE WORLD MARKET, ALUMS ARE USING A lasting gift ... Upcoming Events ... ArtPrize 2014 CROSS-CULTURAL SKILLS LEARNED AS STUDENTS FOR POSITIVE CHANGE ACROSS THE GLOBE. EAGLES’ NEST • 3 8 By Adrienne Nettles Partners in success ... Connecting with Friends ... My Brother’s Keeper ... Friends We’ll Miss

LAST WORD • 48 Cover: Photo illustration by Kit Young. From left, Dominic Murer (’14), The Golden Eagles share memories as students April Scarrow (’95), Petronel Malan (’96 M.M., ’01 D.M.A.), from the Class of 1964. Pradit Wanarat (’94 Ph.D.) and Tolkunbek Abdygulov (’07 M.P.A.)

Winter 2014 | northtexan.unt.edu | The North Texan 1 Online EXCLUSIVES northtexan.unt.edu/online ONLINE FEATURES

CHILD LAB Read about UNT’s Child Development Lab, which educates young children and also prepares UNT College of Education students.

GLOBAL TEAM Meet the international runners who made up the 2014 cross country team. Hear their perspectives on being in the U.S. and part of the Mean Green family.

GIVING BACK Watch a video to learn how gifts to UNT have impacted students’ educations and how you can help.

GET CONNECTED

Connect with us at facebook.com/northtexas. Brad Holt

Watch us on youtube.com/ universitynorthtexas. Happy Holidays, UNT! THIS HOLIDAY SEASON, WE’RE GIVING THANKS FOR Follow us at instagram.com/unt. THE BRIGHT, TALENTED UNT COMMUNITY AND WE’RE ALSO CELEBRATING OUR CREATIVE SPIRIT. SEE AND HEAR FOR YOURSELF WHAT LIFE AT UNT SOUNDS LIKE AND Visit The North Texan online to: • Keep up with what’s happening between HOW WE WORK TOGETHER IN HARMONY. issues of The North Texan • Tell us what you think about our stories • Learn more about your fellow alumni When you see this arrow, join our North Texan community online • Write memorials about friends we’ll miss at northtexan.unt.edu. • Enjoy an array of additional stories, photos, videos and recordings

2 The North Texan | northtexan.unt.edu | Winter 2014 FROM OUR President

Driven by creativity UNIVERSITY RELATIONS, DESIGNERS UNT BLAZES PATH, PROPELLED BY COMMUNICATIONS AND LAUREN LEBRON MARKETING LEADERSHIP KIT YOUNG (’06) IMAGINATION AND KNOWLEDGE VICE PRESIDENT DEBORAH LELIAERT (’96 M.ED.) PHOTOGRAPHERS MICHAEL CLEMENTS ASSISTANT VICE PRESIDENT AHNA HUBNIK (’03) FROM OUR HUMBLE KELLEY REESE (’95) GARY PAYNE (’99) origins in Denton to our rising DIRECTORS VIDEOGRAPHERS KENN MOFFITT CHRISTOPHER BRYAN (’08) national prominence, UNT is DENA MOORE BRAD HOLT (’09) growing as a first-choice institution MAGAZINE STAFF WRITERS and partner known for creativity EXECUTIVE EDITOR MONIQUE BIRD (’10 M.J.) JULIE ELLIOTT PAYNE (’97) ERNESTINE BOUSQUET and excellence. NANCY KOLSTI MANAGING EDITOR LESLIE MINTON (’07) Gary Payne Gary Creativity is alive in everything we RANDENA HULSTRAND (’88, ’07 M.J.) ADRIENNE NETTLES do, whether it’s musical and artistic BUDDY PRICE EDITORS ELLEN ROSSETTI (’00, ’08 M.J.) excellence (see page 34) or thought- JESSICA DELEÓN MARGARITA VENEGAS (’96) JILL KING (’93 M.S., ’00 M.A.) provoking education, research and President Neal Smatresk and his wife, Debbie, ONLINE COMMUNICATIONS wave to the crowd during the Homecoming ONLINE EDITOR JESSE GARRISON scholarship. We see problems and MICHELLE HALE NANCY KENT (’94) parade this fall. find innovative solutions. We use our ERIC VANDERGRIFF ART DIRECTOR knowledge, talent and skills to make the world better, as you’ll see in our cover story SEAN ZEIGLER (’00) STUDENT CONTRIBUTORS NATALIE CABALLERO on alumni who are making global impacts (see page 24). And as a place where art PHOTO EDITOR CRYSTAL HOLLIS (’13) ANGILEE WILKERSON ERICA MARTINEZ and science converge, we educate, inspire and innovate. MEGAN MIDDLETON (’03) I’m especially proud of how we change our students’ lives in a style all our own at ADVERTISING GERMAN TORRES JILLIAN JORDAN (’05) JOSHUA WILLIAMS UNT. We captured the harmony of how our campus community works together in WES MARTIN (’01) JEFFREY WOLVERTON

this year’s holiday video. Check it out at northtexan.unt.edu/online. And be sure to look PROJECT MANAGEMENT ERICA BLOUNT for our creativity-inspired billboards throughout the North Texas region. CLAUDIA COOPER (’06) We also celebrated the close of our first comprehensive campaign,The Campaign DONALD WILSON (’01) for UNT, this fall with more than $210 million, exceeding our goal. These gifts provide The North Texan scholarships to our students, support faculty research and scholarship, and bolster our The North Texan (ISSN 0468-6659) is published four times a year (in March, June, September and December) by the academic programs. Together, they ensure that our students get the best educational University of North Texas, 1155 Union Circle #311070, Denton, Texas 76203-5017, for distribution to alumni and friends of experience at UNT. Most importantly, gifts help our students achieve their dreams. the university. Periodicals postage paid at Denton, Texas, and You can show your support at at additional mailing offices. The diverse views on matters giving.unt.edu. of public interest that are presented in The North Texan do Debbie and I have been part of the UNT community for just 10 months, but we not necessarily reflect the official policies of the university. Publications staff can be reached at [email protected] or were embraced immediately as family and everyone has been so welcoming. Our love 940-565-2108. Postmaster: Please send requests for changes of address, and pride for this great university grows stronger each day. We’re excited about what accompanied if possible by old address labels, to the University the future holds for UNT. of North Texas, University Relations, Communications and Marketing, 1155 Union Circle #311070, Denton, Texas 76203-5017. The UNT System and the University of North Texas are the UNT proud, owners of all of their trademarks, service marks, trade names, slogans, graphic images and photography and they may not be used without permission. The University of North Texas does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national or ethnic origin, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, age, political affiliation, disability, marital status, ancestry, genetic Neal Smatresk information, citizenship, or veteran status in its application and admission process, educational programs and activities, President employment policies and use of university facilities. Direct [email protected] questions or concerns to the equal opportunity office, 940-565-2759, or the dean of students, 940-565-2648. TTY @UNTPrez access is available at 940-369-8652. AA/EOE/ADA

Created by the Division of University Relations, Communications and Marketing

Winter 2014 | northtexan.unt.edu | The North Texan 3 DEAR North Texan

never had deep-dish before. I ordered the pie to go, took Let us know what you think about news it back to the dorm, and my and topics covered in The North Texan. friends and I pigged out. I Letters may be edited for length and thought it was the best pizza I publication style. had ever had. Not long ago I was in the Online: northtexan.unt.edu Mail: The North Texan Windy City and ordered a (follow the “Contact Us” link) University of North Texas deep-dish. The memory from Phone: 940-565-2108 Division of University Relations, the one at Flying Tomato still Communications and Marketing Fax: 940-369-8763 stands as the best I ever had. 1155 Union Circle #311070 Email: [email protected] Denton, Texas 76203-5017 Derrall Ahart (’92) Houston Logistics Swenson’s! Big bowls of Fruit watch tarantulas cross the Loops cereal at a Bruce Hall farm-to-market road. No When I read your invitation As a UNT graduate and dorm party. Pizza at Bullwin- kidding! We even caught one in to share memories of food on business accounts sales kle’s. A Denton County a Mason jar. NTSU ~ NUTS! campus, I immediately thought executive with FedEx, I was so hamburger and french fries on of the cinnamon coffeecake in pleased to see the piece touting the square downtown. Bruce Margie Mashek Davis (’75) the old UB (Union Building). logistics in the fall issue. The Hall had the best dining hall Italy If you were lucky and got remarks by faculty member when I was at UNT. there early enough, you might Wesley Randall were terrific in get a piece that was just from describing the importance of Anne Strybos Vrolyk (’85), the oven. There also were times such a contemporary curricu- Bruce Hall wing rep you were told there was no lum at UNT. and food rep more. What a disappointment! His comments make me League City I entered North Texas in proud to be a North Texas fall 1962 and pledged a sorority graduate working as a profes- We were eating unhealthy in spring 1963. This was the sional in logistics, transporta- back in the early ’70s, but we I entered North Texas in hub of the activity on campus tion and supply chain didn’t yet know it. Besides my June 1986. One of the big while I was there. We “hung networks. fast-food fave, 25-cent Jack hang-outs was the Flying tacos, the smells from the Tomato pizza restaurant. On out” in a room in the back of the UB, ordered coffeecake, Jillien Garrison Charco Broiler lured me in one particular night, the Flying drank coffee and cokes, visited Anthony (’76) when I could afford it. Tomato was hosting a contest and danced the North Texas Camano Island, Wash. For late-night insanity, we of physical agility and balance ventured forth after midnight (one-legged squats). I managed “Push” to the music on the jukebox. It was a magical time Food for thought to Harry Hines in Dallas to to do more than any of the Mama Coquita’s for a $2 huge other entries. and full of great memories. What are some of my plate of enchiladas. One of the prizes was a gift Janie Lindsey Grimes favorite “foodie memories” from The best indulgence was certificate for any pizza I (’70, ’93 M.Ed.) UNT (fall 2014 )? Walking heading to Ranchman’s in wanted. Being a poor college Denton down the hill from Bruce Hall Ponder for a slice of the student, I went for the most to go have some chocolate absolute best apple pie. We expensive pie. It was a Chicago- orange chip ice cream at couldn’t afford a steak. On the style deep-dish pizza. I had way home, we would stop to

4 The North Texan | northtexan.unt.edu | Winter 2014 professor, Keith Shelton, this bolted to concrete in the middle brought back a flood of of a passageway was printed. I memories. When I was a smiled the next time I walked @northtexan photojournalism student in the by that area. The rack had been ’70s, Smith “Smitty” Kiker, moved away from foot traffic. So grateful for the teachers head of the photo lab, assigned here at UNT that actually care a “picture” page for the student Thomas Hart (’76) about my success. #UNT I came to North Texas the newspaper. Lomita, Calif. #GoMeanGreen year the beautiful new Student My bank of inspiration was — @MaddyNeusel Union Building opened, about empty until I observed a Sounds of music 1976. I was lucky to be hired student carrying his tray. He It’s been a while since a pen on as a banquet waiter, and was wore a prosthesis where his I arrived on campus as a shy exploded in my hand. At least it also hired to work as one of the hand had been, and I wondered boy from the small West Texas was green ink! #UNTproud lunch waiters in the new and what a typical day was like for town of Brady and grew and — @JackieDemeritt exciting Rock Bottom Lounge him. So I interviewed four matured at North Texas in on the lower level. It was built students with disabilities, and what may have been the best The University of North Texas to be a fun, contemporary my picture page turned into a four years of my life. I went on campus is so beautiful. eatery during the day and two-part feature story. to earn a D.D.S. and practiced — @emilyannnn21 possibly a music venue at night. It was shocking to watch a in New Mexico for 33 years. We thought it was beautiful; student in a wheelchair get a One of my fondest memo- UNT has some of the greatest it was a tiered space in red and “running start” to bounce up ries is walking past the un- advisors I have ever met. Truly black with an open ceiling, the steps to the Administration air-conditioned music building love my school. track lighting and exposed Building. A student who was with all of the windows open. — @jeannine_vargas black ductwork, small tables blind showed me how her The music students were and a jukebox. I don’t think I guide dog kept her from being singing and playing their Love that Homecoming bonfire. will get “Paloma Blanca” or injured by trash bins placed on instruments and the sounds of #GMG #UNTHC14 “Afternoon Delight” out of my posts at her head level. music were in the air. These — @livelavalauren head ever. Smitty told me it was the were special moments every The lunch shift was only first time our newspaper had day and I often wished there #UNT Homecoming parade about an hour, only two “cooks” run a story like this. After it was a way to broadcast the was fun! Shout out to the Green prepared the food and service appeared, I was able to take a music across the entire campus. Brigade. Love you guys! was unconscionably slow. It was photo of a ramp being cut into — @michagb not a very workable concept. one of the street curbs. Later, a Dan Salter (’65) However, I will always photo I took of a bike rack Wills Point There’s no gameday like remember that time with the #UNTHomecoming! greatest fondness and still think #gomeangreen #untpride of friends made then. #meangreenfamily Tell us about ... traditions — @meangreenmaniac James Gatewood There’s nothing like Homecoming to remind us of the traditions Corpus Christi Follow us on Twitter. UNT has celebrated through the years, like the parade and We look forward to staying Raising awareness bonfire, the ringing of the Spirit Bell, the green light on connected! McConnell Tower and our energetic Scrappy. Do you have a @northtexan memory of a favorite tradition from your time on campus? We’d When I opened the summer love to hear about it as we think back over all our decades of North Texan and saw the green pride. Send a letter or email to the addresses at top left. picture of my journalism

Winter 2014 | northtexan.unt.edu | The North Texan 5 C-USA conference honors Today page 12 Gary Payne Gary

FACTORY FOR LIKE ANDY WARHOL’S ART STUDIO — THE Factory — UNT’s new creative space of the same name in IMAGINATION Willis Library is a hub for art and design. Housed on the library’s first floor, the facility is a makerspace for library users to UNT’s Willis Library opens new space create three-dimensional objects with tools such as a 3D scanner for students and users to explore innovative and printer, and to record videos and photographs hands free learning and new technologies. with Google Glass. This mashup of creativity and technology promotes self-directed experimentation and research and is helping UNT stand out. Learn more about The Factory and other services the UNT “Libraries are shared places for learning and collaboration, libraries provide at library.unt.edu/services/factory. and makerspaces are the newest kind of facility that libraries are providing,” says Martin Halbert, dean of the UNT libraries.

6 The North Texan | northtexan.unt.edu | Winter 2014 George Takei spoke this fall at the UNT Coliseum as part of UNT’s Distinguished Lecture Series. Michael Clements DID YOU KNOW? UNT has its largest class of Terry Scholars, recipients of the prestigious Terry Distinguished lecturer an outspoken supporter of New engineering degree Scholarships, studying Actor, social justice activist human rights issues and a UNT’s new Ph.D. in on campus this fall, and social media mega-power community activist. In 2007, mechanical and energy with 83 scholars George Takei shared his life the Asteroid 7307 Takei, engineering is the first degree of enrolled as traditional experiences with students, located between Mars and its kind in Texas and one of a freshmen and 36 as faculty and alumni in October Jupiter, was named in his honor. few doctoral programs transfer students. as a guest speaker for UNT’s Takei has been ranked specializing in energy applica- Distinguished Lecture Series. the most influential person tions in the field of mechanical The audience got a first-hand on Facebook by Mashable.com engineering in the U.S. account of Takei’s career, which and has more than 7.7 million Beginning in spring 2015, spans five decades and gained likes on Facebook and more students can enroll in the the national spotlight with his than 1.3 million Twitter program, which will provide founding role in the acclaimed followers. unique opportunities to study television series Star Trek, UNT’s Distinguished and do research for solving in which he played Hikaru Lecture Series introduces the energy problems. Program Sulu, helmsman of the UNT community to the graduates can pursue careers Starship Enterprise. excellence of world-class in industries such as alternative He also shared his experi- speakers whose messages and sustainable energy, energy ences as a Japanese American enhance student learning management and conservation, forced into U.S. internment outside the classroom. oil and gas, automotive and camps during World War II. aerospace, and manufacturing. Today, the openly gay Takei is

TOP FEMALE CHEMIST Regents Professor of chemistry Angela Wilson will be honored by the American Chemical Society this spring as the recipient of the 2015 Fran- cis P. Garvan-John M. Olin Medal, recognizing top women chemists for distinguished service and contributions to the field of chemistry. Wilson leads a research team at UNT that develops and uses computational Angilee Wilkerson chemistry approaches to predict accurate thermodynamics, which is critical to understanding chemical reactivity. UNT has built one of the largest computational chemistry programs in the U.S. thanks to Wilson’s dedication and the university’s commitment to invest in high-performance computing.

Winter 2014 | northtexan.unt.edu | The North Texan 7 Today

Pass it on: Great things are happening at UNT. Learn about them here and share our successes with your family and friends. • Science meets art. At only 16, Aditya Vaidya, a first-year Texas Academy of Mathematics and Science student working with Armin Mikler, professor of computer science and engineering, has created a computer model that uses weather and climate change data to predict mosquito populations. Also a consummate violinist, Vaidya has been invited by the High School Honors Performance Series, a program that brings together some of the best young performers around the world, to perform at Carnegie Hall in February. • Number-crunchers. As the host for American Math Competitions, UNT this fall began helping eighth grade and high school students from the North Texas region sharpen their math skills. UNT is the first university in the Dallas Fort Worth area to host the free competitions in which students tackle 25 multiple choice questions in 40 minutes — a creative exercise to help strengthen their problem-solving abilities. • Winning investors. Team GoMeanGreen — sophomore finance majors, from left, Bao Lam, Josue Leija and Mason Hendrickson — won TD Ameritrade’s First Collegiate Trading Competition, the thinkorswim Challenge. Their virtual stock portfolio grew 213 percent to $1,565,176 at the end of four weeks of trading. They each won $3,500 to deposit in a brokerage account. And, TD Ameritrade donated $30,000 to UNT to create an endowment benefiting UNT’s Student Investment Group. Hendrickson discusses strategy on CNBC’s Closing Bell at northtexan.unt.edu/online.

BRILLIANTLY GREEN Michael Clements

fellowship this fall to study particles are found in everyday 2014 Intermodal EXPO. Their how tiny particles found in products like sunscreens, win marks the second year in a everyday products like cosmetics and paints. Worm- row that UNT students took sunscreen are impacting ington plans to become a top honors in the competition. aquatic ecosystems. toxicologist after earning a Seniors and aviation logistics Working with faculty doctorate in the future and majors Jesse Dolan and mentor Aaron Roberts, study various toxicology issues Sterling Harden and senior

Ahna Hubnik Ahna associate professor of biology, in several countries. Regina Suwuh, a logistics and Wormington will use the supply chain management EPA fellowship fellowship to further study Intermodal award major, clinched the top prize Alexis Wormington, a junior how sunlight and various Three College of Business for developing a solution to a biology major, earned a U.S. concentrations of ultraviolet students this fall won the case study involving shipping Environmental Protection radiation change the toxicity of Intermodal Association of intermodal containers for a Agency Greater Research titanium dioxide nanoparticles North America’s fourth annual luggage company from Asia to Opportunities undergraduate in aquatic ecosystems. The Intermodal Challenge at the the U.S.

8 The North Texan | northtexan.unt.edu | Winter 2014 QUALITY ENHANCEMENT PLAN This fall, President Neal Smatresk announced the university’s Quality Enhancement Plan, a plan to improve learning that is required as part of UNT’s reaffirmation of accreditation in 2016 by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools’ Commission on Colleges. Soar Beyond the Classroom, a plan that will engage students in action-based learning and give them real-world experience in the regional community and abroad, was chosen after a year-long process that included feedback and participation by students, faculty, staff, alumni and community partners. This plan will give students more opportunities to interact with the surrounding community, solve problems and gain valuable work experience that will strengthen their critical thinking and communication skills. Learn more about the plan and keep updated with the progress of implementation at qep.unt.edu.

Mexican Consulate agreement business community and Los Angeles and Chicago. A partnership between educational institutions and Another outreach effort UNT and the Consulate organizations in the region to of the consulates is the GLOBAL General of Mexico in Dallas disseminate knowledge and “Ventanillas de Salud” CONNECTION has created an education educational opportunities to program, which addresses information center housed the Mexican community.” health care issues. >> in the Mexican Consular More than 500 people and “These are the kind of offices to serve the North their families visit the partnerships that cultivate Texas region. Mexican Consulate in Dallas new, meaningful relation- Through the center’s every day, including Mexican ships,” Carranza says. “They “Ventanilla de Oportunidades nationals with visas, perma- bring value to UNT and the Educativas” program, also nent residents, U.S.-Mexican communities around us.” known as the Educational citizens, and U.S. citizens, Read more about how Opportunities Station among others. Offices in the UNT alumni are making Program, this fall, UNT “Ventanillas” program have global connections and impacts began providing information previously been established in on page 24. on educational opportunities to the Mexican community in the North Texas region, strengthening UNT’s community engagement, says Gabriel Carranza, assistant vice provost for international affairs at UNT.

“As it has done since its Trisha Spence creation as a school for teachers, UNT continues to contribute to the education of the residents of the region,” From left, Dallas ISD Board President Miguel Solís, UNT Provost Warren Burggren, Consul General of Mexico Jose Octavio Tripp and Carranza says. “UNT is MITO Financial representatives celebrate the Ventanilla de Educación proud to work with the ribbon cutting at the Mexican Consular offices this fall. Consulate of Mexico, the

Winter 2014 | northtexan.unt.edu | The North Texan 9 Today

compared with synthetic Their research was funded research competition in math, building materials currently by a National Science Founda- science and technology for high on the market. tion grant. Learn more at school students. In total, 22 Led by Nandika D’Souza, news.unt.edu/kenaf. TAMS students were named professor of engineering, the semifinalists and seven were researchers studied and tested Siemens finalists named regional finalists. kenaf, a plant in the hibiscus Students in UNT’s Texas The regional finalists are Gary Payne family that is similar to Academy of Mathematics and Napasorn Kuprasertkul of Plant research bamboo. Their studies over a Science have earned more Keller, Sumedha Mehta of UNT researchers have three-year period show that placements as semifinalists and Irving, Laura Pang of Houston, discovered that plant-based kenaf materials, including regional finalists in the 2014 Susmitha Sayana of Allen, building materials can provide composite panels, provide the Siemens Competition than any Akash Wadawadigi of Flower up to 20 percent energy savings, energy savings compared to other school in the U.S. Mound, and Gerald Hu and reduce energy consumption fiberglass or steel and Styro- The Siemens Competition is Sanchit Sachdeva of Plano. and the overall carbon footprint foam products. the nation’s leading original

...... Ask an Expert

How can you reinvent yourself for the new year? any people see the start of a new year as Explore self-discovery a chance to reinvent themselves. In his • Find someone whose cultural tastes are different. Mnew book Experience Passport: 45 Ways Ask about their favorite song and movie. Listen to to Broaden Your Horizons, Alex Egner, assistant and watch their selections. Did your perception professor of communication design, offers tips for of that culture shift? enriching your life. Reflecting on the world and your • Walk or drive a different path to work or own actions can help you tune into your life and school every day for a week. Consider and list spark creativity, Egner says. In the book, loosely the new things you saw. based on a project created by UNT design faculty, • List three of your most strongly held he suggests a variety of exercises. convictions. Choose one and, using a minimum “The tips in the book are aimed at helping people of 500 words, try to persuade yourself to change break out of their routines and experience more in your mind. their own lives,” Egner says. He offers these suggestions for spurring creativity Guide yourself in your life in the new year: • Think about what you can rework. New ideas are sometimes just an old idea transformed.

Keep an open mind • Find activities that allow you to explore a variety Payne Gary • Try new experiences. They give you first-hand of different subjects, such as those based on math, knowledge, and reflecting on them allows you to sports, philosophy and other topics. translate them, as appropriate, for your own life. • Consider all opportunities. New experiences don’t • Take creative risks — the kind that let you take require world travel. You can start with a museum advantage of something you haven’t done before. you’ve never been to in your own town. • Break out of your routines, or at least question — Margarita Venegas why you have them and if they still have value in your life.

10 The North Texan | northtexan.unt.edu | Winter 2014 PHOTO Essay Ahna Hubnik

1 Students and alumni watch the bonfire and pep rally during Homecoming this fall. A longtime UNT tradition, the bonfire is built by the Talons.

2 A student float makes its way in the Homecoming parade, which is enjoyed each year by the Denton community.

3 Mean Green running back Antoinne Jimmerson scored the Homecoming game’s first points on a 41-yard run, his longest of the season, to win over Florida Atlantic 31-10.

See a slideshow of more images from Homecoming 2014 at 2 northtexan.unt.edu/homecoming-2014. Ahna Hubnik Ahna Gary Payne Gary

Winter 2014 | northtexan.unt.edu | The North Texan 11 Today

‘Mean’ Joe Greene, C-USA honors, basketball

He was a No. 4 overall pick by the Steelers team C-USA All-Academic squad. in the 1969 NFL Draft, leading the team to First-team all-conference honors in its first Super Bowl in the 1974 season men’s cross country went to junior Troy and to three other bowl wins as part of Taylor, who also advanced to the national the famed “Steel Curtain” defense. meet. Stefanie Slekis was named Greene is pictured with Steelers president conference Coach of the Year. Art Rooney II, left, and chair In women’s volleyball news, junior Dan Rooney, right. outside hitter Carnae Dillard earned the

Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers / Pittsburgh Roser Karl conference’s top award — C-USA Player of Hanging up No. 75 Conference honors the Year. It is only the second player of “Mean” Joe Greene’s No. 75 was This fall, the Mean Green women’s the year award ever earned by a Mean officially retired by the Pittsburgh soccer team and the men’s cross country Green volleyball player. She also was Steelers this fall, only the second number team won their first Conference USA named Sports Imports/AVCA Division I ever retired by the franchise. championships. Junior Karla Pineda and National Player of the Week on Nov. 11 by A star football player at UNT from sophomore Rachel Holden earned the American Volleyball Coaches 1966 to 1968, Greene was a consensus first-team all-conference soccer honors, Association. First-Team All-American as a senior. and Holden also was named to the first

Basketball madness Swimming to success team’s academically focused mindset, The 2014-15 Mean Green basketball The Mean Green swimming and diving says their head coach, Brendon Bray. season kicked off this November, with team was recognized as having the “I really want to encourage them to high expectations for both the men’s and second-highest GPA among all such make an impact in health care and women’s teams. programs in the nation last fall. medicine,” he says. “I will do anything I Players to watch this season on the Swim team members, from left, senior can to encourage them and help them in men’s team are seniors Jordan Williams Krista Rossum, junior Michelle Balcaen, their paths.” and Colin Voss. Williams ranks 19th and seniors Chloe Tong and Sarah in school history in scoring and is Manning are using their academic expected to rank in the Top 10 before the success to set the stage for potential season is over. Voss is the Mean Green’s careers in medicine. The four student- second-leading rebounder. athletes are enrolled in UNT’s pre-medical Women’s basketball is looking to program. Balcaen, Tong and Manning improve its 12-18 record from the 2013-14 each major in biology, while Rossum season with the help of standout players majors in biochemistry. like sophomore guard Candice Adams. They are a perfect illustration of the

Find the latest Mean Green news and schedules, and buy season tickets at meangreensports.com.

12 The North Texan | northtexan.unt.edu | Winter 2014 Research consortium Under the direction of Cheng Yu, associate professor and coordinator of the construction engineering MILITARY GRANT technology program, UNT’s Helping the military de- College of Engineering has velop better protection joined the Cold-Formed Steel Research Consortium. The

for soldiers and civilians Pyke David in conflict zones is the consortium brings together goal of the research of leading research teams to provide the world’s most Xu Nie, assistant profes- comprehensive research on sor of mechanical and cold-formed steel structures. UNT Alumni Association energy engineering. This Cold-formed steel is an fall, Nie was awarded a economical and recyclable Membership in the UNT Alumni Association is growing grant from the U.S. Army material used in buildings, and so are the many ways alumni can stay connected with each Engineer Research and bridges, storage racks, car other and the university. For the 2013-14 academic year, the Development Center, a bodies and transmission alumni association’s network grew to 10,451 members, a 35.1 unit of the U.S. Depart- towers, among other structures. percent increase over the past five years. ment of Defense, to con- Consortium partners “We’re reconnecting with alumni through multiple channels to continue the growth of the alumni association,” tinue his research on the include Johns Hopkins says Gina Lowe, director of marketing and membership. way high-performance University, Virginia Tech, the She says more people also are turning to the association’s concrete materials be- University of Massachusetts- social media and networking sites. The association has more have when impacted Amherst, the University of than 8,000 friends on Facebook, more than 3,000 followers on by a moving projectile. Massachusetts-Dartmouth, Northeastern University and Twitter and more than 15,000 members in its LinkedIn group. Nie will help the mili- McGill University. This fall, alumni also showed support for UNT football tary develop life- before home games at GameDay Grille events at the alumni saving new materi- pavilion and at area events before away games. Endowed professorship als for body armor and Danielle Cooper, associate Houston-area alumnus Samuel P. Golden (’74) and his for the construction of professor of management, was wife, Valerie, welcomed about 60 alumni to their home in vehicles and buildings. named the inaugural recipient October. During the event, alumni met with President Neal of the College of Business’ Smatresk and his wife, Debbie, and shared stories about UNT. newly endowed Dean Henry The event was followed by an alumni tailgate before the Mean Hays Professorship for Green vs. Rice game. Exemplary Service. “Thousands of alumni are in the Houston area,” Golden Byron Baird (’78 M.B.A.) says. “This was my way to encourage involvement with UNT.” and his wife, Marilyn, estab- To keep alumni better informed, the association relaunched lished the professorship to its website this fall with a new look. Visit untalumni.com to honor their friend and fellow learn about upcoming events and ways to get involved and alum Hays’ longtime commit- support UNT through the alumni association. ment to the College of Business and his longtime UNT career To join the association or learn more, visit untalumni.com, email spanning more than 40 years. [email protected] or call 940-565-2834.

Winter 2014 | northtexan.unt.edu | The North Texan 13 of Plano. He then earned a master’s in English literature at the University of Texas Brian D. at San Antonio, and in 1996 he landed an internship at Texas Monthly. He was exposed to its fixtures of Texas journalism and experts in politics, food, travel, music and history. When he sat in at Sweany monthly editorial meetings, Sweany says, by Jessica DeLeón rian D. Sweany (’94) came to UNT to “It was the smartest room in Texas.” become an English teacher. Eventually, he landed a full-time “I thought if I could teach literature and position, and aside from three years when maybe coach the baseball team and write he taught journalism at Ithaca College in weekends and nights, that would be a New York and wrote and edited for D Bpretty nice life,” he says. Magazine in Dallas, he’s built a career there. Thanks to one professor — Brian May, Sweany also is writing a biography of then assistant professor of English — Charles Goodnight, The Kingdom of the Sweany found a new path that led the way Saddle, about the Civil War ranger, cattle to his appointment in July as editor-in- driver and rancher famed for developing chief of Texas Monthly, one of the nation’s the Goodnight-Loving Trail and the Texas most prestigious magazines. The title caps Panhandle, due out in 2016. a 15-year tenure writing and editing for the UNT runs deep for Sweany. He and his publication, known for its well-crafted, wife, Noelle Wall Sweany (’94), now an award-winning narrative stories. associate professor at Texas A&M The English literature But his first years at UNT, he was most University, were students together. active in “Riprock’s Social Club,” he quips. And he maintains connections to UNT graduate serves as When he took a 20th-century British by serving on the board of the Frank W. literature class taught by May, the course and Sue Mayborn School of Journalism, editor-in-chief of changed his perspective. He took a broader and has been a speaker at the Mayborn view of the world intellectually. Literary Nonfiction Conference. Texas Monthly, one of May, who now teaches at Northern “The Mayborn has been transformative Illinois University, always knew Sweany for narrative storytelling,” he says. “Its the nation’s most was ambitious. conference has become a perfect symbol of “Brian was the sort of student who made what UNT can accomplish with vision, lauded magazines. you want to bring your A-game to class,” resources and talent.” May says. “This sense of expectation he had Sweany says his big task now is to live — he really, really wanted to have a great up to the expectations of former Te x a s intellectual experience — distinguished Monthly editors. him from other even very good students.” “I have long felt that this was the best May encouraged Sweany to pursue a magazine in the country,” he says. “Now, to master’s degree. be the editor, it is the peak. I’m a native “He was the first professor who took me Texan. My children go to school here. aside and said I was graduate school Under every editor, the magazine has material,” Sweany says. “When you connect become better and better. with a professor, it’s a very powerful feeling.” “The real challenge is how do you take After graduating, Sweany worked as a something so good and improve upon it?” special education teacher in his hometown

14 The North Texan | northtexan.unt.edu | Winter 2014 Ahna Hubnik

Brian D. Sweany Street and Deep Ellum (I was a by Billy Lee Brammer, one of the who was paralyzed from the neck big fan of Course of Empire and great novels on American politics. down. The story was nominated (’94) Funland). And one night Noelle Brammer, by the way, was a for the National Magazine Award, Austin and I and some other friends drove UNT guy who later worked at the highest award to win. When out to see the Anson light, near Texas Monthly. Skip called me from New York to Abilene, which I later wrote about say that he won, I thought he was

for Texas Monthly. Favorite TM article: kidding. Texas Monthly had never Favorite Denton memories: Oh boy, that is a tricky, tricky won for feature writing before. I lived in Bruce Hall for four years On reading: question. I worked with Skip Hol- How do you top that? — I was that guy. And this was I read everything I get my hands landsworth in 2009 on his story, before the rooms had window on. For a story I’m working on “Still Life,” about a football player Visit northtexan.unt.edu/ units. I enjoyed shows on Fry now, I’m rereading The Gay Place, at Hillcrest High School in Dallas online to read more Q&A.

Winter 2014 | northtexan.unt.edu | The North Texan 15 big-time speakers, big-time entertainment At UNT, we host events to broaden your horizons, engage your intellect and turn on your heart. Please join us this winter and spring.

Bobby McFerrin Most famous for his a cappella hit “Don’t Worry, Be Happy,” McFerrin is a 10-time Grammy winner who combines pop music with fine art. As this year’s Glenn E. Gomez Residency Artist in the College of Music, he will join the One O’Clock Lab Band for its annual spring Glenn E. Gomez Endowment concert. Presented by the Fine Arts Series.

8 p.m. Feb. 5 Murchison Performing Arts Center — Winspear Hall | Tickets: thempac.com/tickets

Laverne Cox Cox, an actress who can be seen on Netflix’s popular series Orange is the New Black, is a producer and transgender advocate 2015 who will talk about the transgender experience and representation EVENTS of issues in the media. Presented by the Fine Arts Series. 7 p.m. Feb. 24 UNT Coliseum | Tickets: untuniontickets.com

Ben & Jerry Ben Cohen and Jerry Greenfield, who started their company with an ice cream shop in Burlington, Vt., will speak about their experience building Ben & Jerry’s Ice Cream into a cultural icon and popular consumer favorite. Presented by UNT’s Distinguished Lecture Series.

7 p.m. April 9 Murchison Performing Arts Center | Tickets: studentaffairs.unt.edu/distinguished-lecture-series

Once in a Lifetime This comedic play by George S. Kaufman and Moss Hart — guest directed by Susan Sargeant, award-winning artistic director of Wingspan Theatre — takes place in 1927 Hollywood when the movie industry was on the cusp of the talkies revolution. Presented by the UNT Department of Dance and Theatre.

7:30 p.m. April 23-25, 30, May 1-2 and 2 p.m. April 26, May 3 Radio, Television, Film and Performing Arts Building — University Theatre Tickets: danceandtheatre.unt.edu/productions-ticket-purchasing

16 The North Texan | northtexan.unt.edu | Winter 2014 big time speakers, big time entertainment - - Check out At UNT, we host events to broaden your horizons, engage your intellect and turn on your heart. upcoming Please join us this winter and spring. events Muse page 19 IN HER

OWN VOICE Opera soprano Latonia Moore, who will perform with the Dallas Opera in January, is touching audiences’ hearts with her powerful voice, one she found as a jazz student.

LATONIA MOORE DEBUTED at the Metropolitan Opera in 2012 singing the title role in Aida, armed with the advice her former UNT vocal professor had given her years before. “‘Sing with your natural voice,’” Moore remembers Pattye Johnstone directing her. “I could sing it like this ideal voice I have in my head of how Aida is supposed to sound, or I could do what she said and sing it in my own voice.” Moore received an enthusiastic ovation from the Met’s audience as well as calls from companies worldwide to perform as their Aida. Her latest role in the Dallas Opera’s version of La Wally this winter returns the Houston native to Texas. “I’m excited to perform La Wally. It is more along the lines of verismo opera — the kind you see in dramatic Italian operas,” Moore says. “It’s very pour your heart out on stage.”

Read more about UNT’s influence on Moore’s career along with a Q&A at northtexan.unt.edu/her-own-voice. Cory Weaver/Metropolitan Opera Weaver/Metropolitan Cory

Winter 2014 | northtexan.unt.edu | The North Texan 17 Muse

find time to write, the great Press), associate professor of Balinese Room (History Press) Books piles of freshman essays I had music history Benjamin Brand about a family that brought had to grade, the towns and explores the music, prayers and crime and prosperity to Texas. A lifetime of work houses we had lived in, driving rituals inspired by relic cults in The book was written by English my daughter to ballet classes, the Middle Ages. Nicole Boatman (’12, ’14 professor driving my son to baseball “Although their significance M.S.), a private investigator B.H. Fairchild games, seeing my wife coming has long been recognized by whose master’s thesis became released The home exhausted from teaching historians, the music and the basis for the book; Scott Blue Buick: middle school math, standing liturgy devoted to these cults Belshaw, assistant professor of New and in the backyard at 3 a.m. look- has been largely neglected,” he criminal justice, and Richard Selected Poems ing up at the moon and waiting says. “I wanted to demonstrate McCaslin, history professor. (W.W. Norton), a collection of for a poem to come. I was not how important this music was Belshaw grew up in the poems he wrote throughout his only immensely proud of the in fostering the veneration of area and was intrigued by its career. Fairchild says it was dif- poems but of the life, too.” relics in the Middle Ages.” mob history, which goes back ficult to choose the poems, but to the days of Al Capone he was surprised by how proud Ancient music Mob ties and includes illegal gambling he was by the finished book. In Holy Two faculty parlors and drinking “When I held it, finally, Treasure and members and establishments. in my hands, my memory Sacred Song: an alumna “We were able to trace the of my life outside the book, Relic Cults and wrote family, their relatives and their rather than the poems inside Their Liturgies Galveston’s debauchery back many the book, swept over me,” he in Medieval Maceo Family generations,” he says. says. “That is, the struggles to Tuscany (Oxford University Empire: Bootlegging and the

Real life in words

In 1997, Mark Dostert (’97 M.A.) began working at Chicago’s 500-cell juvenile jail as a “children’s attendant,” thinking he would serve as liaison between the inmates and the actual guards. “How wrong I was,” he says. “We were the guards — no uniform, no badge, no cuffs, no mace. Nothing. ‘All you have is your mouth,’ as one coworker explained to me my first week there.” Dostert writes about his one-year stint in the just released book Up in Here: Jailing Kids on Chicago’s Other Side (University of Iowa Press), hoping to let readers experience what it’s like to interact with America’s most at-risk youth. For his job, he had to supervise showers, meals and recreation — and break up fights about once a week. “Not many people have worked a cellblock where they are outnumbered 12 to 1 or met anyone charged with murder, much less someone under 18 years old,” he says. His essays, which have appeared in The Houston Chronicle, Ascent and other publications, have been cited as notable in editions of The Best American Essays and The Best American Nonrequired Reading. Dostert now teaches seventh-grade English in the Hous- chriswphoto.com ton ISD and is working on a master’s degree in English at the University of Houston. The first draft of Up in Here took nearly five years, and he credits Laura Stern, associate professor of history, for helping him out years earlier during the writing of his master’s thesis. “Dr. Stern held my writing feet to the fire,” he says. “She purged anything and everything that was confusing or extraneous. From her, I’ve gained an appreciation for paying extremely close attention to each word, sentence, paragraph, page, chapter, so as not to waste the reader’s time or insult the reader’s intelligence and to write with a purpose.”

18 The North Texan | northtexan.unt.edu | Winter 2014 A lasting gift Jon Kellis, who was a percussionist and doctoral student in the College of Music, died in 1999 after Upcoming being struck by a car while Events crossing the street — but

Ahna Hubnik Ahna his life will be celebrated for years to come thanks to a generous donation in his memory. An anonymous donor has pledged a $1.5 million planned gift to the college to honor the former steel drum musician, who was The Institute for the Advancement of the Arts and UNT on the Square awarded a doctoral degree posthumously in 1999. With match- will continue their fifth anniversary celebrations with free programs spotlighting the institute’s faculty fellows, who receive time off from ing grants, the gift is expected to more than double to potentially teaching to work on their art. Vincent Falsetta: Agendas, running from $4.1 million and establish an endowed faculty position, the Jon Jan. 26 to Feb. 21, will feature paintings from the studio arts profes- Kellis Chair in Percussion. Additionally, the “Jon Kellis Steel sor. English professor Corey Marks and assistant professor of English Drum Room” in the Music Building was dedicated in November. Miroslav Penkov will read from their works Feb. 6. Learn more at UNT friends and faculty who knew him say it’s a fitting way untonthesquare.unt.edu. to pay tribute to Kellis’ magnetic personality, constant smile and willingness to assist others in music and in their personal lives. Collections, Cultures and Collaborations features “Ultimately, he became the teacher,” says Regents Professor works with a common Robert Schietroma, who led the percussion area at UNT from theme from the permanent 1977 to 1999. collection of the College “Although he is gone, there is a little bit of Jon in everyone of Visual Arts and Design, who knew him.” curated by Chicago arts advocate Tempestt Hazel. The exhibition runs from Jan. 29 to March 7 at the UNT Art Gallery. Comic book industry veteran Bill Roseman will discuss ‘Marvel: Inside the World’s Most Heroic Brand’ at 7 p.m. Music and Entertainment Feb. 27 in the Auditorium Building, Main Auditorium. Both events are Dance and Theatre Association for a production of sponsored by the Mary Jo and V. Lane Rawlins Fine Arts Series. Learn Big River in Kansas City, Mo. more at studentaffairs.unt.edu/fine-arts-series. Leading light Bowen also has worked in other productions in New York The Department of Dance and Theatre will present the Faculty Dance City and Olathe, Kan., and is a Concert, featuring guest artist Carl Flink of the Minneapolis-based teaching fellow in UNT’s dance Black Label Movement, at 8 p.m. Feb. 12, 13, 14 and at 2 p.m. Feb. 15. The Diver’s Wife, written by senior theatre major Lauren Belmore, and theatre department. He will begin at 7:30 p.m. March 11, 12, 13 and at 2 p.m. March 14. Both earned an M.F.A. in lighting productions take place at the University Theatre in the RTFP Building. design from the University of Learn more at danceandtheatre.unt.edu. Missouri in Kansas City. Robert Bowen enjoys “There is a sense of enjoy- UNT Opera presents The Tales of Hoffman, which follows the spiritual decline of the main character as he recounts his tragic love life. Perfor- “painting with light” — ment when you take on the challenge of not only revealing mances are at 8 p.m. Feb. 27 and March 6, and at 3 p.m. March 1 and 8 capturing different settings in the Lyric Theater in the Murchison Performing Arts Center. College of the beauty of the set or the and moods for the stage. Music students who won the fall 2014 Concerto Competition, including Bowen, who is pursuing emotion of various scenes,” he soloists and conductors, will take the stage with the UNT Symphony his master’s degree at UNT says, “but also of enhancing Orchestra at 8 p.m. March 11 at Winspear Performance Hall in the Mur- in documentary filmmak- these aspects to intensify the chison Performing Arts Center. Learn more at music.unt.edu/mpac. ing, won Most Outstanding experience for the audience.”

Lighting Design for a Musi- Visit calendar.unt.edu for more upcoming events. cal from the International

Winter 2014 | northtexan.unt.edu | The North Texan 19 Muse

State University Press). Auto art Drummer Boy Darden, who teaches jour- Bill R. Neale’s (’48, nalism at Baylor University, ’53 M.A.) professional says, “I love the passion in the life has been all about words and performance. art, advertising and Gospel artists believe they are automobiles. The famed called to sing, so they sing just automotive fine artist as hard whether there are five worked in advertising or 500 present.” When Craig Pilo (’95) agencies in Dallas for came to UNT, he was a bit much of his career, and Historic harps intimidated. he was inducted into the Southwest Advertising Hall of Fame in “I remember starting the first 2011 by the American Advertising Federation 10th District for semester surrounded by 200 outstanding contributions to the advertising industry and com- young, hungry drummers and munity. He worked on campaigns for Haggar, Mrs. Baird’s, Pearl Erin Lancaster about 199 of them were better Beer and First National Bank and founded Point Communica- than me,” he says. tions, where he was president and CEO. His career took shape He definitely improved. The in the classrooms of North Texas, where Cora Stafford, the Los Angeles-based Pilo has legendary art teacher who taught from 1921 to 1964, encour- David Williams (’78) studied drummed for fellow alumnus aged him to go to art school in California. harp construction for his thesis. Pat Boone, Frankie Valli and From art school, he went on to advertising. For one campaign, Now, after building a career as other musicians, as well as for he worked on auto illustrations, which led to his full-time career principal harpist for the Dallas a variety of TV shows. He’s as a painter of automobiles and race car drivers, creating work for Opera and the Fort Worth recorded three CDs, including Shelby Automotive and Automobile, Road and Track, Car and Symphony, Williams has his most recent Drummer Boy. Driver, Motor Trend and Cavallino magazines. His work has donated three 18th- and 19th- He credits much of his won awards in the U.S., Europe and South America. century harps to the College success to his time at UNT, Neale competed as a racer himself and owns two Mustang of Music, valued at $36,000, especially Regents Professor race cars. A former Navy pilot, he also enjoys aviation. that he spent years rebuilding Robert Schietroma and music Racing and flying brought the same excitement he gets when and restoring. professor Ed Soph. seeing his art in national magazines. “It was a thrill,” he says. Williams says he enjoyed “They did a good job shaping getting to know UNT harp our practice habits and prepar- Music Restoration Project, the students and Jaymee Haefner, ing us for auditions in the real largest initiative in the world to Music senior lecturer in harp. He sees world,” he says. identify, acquire, digitize, cata- in her the same qualities he Gospel truth logue and make accessible rare admired in his harp professor Television and Film gospel vinyl, which will be part at UNT in the ’70s, Charles of the Smithsonian’s National Kleinsteuber. Winning film Museum of African American “We have a real teacher here Baylor University History and Culture. who can promote her students He also is the author of and the harp program,” 2005’s People Get Ready: A Williams says. “I’ve heard them New History of Black Gospel perform, and they were solid as Robert Darden (’78 M.J.) Music (Continuum) and this a rock — very impressive.” became fascinated with black fall’s Nothing But Love in God’s Watch video about the harps gospel music as an Air Force Water I: Black Sacred Music at northtexan.unt.edu/online. Daniel Keith got into acting brat. His interest led him to from the Civil War to the Civil thanks to his roommate (Penn co-found the Black Gospel Rights Movement at UNT. Now Keith has won

20 The North Texan | northtexan.unt.edu | Winter 2014 Best Lead Actor at the Interna- you do, but the thrill for me on The Food Network. Last stamps as a child. So she was tional Independent Film Awards is creating the character and fall, she also ran the Dallas mesmerized when she saw how for the movie Rambler. His TV performing it.” restaurant, Kitchen LTO, a she could carve a stamp at a relief show and movie credits include restaurant that runs a single printmaking course at UNT. Person of Interest and Gotham, Reality stars concept for four months, or “Just to see that process in a the upcoming Freddie Mercury Two alumni turned their “limited time only” — with college-level class — I thought, biopic The Show Must Go On studies at UNT into reality Beck providing southern ‘Oh man, this is amazing. I’m in and he also produced a docu- show appearances. cooking during that time. the right spot.’” mentary about the Texxas Jam Jessie Pavelka received his Now the marketing and print- ’78 concert at the Cotton Bowl. personal trainer certification Visual Arts making alumna is bringing her While studying music at while he attended UNT in the printmaking skills to others with UNT, Keith roomed with early 2000s and, this fall, he Lasting impression a stationery line she sells locally Thomas Sadoski, the Tony appeared as a trainer on NBC’s and online. She also conducts Award-nominated actor and The Biggest Loser. He also ap- events for companies such as co-star of HBO’s The Newsroom. peared on the show Diet Tribe. Fossil and West Elm, in which They remained friends, and Blythe Beck (’01), who stud- she teaches print- and paper- Sadoski encouraged him to go to ied hospitality management related workshops. theatre school. and had her own show called “It’s really satisfying,” she says, “The awards don’t mean much The Naughty Chef, dropped “to take my design and stamp it to me,” Keith says. “It’s always by the Paula Deen Network Shamsy Roomiani (’07) anywhere I want to. Just ink nice to think someone likes what and the Beat Bobby Flay show always liked collecting ink and repeat.”

ArtPrize 2014 awards

Anila Quayyum Agha (’04) describes her time at UNT as rigorous and challenging, which helped her not only survive but thrive in the art world. Agha won the $300,000 Public Grand Prize and

shared the Juried Grand Prize at ArtPrize 2014, one Courtesy of Council the Arts of Indianapolis of the most prestigious art awards in the world. She won the awards for her art piece Intersections, a black lacquer laser-cut wood cube with a light source that casts shadows while suspended from the ceiling.

“I was really excited and elated,” she says. Terry Gates “Being judged by respected art professionals means a great deal for an artist. And then the absolutely wonderful reaction from the public was amazing.” From left, Anila Quayyum Agha (’04) with Shannon M. Linker (’94). Agha’s Agha is an associate professor of drawing at piece Intersections, a black lacquer laser-cut wood cube with a light source, won the Indiana University-Purdue University Indianapolis. Public Grand Prize and shared the Juried Grand Prize at ArtPrize 2014. Her exhibition Quicksand: Landscape of the Feminine was presented at the Arts Council of Indianapolis this spring. It was curated by the council’s vice president, alumna Shannon M. Linker (’94). Agha used a cross disciplinary approach in her art practice, creating both large sculptural installations and embroidered drawings to explore the complexities of global politics, cultural multiplicity, mass media and social and gender roles in the current cultural and global scenario. She credits Annette Lawrence, professor of studio arts, and Jennifer Way, professor of art education and art history, for inspiring her as a student. “My time at UNT was sometimes difficult, often enlightening and ultimately very rewarding.”

Winter 2014 | northtexan.unt.edu | The North Texan 21 FACULTY Focus

Gary Payne Richard Rogers, Regents Professor of psychology, second from right, receives the Eminent Faculty Award cash prize from President Neal Smatresk, UNT Foundation board member Bob Sherman, and Faculty Senate chair and finance professor James Conover. Excellence in Teaching

UNT celebrates faculty for their UNT has 1,400 outstanding faculty, which includes many extraordinary teaching, distinguished scholars, researchers and artists who are widely known scholarly research and as experts in their fields and dedicated mentors. community service. This fall, the university celebrated Salute to Faculty Excellence Week, with UNT’s highest awards to recognize the many accomplishments of UNT faculty. Events across campus showcased the dedication of faculty to teaching, research and service. The week was capped with a black-tie dinner at UNT’s Apogee Stadium, where recipients of the distinguished UNT Foundation Awards were recognized and other faculty achievements were honored. Watch a video to learn more about this “Faculty are the linchpin to everything we do as a university,” says year’s Eminent Faculty Award winner President Neal Smatresk. “They are the reason UNT stands out as a Richard Rogers at northtexan.unt.edu/online. caring community dedicated to supporting our students and their path to success.”

22 The North Texan | northtexan.unt.edu | Winter 2014

Faculty awards and recognition Showcasing faculty greatness is at the heart of Salute to Faculty Excellence Week, but it’s also an opportunity for students to say thanks to teachers for their hard work. UNT’s faculty members help students by challenging and supporting them. This fall’s week of celebrations and networking events included a Pechu Kucha presentation by UNT’s Distinguished Teaching Professors and the Thank a Teacher program, which provides an online portal for students to send notes of appreciation to faculty who have made a difference in their lives. UNT also bestowed 30 awards and cash prizes on faculty for their accomplishments in teaching, research, leadership and service. The top three awards are supported by the UNT Foundation.

EMINENT FACULTY AWARD Richard Rogers, Regents Professor of psychology, earned the UNT Foundation’s Eminent Faculty Award. The award recognizes a faculty member who has made outstanding and sustained contributions to scholarly-creative activity, teaching and service. Rogers has been recognized nationally for his major contributions in examining the intricacies of Miranda warnings and common pitfalls in Miranda reasoning. His research prompted the American Bar Association to call for clear and concise Miranda language for juveniles across the country. As one of the highest faculty achievers at UNT, the Eminent Faculty Award recipient serves Michael Clements Michael } as an inspiration for the entire UNT community.

FACULTY COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT AWARD Stanley R. Ingman, a professor in the College of Public Affairs and Community Service, received the foundation’s Faculty Community Engagement Award. The distinction is given to a faculty member who has the sensitivity to understand and work across organizational boundaries and the leadership to build bridges among community institutions. Ingman established the Texas Institute for Research and Education for Aging at UNT and at the UNT Health Science Center in Fort Worth. His work in the Denton and Dallas areas on community programs for public housing, building sustainable neighborhoods, after-school care and preschool immunization has received several national grants. Some of those projects have been Clements Michael the basis to develop sustainable neighborhoods and businesses in Mexico. {

FACULTY LEADERSHIP AWARD Mark Vosvick, associate professor of psychology, was honored with the UNT Foundation’s Faculty Leadership Award. The award acknowledges a faculty member who makes a significant impact on the academic enterprise through innovative initiatives, leadership and service. His research examines quality of life, stress and coping in HIV-positive patients marginalized in society due to their sexual, gender or racial/ethnic minority status. Vosvick was instrumental in the UNT Libraries’ acquisition of the archives of Resource Center Dallas. He has served as chair of the UNT Faculty Senate and is the director of UNT’s Michael Clements Michael } Center for Psychosocial Health Research and director of the LGBT studies program at UNT.

Winter 2014 | northtexan.unt.edu | The North Texan 23 UNT’s diverse, welcoming environment and global learning opportunities give students an edge as they map their success across the continents.

by Adrienne Nettles

hen one of the most severe Ebola Without a second thought, he chose to stay. outbreaks in history struck the West “In my field, your career isn’t about yourself,” he says. African country of Sierra Leone this year, “It’s about the greater good.” Dominic Murer (’14) found himself facing As an international studies major at UNT, Murer says a tough decision — return to the comfort he was prepared to meet the serious global challenges of of his life in the U.S. or stay to help a the 21st century. A study abroad trip his senior year to country facing a deadly public health crisis. Sierra Leone, where he worked with Caritas International Murer works as a project information manager help- and with Doug Henry, associate professor of anthropology, ing to find donors for Hilfe Direkt, a nongovernmental influenced his current work, which also includes organization that operates Gila’s Children and Com- mapping Ebola cases and quarantining homes. munity Hospital in Sierra Leone. “I was able to network and gain access to field work

24 The North Texan | northtexan.unt.edu | Winter 2014 as a student,” says Murer. “It opened my mind and Protecting public health provided me with a different way of looking at By the time the first Ebola case was reported in Sierra the world.” Leone in May, Murer — who fell in love with the coun- UNT gives students many opportunities to take try’s people, including his future wife — was a UNT part in global learning graduate working on the experiences — from studying front lines at Gila’s Children abroad to mentoring non- Dominic Murer and Community Hospital. English-speaking students and “There were days when we learning in a diverse visited the Ebola wards, and community of students, there were days when we faculty and staff on gave immunizations or food campus. Dual degree donations,” says Murer, who programs and was both concerned and other international inspired by the situations collaborations link he experienced. UNT to the world. “In the midst of absolute And in turn, UNT poverty and despair, people welcomes about kept smiling.” 2,500 international Ebola has since stymied students representing travel in parts of West 129 countries. They Africa and forced Murer choose the university and other workers to evacu- for its nationally recognized ate the hospital for lack of programs in areas such as personal protective equip- music, business and public ment and safety. administration and focus on But he continues to try global leadership and research. and make a difference Richard Nader, vice provost through his work, conduct- for international affairs at ing public outreach, educat- UNT, says students who ing students and using social have international Project information manager for Hilfe Direkt, which media to attract donors to experience are more likely operates Gila’s Children and Community Hospital in support development to learn a second language, Sierra Leone, Africa projects in Sierra Leone. more accepting of other cul- Murer also serves on the tures and more comfortable National Ebola Task Force, with new and challenging situations — important skills a joint effort between the Ministry of Health and Sanita- for an ever-increasing global marketplace. tion and nongovernment organizations like Doctors “The presence of such diverse nations on our campus and Without Borders and the American Red Cross. the many opportunities for global learning bring He is sharing the knowledge he gained at UNT with the world to all of our students,” Nader says. others, from Ebola doctors and United Nations officials “Through these new connections to Sierra Leone’s president and and friendships, they are able to expand government ministers. their points of view and go on to make ”In my field, your career isn’t about That’s the biggest impact he can significant contributions to the human yourself. It’s about the greater good.“ make, he says. race through education, research “I have a passion for what I do.” and outreach.” — Dominic Murer

Winter 2014 | northtexan.unt.edu | The North Texan 25 Pledging foreign service arrange for medical care and convince an airline to let A comprehensive academic experience as a UNT him fly despite his medical condition so that he could student inspired and guided April Scarrow (’95) to receive long-term care in the U.S. her dream job as a foreign service officer for the U.S. “When I’m having a tough day, I read the thank you Department of State. card from his dad and Scarrow first came to immediately feel better,” the university as a talented April Scarrow she says. student in UNT’s Texas At UNT, Scarrow says Academy of Mathematics she learned about how to and Science, an accelerated turn her academic inter- residential program for ests into a career through gifted high school students the Career Center, which with an interest in math suggested foreign service and science. Fascinated by as a possibility. She is now the study of other cultures assigned to the Foreign Ser- since her youth, she re- vice Institute at the George mained at UNT to pursue P. Shultz National Foreign an undergraduate degree in Affairs Training Center in anthropology with minors in Washington, D.C., where German and art history. she coordinates and teaches “UNT taught me that I consular courses for foreign could have big dreams and national staff, preparing that my path is only limited them for work at U.S. by my imagination,” she says. embassies and consulates Today, Scarrow’s work as around the world. a foreign service officer takes “My ability to adapt and her all over the world to help embrace change was a skill Americans living or traveling that I began to develop at abroad. UNT,” she says. “And my During her last three- classes helped me see that year assignment overseas, U.S. foreign service officer, who has served as I could shape and influ- she served as chief of the chief of the American Citizens Services Unit in El ence the world around me. American Citizens Services Salvador in Central America Sometimes a simple action Unit at the U.S. Embassy done with purpose can have in El Salvador, where her a large impact.” duties included finding missing Americans and reuniting children with their parents. Educating leaders The work can be grueling, says Scarrow, who recalls With one of the largest business schools in the nation, helping a U.S. family who could not find their son, a UNT was an ideal place for Pradit Wanarat (’94 Ph.D.) young veteran with mental health issues. They had heard to earn his doctorate in management science, a degree he might be in El Salvador. that helped him become a top official in Thailand “Finding someone with no contact higher education. information in a country of 6 million ”Sometimes a simple action done with As the president of the people is challenging,” she says. purpose can have a large impact.“ National Institute of Development Her office was able to locate the Administration in Bangkok — son, who had been hit by a car, then — April Scarrow Thailand’s leading educational

26 The North Texan | northtexan.unt.edu | Winter 2014 institution for graduate studies related to national ships in Thailand today. In July 2014, he was named a development — Wanarat holds a major stake in shaping member of the National Legislative Assembly of Thai- Thailand’s education system and its society. He recently land to contribute to the country’s security and stability. presented a proposal from NIDA to the government “The key resource for my success undoubtedly is my for reforms in politics, the education,” says Wanarat, judiciary and governance, who serves as honorary including new electoral Pradit Wanarat alumni ambassador for rules and improved access the College of Business in to justice for the poor. UNT’s growing Thai “My degree has helped alumni network, which me with such policy making is more than 1,000 mem- and the development plan- bers strong. He values the ning work that I’m doing at college’s multidisciplinary both the university and na- atmosphere. tional levels,” says Wanarat, “Students learn how to who was an international incorporate technology with student at UNT with a the administrative know- background in engineering. how for running a business,” “This work is extremely he says. “It’s world class.” important because of its huge impact on the entire Inspiring musicians kingdom and its citizens.” By the age of 10, South Since graduating, he has African native Petronel worked as a lecturer, profes- Malan (’96 M.M., ’01 sor, dean and vice president D.M.A.) was an accom- for academic affairs at plished pianist, appearing NIDA. Named the insti- as a soloist with the tute’s president in 2013, he Johannesburg Symphony. is focused on continuing the Today, the three-time high quality of education Grammy nominee and there, working to obtain President of the National Institute of concert pianist performs in international accreditation Development Administration in Bangkok, major venues throughout for all of its graduate Thailand, in Asia the world. In 2012, she programs and to make that was honored with UNT’s a model for other institu- Distinguished Young tions in Thailand. Alumni Award for being an “unmistakably creative force “Our students must be competent and capable,” he in the classical music industry.” says. “NIDA alums become leaders of their organizations “It takes elements of determination, hard work, some and the nation and agents of change in all government, craziness and lots of lucky breaks,” says Malan, who has nongovernment and people sectors.” performed in concerts since the age of 7. Wanarat — who credits Robert Attracted by Texas’ warm weather Pavur, professor of information and UNT’s nationally recognized technology and decision sciences, for “The key resource for my success music school, Malan says she felt guiding his career success — says he undoubtedly is my education.“ right at home when she started her works to build strong relationships graduate studies as an international with his own faculty and partner- — Pradit Wanarat student. She also was enamored with

Winter 2014 | northtexan.unt.edu | The North Texan 27 the opportunity to study under music professor and Impacting economies award-winning pianist Joseph Banowetz. When Tolkunbek Abdygulov (’07 M.P.A.) was seeking “It was important for me to attend a university where to advance his economic career to help his home country I could focus on my piano of the Kyrgyz Republic, performance degree, but he sought out UNT’s also benefit from a solid Master of Public Admin- academic background,” Petronel Malan istration degree program, she says. “At UNT, the which is ranked eighth in music faculty treated the U.S. and first in Texas graduate students as for city management and colleagues. It fostered a urban policy by U.S. News mentality of collegiality.” & World Report. Today, she’s paying it Since May 2014, forward. Malan regularly Abdygulov has served as tours and performs in governor of the National her native South Africa, Bank of the Kyrgyz Re- giving back whenever pos- public (Central Bank). sible by offering master He oversees the monetary classes after her concerts policies and supervises to young, aspiring music the banking system of the students. She also col- developing nation, a for- laborates with the Univer- mer Soviet republic that sity of South Africa and borders western China. the Afrikaans Language “The price level and and Culture Organiza- exchange rate impacts tion, South Africa’s most everybody in the country, prominent and largest making my job very im- organization for the arts, portant to the people,” he to offer music education says. “Through my work, workshops for students I want to see that the and their teachers in Three-time Grammy Award nominee, citizens have access rural communities. concert pianist and music educator in to education and health “I feel strongly that Johannesburg, South Africa services while being so- every child should have cially protected with some music education,” she says. “They don’t have to an efficient public administration system.” make a career of it, but the background is such an Abdygulov, who also is an assistant professor of asset for all other elements of life.” economics at the American University of Central Asia, She says bringing classical music to the students says he first realized his passion for working in public is rewarding. administration while interning at the Central Bank of “Their enthusiasm is the Kyrgyz Republic in 1996. contagious,” says Ma- His internship grew into lan, who will release ONLINE EXCLUSIVE a six-year career with the her fifth CD in 2015. bank, where he became the “You can’t help but Tanya Habjouqa (’02) is an award-winning photographer chief economist. want to do more, for who was born in Jordan, grew up in Texas and now lives “As I was stepping up yourself and for them.” in the Middle East. Her images of the front lines of the Israeli- the bank’s ladder,” he says, Palestinian conflict have been featured around the globe and won a World Press photo award this year. Read her story at northtexan.unt.edu/online.

28 The North Texan | northtexan.unt.edu | Winter 2014 “it became obvious that I needed to have additional Economic and Social Policy. Today, Abdygulov holds knowledge.” three master’s degrees and in June completed his doctor- After receiving a prestigious Department of State ate in economics. He’s held several key appointments in Muskie Scholarship, the U.S. and in the Kyr- which supports master’s- gyz Republic, including level studies for emerging working as a consultant leaders in Eurasia, he Tolkunbek Abdygulov at the World Bank Head- enrolled at UNT in 2006. quarters in Washington, As a graduate interna- D.C. — an internship tional student working afforded to him after with distinguished faculty studying at UNT. members such as Bob “Working in govern- Bland, professor of public ment-level positions, administration, he gained you’re on the front line invaluable knowledge of all major economic about government policies, making everyday financial management. decisions that impact the “I learned how to deal lives of ordinary citizens,” with challenges in the he says. “And, thanks to public administration UNT, I’m well prepared field,” he says, “but I also for this work.” learned to challenge myself in my own career.” In 2009, Abdygulov was appointed acting state secretary of the Ministry of Economic Regulation of the Kyrgyz Republic. Photo illustrations That same year, he was from submitted images named a John Smith by Kit Young. Watch a Memorial Trust fellow Governor of the National Bank slideshow that includes the and served in the coun- of the Kyrgyz Republic (Central Bank) original photographs at try’s Department of in Central Asia northtexan.unt.edu/online.

UNT INTERNATIONAL

UNT International provides intercultural programs that UNT offers in partnership with nication skills, international students leave experiences for students and faculty and institutions around the world, such as the UNT well-prepared for global work. showcases UNT’s excellence to the world. Universidad Autónoma del Estado de México UNT International also cultivates alumni “Our mission is to contribute to the qual- and, as part of a new partnership, the networks with former international students, ity of life through education, research and Burgundy School of Business in France. (See recruits students and pursues international outreach, with a sense of respect, tolerance, page 9 for another partnership.) research. values, leadership opportunities and UNT UNT International also provides interna- “Our students and faculty have access spirit,” says Gabriel Carranza, assistant vice tional students with resources to help them to world-class research opportunities,” provost for global engagement. become proficient in English and learn about Carranza says. “This supports UNT’s quest In addition to study abroad opportunities American culture through programs and to become a nationally prominent research to learn about new cultures and languages, courses in UNT’s Intensive English Language university.” students can take part in dual degree Institute. With such cross-cultural commu-

Winter 2014 | northtexan.unt.edu | The North Texan 29 Aggie Brooks Aggie From left, Eileen Moran, acting vice president for advancement, G. Brint Ryan (’88, ’88 M.S.), Gayle Strange (’67), President Neal Smatresk, Frank Bracken (’63) and Janet Bracken (’14). A Season of Gratitude

UNT celebrates the successes of its first Senior social work major Jackie Davis calls being named a comprehensive campaign, The Campaign recipient of the College of Public Affairs and Community Service’s for UNT, which has directly impacted William A. Luker Award for Student Involvement the highlight of academic programs and students. his college career. Davis, who rotated through 12 foster homes and shelters before being adopted at age 13, says the award signaled his UNT family’s commitment to his success. “To know that you are surrounded by caring and dedicated faculty and lifted up by alumni and donors you may never meet, it’s humbling,” he says. “Thank you just doesn’t seem sufficient.” As a founding member and president of Persevere UNTil Success Happens (PUSH), a student organization that provides Learn more how you can support to foster care alumni seeking a college education, Davis says support UNT at giving.unt.edu. he looks forward to when he can give back to help others succeed. “The remarkable opportunities afforded to me at UNT have changed my life,” he says.

30 The North Texan | northtexan.unt.edu | Winter 2014 CAMPAIGN IMPACTS Davis and thousands of UNT students like him benefited from support raised during The Campaign for UNT, which Fueled by thousands of donors who responded with concluded Aug. 31 and raised more than $210 million. This kind extraordinary generosity, The Campaign for UNT’s of support helps students in a powerful way, making higher edu- key successes galvanized UNT’s future momentum cation a reality. As graduates, they go on to help change the world. and growth. “So many individuals deserve our deepest gratitude for their commitment to philanthropy in support of education and for First-time UNT Donors Sixty-five percent of campaign donors were making the dreams of so many students and their families come making their first gift commitment to UNT. true,” UNT President Neal Smatresk says. Their gifts promoted student and faculty Smatresk, his wife, Debbie, and campaign leaders hosted the achievements in research and creative university’s top donors and community advocates Dec. 6 for “A activity, accelerated UNT’s areas of excellence Season of Gratitude,” an event to celebrate the campaign’s success. and made a college education possible for Bolstered by more than 37,000 generous donors, The future generations of students. Campaign for UNT is the university’s most successful fundraising campaign to date. By the close of the campaign, UNT had Student Scholarship Commitments The Campaign for UNT bolstered critical exceeded its original goal of $200 million, building support support for undergraduate scholarships, for scholarships, fellowships, innovative programs and cutting- graduate fellowships and student-athlete edge research. scholarships. Of the 230 endowments estab- Led by campaign co-chairs Janet (’14) and Frank Bracken lished during the campaign, 202 directly benefit (’63), Gayle Strange (’67) and UNT System Board of Regents students, keeping UNT affordable and acces- Chair G. Brint Ryan (’88, ’88 M.S.), more than 100 dedicated sible to dedicated and deserving future Eagles. volunteers championed UNT’s fundraising effort. “This was our chance to make new learning opportunities, Alumni Engagement A record number of alumni and friends con- state-of-the-art facilities and scholarship support available to nected with the university during the campaign UNT’s future generations,” Ryan says. — participating in networking events, joining the The Campaign for UNT focused on three main goals: support- UNT Alumni Association, mentoring students ing students and programs; engaging more alumni and friends in and working with the UNT Career Center to hire the life of the university; and strengthening the university’s culture promising graduates. The Campaign for UNT of philanthropy. Gifts to the campaign came from all 50 states re-energized university pride, laying a founda- A Season of Gratitude and supported a wide array of initiatives such as the Emerald tion for ongoing spirit and fundraising success. Eagle Scholars program, student affairs, financial aid, the UNT Alumni Association and UNT Athletics. Matching Gift Opportunities The campaign made notable accomplishments related to Thanks to generous donors and key initiatives like the Texas Research Incentive Program, the university’s growing philanthropic culture. Individuals making UNT secured important new gifts and commit- their first ever gift to UNT comprised 65 percent of campaign ments as a result of matching gift opportunities. donors, and faculty and staff also gave back to the university Matching gift programs magnify the impact of in record numbers. Matching gift opportunities, the Texas gifts by providing additional support toward the Research Incentive Program and the We Care We Count Faculty donor’s intent. and Staff Giving Campaign helped leverage additional and new commitments. Planned Gift Commitments For senior Kathryn Krevo, an Honors College student Planned gifts, which include bequests, gifts of studying public relations and fashion merchandising, the success insurance, charitable trusts and gift annuities, of The Campaign for UNT can be summed up simply: “It’s an enable donors to establish a legacy for future overwhelming example of how caring and generous the UNT generations of students. During The Campaign family can be.” for UNT, more than $69 million was committed through planned gifts.

Winter 2014 | northtexan.unt.edu | The North Texan 31 STORIES OF IMPACT The Campaign for UNT not only built upon the university’s culture of philanthropy, but also supported faculty and academic programs with direct impacts for UNT students. Here are just a few examples of how each generous gift made a difference in the lives of students.

Watch a video to learn more about how gifts to UNT have impacted students at northtexan.unt.edu/online. And for information on ways that you can help support UNT, visit giving.unt.edu.

INNOVATION Financial services senior Aaron Presley says he’s ready to tackle new horizons thanks to the problem-solving and leadership skills he has gained at UNT. Presley, a Terry Scholar, says he believes UNT’s support for innovation extends beyond academics and research. Presley, whose college career has been marked by leadership roles in the Interfraternity Council, the Student Government Association and the Order of Omega Greek Honor Society, says new ideas thrive at UNT because students are “eager to influence the world around them and hard working enough to do what it takes to be successful.” Gary Payne

CREATIVITY Tabatha Diloreto says without the fellowship support she has received, she would not be pursuing a Master of Fine Arts in ceramics at UNT. Diloreto says she chose the university in part because UNT “offers a remarkably supportive environment for creative people.” From support for unique projects like UNT’s Natural Dye Garden to funding for research facilities like the College of Engineering’s revo- lutionary Zero Energy Laboratory, The Campaign for UNT inspired cutting-edge discovery across academic disciplines. Gary Payne

32 The North Texan | northtexan.unt.edu | Winter 2014 OPPORTUNITY Doctoral student Roberto Aguilar was the first person in his family to complete a college degree. Now, he is researching ways to use nanoparticles to develop non-chemical treatments for cancer and other disease. Aguilar says as part of the research team working with renowned UNT chemistry professor and Royal Society of Chemistry member Guido Verbeck, he’s participating in the kind of cross-disciplinary, cutting-edge nanotechnology research that’s “sure to change the world.” “Funding from donors makes it possible for me to focus on my work without worrying about my finances,” he says. “That’s a great relief, and it frees me to work harder and more creatively.” Gary Payne Gary

EXCELLENCE Mechanical and energy engineering junior Sarah Pena says UNT’s unique combination of world-class faculty mentors, leadership opportunities and high-quality academic programs makes it “a university where students are encouraged to be their best — by the best.” The Campaign for UNT supported many of the university’s top facilities and initiatives including the Business Leadership Building, the Greek Life Center and UNT Athletics’ Mean Green Village. Special collections in the UNT libraries also were enhanced thanks to gifts to the campaign. Gary Payne

MEAN GREEN SPIRIT Mean Green volleyball standout and medical laboratory sciences senior Hanna Forst says her scholarship means being able to represent the university as a student-athlete. She defines Mean Green spirit as “fans and students supporting each other in every aspect of UNT.” The Campaign for UNT has reinvigorated the Mean Green spirit at UNT, which has more than 400 student organizations, 16 varsity sports and a growing alumni association. Increased student philanthropic activity, increased faculty and staff contributions and the endowment of faculty positions honoring former professors demonstrate the Mean Green Spirit of the

Ahna Hubnik UNT family.

Winter 2014 | northtexan.unt.edu | The North Texan 33 Folk Music Club

by Jessica DeLeón

English professor Stan Alexander had an idea. In 1963, he suggested starting a club at North Texas in which students could play folk songs together. Alexander, who had sung at Austin’s popular Threadgill’s venue while he earned his Ph.D., asked his young colleague Julian O. Long to help him organize the first meeting. “All these kids showed up,” Long says. Several of those students — like generations before and after at UNT — would become well known in the music world. They went from playing in the In 1963, a group of Folk Music Club to blazing trails in country and Texas music as songwriters, musicians and entrepreneurs, cementing UNT’s reputation as a hub for creativity. UNT students The club boasts its own Wikipedia page and a passage in the bookThe Improb- able Rise of Redneck Rock by Jan Reid, former senior writer for Texas Monthly. began meeting Its members included the late Steve Fromholz, whose songs have been recorded by Willie Nelson and Lyle Lovett; Michael Martin Murphey, the weekly to play EGrammy-nominated country music star, best known for the hit “Wildfire”; and classic and current Eddie Wilson, who founded the Armadillo World Headquarters in Austin, which hosted the biggest names in rock and country music in the 1970s. Others songs. Then they such as Donnie F. Brooks and Travis Holland also had successful careers. Even after the club disbanded in the mid-1960s, the folk music scene on went on to change campus influenced students Ray Wylie Hubbard, who became part of country the music world. music’s outlaw movement in the 1970s, and B.W. Stevenson, who wrote and recorded the hit song “My Maria.” And it all began in the faculty lounge of UNT’s Auditorium Building.

Creating music The club’s meeting format was simple. Its members, from a variety of majors, met every week and sang to each other. “It was just a crowded room full of music,” says Wilson, who majored in Eddie Wilson with a portrait of young Ahna Hubnik Stan Alexander, at Threadgill’s in Austin

Winter 2014 | northtexan.unt.edu | The North Texan 35 English and philosophy. “A number of them had guitars, half of them wanting to play and half not wanting to hear what the others wanted to play. Whoever spoke up first with authority carried the day.” “We never had any dead time,” says Long, who left North Texas in 1965 and then returned to work for 25 years in the English department and graduate dean’s Steve Fromholz, Patti Lohman Brooks and office. “There was music the whole meeting.” Michael Martin Murphey, the Mike Murphey The songs ranged from bluegrass classics Trio, perform at a Homecoming 1963 talent show. to current hits. Students also sang from the popular album of 1964 — Bob Dylan’s The Times They Are A-Changin’. Some members stood out — the sponsor, Alexander, being one of them. A classmate told Wilson about the club that was run by the teacher with a rich baritone voice. “And I knew it had to be Stan Alexan- der,” Wilson says, adding that he had heard Alexander perform at Threadgill’s when he was growing up in Austin. “All I remember is the reason to go was to hear Stan sing.” Fromholz, who served as president of the club, was also noted for his singing. “Steve always had a magnificent, big voice,” Wilson says. That voice blended well with the voices Todd Wolfson of two other students — Murphey, who went by the name Mike, and his high school friend Patti Lohman Brooks (’67). Ray Wylie Hubbard Called the Mike Murphey Trio, they modeled themselves after Peter, Paul and Mary, the popular folk group. They first performed at a 1963 Homecoming talent show, singing “Man of Constant Michael Martin Murphey Sorrow.” They also played at campus events and the Denton country club. “We walked around like troubadours,” says Lohman Brooks, who majored in elementary education. “We never pretend- ed we were anything special.” Murphey, who also played with The Dallas County Jug Band, served as freshman class president and was active in Glenn Sweitzer student groups, such as the Independent Students’ Organization and Debate Club. “Denton had a very cool folk music scene. The town “People like Mike Murphey were stars,” was very small, but it was a very knowledgeable Long says. “Playing better than any of us.” The club disbanded after Alexander left music community.” to teach at Stephen F. Austin University in — Ray Wylie Hubbard 1965. But its influence remained. When Hubbard attended from 1967 to 1968, he 1980 — becoming one of the most legendary back-up musicians. Holland played guitar saw students, dressed in corduroy jackets venues in music history. Arts and Labor for Fromholz, Murphey and other acts. and pants, playing the guitar on campus. Magazine recently put out a list of the Brooks, a harmonica player, joined the folk “Denton had a very cool folk music “Twenty-Five Most Significant and/or music scene in New York City. He played scene,” says Hubbard, who majored in Notorious Nights in Austin Music History” as part of Waylon Jennings’ band and in English and wrote for The Campus Chat — and five took place at the Armadillo. sessions for Jerry Jeff Walker, Billy Joel, while at North Texas. “The town was very “It was quite humbling,” Wilson says. Murphey and others. His work can be small, but it was a very knowledgeable He now runs another legendary Austin heard in the Ken Burns documentary The music community.” landmark — Threadgill’s. One of its two Civil War and the movie Fame. Brooks The local Presbyterian church hosted locations features memorabilia from the died in 2000. hootenannies, and Hubbard played with Armadillo. Wilson’s former classmate “You need a harmonica player?” Hub- Stevenson, who attended North Texas as Murphey also played at the Armadillo, one bard says. “Don was just phenomenal.” an opera student from 1967 to 1968 before of many stops in his storied career. In the Hubbard became well known in the joining the U.S. Air Force. 1970s, Murphey produced such songs as 1970s with songs such as “Up Against the Students protested against the Vietnam “Geronimo’s Cadillac” as part of the “Cosmic Wall Redneck Mother” recorded by War and for the civil and women’s rights Cowboy” movement — progressive country Walker. A frequent presence on the tour movements, while listening to new music and outlaw country music that distinguished circuit, he continues writing and perform- from the Beatles and the Rolling Stones. the Austin music scene. His biggest hit came ing, with hits like “Snake Farm” and “It was a very exciting, vibrant, turbulent in 1975 with “Wildfire,” which peaked at No. “Wanna Rock and Roll.” time,” Hubbard says, adding that since the 3 on the Billboard Top 100 chart. Stevenson scored with the single “My Internet didn’t exist, “you heard about Long remembers waking up one morning Maria” in 1973. He died in 1988, but the culture and politics through albums.” and hearing the song on the radio. song became a hit again when Brooks & “My,” he thought, “I knew that kid at Dunn took it to the top of the country Todd Wolfson Making legends North Texas.” charts in 1996. After they left North Texas, the club Murphey later scored other country hits The success of the Folk Music Club’s Ray Wylie Hubbard members ventured out into the world, on the charts, including “What’s Forever For,” members makes sense to Hubbard. playing in coffeehouses and clubs in Texas and he’s best known for his cowboy songs. “It left its mark on people because they and New York City. Murphey, Fromholz Fromholz, who died in 2014, also saw were drawn to each other. It was folks and Stevenson often played at a Dallas great success on the radio as a songwriter. He hanging together, coming together because club, the Rubaiyat. Wilson held several penned “I’d Have to be Crazy,” which became of folk music,” Hubbard says. jobs, including managing the band Shiva’s a hit for Nelson, and Lovett and other artists The club’s atmosphere and camaraderie Headband, headed by Folk Music Club have recorded a set of his songs dubbed inspired others to unleash their creativity. member Spencer Perskin, after settling “Texas Trilogy.” Fromholz, an English major Alexander, the group’s founder, says the in Austin. at North Texas, served as the Texas Poet collaborative experience of the club “Well, you got to do something,” Wilson Laureate in 2007. encouraged members to perform well. says. “I found this gigantic empty building “He was just this fabulous character,” says “Folk music is very engaging,” he says. and became an entrepreneur.” Lohman Brooks, a longtime teacher who is “The best sort of club is when everybody He turned that building into the now head of the lower school at Lakehill wants to participate.” Armadillo World Headquarters, which Preparatory School in Dallas. “He was a But he says its purpose was simple. hosted such acts as Nelson, Bruce Spring normal guy who loved music and was “Mostly it was just fun.” Glenn Sweitzer steen, The Clash, the Grateful Dead and grateful that others enjoyed his music.” AC/DC during its tenure from 1970 to Don F. Brooks and Holland had careers as

Winter 2014 | northtexan.unt.edu | The North Texan 37 Get connected at upcoming alumni gatherings EAGLES’ Nest page 41 RichardE. Shultz

PARTNERS UNT ROOMMATES BRIAN HOFFMANN (’00) and Bobby Barr (’97) realized their college dream of owning a IN SUCCESS business together, and then surpassed it. In the last two years, they have expanded their Grapevine business, CE-DFW Warehouse Solutions, which sells and services forklifts and Marketing alums’ growing forklift company racks up loading dock equipment, and more than doubled revenues. industry and business awards. “Our biggest growth factor is word of mouth,” says Hoff- mann of the company that counts Small Business of the Year among its honors. “That comes from doing things the right way.” Read more about how UNT is tied to Hoffmann and Barr’s The partners, whose wives are also alumni, credit persistence, business success and watch a commercial in which they are great employees and a strong reputation for their success. featured at northtexan.unt.edu/partners-success. “It didn’t take us long to realize that this was going to be a career,” Barr says.

38 The North Texan | northtexan.unt.edu | Winter 2014 EAGLES’ Nest

CONNECTING WITH Friends

1965 1970 Keep up with the latest developments in the UNT family and tell your peers what you’ve been Muriel Brounstein (’68 Jack Adkisson (Ph.D.), up to since leaving the nest. Send your news to M.Ed.), Folsom, Calif. :: was Menifee, Calif. :: and his wife, The North Texan (see contact information on appointed to the Sacramento Robbie, celebrated their 70th page 7). Members of the UNT Alumni Association County Grand Jury for the 2014- wedding anniversary in August are designated with a . 15 year and will serve as secretary. with a special dinner. Jack, who She is a community activist who was an education professor at Read more, share comments and connect with friends has leadership roles in Kiwanis, UNT from 1970 to 1973, says he at northtexan.unt.edu. Soroptimist, the Democratic Party and his wife met when they were and the area-wide Holocaust 13 during a Vacation Bible School Remembrance Day event. in Dallas. “She’s been my inspira- 1952 cisco, I Am a Fact Not a Fiction, tion and my helpmate during all The Torn Star, The Singing Man 1966 these years,” he says.

James M. Hilz, Palm Desert, My Father Gave Me, Root Route and Range: The Song Returns and Calif. :: published his third novel, John Castleman (M.Ed., ’72 1972 Damage Within the Community. Ed.D.), Lubbock I Never Held You In My Arms. :: has written his autobiography, Stay on Your Feet: Jane Nelson, Flower Mound The retired surgeon has written 1960 two others novels, Beyond Expec- A Life Journey From 1935 to the :: was named chair of the Texas tancy and Pillars of Salt, and two Present, about how he overcame a Senate Finance Committee, David Clark, Duncanville :: children’s books, Ms. Olive Owl’s troubled youth to become a pro- becoming the first woman to hold will be inducted into the Texas School for Hooligan Cats and Jack’s fessor at a Christian college. that position. She also is chair of Track and Field Coaches Associa- Guardian Angels. the Sunset Advisory Committee tion Hall of Fame in January. 1969 and the Senate Health and 1956 The vaulter participated in the Human Services Committee. She 1950 Rome Olympics and was Rhys Best, has represented District 12 since inducted into the UNT Athletic William Woodruff, San Dallas :: was 1993 and also served on the State Hall of Fame in 1988. Juan, Puerto Rico :: is a professor named 2014 Board of Education. Director of the of voice at the Conservatorio de 1961 Musica de Puerto Rico. He is the Year by the 1973 founder and director of the Inter- National Association of Corporate Frank Lynn Payne (M.M.), national Institute of Vocal Arts Directors. He serves on several Jay Weber (’75 M.B.A.), Round Oklahoma City, Okla. :: is the festival in Italy, Florida and Puerto company boards and presides as Rock :: celebrated his 40th year composer of a short sonata for Rico. He also is on faculty of the chair of the board of Austin as a member of the Professional tuba and piano that received its Brooklyn College Conservatory. Industries, a construction and Association of Diving Instruc- world premiere at the Interna- industrial services company. He tors. He received his entry-level 1959 tional Tuba and Euphonium recently retired as chair of the diver training in 1972 at North Convention. The work is board of Crosstex Energy Services, Texas, where his first scuba course published by Potenza Music. Edward Mycue, San Francisco now EnLink Energy Partners, and was taught by gymnastics coach :: has published several books of served as chair and CEO of Lone William “Bill” Cornelius at the poetry, including Song of San Fran- Star Technologies Inc. outdoor swimming pool. Jay went

Winter 2014 | northtexan.unt.edu | The North Texan 39 EAGLES’ Nest

on to achieve the PADI level of Master Scuba Diver Trainer and 1981 is still teaching with no plans to slow down. Kevin Shay, Rockville, Md. :: published It’s a Mad, Mad, Mad, 1974 Mad Trip: On the Road of the Longest Two-Week Family Road Virgie Holbrook (’77 M.A.), Trip in History, which depicts his Pottsboro:: was named a Friend 7,000-mile, 17-day travels from of Education in the private citizen Washington, D.C., to the Pacific category by the Texas Classroom Ocean with his children Pres- Teachers Association. She cre- ton and McKenna. The website Les Stone ated a scholarship fund, founded RecordSetter certified the adven- an after-school care program and ture as the longest family road trip established a program that pro- in a two-week span. My Brother’s Keeper vides meals for eligible students in the Pottsboro ISD. She is presi- 1983 The Rev. Kyev Tatum (’91), who was a teen father who grew up poor dent of W.P. Cooper Inc., a real and ill-prepared for college, says he found his purpose with the help of estate firm, and a former pastor J. Steven mentors, including many at UNT. Now he’s helping others do the same. in Denton. Fulks (M.S), In October, a White House representative asked the former Mean Green Wilson, N.C. wide receiver to serve as White House ally for President Barack Obama’s My 1976 :: received the Brother’s Keeper initiative in Fort Worth. Lincoln Finan- “When the president sends out a call to address those in need,” says Teri Horn- cial Faculty Member of the Year Tatum, a Fort Worth pastor, “you answer the call.” berger, Dallas award from Barton College. He My Brother’s Keeper, a “cradle-to-college-and-career” strategy, was :: was elected serves as director of Barton’s ger- launched this year to help boys and young men of color in particular realize as chair of the ontology program and also has their full potential. Tatum, who leads the Tarrant County chapter of the Dallas CPA taught at Utah State University, Southern Christian Leadership Conference, a civil rights group founded by Society, a non-professional asso- the University of Tennessee- the Rev. Martin Luther King Jr., says the initiative is about closing opportu- ciation that serves 6,000 members Knoxville and Bowling Green nity gaps and helping young men who need support in school and in life. in a 13-county area. State University. He organized an action summit in December that included UNT students, and he’s working to bring in more White House allies to help with the effort. 1980 1985 “We can change the course of history for these children,” he says. “I’m the perfect example. There were people in my life who said, ‘You can do it.’” Casey Edward Greene, Tatum, who majored in criminal justice at UNT, says Greg Sawyer, the Galveston :: married Carol dean of students at the time, introduced him to King’s message and Anne Hanson (’97 M.S.) in encouraged him to attend a Martin Luther King Jr. commemoration. August 2012. Casey retired as “I got a whole new feeling about myself,” Tatum says, adding it propelled department head of the special him to get involved with student organizations and student government. collections and museum at the Others who impacted him included coaches Corky Nelson and Ron Rosenberg Library and is now a Shanklin, as well as Alfred Hurley, then president and chancellor, and Bill part-time scholar on staff. Carol Luker, who was the dean of what was then the School of Community Service. Anne retired as a corporate com- “Places like UNT did not give up on me,” Tatum says. “That’s why I’m munications specialist from the Timothy Kloth (D.M.A.), excited about the My Brother’s Keeper challenge.” Army and Air Force Exchange Springfield, Va. :: joined the For more information, visit whitehouse.gov/my-brothers-keeper. Service and is now a counselor for music faculty of the Fairfax — Megan Middleton charitable organizations. County Public Schools in north-

40 The North Texan | northtexan.unt.edu | Winter 2014 ern Virginia. Previously, he taught Out in Dallas and in the hospital- Mary E. music for 25 years in Cincinnati, ity, human resources, corporate 1996 Ohio. He is active in the American communication, special events and Orff-Schulwerk Association, an nonprofit sectors for more than Alicia Simmons Linn, organization for music educators, 20 years. Sachse :: was named principal of for which he serves as treasurer of Alpha Charter School in Gar- the Middle Atlantic chapter and Randall M. Good, Denton :: land. She also will serve as direc- earned his Level III certification. had his exhibition Deities, Demi- tor of special education for the gods, & Disegno, featuring oils, district. She previously worked as 1987 watercolors and numerous draw- assistant principal of Grand Mary E. Casselberry Thomp- ings, featured this fall at Oxide Prairie ISD. son (Ph.D.), Celina :: received Terry Kottman(Ph.D.), Cedar Gallery in Denton. the American Physical Therapy Falls, Iowa :: received the Life- William Singer (M.S.), Association’s Lucy Blair Service time Achievement Award from the 1993 Enterprise, Ala. :: published a Award at its annual meeting in Association for Play Therapy at book, Dear Dad, From Afghani- June. The award honors members the organization’s annual confer- Tracey Brown, Forney :: stan, with his father, Richard J. who have made exceptional contri- ence in October. She founded The earned a Ph.D. in psychology Singer, that features their letters butions to the association. She is a Encouragement Zone, where she from Walden University. She to each other when William was professor in the School of Physical provides play therapy and supervi- has worked for Dallas ISD as a deployed to Afghanistan in 2005 Therapy of TWU in Dallas and a sion. She served on the counselor teacher, counselor and counselor for the U.S. Air Force. He retired contract physical therapist for education faculty at UNT and as supervisor. She released her first from the Air Force in 2009 and homebound older adults in rural director of the Child and Family book, Single Mom, Ph.D.: Practical now works for the U.S. Army in Collin County. Resource Center. Strategies for Building an Effective Fort Rucker, Ala. Co-Parenting Relationship, co- 1990 written with former NFL player and co-parent Dave Thomas. She Dave Reiter, Muenster :: has also established “The Giving Back Upcoming Alumni Gatherings started several successful small Scholarship” for children of single- businesses and is co-owner of parent families. Career fairs, mentoring opportunities and great conversations are Crossroads Express Stop, a con- ahead. Here are a few events on our spring calendar: venience store that is the first of 1995 Great Conversations 2015: Share dinner, dessert and stimulating its type in Texas to accept Bitcoin discussions at the Honors College signature event, from 6 to 9 p.m. Feb. 24 at UNT’s Apogee Stadium Clubroom with community currency as a method of payment. Matthew Mailman(D.M.A.), leaders, local celebrities and UNT faculty and alumni. Buy tickets at He also helps other businesses Oklahoma City, Okla. :: par- honors.unt.edu/greatconversations beginning Jan. 12. Proceeds benefit Honors College programs and scholarships. Contact Diana open Bitcoin merchant accounts. ticipated in the 2014 Baltimore Dunklau at 940-565-2474 or [email protected]. Chamber Orchestra Summer Conducting Seminar as a fellow Official Ring Presentation Ceremony: Part of UNT 1991 tradition, the official class ring and presentation with Markand Thakar and Henry ceremony reminds students of their college success. Deann Badura, Coppell :: was Fogel. He is in his 20th year as The spring ceremony begins at 6 p.m. April 23 in the Gateway Center Ballroom. named an account executive for professor of conducting in the Endicott and Co. Public Rela- Bass School of Music at Okla- UNT Career Fairs/Mentoring: Get help with your job search. Services in the UNT Career Center are free to alumni. And you can tions in Dallas. She will oversee homa City University. In October, give back by volunteering as a mentor to help an aspiring student all account and staff management. he conducted the musical Bonnie pursuing a career similar to yours. Learn more at careercenter.unt. edu/alumni-career-services. She has worked in development, and Clyde. sales and marketing, public rela- For more information or to join the UNT Alumni Association, call tions and special events with the 940-565-2834 or go to untalumni.com. Texas NF Foundation, Dining

Winter 2014 | northtexan.unt.edu | The North Texan 41 EAGLES’ Nest

Harris public relations agency 1997 1999 2000 in Dallas.

Amy Sandling Crawford, Calvin Scott 2002 Plano :: co-wrote the book Foot- Roberts, ball and Integration in Plano, Texas: Dallas :: Jeff Blackburn,Austin :: began Stay in There, Wildcats! (The appeared as his own energy efficiency/HVAC History Press). She is a widely “CC” in the services company called Energy published journalist, a public Portland Center Stage production Guys three years ago. relations specialist and the owner of Dreamgirls in Portland, Ore. He of Plano-based Crawford Creative has appeared in other productions Darin Bradley (’04 M.A., ’07 Group. She and her husband have for such companies as the Dallas Ph.D.), Denton. :: released his a daughter, Elizabeth Grace. Theatre Center, Shakespeare Robin Arthur, San Antonio :: second novel, Chimpanzee (Under- Dallas, Theatre Three and Water- creates custom pet portraits land Press), about a university 1998 Tower Theatre. He attended through her company, RobiniArt. instructor suspected of starting UNT from 1998 to 1999. She worked with the nonprofit a protest movement that may Jason Cooper, North Richland San Anto Cultural Arts to create a be involved in a technology that Hills :: was named senior invest- Dason Williams, Abilene :: mural of the mythical Texas jack- synthesizes people’s minds. He ment manager for North Texas runs the Clavel Corp., which alope to be featured on the exte- also wrote Noise (Spectra). and Colorado at Stratford Land, manufactures Blue Stop Max, a rior of a San Antonio business. a Dallas-based land investment topical pain gel for arthritis and 2003 firm. He joined Stratford in 2006 joint pain. Farrah Cox, Frisco :: was as president of Stratford Realty named to PRWeek’s 40 Under 40 Cheri Bohn, Elkins, Ark. :: Capital LP. list for her work with the Golin- had her artwork featured in the

Vela Reunion

More than 30 microbiology alumni returned to campus from labs and universities as far away as Thailand to honor their mentor, Professor Emeritus G. Roland Vela, in November. Vela, who joined the UNT microbiology faculty in 1965, supervised 20 Ph.D. students and 40 master’s students before retiring in 2000. After graduating, Joel Escamilla (’80 Ph.D.) crossed paths with his major professor a few times during his career as a microbiologist with the U.S. Navy, and this year he decided to arrange a reunion. He and other organizers were able to track down many of the graduates and invite them back to honor Vela.

Ahna Hubnik Ahna Patamaporn Sukplang (’00 Ph.D.), director of biomedical sciences graduate From left, Acharawan Thongmee (’99 Ph.D.), Roxana Bejarano programs at Rangsit University in Thailand, says they could not do anything less. Hughes (’97 M.S.), Patamaporn Sukplang (’00 Ph.D.), Professor “Dr. Vela was my mentor, not just in microbiology but in life,” she says. “I was far Emeritus G. Roland Vela, John Rainey (’71 M.S.), Guadalupe away from my home in Thailand and he welcomed me and supported me in every Virginia Nevárez-Moorillón (’95 Ph.D.), Joel Escamilla (’80 Ph.D.). activity I’ve been involved in. I know he will always do his best for all of us.” Sukplang, who was Vela’s last doctoral student, was the third to conduct research on a bacterium now named after Vela: Paenibacillus velaei. Guadalupe Virginia Nevárez-Moorillón (’95 Ph.D.), graduate studies coordinator in the School of Chemical Sciences at the Universidad Autónoma de Chihuahua, and Achar- awan Thongmee (’99 Ph.D.), head of the microbiology department at Rangsit University, first studied the bacterium from soil samples Vela collected three decades earlier. The story of their work was just one of those told during the three-day reunion. Vela, whose many honors include being elected a fellow of the American Academy of Microbiology, describes his students’ return as “humbling.” “I’m overwhelmed by their kindness. I can’t believe that they all remember me,” he says, to a chorus of laughter.

42 The North Texan | northtexan.unt.edu | Winter 2014 Fayetteville Underground art Justin Rob- gallery. Her tree root and stained erts, Dallas glass sculptures inspired by science :: is Dallas fiction and fantasy were on display audit senior there in August. She was also manager at featured in the Fayetteville’s Visual Whitley Penn, a public accounting Arts Guide. and consulting firm. He also serves on the UNT Accounting Kristy Loye, Dickinson :: was Advisory Board. Justin, who published in the anthology My earned degrees in accounting and Other Ex from the HerStories finance, has nine years of public Project. Her other writing has accounting experience. appeared in Under the Gum Tree and The Winter Tangerine Review. 2007 Ardelean Florina She received her master’s in liberal Clues to climate change studies from Rice University in Brenna Scoggins Newman, 2014 and is president of the MLS Denton :: a former teacher in Environmental science alum Marius Necsoiu (’98 M.S., ’00 Ph.D.), Writers Group. the Denton ISD, and Jessica left, is searching for clues about global climate change in the mountains of Steger Cozens, a former adjunct Eastern Europe. With the help of a National Science Foundation grant, Calvin Sexton, Dallas :: was professor at UNT, have founded Necsoiu traveled to his native Romania twice this year to investigate the named a quarterfinalist for a Focused Ed LLC. The educational movements of rock glaciers. A principal scientist at the Southwest Research Grammy Music Educator Award. consulting business, with a focus Institute in San Antonio, he is conducting the research with Petra Urdea, He teaches at Beltline Elementary on the North Texas region, tutors right, and other scientists from the West University of Timisoara in Romania. School in Lancaster. students and provides webinars The interdisciplinary team is testing remote sensing techniques — and online training for teachers analyzing high-resolution optical and radar satellite imagery — to measure 2004 to receive their continuing public rock glacier movement in the Southern Carpathian Mountains for the education hours. benchmark study. The key to his current research in Romania lies within the Michelle A. Lucero Vil- permafrost — ground that remains frozen for at least two consecutive years lagran (M.S., ’08 M.B.A.), 2008 and is particularly sensitive to climate change. Alhambra, Calif. :: married “Investigating rock glacier dynamics is a key factor in understanding the Rodolfo Villagran in May at Para- Erich M. Spoor, Denton :: evolution and movement of permafrost-related formations under changing dor de Oropesa in Toledo, Spain. graduated with honors in May as climate conditions,” he says. a doctor of veterinary medicine As an environmental scientist and electrical engineer, with previous work 2005 from Texas A&M University and experience at NASA, he uses his expertise in remote sensing systems, GPS is serving a one-year internship and geospatial technologies. J. Kirby McDonough, Tampa, in animal surgery at Louisiana “‘Remote sensing,’ a blend of science, technology and art, is an Fla. :: was named one of the 2014 State University. He hopes to be essential tool to further our understanding of climate change and permafrost Rising Stars by Florida Super awarded a three-year residency in dynamics,” Necsoiu says. Lawyers magazine. The award neurology. He wishes to thank his The field allows him to share knowledge and learn from other science recognizes outstanding attorneys professors at UNT for the excel- disciplines — an interdisciplinary approach he was exposed to at UNT. who are age 40 or younger or have lent education that helped him Studying in the Retezat Mountains, which he describes as “one of the been practicing for 10 or fewer survive veterinary school. wildest and lesser-known mountainous areas,” is especially meaningful for years. He practices business litiga- Necsoiu, who hiked there in his high school and college days. He says it’s an tion at Quarles & Brady in Naples Jacob Williams, Round Rock exciting opportunity, with little research having been done there. and Tampa, Fla. :: completed his Ph.D. in clini- “I love these wild mountains,” he says, “and to connect with people from cal psychology at the University around the globe who have different experiences and interests.” of Florida. While at UNT, he — Megan Middleton

Winter 2014 | northtexan.unt.edu | The North Texan 43 EAGLES’ Nest

worked with associate professor of the Women’s Premier Soccer of psychology Daniel Taylor. He League. She was the women’s club ...... IN THE // News is working with him again on head coach at Ohio University a study investigating cognitive- and served as head coach and ➺ Jay behavioral treatments for insom- coordinator for Play Soccer Lombardo nia among active duty military. Appalachia in 2013-14. (’86) made news in Italy 2009 Zachary when he served Carson as master of Terri Gonzales (M.Ed., ’12 Richardson ceremonies for Ph.D.), Lewisville :: received the (M.S.), Dal-

GeoLeo Creative GeoLeo Dallas’ first Student Research Award from las :: is work- Columbus Day Parade Oct. 12. The parade, a celebration the Association for Play Therapy ing as a full-time professional of Italian heritage hosted by the Committee of Italians in October for her dissertation librarian at El Centro College in Living Abroad, was covered by Italian newspaper Il Fatto research, “The effects of Teacher Dallas. He previously worked Quotidiano as well as Dallas-Fort Worth media. Lom- Child Relationship Training on part-time in the same position at bardo, founder of Lombardo Custom Apparel, called on at-risk children identified with El Centro and was a full-time his fraternity brothers in UNT’s chapter of Sigma Phi clinical level of behavior problem.” library assistant at Dallas County Epsilon (above) to escort entries in the parade, which ran Law Library. from the West End across the Continental Avenue Bridge. 2010 Mendy ➺ Christian hip-hop artist Lecrae (’02) was Bonnie Jo Stufflebeam, Sass, Fort featured in Rolling Stone, The New York Times, Vibe, The Denton. :: has had 28 short Worth :: Atlantic and even in Qatar this fall for his album, stories published or accepted for joined Balcom Anomaly, for which he recently received three 2015 publication in both speculative Agency in Grammy Award nominations. It was the first ever to debut and literary magazines such as Fort Worth as social media com- at No. 1 on both the Billboard gospel chart and the Hobart, Room, Clarkesworld and munity manager and public rela- Billboard 200 chart, which covers all genres. The 2013 Lightspeed. During her master’s tions specialist. She previously Grammy-winning artist, who studied sociology, tells studies at the University of worked as a media associate for Qatar’s Gulf Times that he came to UNT with the idea of Southern Maine, she put together GolinHarris, where she managed becoming an actor, but then volunteered at a juvenile an Art & Words Collaborative social communities and blogger detention center where he also performed some of his Show, where she coordinated and relations for national brands such songs. “Their response convinced me I should try to offer featured collaborations between as Texas Instruments. hope and encouragement through my music,” he says. 12 writers and 12 visual artists. 2014 ➺ Mark Followill, television play-by-play 2013 announcer for the Dallas Mavericks, was profiled in The Ana Margarita Gonza- Dallas Morning News in October for his “Lone Stardom.” Samantha lez, Weatherford. :: married Followill, who studied broadcasting at UNT from 1989 to Parker, Chris Lowetz this summer in 1992, is the only one of the full-time television or radio Clarksville, a ceremony held at Our Lady announcers calling pro basketball, football, baseball or Ark. :: was of Lourdes Chapel in Mineral hockey games in Dallas-Fort Worth who was born and named the Wells. Chris is the son of Pennie raised in the area. He and color commentator Derek assistant women’s soccer coach at Lowetz (’85). Harper won the 2014 Lone Star Emmy as the top the University of the Ozarks. She broadcast team in Texas. has interned with the FC Dallas Youth team and later managed FC Dallas in its inaugural season

44 The North Texan | northtexan.unt.edu | Winter 2014 FRIENDS WE’LL MISS

Denton :: He served in the University in the 1970s, she worked as a public school UNT’s alumni, faculty, staff and students are the U.S. Navy during World War II. librarian until 1984. She was university’s greatest legacy. When members of He was a professional choir preceded in death by her husband, the Eagle family pass, they are remembered and director and singer for more than 60 years all over the nation. In Kenneth Carley (’51). their spirit lives on. Send information about deaths Denton, he performed with the to The North Texan (see contact information on Denton Bach Society and James Bradford (’51, ’52 page 4). Sterling House. He was an active M.S.), Abilene :: He served as member of the Texas Music a professor of mathematics for Read more, write memorials and connect Educators Association and Abilene Christian University for with friends at northtexan.unt.edu. served as secretary of the Texas 37 years, including 13 as Choral Directors Association. department chair. He received the the Garland ISD. He also was a He also was president and Meritorious Service Award from 1940s professor and department chair at the Mathematical Association of “Rotarian of the Year” for the Stephen F. Austin State Univer- America and served as president Morgan Moses (’49, ’50 Henderson Rotary Club. sity. After he retired, he worked of the Big Country Council of M.S., ’64 Ed.D.), Longview for the Southern Association of Teachers of Mathematics. :: He served in the U.S. Army 1950s Schools. He was preceded in Air Force as a radio/radar Mary Francis death by his wife, June Wright Carley (’50), Kennith Gerald Hurley operator and flight gunner in Franklin (’47), whom he met Giddings :: She taught English (’52), Quitman :: He worked World War II. He had a long at North Texas. in the Fort Stockton, Alice, Plano for 32 years with Aetna Life & career in education, serving as a and Brownwood ISDs. After Casualty, retiring as regional teacher, coach and principal in the John Marvin Pollard Sr. receiving her master’s degree in claim manager. He loved country Judson ISD and as a principal in (’49, ’51 M.M., ’77 Ed.D.), library science at St. Mary’s life and cattle ranching and

University Community ed the International Conference 2000. Memorials may be made to images with sound to learn more on the Application of Accelerators the Dr. Jerome L. Duggan Memo- about trumpet-playing mechan- Jerome in Research and Industry in 1968 rial Scholarship in Physics at UNT. ics, influenced trumpet pedagogy. Duggan, and brought the biennial confer- In 1984, he earned the ’Fessor (’55, ’56 ence with him to UNT, where it John James Graham Award, the highest honor M.A.), 81, drew the world’s top physicists Haynie, 89, given by the student body, and in Professor to discuss the applications of Professor 1996, he received UNT’s Honorary Emeritus of physics, died Aug. 31 particle accelerators. He attended Emeritus of Alumnus Award. Other honors in Denton. He served on the phys- the 23rd conference this year in music, died included the Award of Merit from ics faculty from 1973 to 2012. He San Antonio as Conference Chair Sept. 30 in Denton. He joined the the International Trumpet Guild earned his North Texas degrees Emeritus. He received the UNT music faculty in 1950 and served and the Edwin Franko Goldman in physics and earned a doctorate President’s Award in 1987 and a as professor of trumpet for 40 Memorial Citation from the Ameri- from Louisiana State University. special medal at the 1995 meet- years, renowned for his innovative can Bandmasters Association. Before coming to UNT, he served ing of the Particle Induced X-Ray instruction and virtuoso solos. His He wrote three method books for on the faculty at the University of Emission Conference in Padua, pioneering research in the field trumpet and in 2007 published In- Georgia and worked at Oak Ridge Italy. He was made a fellow of of video-fluoroscopic studies, side John Haynie’s Studio: A Mas- Associated Universities. He start- the American Physical Society in in which he used moving X-ray ter Teacher’s Lessons on Trumpet

Winter 2014 | northtexan.unt.edu | The North Texan 45 EAGLES’ Nest enjoyed hunting and fishing. He teaching in Port Arthur, Annice Mauldin Elliott (’57, industry. He ran Texas Ham- served in the U.S. Army during Galveston and Seabrook. She ’62 M.B.Ed., ’76 Ed.D., ’79 burgers and also operated Trinity World War II and the Korean was an active member of Delta M.Ed.), Benbrook :: She High School, which allowed War and attended North Texas Kappa Gamma sorority and studied business education and students to take high school with the help of the GI Bill. He Clear Creek Association of worked for many years as a classes through correspondence is survived by his wife of 63 Retired Teachers and was a teacher and administrator for the courses. years, Edna Mae Jungbecker member and volunteer of the Fort Worth ISD. She was one of Hurley (’51). Friends of the Evelyn Meador five sisters from Italy, Texas, who 1970s Library. She also was an election attended North Texas and taught Dwight Richard Otto (’53), worker for the city of Seabrook public school. Survivors include Carl Seale (’71 D.M.A.), Dallas :: His career spanned 60 for many years. her sister Faye Mauldin McAllen :: He was the years in the insurance and Chapman (’70 M.S.). conductor of the Valley Sym- financial industry. He earned Billy John Hall (’54, ’59 phony Orchestra from 1973 to many sales and service awards and M.S.), Cincinnati, Ohio :: 1960s 2001, bringing classical music to achieved the highest industry After graduation, he served two the Rio Grande Valley. He also designation of Chartered Life years in the U.S. Army and Coral B. ‘Carl’ Sullivan taught music at the University of Underwriter and Chartered taught in Dallas, in Shaktoolik, (’66), Los Angeles :: He Texas-Pan American from 1971 Financial Consultant. He Alaska, in Taiwan and in earned his degree in business at to 2001 and served as depart- operated the Dwight R. Otto Cincinnati. During his second North Texas, obtained his CPA ment chair for eight years. UTPA Brokerage Agency for 20 years. At career as a real estate investor, he and was a partner at KPMG named him Professor and North Texas, he was a member of founded Hali Enterprises. He until his retirement in 1999. He Composer Emeritus. He is Phi Alpha Tau and helped bring served as president of both the was preceded in death by his survived by his wife, Jan Seale Sigma Phi Epsilon fraternity to Real Estate Investors Association wife, Geraldine Pooler (’69 M.A.). the campus in the 1950s. of Cincinnati and the Ohio Real Sullivan (’68). Estate Investors Association. He Philip Duwayne Wilbanks Cora Lee ‘Corky’ Van Arsdall is survived by his wife, Betsy Loucain Dean ‘Lyndy’ (’71, ’78 M.Ed.), Wylie :: He Clevenger (’54), Seabrook :: (’59 M.Ed.). Santerre (’67), Dallas :: He taught industrial arts in Plano She was a teacher for 48 years, worked in real estate and the oil and Wylie and coached 17 years

and Life (UNT Press). He served in 5 in Albuquerque, N.M. He was ously was director of facilities Choir since 1983. Prior to join- the U.S. Army during World War recognized in 2014 with a UNT management at the UNT Health ing UNT, he taught trombone at II, and after playing solos for War President’s Citation for his role Science Center in Fort Worth. Youngstown State University in Bond tours across Wisconsin, in the planning and development He served in the Army Corps of Ohio. He was a member of the participated in the Battle of the of campus facilities. He played Engineers, retiring as a colonel. Chautauqua Symphony Orchestra Bulge. He later earned bachelor’s a key role in the purchase and He earned his bachelor’s degree since 1979 and traveled the globe and master’s degrees from the development of the former Texas from Auburn University and his as a clinician and recitalist. He University of Illinois. Instruments facility that became master’s from the University of received awards from the Inter- Discovery Park. He also helped Missouri-Rolla. national Trombone Association, Milton ‘Pat’ UNT develop the former Liberty where his contributions included Howell, 74, Christian School campus into Vern Leon serving as executive manager former UNT athletics facilities that met NCAA Kagarice, 71, and journal editor, and conducted associate vice standards, and he played a major died Sept. 16 UNT trombone choirs that won president role in the construction of Apogee in Chautauqua, the prestigious Emory Remington for facilities and associate vice Stadium and other buildings. He N.Y. He had Trombone Choir Competition. He chancellor for UNT System facili- served as a consultant for the UNT been a professor of trombone and co-wrote books about trombone ties from 2001 to 2005, died Sept. System after he retired. He previ- a conductor of the UNT Trombone literature and arranged music for

46 The North Texan | northtexan.unt.edu | Winter 2014 in Wylie. Then he taught in many productions, including Alexia Ardaleanu, Spring :: Garland and Farmersville. He is playing the lead in Tartuffe and 2000s She was a senior accounting and survived by his wife, Kathy Ceremonies in Dark Old Men. He finance major with a minor in Wilbanks (’70, ’83 M.Ed.). was one of the founding members Patrick Charles Boland, legal studies. She was in the of Present Company Included, a (’03), Garland :: He worked Honors College and president of 1980s comedy troupe formed by North for the American Heart the Professional Leadership Texas theatre alumni that Association for many years. He Program in the College of D’Anne Cowden Barrow performed in the Dallas-Fort earned his B.S. in rehabilitation Business. (’80 M.M.Ed.), Russellville, Worth area for four years. studies at UNT at age 59. Ark. :: She had a 35-year career Miles Butler, Denton :: He in education including elemen- 1990s 2010s was a sophomore studying tary music, elementary classroom geography and worked for the and administration. She earned Jeanne Heartsill (’93 Susan Lee Schmidt, Denton catering team in Dining Services. an Ed.D. from the University of M.F.A.), Denton :: She :: She was an artist who Arkansas at Little Rock. At the studied under Rob Erdle and attended UNT from 2008 to Ronald Maglothin, Denton time of her death, she was Myra Walker and taught 2010 as a student in the College :: He was a senior in the College director of elementary curricu- computer graphics at UNT of Visual Arts. of Business. He served in the lum for the Russellville school before working as a flight U.S. Air Force. district. Survivors include her attendant with Southwest Melinda Dunlap (’14), husband, Gary (’69, ’82 Airlines. She had Signature Euless :: She graduated with a Steve Roswold, Lewisville :: Ph.D.), and daughter, Jill (’05). status in the Southwestern degree in home furnishings and He was a doctoral student and Watercolor Society and was a enjoyed restoring antique teaching assistant in the history Walter Demetris Hardts 35-year member and past furniture, traveling, cooking and department. He loved working (’81), Dallas :: He was a president of the Visual Art camping. She loved Dachshunds with students. Donations can be working professional actor for Society of North Texas. She is and volunteered for organiza- made in his honor to The Friends more than 30 years on the Dallas survived by her husband, Gary tions that helped animals. of the Department of History stage, television and film. At Heartsill (’92). Scholarship at UNT. North Texas, he appeared in

various brass combinations. His Emeritus of English, died July North Texas, and as a bachelor’s publishing company, Kagarice 24 in Denton. He worked at student he met his wife, Lina Memorials Brass Editions, became a resource North Texas from 1961 to 1992, Briggs Kirkpatrick (’47), who of trombone and brass-related becoming an assistant professor died Aug. 24. They were found- Send memorials to honor UNT materials. He earned a bachelor’s of English and associate dean ing members of the Denton Bach alumni and friends, made pay- degree from Bethany College and and acting dean of the graduate Society and participated in many able to the UNT Foundation, to master’s and doctoral degrees school. He studied linguistics at musical organizations in the area. University of North Texas, Division from Indiana University. Survivors Georgetown University and pub- Lina taught piano to students in of Advancement, 1155 Union Circle include his wife, Jan Kagarice lished articles on medieval lit- the Denton community for more #311250, Denton, Texas 76203- (’89 M.M.), senior lecturer in erature and language. He served than 30 years. She also was 5017. Indicate on your check the trombone. in the U.S. Army’s 10th Mountain a charter member of Pi Kappa fund or area you wish to support. Division in World War II and Lambda at UNT, as well as Mu Phi Or make secure gifts online at Hugh Kirk- later worked as a foreign service Epsilon and its alumni chapter. development.unt.edu/givenow. For patrick (’48, officer with the U.S. Information more information, email giving@ ’49 M.A., ’76 Service in embassies in Lebanon, unt.edu or call 940-565-2900. Ph.D.), 89, Iran, Syria, Jordan and Haiti. He Professor earned his degrees in English at

Winter 2014 | northtexan.unt.edu | The North Texan 47 THE LAST Word

GOLDEN MEMORIES

Members of the Class of 1964 reminisced at the annual Golden Eagles luncheon. Here are a few of their memories.

I was a French major at North Texas and a dorm hostess in Kendall Hall. I vividly remember room check each night Payne Gary and working the switchboard to direct phone calls to the women. We had to wear a raincoat over our leotards to cross From left, Jack Wall (’64), Susan Kennedy Stinson (’64), Marsha Keffer (’64, ’67 M.Ed.) the street to the Women’s Gym and could and Mike McNutt (’64) celebrate at the Golden Eagles luncheon. never be seen in rollers in the cafeteria. It The Geezles claim they stole our Eagle, row. For me, I was Michael Murphey for a was always a treat when there was snow but I don’t remember that. — Jack Wall day! — Mike McNutt (’64), Kingwood on the ground so we could wear pants. (’64), Dallas, former UNT Regent (See page 34 for more about Murphey.) Each fall Imogene Bentley Dickie, the dean of women, would gather all the Many Americans know Michael When I moved into the new McCon- freshman girls in gloves and hats in the Martin Murphey as a great singer and nell Hall my sophomore year, the English building auditorium to go over songwriter. Mike was the freshman class air-conditioning provided relief from the the rules and regulations of being a lady. president in 1963-64 and I was the senior heat, and in the winter, students engaged That did give you the chance to see all the class president. For the 1963 Homecom- in snowball fights and buried unsuspect- ladies in your class. — Marsha Keffer (’64, ing game at Fouts Field, it was decided ing Volkswagens under tons of snow. ’67 M.Ed.), Denton, retired director of that each Homecoming Queen candidate However, the night of our 1964 UNT’s program for academic readiness would be escorted by a class president. graduation topped everything weather- The announcer began with the first wise. Commencement was in the old We spent a lot of time at the Union candidate, who was escorted by Mike Men’s Gymnasium, a relic even in those — the UB, we called it then. It was the Murphey. He announced, “The first days. The hail and rain ripped through the center of activity. We’d go over and have candidate, escorted by the freshman class happy scene and pounded down on the coffee and coffeecake in the morning. You president, Mike McNutt. …” metal roof. The speakers quickly ended all did not want to have a class from 10 to 11 Well, I had a lot of friends and Greeks attempts to speak over the din. As the a.m. In the afternoons, we’d go back over who knew me since this was my fourth crowd hurried to open the doors to head and have a coke. It was the place everyone year at North Texas. There was some loud home, they were hit by a torrent of rain. congregated. You could drive right up and laughter and I joined in. The announce- My father, who had come to see the park in front in those days. ment made for the candidate escorted by graduation from New York City, traveled Most of my memories center around me went like this: “She is escorted by the home with my aunts. He had to get out of my fraternity, Lambda Chi Alpha. We senior class president, Mike Murphey!” I their car in the driving rain to find the cut- always had a big Homecoming decoration turned around and faced the throng of off road to Grand Prairie. It simply was on the front of the fraternity house on fellow North Texans and waved at them not visible. The night proved to be an Hickory. One year it was a huge flag, with a big smile. When our team won the attention-getting end to our North Texas another time it was an Eagle. The year it game, it was long-time head coach Odus years! — Susan Kennedy Stinson (’64), was a hand of poker we were disqualified. Mitchell’s seventh Homecoming win in a Richardson

48 The North Texan | northtexan.unt.edu | Winter 2014 Like many UNT students, senior Colin Voss is tenacious and versatile. After helping his high school team win four state football titles, — Colin Voss, he was a top recruit for a number of Division I Mean Green Forward football programs. But Colin, a multi-sport athlete, hungered for a different challenge. He chose to pursue a collegiate career in his primary passion — basketball.

Colin, who comes from a coaching family and now studies a well-rounded curriculum in applied arts and sciences, is a natural leader. Registering double-digit scores in a third of last season’s games and ranked 14th in C-USA field goal percentage, he sends fair warning to our rivals ... we’ve got some domination in the house.

Buy your season tickets now and cheer the Mean Green to victory!

800-UNT-2366 | 940-565-2527 meangreensports.com

Winter 2014 | northtexan.unt.edu | The North Texan 1 The North Texan UNIVERSITY OF NORTH TEXAS Division of University Relations, Communications and Marketing 1155 Union Circle #311070 Denton, Texas 76203-5017 Ahna Hubnik Ahna PARTING SHOT

Mean Green victory lights are now shining brighter and more efficiently in the McConnell Tower on the Hurley Administration Building. This fall, UNT Facilities installed new LED green lights in the tower — expected to provide a 70 percent cost savings. The upgrade to one of UNT’s spirited traditions — another example of the university’s commitment to sustainability — gives deeper meaning to our Green Pride. Watch for the lights after wins. Go Mean Green! Winter 2014 | northtexan.unt.edu | The North Texan 1