Business School Receives AACSB Accreditation by Jenny Butkus

MERCERIANTHE A Publication for Alumni and Friends of Mercer University Summer 2004 • Volume 14, Number 2

Business School Receives AACSB Accreditation By Jenny Butkus

he Eugene W. Stetson School of Business and Economics of sonalized program of study. The report accreditation that a business school stated, “MAPS builds on the close aca- can receive. It represents a strong Mercer University has been inducted into an elite group of demic advisement relationship between commitment to quality in the class- student and faculty to provide a person- room and to the overall learning expe- business schools worldwide who have received accreditation alized approach to shaping an individ- rience that goes far beyond the typical. ual student’s academic program.” “Throughout my long association T The peer review team also noted with Mercer, the University has always from AACSB International — The Association to Advance the strengths of the MBA and Executive been dedicated to preparing students Collegiate Schools of Business. MBA programs at Mercer, finding both with the highest quality education meeting AACSB International standards. possible,” he added. “This accredita- Mercer School of Business During the candidacy period, the “collectively and individually demon- When learning of the accreditation, tion simply reaffirms the University’s received an official certificate marking Business School reaffirmed its mission strates attention to continuous Mercer University Trustee Robert efforts. I am pleased to have my its accreditation at a special ceremony as student education. The School improvement and innovation in teach- Hatcher, Georgia chairman of BB&T grandfather’s name on a school that in Montreal, Canada, on April 18. Of reduced faculty teaching loads, enrich- ing.” The report also said that “inter- and President and CEO of MidCountry is so committed to the highest stan- the 13 universities to receive initial ing the classroom experience, and views with students demonstrated a Financial Corp., said, “AACSB dards in educating tomorrow’s accreditation at this year’s AACSB overhauled the business curriculum to high degree of satisfaction with the International is the most prestigious business leaders.” International annual conference, only provide an education tai- faculty and with faculty six are in the United States, with lored to the needs of the availability outside the Mercer being one of them. student and the work- classroom.” “Receiving AACSB International “Achieving AACSB International place. Business facul- Regarding the accreditation reaffirms what I’ve known for a long time — accreditation is a testament to the high ty strengthened their learning environ- the Eugene W. Stetson School caliber of the Business School’s faculty, commitment to con- ment, the team stat- of Business of Mercer staff and students,” said Mercer ducting research in ed that the University is an outstanding University President R. Kirby Godsey. the field and interacting University provided a leader in business education. I “Mercer University is committed to with other practitioners. strong sense of “family” congratulate the University, providing the highest quality education At the end of the candidacy culture on both the Atlanta especially the School of Business, for reaching this milestone in its possible to its students, and this period, a team of deans from other and the Macon campus and credited long history of excellence.” accreditation is another indicator that AACSB International accredited busi- its religious heritage and orientation in we are accomplishing that.” ness schools visited and evaluated all helping “inculcate values of respect, — GEORGE ISRAEL Only 418 business schools out of aspects of the School, talking with collegiality and mutual support.” — President and CEO more than 1,500 in the United States trustees, administrators, faculty, staff, Mercer was commended for its — Georgia Chamber of Commerce have this prestigious accreditation. students and alumni. This peer review innovative Managed Academic Path to — Among the other institutions with busi- team then submitted a recommenda- Succes (MAPS) undergraduate curricu- ness schools having AACSB tion to the Board of Directors for lum for the bachelor of business International accreditation are AACSB International, who voted to administration degree. This interdisci- Harvard University, Vanderbilt grant accreditation to Mercer. plinary program, offered on Mercer’s University, Baylor University, Wake Among the strengths that the peer Macon campus, allows students to Forest University and University of review team noted in its report was the identify their interests and, together California-Berkeley. School’s faculty, which they stated with their faculty adviser, develop a per- AACSB International accreditation means the Stetson School of Business and Economics meets quality standards Commencement Speakers Inspire More than 1,600 Graduates relating to strategic management of resources, interactions of faculty and hroughout the month of Larry Braden, a 1965 graduate of students in the educational process and May, more than 1,600 the Pharmacy School and chairman of achievement of learning goals. The T students from Mercer’s the Board of Trustees for the United application process for accreditation 10 schools and colleges were States Pharmacopeia, advised gradu- takes a minimum of five years. rewarded for all their hard work, ates of the professionalism required in Mercer business professor Walt long hours and lessons learned as the field of pharmacy. Austin, Ph.D., who coordinated they received their well earned “Today you enter a profession in Mercer’s AACSB International degrees in graduation ceremonies. which all parties, physicians, accreditation efforts, said the School The University held a total of nine patients and the standards of the used the extensive application process commencements in Macon and courts fully expect you to exercise as an opportunity to review and Atlanta, and graduates heard from your complete judgment in assuring further strengthen its curriculum an array of distinguished speakers. the best possible outcome of therapy and programs. Mercer University President R. and the highest level of safety for the “Achieving AACSB accreditation Kirby Godsey presented three honorary patient,” Braden told the estimated Preparing for the Macon commencement were, from left, commencement speaker and honorary means that the Stetson School of degrees. Larry Braden, president of degree recipient Dr. David Shi, president of Furman University; Mercer University President 2,000 pharmacy graduates and Business and Economics not only has Lacey Drug Company, was awarded an R. Kirby Godsey; Chairman of the Mercer Board of Trustees James A. Bishop; and honorary guests. “Treat every person you high quality to achieve accreditation, honorary doctor of science degree on degree recipient Joseph Hillman Harvey Jr., vice chairman emeritus of Harveys supermarkets. encounter with dignity and respect; but also that it has demonstrated over May 1 at the Southern School of respect yourself, and project yourself the five-year candidacy period that it Pharmacy commencement. At the merce degree, and David Shi, presi- Below are highlights from the com- by your deeds in a manner that has effective quality control processes Macon commencement on May 9, dent of Furman University, was granted mencement speeches. To read the full earns the respect of others.” that will ensure that we provide a Joseph Hillman Harvey, vice chairman an honorary doctor of laws degree. speeches, visit www.mercer.edu and David Shi, who has written several high-quality education in the future,” emeritus of Harveys supermarkets, Braden and Shi also gave commence- click on “More News” in the “Mercer books, two of which were nominated Austin said. received an honorary doctor of comment addresses. Spotlight” box. — Continued on page 7

MERCERIANTHE CAMPUS TALK Summer 2004 • Vol. 14, No. 2

President and CEO R. Kirby Godsey university Executive Vice President and Provost Horace W. Fleming Senior Vice President for University Advancement, University Admissions and External Affairs Emily P. Myers University Offers Tuition Pre-Pay Senior Vice President for Finance Lynwood G. Donald Senior Vice President for Administration Richard N. Goddard By Jenny Butkus for guaranteed amount of tuition. the consortium and refunds are avail- Senior Vice President – Atlanta “We see this new plan as part of able if the student receives a scholar- Richard V. Swindle esponding to a national call our ongoing effort to make higher ship or decides not to attend college. At its annual meeting, Editor Judith T. Lunsford to make higher education education accessible to families,” said For purchasers, the effectiveness of the Mercer National Managing Editor more affordable and more Carol Williams, associate vice presi- the Independent 529 Plan is not Richard L. Cameron R Alumni Board voted Designers accessible to students, Mercer has dent of student financial planning at dependent on the performance of the Ginger Harper, Steve Mosley joined more than 200 other private Mercer. “This plan offers families a stock or bond markets. Rather, contri- Writers unanimously to Jenny Butkus, Denise Cook, Rachel Garza, colleges and universities across the unique opportunity to freeze college butions are actually pre-purchasing Wes Griffith, Sonal Patel country to offer an income tax- tuition rates, which means more stu- tuition, in part or in whole, at less than support the Photographers Peggy Cozart, Ken Krakow, Leah Yetter advantaged way for families to save dents will have a chance to receive a today’s prices. Independent 529 Dean, College of Liberal Arts on tuition. top-notch Mercer education in the The purchase of a tuition certifi- Richard C. Fallis Plan and to encourage Dean, School of Engineering It’s called the Independent 529 future.” cate does not guarantee admission or M. Dayne Aldridge Plan, and it’s a new prepaid college Section 529 Plans, so named for enrollment at a participating institu- Dean, Eugene W. Stetson School alumni to participate of Business and Economics tuition plan tailored specifically for the IRS code that defines them, have tion. Students must meet entrance W. Carl Joiner in the program when Dean, Tift College of Education private colleges. The plan enables a gained popularity over the last decade. standards at the institution they choose W. Carl Martray parent to purchase a certificate for Families have been attracted to these to attend. For more information on the planning for college for Dean, College of Continuing and Professional Studies part or all of tuition that can be used plans because accounts generate no Independent 529 Plan, visit Thomas Kail at any participating college. The parent federal income tax if used as intended, www.independent529plan.org or their children or Vice President for University Advancement Administration pays today’s prices, less a discount that benefits are transferable to other contact the Mercer University Office of grandchildren. Kenny Daugherty, CLA ’80, EDU ’82 reduces the cost even further. Then, members of the family, certificates are Student Financial Planning at (478) Senior Associate Vice President for University Advancement years later, they redeem the certificate usable at any participating school in 301-2670 or (800) 837-2911. Gloria O. Marshall, CLA ’86 Vice President for University Development Jay T. Stroman, SSBE ’91 Assistant Vice President of Development Richard Spivey, CLA ’94 New Administrators Assume Posts at Mercer Senior Associate Vice President of Alumni Services and University Special Events T. Raleigh Mann, CLA ’65 ercer welcomes several Alumni Services Staff outstanding individuals Kristi Dobbins, CLA ’03 Jennifer Chapman Joyner, CLA ’95 to fill key leadership Sharon Lim, SSBE ’86, ’90 M Erin Lones, CLA ’00 positions for the 2004-2005 Jenny McCurdy Emily Turner, JD ’99 academic year. Mercer University Alumni Daisy Hurst Floyd is the new Association President Kathy C. Lynn, MD ’90 dean of the Walter F. George School of

NATIONAL ALUMNI ASSOCIATION Law, effective July 1. Previously a pro- BOARD OF DIRECTORS fessor of law at Texas Tech University OFFICERS Kathy C. Lynn, MD ’90, School of Law, Floyd is one of only 29 President F. Rhett Paul, PHA ’65, female law deans in the country. Daisy Hurst Floyd Michael S. Leonard Douglas R. Pearson Bruce T. Gourley Immediate Past-President “Daisy Hurst Floyd brings a com- Dean, Walter F. George Senior Associate Dean, Vice President and Director of The Center BOARD MEMBERS School of Law School of Engneering Dean of Students for Baptist Studies Stella Jones Patterson, CLA ’83, mitment to preparing law graduates of CLA President Elijah Morgan, CLA ’83, the highest caliber,” said Mercer Bachelor of Science in Industrial Douglas R. Pearson, Ph.D., is dean of students at the University of CLA President Elect William C. Sanders, CLA ’67, LAW ’75, President R. Kirby Godsey. “Her pro- Management Program. He also will the new vice president and dean of West Florida (UWF) in Pensacola Law President M. Tyus Butler Jr., LAW ’74, fessional accomplishments demon- assist with the Center for Excellence in Students. In his new position, Pearson since 1999. Law President Elect Timothy A. Poole, PHA ’86, strate strong leadership skills in both Engineering Education and the various serves as the senior administrator for Bruce T. Gourley is the associate Pharmacy President Pamala Smith Marquess, PHA ’93, the academic setting and the legal activities required for maintaining student life services for the students director of The Center for Baptist Pharmacy President Elect community. Mercer Law School will accreditation. attending the University’s College of Studies at Mercer University. He man- G. Faye Dumke, BUS ’92, SSBE President greatly benefit from Dean Floyd’s “Mercer is very Liberal Arts, Stetson ages the Center’s web site, helps pro- Alison Carwile Webb, BUS ’99, SSBE President Elect administrative leadership and her fortunate to have a person ‘Strong leadership School of Business and duce The Baptist Studies Bulletin, Julian K. McLendon Jr., MD ’91, Medicine President commitment to excellence in teaching with Dr. Leonard’s skills’ ... ‘Mercer Economics, School of coordinates conferences and partici- J. West Hightower, MD ’91, Medicine President Elect and legal scholarship.” accomplishments and Engineering, Tift College pates in all other phases of the Sam A. Martinez Jr., ENG ’97, is very fortunate’ Engineering President During her 13-year career with experience to assist in of Education and the Center’s work. Kamlesh M. Desai, ENG ’91, ... ‘Outstanding Engineering President Elect Texas Tech, she served two terms as leading the School of College of Continuing and “Bruce Gourley is a remarkable fit Deborah Baldwin Stanhouse, CAS ’87, associate dean for academic affairs. Engineering,” Aldridge Professional Studies for the Center for Baptist Studies and CAS President experience’ ... William B. Myers Jr., CAS ’85, She is a graduate of University of said of Leonard’s in Macon. for Mercer University,” said Dr. Walter CAS President Elect ‘A remarkable fit Joy Thompson Callaway, Tift ’68, Georgia School of Law and served as appointment. “The search commit- B. Shurden, executive director of The Tift President ... for Mercer Elise T. Phillips, Tift ’63, an attorney with Alston, Miller & Leonard comes to tee was committed to Center for Baptist Studies. “His back- Tift President Elect Richard B. Thomas, EDU ’89, ’91, Gaines (now Alston & Bird) in Atlanta. Mercer from Clemson University.’ selecting an administrator ground, education, skills and commit- Education President April Page Aldridge, EDU ’96, Michael Steven Leonard, Ph.D., University, in Clemson, who could advance the ment will greatly enrich the work of Education President Elect Jana Stewart Kinnersley, DIV ’99, is the latest addition to Mercer’s S.C., where he served as a professor of University’s student life programs to a The Center for Baptist Studies.” Theology President E. Michele Deriso, DIV ’99, School of Engineering. He is the senior industrial engineering. During his 14 higher level of service to students,” Currently a Ph.D. student in Theology President Elect associate dean of the School of years at Clemson, Leonard served in said President Godsey. “The committee American History at Auburn University, Catherine Johansen Futch, NUR ’67, ’78, ’82, Nursing President Engineering. several leadership roles. He was head has succeeded with the selection of Dr. Gourley is specializing in Southern Catherine H. Ivory, NUR ’96, Nursing President Elect In this new role, Leonard works of the Department of Industrial Pearson, who brings to Mercer 16 studies and writing his dissertation on The Mercerian is published twice a closely with Mercer School of Engineering from 1990 to 1995, inter- years of outstanding experience in the subject of Baptists in Georgia dur- year for alumni and friends of Mercer University. Comments or questions Engineering Dean Dayne Aldridge to im chair of the Department of student services administration and an ing the Civil War. He is the author of should be addressed to: Mercer University, Office of University provide general oversight of the Industrial Engineering from 2000 to in-depth understanding of student The Godmakers: A Legacy of the Advancement, 1400 Coleman Avenue, Macon, Georgia 31207 School of Engineering and represent 2001 and chair of the Department of needs on a residential campus. Mercer Southern Baptist Convention and a (478)301-2715 or (800)837-2911 www.mercer.edu the School to internal and external Industrial Engineering from 2001 to students will benefit greatly from his growing number of professional arti-

Mercer University admits qualified students constituencies. He will be responsible 2003. He was named Outstanding leadership.” cles and book reviews. He is also without regard to race, color, national or ethnic origin, sex, age or disability. for the Bachelor of Science in Industrial Engineering Professor at Pearson has served as associate nationally known as the online editor Engineering Program and the Clemson in 2000. vice president for Student Affairs and and columnist for Baptists Today.

2 THE M ERCERIAN / SUMMER 2004

community news

New University Center Buzzes with Activity By Rachel Garza

ercer’s Macon campus Trustees meeting. More than 300 has reached a new level faculty, staff and students attended the M of energy and excitement ceremony. President Godsey led those with the opening of the new, state-of- in attendance through a dedication the-art University Center on March 15. litany declaring the University Center The $40 million facility, commonly a “powerful and tangible monument to referred to as the “UC,” is becoming Mercer’s rich heritage as an institution the focal point of campus life. of higher learning.” The Griffin B. Along an indoor tree-lined “street” Bell Board Room was also dedicated is a variety of offerings, including a during the same ceremony in honor coffeehouse, food court, indoor track, of the 1948 Mercer Law School aerobics room, indoor pool and alumnus for his loyalty to Mercer weight and exercise room. The and his outstanding leadership to “street” leads to an arena that seats the nation. some 3,500 for athletic events and After opening, the University close to 5,000 for concerts, with Center averaged more than 2,000 display cases just outside the doors visitors a day while school was in exhibiting historic university session. Students are enjoying the memorabilia. The facility is also home facility for more than just exercise. to Mercer’s athletic offices and They are gathering in study groups, facilities, including team locker and taking advantage of wireless internet meeting rooms, a varsity weight room, It is great to open our doors and access, and hosting such student and physical therapy center. have everyone come together and events as the wildly popular The UC also includes the new support Mercer “Mercer Idols” Presidents Dining Room, featuring and the new competition. portraits of all of Mercer’s presidents University Cen- There are since its founding, and the elegantly ter,” said plans in the appointed Griffin B. Bell Trustee Michael Junod, works to make Board Room. director, Uni- the University In January, the Mercer community versity Center. Center a venue had a sneak peak of the facility as the ... A ‘powerful, tangible monument to Mercer’s rich heritage as To conclude for exciting arena opened to host the Homecoming an institution of higher learning.’ the celebration events, such as basketball games. Students, faculty, of the opening concerts by staff and friends were amazed at the of the University national record- sight of the spectacular new facility. Center, a dedi- ing artists, More than 3,000 excited fans packed cation ceremony was held on April 15 comedian performances and the arena as the Bears delivered victo- during the annual Mercer Board of much more. ries over Georgia State University, Stetson University and Troy State University. The first two students to the first game won prime seating in two leather recliners near the goal, with pizza and cola delivered to them dur- Griffin B. Bell ing the game. Board Room When asked her opinion of the Dedicated arena’s opening night, Priscilla Judge Griffin B. Bell, LLB ’48, Danheiser, associate provost and inter- LLD ’67, and his wife Nancy stand im vice president for Student Life, said, with President R. Kirby Godsey in “My favorite thing is just seeing the front of the Judge’s portrait hanging students’ reaction when they walk into in the University Center. The Griffin the building. I enjoy seeing their B. Bell Board Room and the UC were dedicated April 15 following excitement!” the Mercer University Board of Mercer student Racquel Moxey Trustees’ meeting. said, “Now more fans can come to the games. This gives the community a chance to see the Bears.” The games in the arena gave students and faculty a preview of the center, and excitement continued to mount on the Macon campus as For Photo Reprints Please Visit preparations were made to open the rest of the facility. www.mercer.edu On the day of the grand opening food being offered by the food court’s iron on the weight machines. From Under “Department & Services:” event, hundreds of students gathered four restaurants. Basketball games taking a kayak-rolling lesson in the Click on “Community,” outside of the Center’s entrance, hop- were organized as students wandered pool to sharing a latte in Java City, Click on “University Advancement,” ing to be one of the first through its down to the three intramural courts. there was something for everyone at Click on “University Relations & Marketing,” doors. There was a wide variety of Many took advantage of the cardiovas- the grand opening. Click on “UR&M Photos.” activities for students to participate in cular equipment, including stair “We couldn’t have made this as they opened a new chapter in climbers, stationary bikes, treadmills happen without the incredible Just select the event you would like to view! Mercer’s history. Students sampled the and cross trainers. Others pumped support of the Mercer community.

THE M ERCERIAN / SUMMER 2004 3

COLLEGE OF LIBERAL ARTS

McDuffie, Distinguished University Professor

orld-renowned violinist and Macon San Francisco, Montreal and Toronto Sym- native, Robert McDuffie, has joined phonies; Philadelphia, Mercer as Distinguished University Cleveland and Minnesota W Orchestras; Leipzig Professor of Music. The Grammy- Gewandhaus Orchestra, nominated artist is considered one of the top violinists in the North German Radio world, regularly performing with major orchestras in the U.S., Orchestra, Frankfurt Radio Orchestra, Europe, Asia and Australia, in solo recital, and in chamber Deutsche Kammer-phil- music collaboration with other musicians. harmonie Bremen, Orchestra del Teatro alla “We are delighted to establish this Professor of Music, McDuffie will make Scala, Santa Cecilia arrangement with Robert McDuffie, regular visits to the Music Department Orchestra of Rome and which we hope will endure for many of the University. During each visit, he all of the major orches- years to come,” said University will conduct master classes in violin tras of Australia. L-r: Calloway Professor of Music John Roberts, Robert McDuffie and Mercer President R. Kirby Godsey President R. Kirby Godsey. “Mercer is and chamber music and offer other He was a Visiting extremely fortu- Artist at the American Academy in the Noord Nederlands Orkest. relocated to New York to attend the nate to have Mr. ‘Mercer is extremely fortunate to have Mr. Rome during 2002 and gave several McDuffie’s acclaimed recordings pre-college division of The Juilliard McDuffie on cam- McDuffie on campus ... his participation will concerts in the famed music salon of for Telarc include the violin concertos School. He has also studied with pus to share his Villa Aurelia. During his tenure in of Mendelssohn, Bruch, Adams, Glass, Dorothy DeLay, Jens Ellerman, Robert enormous talent underscore Mercer’s ongoing commitment to Rome, he teamed up with Italian finan- Barber and Rozsa, as well as Viennese Mann and Margaret Pardee. He later and wealth of excellence in every area of its endeavors.’ cier Simone Chiarella and formed the favorites. He plays a 1735 Guarneri del received his performance diploma from experience with Rome Chamber Music Festival at Villa Gesù violin, known as the “ex- Juilliard. Mr. McDuffie has been pro- our young, gifted musicians here. instructional activities to a select group Aurelia, an annual two-week festival Ladenburg,” which has been played by filed on NBC’s “Today,” “CBS Sunday Robert’s interest in becoming a faculty of promising young musicians. He will held in June. Additional European per- some of the world’s greatest violinists, Morning,” PBS’s “Charlie Rose,” A&E’s member at the University is a tribute to also perform one major concert at the formances have taken place at the including Niccolò Paganini during the “Breakfast with the Arts” and in The Mercer’s music program and his par- University each year. Concertgebouw in Amsterdam with the last year of his life. New York Times and The Wall Street ticipation will underscore Mercer’s McDuffie has appeared as soloist Netherlands Radio Philharmonic McDuffie began his study of the vio- Journal. He has served as a commenta- ongoing commitment to excellence in with many of the major orchestras of Orchestra, the Philharmonie in lin in Macon with Robert Schwarzen- tor for National Public Radio. Robert every arena of its endeavors.” the world, including the New York and Cologne with the Bochum berger at age six. Three years later, he McDuffie lives in New York with his As Distinguished University Los Angeles Philhar-monics; Chicago, Symphoniker and in Rotterdam with continued studies with Henrik wife, Camille, also a Georgia native, and Schwarzenberger until age 16, when he his two children, Eliza and Will. Franklin Awarded Stegner Fellowship

r. Russ Franklin, CLA ’88, has been nurturing his love for writ- muller.” Current projects include a Bluestone Wins Merton Poetry Award was recently awarded one ing, however, since high school. And book of short stories. tephen Bluestone, professor of Stanford University’s 10 to a certain degree, he did study “Winning the Stegner Fellowship D of English and film, has been coveted Wallace Stegner Fellowships English at Mercer. “I read a lot of texts was a huge surprise, and since new awarded the 2004 Thomas for emerging writers. Franklin, who on the reading lists of Mercer’s English scenery is always good for the imagi- S Merton Prize for Poetry of the was teaching fiction-writing to Florida classes,” he recalled. “I use to borrow nation I can’t wait to get to California Sacred. His poem, “The Rug State University undergraduates when books from all my friends who were where I can continue to focus on my Maker,” was selected from 810 he learned of the award, has been English majors.” writing,” he said. entries submitted from 22 countries. published in numerous literary Franklin received his doctorate in The poem can be read by visiting magazines. English from FSU in 2000, attend- the Thomas Merton Foundation Web The fellowship, which has opened ing on a Kingsbury Fellowship. He site at www.mertonfoundation.org. It doors for many now-acclaimed won the 1999 Quarterly West will appear in The Merton Seasonal, authors, allows new writers to Novella contest for a tale titled a publication of the International continue to hone their craft as “Strong Like Johnny Weiss- Thomas Merton Society. Stephen Bluestone “working artists” in the supportive company of world-class peers. Competition for the prestigious two- year Stegner Fellowship is stiff, with Russ Franklin, BS ’88 A Mercer Connection Alumni and Friends more than 1,500 writers applying Event could be coming to your community! annually for the 10 slots, each worth approximately $56,000 in tuition and living stipends. Visit Mercer’s calendar on the web at www.mercer.edu/calendar Robert Olen Butler, interim for future event details! director of Florida State University’s September 2004 March 2005 April 2005 Creative Writing Program and a Americus, Ga. Lakeland, Fla. Washington, D.C. St. Petersburg-Clearwater, Orlando, Fla. October 2004 Pulitzer Prize-winning author, offered Fla. Daytona Beach, Fla. Valdosta, Ga. high praise of Franklin. “He’s an Sarasota, Fla. Jacksonville, Fla. Thomasville, Ga. Ft. Myers, Fla. extraordinarily talented and Tallahassee, Fla. accomplished writer,” said Butler, Greenville, S.C. February 2005 Gainesville, Ga. “whose distinctive voice and vision will Augusta, Ga. Cordele, Ga. one day be a major part of the Anderson, S.C. Columbus, Ga. American literary scene.” Columbia, S.C. Surprisingly, Franklin was a math Orlando, Fla. and science major while at Mercer. He

4 THE M ERCERIAN / SUMMER 2004

COLLEGE OF LIBERAL ARTS

Dr. Sallie Carter: ‘Pediatrician Hits the Road’

The following story describes while they wait for their child to get the February 5, 2004 events in the past year for Dr. Sallie care they need, Dr. Carter said. She Anderson County is home to a Carter, a 1971 graduate of Mercer’s hopes to help them avoid those situa- “Local Legend,” in the person of Dr. College of Liberal Arts. It has been tions, keep kids in school, make sure Sallie Carter. Each member of Congress adapted and reprinted from three they have the medicine they need, and was invited last year to nominate up to stories that originally appeared in identify any chronic illnesses earlier in three female physicians from their state the Anderson Independent-Mail in the child’s life. “I won’t be at every for the honor. Dr. Carter was nominat- Anderson, S.C. school every day, but if I know a child ed by U.S. Rep. Gresham Barrett with from experience from previous visits, the help of friends and acquaintances July 31, 2003 then I know the next time around I’ll who wrote supporting letters. Winners Anderson County families will be be able to see that child as a follow- were selected based on commitment, able to avoid some of the headaches up,” she said. originality, innovation or creativity in associated with pediatric care with the Kids without insurance or their own their field. Dr. Carter will be South help of Anderson physician Dr. Sallie primary care physician will likely bene- Carolina’s representative in a traveling Sarah Bates Independent-Mail Carter, who has decided to leave her fit the most from her care, but all chil- Dr. Sallie Carter CLA ’71 was nominated by U.S. Rep. Gresham Barrett, R-Westminister, for a exhibit celebrating women physicians practice for a mobile office that will dren will have access to her office. national honor for her work with her mobile health-care unit. that begins this fall, said project coor- tour schools all year. Calhoun Street Elementary physical dinator Lindsay Hemphill. Dr. Carter, president of the education teacher Donna Smith visited She is paying for the trailer, the Dr. Carter has seen more than 1,000 “I think it’s a very nice honor, and Anderson County Medical Association, the trailer Wednesday at her school. truck that pulls it and the high-tech patients since she first took her I wasn’t expecting it,” Dr. Carter said. will visit the 10 Anderson School “There are so many children who can’t records and billing system inside, and healthcare van on the road in August, “I do hope that it will help promote District 5 elementary schools and the get medical care or won’t get medical will make less than she would in a nor- she said. “We’ve had a very positive the concept of wellness of children West Market Family Education Center care, but this will be so enticing for mal practice. But she brushed that response from people,” she said. She that I’m trying to get going.” The 53- with her 45-foot refitted recreational them,” she said as her two sons aside. “This style of practice is some- has administered more than 700 flu year-old Columbus, Ga., native and vehicle. She also will bring the office explored the office and tried out the thing I really want to do,” she said. That vaccinations, for instance. mother of three came to medicine late, on wheels to the Jockey Lot on to doctor’s stethoscope. attitude went over well with District 5 However, she said, she believes the having first obtained a master’s degree reach children outside District 5. The Dr. Carter is still working out a principals who toured the trailer last practice can grow. So she has made her in divinity from the Yale Divinity Jockey Lot is a huge flea market in schedule with District 5 officials, but week. “I’m not only impressed with the first trips to Iva Elementary and Starr School in 1977. She started a private Anderson County open every Saturday. said she is likely to begin school visits idea, but I’m just so impressed with Elementary in District 3. “I think this is practice in Anderson but in 1996 When kids are too sick to be in in late August and be at each school her,” Whitehall Elementary School going to be very worthwhile,” said Hugh became a staff pediatrician at the class, parents often must miss work every three weeks. Principal Kevin Snow said. Smith, District 3 superintendent. AnMed Child Health Center. Concerned Dr. Carter said the medical commu- Dr. Carter will begin by visiting about local barriers to children’s nity is beginning to recognize that the each of the District 3 schools twice a health care, from transportation to University Honors Its Finest Faculty traditional office model doesn’t work month, similar to her schedule in lack of Medicaid acceptance, she for everyone. “This is just a different District 5. A board-certified pediatrician researched mobile clinics and last ‘Papa Joe’ Recognized at Homecoming — Mercer President R. mode, a different approach that I think who has worked in Anderson for more summer bought a 40-foot recreational Kirby Godsey unveiled a portrait of Dr. Joseph M. Hendricks, better known will appeal to a lot of children and than 14 years, she provides diagnosis vehicle she custom outfitted as a med- as ‘Papa Joe,’ at the Men’s Homecoming Basketball Game. A 1955 Mercer families,” she said. and treatment of non-emergency ical office. Wellness for Children LLC College of Liberal Arts graduate, he has been on the faculty of Mercer for medical conditions as well as routine was born in August 2003. more than 40 years. Pictured, from left, are Papa Joe’s son Joseph J. December 20, 2003 medical evaluations for healthy children. The clinic is not “a big money earn- Hendricks, CLA ’86; Milton Ferrell, CLA ’73, LAW ’75; President Godsey; Sallie Carter is making even more The billing for the practice is based on er,” she said. “I’m working at a subsis- and Papa Joe Hendricks, CLA ’55. rounds with her mobile medical the Medicaid fee schedule, and tence level. I had this built on a private practice by expanding it to Anderson school districts do not financially basis and have a big debt to pay.” School District 3 elementary students. support the work. © Copyright 2003 & 2004 Anderson Independent-Mail

Former Students Honor Trimble, Nordenhaug and Other CLA Faculty — Several Mercer alumni gathered April 24-25 to observe a memorial service for Ted Nordenhaug, who died Jan. 11, 2004, on Saturday and then hold a retirement roast for Tom Trimble on Sunday. The weekend celebration was held at Camp Martha Johnson in Lizella, just outside Macon. For a detailed story of the weekend’s event, go to the Mercer Web site at www2.mercer.edu/News/Articles/040713celebration.htm.

Mary Wilder Portrait Unveiled — Dr. Mary Wilder was honored with a portrait unveiling at the women’s Homecoming basketball game. Wilder dedicated more than 41 years to teaching Mercerians. Pictured, from left, are Wilder and President Godsey.

THE M ERCERIAN / SUMMER 2004 5

MERCER UNIVERSITY PRESS

‘Carl Vinson: Patriarch of the Armed Forces’

New biography reminds House Naval Affairs Committee, as well The result of Cook’s efforts is, as its successor, the Armed Services according to Willard B. Gatewood, pro- Georgians of great Committee. By the 1930s, his folksy fessor emeritus of history at the wit, strong work ethic, intense patriot- University of Arkansas, “a superb piece legislator ism and what Cook calls “an ability to of historical scholarship on a subject of be domineering without offending peo- great historical significance.” It pro- By Wes Griffith ple” gained him the trust and respect vides not only keen insight into the of everyone in the U.S. government. prolific career of a great Congressman, During the Memorial Day holiday, Armed with credos like “The para- but a heartfelt portrayal of a man who the World War II Memorial in the mount duty of government is self- lived an exemplary life. nation’s capital was dedicated, com- preservation” and “enemy capabilities When asked what he would like memorating the men and women who — not dollars — must determine our people to take from this biography, fought and made the ultimate sacrifice defenses,” Vinson used his stature Cook replied, “I would like for people defending the nation. One man who among fellow politicians to swiftly pass President Lyndon Johnson and “Lady Bird” Johnson honor Carl Vinson with a gala birth- to understand that Vinson was a real didn’t fight on the battlefield, but legislature of real consequence and day party in the White House on his 85th birthday in 1968. American patriot that devoted his life to deserves recognition for his war efforts build up the nation’s defense. Many public service, that he considered it a is Carl Vinson. feel that he is the principal architect of noble calling, and that his efforts paid A Milledgeville, Ga., native who our nation’s modern defense system. off in the results he achieved in improv- graduated from Mercer’s Law School “In the 13 January 2002 issue of ing our military and national security.” in 1902, Vinson is, according to biog- Parade Magazine,” writes Cook in the When Vinson joined the House of rapher James F. Cook, “the patriarch preface, “a reader from West Virginia Representatives in 1914, he was the of the armed forces.” Without his noting the prominent role the USS Carl youngest ever to do so. When he efforts toward strengthening U.S. naval Vinson was playing in fighting terrorism retired in 1964 after 50 years of serv- forces in the 1920s and 1930s, a time in the Middle East, asked: Who was Carl ice, it was, at the time, the longest any- when America was more committed to Vinson? It was a valid question, for a one had ever served in the House. disarmament and isolationism, World whole generation now has grown up Though still quite capable at 80 years War II may have resulted in a much with no memory of Carl Vinson.” of age, he felt his duty had been served. different scenario. The answer to why Carl Vinson has At the last of several retirement Cook and Mercer University Press drifted into relative anonymity lies in ceremonies held on his honor, Vinson teamed up to tell the life story of this the essence of the man’s character. During a trip to Georgia on Nov. 18, 1973, Vinson’s 90th birthday, President Richard Nixon rose and said, “I have received my one individual who played such an “Vinson never sought out much announced that a new nuclear aircraft carrier would be named for Carl Vinson. From left to right, award, and you have made my day in important role in our nation’s history publicity,” explains Cook. “He also had President Nixon, Secretary of the Navy John Warner, Carl Vinson and Secretary of Defense this Congress of the United States a Melvin Laird. in the recently published Carl Vinson: no children to carry on his legacy,” complete fulfillment of what I have Patriarch of the Armed Forces. and more importantly, he never aspired sought in life.” Surprisingly, Cook’s work is the first to any other position. “Everyone in Always reluctant of fanfare, Vinson full-length biography of this master Georgia knows the name Richard quietly went to Union Station and board- legislator responsible for transforming Russell,” said Cook, “but not many ed a train and returned to Milledgeville, the Armed Forces through Congress. know Carl Vinson, and yet his contri- Ga., where he lived out the rest of his Vinson’s great nephew, Georgia’s butions were on par with Russell’s.” years on his 600-acre farm. longtime U.S. Senator Sam Nunn, is Vinson was in the House, while Russell one of several of Vinson’s family mem- was in the Senate and, at one time, in Mercer University Press bers that have been vocal about the the running for the presidency. Mercer University Press, now in its book being written. Having followed in “From time to time,” Cook 25th year, has published more than Vinson’s footsteps by chairing the continued, “Vinson was recommended 1,000 books. The press publishes Armed Services Committee, Nunn for higher positions, such as a seat more than 40 books annually, primari- knows as well as anyone the signifi- in the Senate or Secretary of the ly on subjects of history, philosophy, cance of Vinson’s achievements. Navy, but he always turned them religion and Southern studies. Elder statesman Carl Vinson chatting with his great-nephew Senator Sam Nunn on the front “Carl Vinson dedicated his life to down.” Vinson’s standard response Join the MUP in celebrating 25 porch of his farm house in 1973. America’s strength, security and free- to those who questioned his choice years of publishing excellence at the fif- dom,” wrote Nunn in a statement regard- to remain in the House was “I’d Vinson maintained his post out of a Writing the Book teenth annual Authors Luncheon on ing the book. “He also inspired me, and rather run the Navy from here.” sense of duty and patriotism. “He It was about four years ago when Saturday, Nov. 13, at the Westin I am sure many others, to serve our After he established seniority sta- developed a reputation of confidence Cook was approached by Emmett Hall, Buckhead Atlanta (formerly Swissotel), nation in the U.S. Congress. Carl tus, he exerted tremendous influ- and patriotism,” said Cook. “No one a family member of Vinson’s, to write adjacent to Lenox Square. Vinson’s story is, in large part, ence over the Navy and later questioned his integrity. When he the biography. As Hall put it, “If a man Authors in attendance will be Rick the story of American’s nation- all of the military. Believing made a statement about a program or has done enough to have a nuclear Allen, Steve Berry, David Bottoms, Ron al security in the twentieth his role to be important, project, his argument carried weight.” carrier named after him, he ought to Chernow, James Cook, Lucy Corin, century. The lessons of his have his biography written.” Louise Dodd, Hollis Gillespie, Terry leadership should be learned ‘The lessons of his leadership Vinson kept no journal, so Cook Kay, Buck Melton Sr., William Rawlings by the young leaders who must should be learned by the young relied heavily on interviews, letters, Jr., Haywood Smith and Michael protect America in the newspaper articles and the Thurmond. Authors will meet, greet leaders who must twenty-first century.” Congressional record. Cook found and autograph copies of their latest Starting in protect America in the conversations with friends of Vinson, and previous works. 1914, Vinson twenty-first century.’ such as Lou and Neta Stockstill, to For information on this year’s spent 50 years in — Senator Sam Nunn whom the book is dedicated, particu- Authors Luncheon, call (800) 837- the United States larly informative and inspiring. Lou 2905, (678) 547-6439 (Atlanta-area) House of Rep- was a Washington journalist during or e-mail [email protected]. resentatives. much of Vinson’s career, while Neta For an MUP catalog, call (478) During that was a staff member of the Armed 301-2880 (Macon) or (800) 342- time, he Services Committee during Vinson’s 0841, 2880 (in Ga.), or online at James F. Cook — Biographer chaired the active political years. www.mupress.org.

6 THE M ERCERIAN / SUMMER 2004

STETSON SCHOOL OF BUSINESS & ECONOMICS

Business School Unveils New MBA Offerings By Sonal Patel

ercer’s Stetson School of Business and cians, participants will attend classes on Friday evenings and all-day Saturday on Economics has big plans for the start of alternating weekends over a two-year the 2005 year. The School will introduce a period. No classes will be held in July. M “One of the challenges for physi- new MBA program designed specifically cians is that they are taught how to for physicians on the Macon campus in January. The School also doctor — but they also end up run- will extend its successful Executive MBA (EMBA) program, which ning a business,” said Dr. Linda Brennan, associate professor of man- is currently offered on the Atlanta Campus, to the Regional agement and director of graduate pro- Academic Center in Henry County. grams on the Macon campus. “Even doctors whose practices have business The School is breaking new ly operate their practices. The curricu- managers want to better understand ground with these two programs. The lum will focus on managing different the implications of the decisions they new MBA for Physicians is the only aspects of a physician’s business, start- make. This program is designed to Mercer’s new Regional Academic Center in Henry County program of its kind in Central Georgia, ing with foundations in business and specifically address these needs.” and the EMBA program is the first the business environment, and continu- The EMBA program, which will be skills to become global in perspective, take a 10-day trip to Europe, South graduate-level business degree to be ing to address managing human and offered at the University’s Regional improve the total quality of their firms, America or Asia, where they visit com- offered on the south side of Atlanta. financial resources and planning for the Academic Center in January, is for maximize ethical standards and imple- panies and talk with corporate execu- The MBA for Physicians, a dream future. Special seminars will address business professionals with at least ment effective leadership. tives to learn how business is conduct- frequently discussed by the School of topics such as medical informatics, seven years of work experience. The EMBA students attend class every ed in a different area of the world. Medicine Alumni Board of Directors, is negotiations and investments. program focuses on the growing inter- other weekend on Friday evenings and For more information on these designed to equip medical doctors with With the program especially designed national competition that managers all-day Saturdays for 21 months. Mid- programs, visit www.mercer.edu/ managerial skills to help them effective- to fit into the busy schedules of physi- face, while training them to use their way through the program, students business or call (800) 837-2905.

Commencement on a daily basis. Your nursing educa- On May 8, the Walter F. George The difference is not just the result president and chief executive officer of tion will provide golden opportunities School of Law commencement speaker of attending classes or acquiring Federal Home Loan Bank of Atlanta, as — Continued from page 1 for you to make a real difference in was Col. James P. Terry, principal and, in some cases, reading many the speaker. the lives of the people you meet.” deputy assistant secretary of state for books or writing more papers than “Let me urge you to do your part for the Pulitzer Prize, addressed an Dr. Kevin Soden, a national medical Legislative Affairs (United States) and a you care to remember. When to restore and build trust in the estimated 6,000 graduates and guests correspondent for NBC’s Today and an 1973 Mercer Law School graduate. theological education works, you greatest system and society in the at the Macon Coliseum. emergency room doctor for 25 years, “The Mercer law faculty, led by have had an encounter with God world. We need it today more than “I share your joy in what this was the commencement speaker for Dean [Michael] Sabbath, has given that has involved your mind, your anytime in at least the last 35 day represents, and I cherish your the School of Medicine on May 1. you every tool, every advantage, heart, and your soul,” Aleshire said. years,” Christman said in his com- potential, for every opportuni- “You are changed so that you can do mencement address. “Trust begins you are our ty to succeed as the work ahead of you, so that you with our leaders. It is a form of cap- future, our hope, attorneys in the can faithfully live the Gospel that ital that is priceless. You need to our promise,” broadest range you proclaim, honor it and pro- Shi said. “You of disciplines,” and so that you ‘Let me urge you to do your tect it as your best overly active, Terry told the become the part to restore and build trust asset. In the overly-achieving estimated 130 stewards of part process, it will graduates are law graduates. of the blessing in the greatest system and free your minds going to do great “You have stud- that God wants society in the world.’ — and those of things, but ied in a beauti- to bestow on your future col- you’re also going ful facility, in a God’s people.” leagues and associates — to create to encounter bucolic commu- Floyd Delano “F.D.” Toth, executive the products and services, and to accidents, set- nity, and among secretary of the Georgia Professional provide the inspiration, to build our backs and fail- faculty who Standards Commission, gave the Tift country to ever-greater heights.” From left, President R. Kirby Godsey presents an honorary Doctor of Science degree to pharmacy ures. How you commencement speaker Larry Braden, president of Lacey Drug Company, as H.W. Ted Matthews, have taken a College of Education commencement Dr. C. Randy Gregg, founder and respond will dean of the Southern School of Pharmacy and vice president of the health sciences, looks on. warm and per- address on May 15. CEO of Corporate Performance define your sonal interest in He told the graduating class of Resources, gave the commencement character and shape the quality of “Always seek a mission in life both your education and your future educators not only to teach their stu- address for the College of Continuing your life. My wish for you is that you that is grounded in a higher good success. You have completed a cur- dents, but also to learn from them as and Professional Studies Atlanta gradu- will summon up the spiritual fellow- and service to others,” riculum as competitive well. As society changes, so do the ation ceremony on May 15. ship, mental toughness and creative Soden advised the gradu- ‘Always seek a as any in the nation. needs of today’s students, and educa- “Write your own story … use resilience that Mercer has helped ates in his ‘Seven Speaking for every par- tors should realize the need for new your own material,” Gregg told the nurture in you.” Lessons for Successfully mission in life ent, every professor, and and effective methods of teaching, he graduates. “Pick and choose State Rep. Sharon Cooper of the Keeping the Fun in Your that is grounded every alumnus present advised. Toth also reminded graduates carefully what you want to include. 30th District of Georgia, who holds a Life … and Your in a higher good today, we salute you and that they are what they teach, and that … Don’t write your story like bachelor’s and master’s degree in Practice.’ “You are doing your accomplishments.” kindness, understanding, goodness everyone else. Use bright colors. It and service to nursing, was the speaker for the that by choosing the var- Dr. Daniel Aleshire, and love are important values that will take courage…. You will need Georgia Baptist College of Nursing ious professions that all others.’ executive director of The educators should exemplify for their to be creative…. Write…with commencement on May 1. of you represent today. Association of Theological students. (At the request of Toth, his honor…. Help us remember to “You have chosen the perfect pro- We don’t become healthcare profes- Schools, gave the commencement commencement address is not avail- laugh…. Include service…. fession to help you live a meaningful sionals for the money or prestige, address for the James and Carolyn able on Mercer’s Web site.) Remember to march to the beat of life,” she told the estimated 90 gradu- but for the emotional equity — McAfee School of Theology on May 15. The Eugene W. Stetson School of your own drum. Our world needs ates. “As a nurse, you will have an that special feeling that we have “When theological education Business and Economics commence- you to be non-traditional. Wear opportunity to counter indifference done something good for another does its work well, you exit different ment on the Atlanta campus on May your badge with honor. Wear it and lack of caring, and to offer solace person.” than you were when you entered. 15 featured Raymond R. Christman, with pride.”

THE M ERCERIAN / SUMMER 2004 7

STETSON SCHOOL OF BUSINESS & ECONOMICS

Budding Lebanese Pop Star Studying at Mercer

By Jenny Butkus decided to try out for “Studio al Fan” The glimpse of stardom tempted He still works on at the urging of his friends. After him to pursue a musical career, but his music when he ercer MBA student Ramzi switching from the classical to the the young man decided last summer to can. He practices Bou Hamdan isn’t your pop music category at the suggestion end his contract with the TV station singing with a stu- Maverage graduate student. of the show’s judges, he advanced in and to move to the United States pur- dent he knows from The 22-year-old is a pop star sensation the television contest. Hamdan won sue his MBA. He said it was a tough Georgia Tech who in his homeland of Lebanon. first place in decision, but it plays the keyboard. Before opting to move to Atlanta to the pop music ‘I’m still young ... right now I need was what he felt When he returned earn his MBA, Hamdan won second category in to focus on my education.’ like he needed home for winter place in a popular musical talent con- the city of to do. break, he gave a test back home. He was a winner in Beirut before “I was pretty New Year’s Eve con- “Studio al Fan,” an Arabic TV show going on to the final competition and famous, but I wanted to be a full-time cert, and he plans to similar to the popular American Idols winning second. student,” he said. “I’m still young. return home this TV show in the United States. This experience landed him a After I finish school, I will take a few summer to give a Hamdan has always had a flair contract with one of the most popular years and see if I can really be a star, few concerts and for music. He began singing at the Arabic television stations, and he was but right now I need to focus on my produce a new song age of eight. A fan of opera and jazz, soon giving solo concerts in Lebanon. education.” before returning to his formal training is in classical Amid the media interviews and Hamdan has been at Mercer since Mercer to finish music. He studied at the National concerts that ensued from his win, August, and he said he has enjoyed his his MBA. Ramzi Bou Hamdan Lebanese Conservatoire and sang in Hamdan continued to pursue his life as a student of the Eugene W. “I think earning my MBA will about contracts and marketing. I’ve the choir with the National Lebanese studies at the American University of Stetson School of Business and help me a great deal both in a possible learned negotiating skills, so when I Orchestra. Beirut, where he earned his Economics on the Atlanta campus. music career and in the business return to Lebanon I’ll know what Hamdan said becoming a pop star undergraduate degree in compu- “I like the system at Mercer. The world,” he said. “I can make better I’m doing when working with any was not always a goal of his. He ter science. professors are very helpful,” he said. decisions now that I know more company.” Court TV’s Nancy Grace Returns Home to Speak at Executive Forum

By Jenny Butkus The tragedy propelled her to But it was what she felt triple homicide. She was change her plans and to enroll in called to do. She likened defending three drug users ourt TV anchor and fre- Mercer’s Law School. After completing her work as a special who had been murdered, quent Larry King Live guest her law degree, she began working as prosecutor to an and she said it was hard to C host Nancy Grace, CLA ’81, a special prosecutor for major felony experience of a good gain empathy for the vic- JD ’84, returned home in April to speak cases in the office of longtime Fulton friend who had taken up tims. But in watching the at Mercer’s Executive Forum. The Macon County District Attorney Lewis Slaton in running as part of her children in the community native gave presentations on both the Atlanta. At the time, Grace explained, personal recovery from play on a playground filled Atlanta and Macon campuses. breast cancer. Her friend with broken glass, bullet “It’s really great to be back ‘There are people in our society believed she had signed shells, and plastic bags that home, not just in Georgia, but also who are too weak to speak for up for a 5K race and once held cocaine, she at Mercer University,” said Grace, ended up running in a realized what she needed to themselves. ... If not you, who? who moved to New York seven 12K race. tell the jury. years ago to work on Court TV. If not now, when? Now’s the time “An hour and a half “I told them there Grace told The Executive to make a difference.’ passed and she passed a are people in our society Forum audience she had not origi- five-mile marker. She who are too weak to nally planned to pursue a career in Atlanta was considered the murder looked at the sign and speak for themselves. To law. A lover of Shakespearean litera- capital of the world. For 10 years, the said, ‘This is not what I the jury, I said, ‘If not ture, she had planned to become an Mercer graduate served as a special signed up for!’ But I’m you, who? If not now, English professor. This dream was prosecutor trying cases involving serial proud to say she kept on, when? Now’s the time to derailed by the random murder of her murder, serial rape, serial child and she ran across that make a difference,’” fiancé, while she was still a student in molestation and arson. finish line with her hands she recalled. Mercer’s College of Liberal Arts. “It was not glamorous. It was nasty above her head in victo- The jury found the “When Keith’s world ended, my and hard and dirty,” Grace said of her ry,” Grace said with a defendant guilty, and the world exploded,” she said. time in the D.A.’s office. smile. “That strikes me as Mercer President R. Kirby Godsey and Nancy Grace conviction was just one of how I felt. Wife, mother, Grace’s perfect record of English professor … that’s not what woman’s mother greeted her with a nearly 100 felony convictions at trial was meant to be. But as part of God’s huge hug and gave her a seat in what and no losses. mysterious plan, I got a new life. It was appeared to be the family’s only chair. Grace encouraged the audience to not what I signed up for, but, by God, “She looked at me like I was transform themselves from “ordinary that’s the race I am in.” somehow going to make everything to extraordinary.” Grace told the story of her first better,” Grace said. “It struck me how “I believe with all my heart that murder case. The victim in the case the people who need the most protec- one person can make a difference. was asphyxiated with a plastic bag. The tion are most often the victims. It was Look at you, all your education, your young woman was a mentally handi- that case that turned me from a lawyer good looks, your talent,” she said capped minority named Mary. She was to an advocate — to where you care with a smile. “Your duty is greater the only child of an impoverished more about somebody else than you because your gifts are greater. As woman — a woman with no phone, care about yourself.” leaders and winners in this communi- no car and no job. Mary’s murderer is still in the peni- ty, you have a duty to not turn away. As Chick-fil-A Founder and Chairman Truett Cathy was the featured speaker for Grace recalled in vivid detail pulling tentiary today, Grace said. a leader, you have a duty to do all the Business Week. Pictured, from left, are Assistant Professor Dr. Tammy Crutchfield, Business up to Mary’s home in the government She went on to share more stories good you can, wherever you can, Week Chair Kim Johnson, Truett Cathy and Dean Carl Joiner. housing community. The young of cases she’s tried, including her first whenever you can.”

8 THE M ERCERIAN / SUMMER 2004

TIFT COLLEGE OF EDUCATION

Elementary Students Become Published Authors

By Jenny Butkus children’s books that her class isn’t familiar with and ore than 600 Gwinnett County covers up the words. She students will soon have the thrill of then gives her students copies of the pictures and seeing their work published in a asks them to write their own M stories based on the draw- hardback book, thanks to Mercer’s ings. The students can mix Budding Authors summer writing enrichment workshops. up the order of the pictures and write whatever they A joint effort of the Tift College of the library of each of the participating want. Then, after everyone is Education and Mercer’s College for students’ schools. finished with their writing, Kids, Budding Authors is a program in As the result of a partnership the teacher reads the stu- which kindergarten through fifth-grade agreement with Gwinnett County dents the original story. students try their hand at writing in a Schools, Gwinnett students are nomi- “The children really variety of formats. The students attend nated for Budding Authors by their enjoy that exercise,” said Dr. “college” on the Cecil B. Mary Willingham, professor Day Atlanta Campus for ‘This is a rewarding academic experience of education at Mercer and one week and work with for both the Mercer graduate students co-director of the Budding Mercer graduate educa- Authors on the Atlanta tion students and alumni and the elementary students ...’ Campus. “This a rewarding Tift College of Education alumna Mariah Carr (left) works with budding author Julia Fox on a writing to hone their writing academic experience for assignment during the June workshops series on the Atlanta campus. skills. Then, at the end of the work- teachers based on their writing talent both the Mercer graduate shop, they select one piece of their and interest. This is the third year the students and the elementary students with their work published inside. Mercer’s Macon campus and work for publication. program has been offered on the because the students who participate in “The children get to become pub- regional academic centers in Henry In the fall, the students will return Atlanta Campus. the program are there because they lished authors,” she said. “When they County and Douglas County. to Mercer for a special graduation cer- Through innovative writing exercis- love reading and writing and they’re receive their books, they immediately However, the Budding Authors emony. At the event, they will receive a es, the Mercer graduate students and eager to learn.” open them up and they become oblivi- program on the Atlanta Campus is hardback book featuring one piece of alumni help students sharpen their Willingham said she particularly ous to everything else around them.” the only one in which College for writing from each of the participants. reading and writing skills. For example, enjoys watching the students’ reactions Editor’s Note: Budding Authors Kids partners with the Tift College A copy of the book will also be sent to one of the teachers takes pictures from when they receive the hardback book workshops are also offered on of Education. Mercer Partners with Cross Keys to Bridge Racial, Economic Achievment Gaps

ercer has entered a part- teachers and work on instructional with whatever challenges they would “The Tift College of Education fac- “This shows we’re all learners,” nership with Cross Keys programs to close the racial and eco- like to tackle. ulty will become more immersed in Swindle said. “We can connect with MHigh School that will nomic achievement gaps. For example, if a social studies the challenges teachers are facing in the community and learn from them.” allow the Tift College of Education’s “I think the campus always needs teacher has a student who is having our community, and in turn, they’ll be McCormick said he is looking for- Atlanta campus students to gain insight to be looking difficulty reading better able to prepare our students,” ward to this opportunity to strengthen into the challenges that educators face for ways to be ‘We’re excited about a chance to the textbook, Gilmore said. Mercer’s relationship with the DeKalb with today’s diverse populations. The involved in connect. A school cannot live apart and his literacy In addition, the partnership will County School System. partnership will also allow high school the communi- problem is provide avenues for both the high “We’re excited about a chance to teachers and students to draw from ty,” said Dr. from its community’ affecting his school teachers and Mercer faculty to connect. A school cannot live apart the Tift College of Education’s faculty Richard V. social studies do research and participate in staff from its community,” he said. “We and students for assistance in research Swindle, senior vice president - performance, Mercer can pair a read- development. don’t want to be an ivory tower.” and tutoring. Atlanta. “This new partnership is a way ing specialist with the student and This is part of a larger initiative we can be true to Mercer’s mission.” teacher, and they can come up with an Alumni Student Recruitment Referral DeKalb County Schools has entered While the fine points of what this intervention plan to assist the strug- with 17 Georgia institutions called new partnership will entail are still gling student. If you know an outstanding prospective student, please complete and mail this “Student & Teacher Support Initiative: being defined, Dr. Chris McCormick, Such interaction between Mercer form to Mercer’s Office of University Admissions, 1400 Coleman Ave., Macon, A Collaborative Effort.” Institutions are assistant professor of education, said faculty and Cross Keys teachers and GA 31207. You may also call in your submission at (800) 840-8577 or e-mail us at [email protected]. paired with DeKalb high schools to the College will pool its faculty students is a win-win for both the provide support to the students and resources and assist Cross Keys faculty College and the high school. Your Name ______Cross Keys has a high number of Student Name ______students who speak English as a second Half Century Club to Convene in the Hometown ______language, and Rose Prejean-Harris, the University Center on October 1 High School ______college/universities partnership liaison for Cross Keys, says she believes Mercer Year of graduation ______SAT/ACT ______The Half Century Club will meet professors and students will benefit GPA ______Friday, October 1, 2004, in the new greatly from seeing the issues that arise Activities ______University Center for the reception while teaching a diverse classroom with ______and dinner. Bobby Wilder, EDU ’52 students who don’t speak English as ______(Mercer basketball legend), will be their first language. ______presiding at the annual event. Also, the Golden Anniversary of the Class of “I believe this partnership will Home telephone number ______1954 will have their reunion and special program on Saturday, October 2! bring positive changes in the curricu- Address ______Invitations including complete event details will be mailed in late August. lum for new educators,” Prejean- ______If you have questions or for more information, call Jennifer Joyner at Harris said. E-mail address ______(800) 837-2911. Dr. Allison Gilmore, associate dean of the Tift College of Education, agreed.

THE M ERCERIAN / SUMMER 2004 9

MERCER COMMENCEMENT H ONORS 2004 UNDERGRADUATE AWARDS 2004 Students Honored for Leadership

n nine commencements over a two-week period in May, Mercer graduated more than 1,600 students from the University’s 10 schools and colleges. The graduation ceremonies I provided the University opportunities to honor several students who had made significant contributions to Mercer through their academic and community leadership. Those awards presented during the commencement programs of the University’s six undergraduate and graduate programs are listed below.

Tara Jameson Leigh Ann Glosson Nancy Vitoria Algernon Sydney Sullivan Award Aprile M. Holland Outstanding Student Award Outstanding Specialist in Education Student Award College of Liberal Arts Leigh Ann Hendricks Nancy Vitoria received student Tara Jameson, a Glosson received the Aprile the Outstanding Specialist in biology major, was honored M. Holland Outstanding Education Student Award with the Algernon Sydney Student Award from the from the Tift College of Sullivan Award, one of the Eugene W. Stetson School of Education. Vitoria brings an two top undergraduate Business and Economics of exemplary commitment to awards at the Macon com- Mercer University. The Aprile her work as a graduate stu- mencement ceremony. This M. Holland Award is the dent and as a teacher. She is is presented to the graduat- highest scholastic honor an outstanding role model ing student who best exem- offered by the Eugene W. for her students and com- plifies excellence in charac- Stetson School of Business pleted her specialist in edu- ter, leadership, service to the and Economics in Atlanta cation degree at Mercer with community and a commit- and is given in honor of the a 4.0 grade point average. ment to spiritual values. founding dean of the School. She has taught science Jameson overcame a life threatening illness during her sopho- Glosson exhibited an exceptionally high level of academic and gifted education at Alton C. Crews Middle School in Gwinnett more year, and was so committed to her studies that she missed achievement throughout her studies at the Stetson School of County since 1999 and was one of three finalists for Teacher of the only half a semester of classes, yet managed to graduate on time. Business and Economics. Her consistent placement on the Dean’s Year for the 2003-2004 school year. Vitoria serves in many leader- Her compassion for helping others is evident through her involve- List or the President’s List every semester for which she was eligible ship roles within her school, including science chairperson, mentor ment in philanthropic organizations like Up ’til Dawn, which sup- is even more impressive in light of the demands of a full-time job to new teachers and sponsor of the Beta Club. In 1995, she served ports St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, and through her many and a family. on the United States Olympic Festival Track and Field Team and was hours volunteering and the Ronald McDonald House in Macon. She She and her husband have two teenage daughters. the 1997 SEC Track and Field 10K champion. She continues to use will enter medical school at Pikeville College of Osteopathic Medi- her athletic skills with students by coaching the running club and cine in Pikeville, Ky., in the fall. Jameson was a Mercer Ambassador. Lisa Mirsky serving as the cheerleading sponsor. Outstanding Master of Education Student Award Cassandra Shular Lisa Mirsky was the Louie D. Newton General Excellence Medal recipient of the Outstanding Cassandra Shular, a dou- Middle Grades Education ble major in psychology and Student Award from the Tift English in the College of College of Education. She Liberal Arts, was the recipi- completed her master of ent of the Louie D. Newton education degree in reading General Excellence Medal, with a 4.0 grade point the second of the two top average. honors. The medal is pre- She taught elementary sented to the graduating stu- school in Fulton County for dent who best exemplifies two years and has taught scholastic achievement third grade at the Davis through personal integrity Academy since 2001, where and character, service to the she serves as chairwoman for the Reading and Writing Task Force. campus community and a She also serves as Cluster Leader for kindergarten through third commitment to spiritual values. grade students, and is the grade level chair for third grade. Her love A student on the Great Books track and a member of the cross- of learning is an inspiration to her fellow graduate students as well country team, Shular excelled in balancing academics with athlet- as the students she teaches. ics. She often impressed her professors with original and creative work and energized class discussions through her passion for learning. She often volunteered her time around campus serving as a preceptor, including serving as an orientation assistant, an officer of Psi Chi and Omicron Delta Kappa honor societies, a Mercer Ambassador and an English and psychology tutor in Mercer’s Academic Resource Center.

10 THE M ERCERIAN / SUMMER 2004

MERCER COMMENCEMENT H ONORS 2004 FACULTY AWARDS 2004

Six Faculty Awarded for Academic Excellence

ix of Mercer University’s finest undergraduate professors were S honored at a special awards ceremony spring semester for their commitment to providing the highest quality education to their students.

Helen Grady Allen Lynch Catherine Gardner The Vulcan Award for Teaching Excellence Distinguished Faculty Award — The Excellence in Teaching Award — This year’s recipient of Eugene W. Stetson School of Business and Economics Tift College of Education the Vulcan Award for Dr. Allen Kenneth Lynch, The Tift College of Teaching Excellence was Dr. associate professor of eco- Education presented The Helen M. Grady, associate nomics and quantitative meth- Excellence in Teaching Award professor of technical com- ods, was honored with the to Dr. Catherine Gardner, munication in the School of Distinguished Faculty Award associate professor of Engineering. Each year, the by the Eugene W. Stetson teacher education. Gardner Southeast Division of the School of Business and joined the Tift College of Vulcan Materials company Economics. Lynch joined the Education as a full time facul- presents this award to a Mercer faculty in 2000. Prior ty member in 1991. member of the Mercer to Mercer, he worked as a A model educator, stu- University faculty who has senior demographic research dent advocate, lifelong learn- made outstanding contribu- analyst for the Blockbuster er and transforming practi- tions to undergraduate edu- Entertainment Group. tioner, her passion for sci- cation, student learning and campus life. He has published a vari- ence and teaching engenders Grady joined the faculty of Mercer School of Engineering in ety of journal articles, including “Identifying the NCAA Tournament within her students a love of discovery, inquiry and intellectual 1991 with more than a decade of industry experience leading a Dance Card,” a statistical model which accurately predicted 94 per- curiosity. She has consistently participated in professional develop- technical communication unit. Her teaching exemplifies the very cent of college basketball teams that earned At-Large bids for the ment and research projects to improve her practice. She has attend- best in engaging students in active, real-world learning experiences NCAA Tournament over the last 10 years. This article prompted sto- ed workshops, conducted research, published articles, or presented through imaginative and challenging collaborative projects. From ries related to this research to appear in The New York Times, papers and presentations every year since 1966. Her colleagues rec- freshmen to graduate students, all praise her depth of knowledge Investors’ Business Daily, and The Wall Street Journal, as well as ognize for her high academic standards for both herself but for her and caring for their personal and professional growth. Grady also is several Associated Press outlets. Lynch’s elective economics courses students. One student described her as “an extraordinary teacher the founder and director of the Center for Excellence in are oversubscribed, and students in both quantitative methods and who inspires students to gain new perspectives, to ask their own Engineering Education at Mercer, and has focused faculty attention economics courses give him superior marks. He also developed a questions rather than respond only to those tendered, and to seek on ways to improve teaching and learning in engineering. graduate course that has received rave reviews from master’s degree perpetually the slaking of their own innate thirst for knowledge.” students who are able to learn statistical tools by applying them in a Mary Ann Drake course project to solve a problem for their current employer. Timothy Craker Spencer B. King Jr. Distinguished Professor Award — Teacher of the Year Award — College of Liberal Arts Kevin Barnett College of Continuing and Professional Studies The College of Liberal School of Engineering Teacher of the Year Award Dr. Timothy Craker, asso- Arts honored Dr. Mary Ann Dr. Kevin Barnett, assis- ciate professor of liberal Drake, professor and chair of tant professor of electrical studies, was this year’s the Interdisciplinary Studies engineering, was awarded recipient of the Teacher of Department, with the Spencer the School of Engineering the Year Award for the B. King Jr. Distinguished Teacher of the Year Award. College of Continuing and Professor Award. This award Barnett joined the faculty of Professional Studies. He commemorates the career of Mercer School of joined the Mercer communi- Spencer B. King Jr. a distin- Engineering in 1993. ty in 1994. guished Southern historian At Mercer, he has taught Craker has brought to and beloved teacher in the 11 different undergraduate Mercer a vision and deter- College of Liberal Arts for courses and nine graduate mination that have resulted more than 30 years. courses, many of which he in programs of foreign study, Drake joined the Mercer developed. His primary area individualized opportunities faculty in 1982 and has taken on many roles over the past 22 years. of emphasis is Digital Signal for working adults to tailor their academic life to meet particular She has taught programs in psychology, education and interdiscipli- Processing. Barnett has been involved in the continued develop- career and personal goals and the enhancement of writing as a nary studies, and has provided leadership in forming and development of the University’s computer engineering program. He has also basic component of the Mercer experience. Students point to his ing the Great Books, Freshman Year Seminar and Women’s and had a significant impact on both the undergraduate and graduate creativity, sensitivity and caring in the classroom while maintaining Gender Studies programs. Drake has a notable gift for sensing how level programs in electrical engineering through the development of challenging standards for their performance. Colleagues value his to frame the issues of today for students and colleagues alike. She various courses. This was Barnett’s third time receiving the School friendship, seek his advice and trust his judgment. Ever concerned has advocated tirelessly for the idea that everyone in the Mercer of Engineering Teacher of the Year Award. to keep Mercer true to its mission, he has been a consistent advo- community, regardless of race, class, or sexual orientation, should cate for integrity in purpose and practice. have a seat at the table. Whether in a Capstone class on Death and Dying or a conversation with a student, she has a gift for dealing with critical issues with sensitivity and principles.

THE M ERCERIAN / SUMMER 2004 11

SCHOOL OF ENGINEERING

Students Learn Link Between Religion and Science By Jenny Butkus

raditionally people may not immediately see opens doors for lots of interesting Hiroshima, Japan, Aug. 6, 1945. With the designer, just as there is interplay discussion.” this tragedy, he said, humans realized between human beings and God. a strong link between the study of engineering These are just the type of the destruction science can cause. Walker demonstrates to the students and the study of theology. But Dr. Graham discussions Walker enjoys having. “We better have values that drive that there are similarities in the way T He was awarded a grant a few years technology,” he said. God relates to the world and the way Walker, associate dean and associate professor ago from the John Templeton In his discussions with the they relate to their robots. Foundation to create and teach course engineering students, Walker draws Aldridge and Walker both agree of theology at McAfee, says it is extremely important for at McAfee titled “Science, Religion and many parallels between religion and that students have benefited greatly engineering students to understand that religion and engineering, the Sacred Self.” He has studied the science. He explains to the students from the class. relationship between “We hope classes like or more broadly religion and science, are, in fact, interrelated. science and religion ‘We discuss how humanity has been given a gift this show students to see intensively, including having to create things, and we explore for what how biology, psychology Mercer School of Engineering Dean the two-semester Freshman Honors spent time at the Center and theology are important Dayne Aldridge agrees. That’s why he Seminar, in which they design and for Theology and Natural purposes we create things. Can we be co-creators to future engineering asked Walker to teach a one-day class construct self-governing, electro- Science, an affiliate of the with God and create in the ‘image of God?’’’ practice,” Aldridge said. to students as a part of the Engineering mechanical devices. Graduate Theological Union Walker said he hopes Freshman Honors Seminar. “Our study of autonomous robots in Berkeley, Calif. that as students they are creators, the class helps the students begin to Since the engineering honors raises many ‘God questions,’” Aldridge “Without a doubt, science and just as God is Creator. “We discuss see analogies between faith and program’s inception three years ago, said. “The course is designed to move religion have always had a close how humanity has been given a gift to science. “I hope theses students will Walker has taught Freshman Honors from a systems description of a self- relationship” Walker said. create things, and we explore for what use their sharp, agile minds to bring students how people in both the governing robot to a description of a “Unfortunately, however, too often purposes we create things,” he said. discussions on the topic into their theological realm and the engineering human being as a self-governing entity people see the fields as separate. “Can we be co-creators with God and communities of faith and that they field can benefit from an understanding with abilities, needs and limitations. We need desperately not to do this. create in the ‘image of God?’” will help open the door to a mutually of how one affects the other. Our quest to determine whether it The two fields need each other.” And in designing robots, the beneficial relationship between The class is part of a series of may be possible to design a robot As a case in point, Walker notes students have realized there is people in the scientific community discussions students partake in during that exhibits human-like behavior the dropping of the atomic bomb on interplay between the designed and and people in communities of faith.”

Robots Face Off in Botball Competition at Mercer By Jenny Butkus

A new sport is becoming all School in Buford, Ga., won first place “It’s a high-energy game, and robots their robot kits — giving them six anticipate what the competition will and are now preparing to go to the are absolutely captivating to students. weeks to build and program their do. Sometimes you can become the rage. It’s called Botball, national competition this summer. This is a unique way to get students robots and to prepare for Botball. enamored with your own ideas,” and it takes smarts, rather As this new sport, sponsored by interested in engineering,” Dr. Phillip Dr. Dayne Aldridge, dean of the he said with a smile. “But in this the KISS Institute for Practical Olivier, the Mercer electrical and School of Engineering, said once the competition, as well as in the industry, than physical stamina, to win. Robotics, sweeps the computer engineering students arrive at the Botball it’s important to remember that others nation, Mercer is playing ‘It’s a high-energy professor who competition, they learn some more could have come up with a very o become a Botball a lead role. Mercer game, and robots coordinates the Georgia important lessons that will later similar idea or even a better idea. champion, students must hosted the first-ever are absolutely Botball tournament, said. transfer to their engineering careers. Through Botball, students learn to build and program robots Georgia high school Through Botball, “Students learn they have to try to appreciate the ingenuity of others.” T captivating to to perform a series of tasks. The Botball tournament in students get a taste of students. This is a students then bring their robots to a 2002. And this spring most of the engineering competition to see who built the Mercer brought the unique way to get disciplines. In order superior “bot” — meaning which Botball regional students interested to create and program Mercer University robot can place the black or white tournament back for the in engineering.’ robots, they must use balls on the 4’ x 8’ board in the third straight year to the mechanical engineering, Alumni Online Directory scoring position the fastest. Macon campus. Mercer hosted nine electrical engineering and computer In the recent Georgia regional high school teams from Georgia, programming principles. Olivier said Debuting Aug. 17 Botball tournament at Mercer in April, Alabama and Tennessee in an intense once students begin putting together a group of students from Buford High series of Botball matches. the robot, which is made from Coming Soon ... A new service will be available for all alumni at no cost easy-to-use Legos, and the to the alumni user! An easy and convenient way to reconnect with your robot does a task they alma mater and fellow Mercerians with the Alumni Online Directory. program it to do, they The Online Community will enable registered alumni to: become “hooked.” I Search for Mercer Alumni

“Robots are just fun. I Update your Alumni Information

Learning is hard work,” I Post interesting facts about your life since Mercer

Olivier said. “It’s nice to I Read interesting facts about other Mercer Alumni have fun with it I Have access to permanent email address occasionally.” To register for the To participate, student Online Directory, you must 0000052753 teams purchased a kit have an identification number Jesse Mercer 1000 Maple Str provided by the KISS from Mercer. This number ¯ eet is located at the top of your Macon, Geor Institute. Six weeks before gia 31220 address label, located on the competition, Mercer the back of this Mercerian. held a workshop for To register for the Alumni Online Directory on or after teachers from participating Aug.17, please visit the Mercer website at www.mercer.edu. high schools to go over Questions? Please call Kristi Dobbins at (800) 837-2911. Students from Buford High School prepare to face off with students from Campbell High School in the the rules and regulations. 2004 Georgia Botball tournament at Mercer. The students are then given

12 THE M ERCERIAN / SUMMER 2004

SCHOOL OF ENGINEERING

Mercer Reaffirms Partnership with Robins Air Logistics Center By Jenny Butkus

ercer University President R. Kirby Godsey and Warner Robins Air Logistics Center M (WR-ALC) Commander Brig. Gen. Michael A. Collings recently reaffirmed a longstanding partnership between the University and the Base.

Godsey and Collings recently Mercer University School of signed a modified educational Engineering now provides the partnership agreement between the largest percentage of engineers WR-ALC and the University. The to Robins of any educational University established the School of institution in the nation, with an estimated 40 percent of ‘By educating young men the new engineers hired by the Base this fiscal year and women to become being Mercer graduates. Mercer University President R. Kirby Godsey (left) and Warner Robins Air Logistics Center highly qualified engineers, “The University values Commander Brig. Gen. Michael A. Collings shake hands after signing papers reaffirming Mercer is enabling Robins its partnership with Warner Robins The partnership agreement a longstanding partnership between the University and the Base. to accomplish its critical Air Logistics Center,” Godsey said. provides a win-win situation between “We have an institutional commitment WR-ALC and Mercer in the area of knowledge, along with the opportunity Dean Dayne Aldridge. “Our students work of defending and to strengthening the communities we research and development. In part, to work on practical problems of the have a more in-depth knowledge of securing our nation.’ serve as well as our state and our the Center benefits from attaining Department of Defense and the translating theory into practice so nation through quality education. extra assistance and a new perspective aerospace industry. they can better address the important Engineering in 1985 as a commitment By educating young men and women in research and development areas of “This partnership enables us to engineering needs of the Base and Air to assist WR-ALC in fulfilling its to become highly qualified engineers, interest to its work, and Mercer prepare engineering students with a Logistics Center when they graduate. mission by providing well-rounded, Mercer is enabling Robins to students, faculty and staff have access level of expertise that would not be And our faculty and staff benefit from highly educated engineers in the accomplish its critical work of to resources, such as unique, state-of- available only in the classroom opportunities to continue important Central Georgia area. defending and securing our nation.” the-art equipment and expert setting,” said School of Engineering research in their fields of expertise.”

Please complete the form, detach and mail to Mercer University.

Alumni... Commemorate Your Time at Mercer. Mercer University is in the process of designing and building a brick-lined plaza that will serve as the campus entryway to the new University Center. Alumni, students, parents and friends of Mercer have the unique opportunity to preserve their memories by purchasing a brick that will help line this pathway. Your $100, tax deductible gift secures a personalized brick that can include your name, year of graduation, and even your primary student organization, such as a fraternity, sorority, BSU or SGA — up to three lines on the face of the brick. As part of this offer, Mercer University will send a written acknowledgment of your gift, including the wording as it will appear on the brick.

YES, I want to participate in this unique opportunity!

Your Name Class Year

Address Phone

City/State/Zip Freshmen Battle It Please print your name as you would like it to appear on the brick. One character (including letters, spaces, punctuation marks, etc. — Greek letters may be used) per block and a maximum of 14 characters per line.

Out During Field Day Line 1 IIIIIIIIIIIIII An estimated 120 engineering students put their designs to test during Line 2 Freshman Design Competition Field Day spring semester. Students enrolled IIIIIIIIIIIIII in EGR 107 – Introduction to Engineering Design – began the semester Line 3 by building self-propelled cars made from note cards, rubber bands and IIIIIIIIIIIIII other supplies. Abbreviations for Colleges & Schools Their next assignment was to design and build vehicles for use in the CLA College of Liberal Arts ENG School of Engineering PHA Southern School of Pharmacy Freshman Design Competition Field Day in April. Using K'Nex building kits, BUS Stetson School of Business & Economics LAW Walter F. George School of Law THEO McAfee School of Theology which are plastic building pieces similar to old Erector sets, student teams EDU Tift College of Education MD School of Medicine TIFT Tift College crafted vehicles to perform specific tasks. The course culminated with the Please return this form with your check, payable to Mercer University, to The Office of Alumni Services, competition field day, and students competed in various events, include 1400 Coleman Ave., Macon, Georgia 31207. Questions? Please call Kristi Dobbins at (800) 837-2911 for more information. boat, amphibious, dragster, cable car, rampster and tug-o-war.

THE M ERCERIAN / SUMMER 2004 13

MERCER ATHLETICS UPDATE

Raptors Name Mercer Alumnus Mitchell Head Coach

am Mitchell understands there might be questions points scored in a season (774) and career (1,986). about his inexperience as a head coach going into Mitchell was a candidate for the his first season leading the Toronto Raptors. So he Raptors’ job last season before it went S to Kevin O’Neill, who was fired after has a few answers. a 33-49 season. The Raptors fired general Mitchell, hired June 29 just two support staff around me,” said Mitchell, manager Glen Grunwald during the years after he retired as a player, will who is expected to add longtime NBA season and recently replaced him with rely on his assistants to help him out. assistant Jim Todd to his staff. “We’re Rob Babcock, Minnesota’s former Mitchell, a standout at Mercer who going to have guys that have coached vice president of player personnel. played in the NBA for 13 years, was many years.” Mitchell and Babcock know each an assistant coach for the expansion The Raptors gave Mitchell a three- other well. The 40-year-old Mitchell Charlotte Bobcats for the past month. year contract worth nearly $5 million. spent 10 seasons with Minnesota, and After playing for Minnesota and Born in Columbus and a star at served as a mentor to league MVP Sam Mitchell, shown with Director of Athletics Bobby Pope when his jersey was retired, was elected Indiana, Mitchell spent two years as an Columbus High, Mitchell played for Kevin Garnett, who jumped to the NBA into the Mercer Hall of Fame in 1995. He is Mercer’s all-time leading scorer with 1,986 points. Thanks to Sam’s generosity, the women’s basketball locker room at the University Center is named for his wife, assistant with the Milwaukee Bucks Mercer from 1981-85. Mercer went from high school. Mitchell is the club’s Anita, a Mercer graduate who also played basketball while she was at the University. before leaving for Charlotte. 65-49 with Mitchell and earned a spot leader in games played at 757, and was “I understand the concerns ... in the NCAA Tournament in 1985. He second in scoring with 7,161 points. Mitchell, Toronto’s third coach in good enough to make the playoffs that’s why we’re going to have a great is still the school’s all-time leader in “Sam was more than a player, he the last three years, takes over a team next season, Mitchell smiled and said, was like a player/unofficial assistant that’s been decimated by injuries. “I sure hope so.” coach,” Babcock said. “He was the Raptors star Vince Carter hasn’t played Mitchell hopes to replicate the THE MITCHELL FILE type of guy who would stay after a complete season in four years. success of first-year Milwaukee coach practice every day, not just to work Mitchell missed just 40 games Terry Porter, whose team surprised Born: Sept. 2, 1963 FT percentage (76.3); Trans America on his game but also to talk the game during his playing career due to many by holding the fourth playoff Athletic Conference player of the year Hometown: Columbus, Ga. with the coaches, with Kevin McHale, injury or illness. Mitchell wants to as a senior; two-time first-team position in the East until the final day High School: Columbus High all-TAAC; selected 54th overall by with myself.” meet with Carter. of the regular season. Porter was an Family: Wife, Anita, and daughters, Houston in the 1985 draft. The Raptors chose Mitchell over “We have to get Vince’s heart and assistant for just one year before Morgann, Maya, and twins Rhagan NBA Career: Played at Minnesota in passion back into it. We need his all, and Rhana Seattle SuperSonics assistant Dwane becoming a head coach. 1989-92, Indiana in 1992-95, then Casey and Detroit Pistons assistant just being here is not enough,” Mitchell College: Mercer University, BA ’93 returned to Minnesota until his 2002 “We had a goal to shock everybody said. “We need Vince back motivated College Highlights: Ranks first at retirement.; second on Timberwolves Mike Woodson. in the NBA by making the playoffs. Mercer in scoring (1,986 points), career list with 7,161 points, 1,773 free “Sam doesn’t have a big ego. He and ready to play.” Whether that’s going to happen here, single-season scoring (774 points), tied throws made, 2,664 field goals made, knows he has some things to work on He said he’ll implement an up-tempo for sixth in career rebounds (703), also 3,030 rebounds, and 449 steals; I don’t know, but we’re going to work and learn,” Babcock said. “I guarantee offense. The Raptors also have solid ranks in career top five in field goals averaged 8.7 points and 3.7 rebounds to be a playoff team,” Mitchell said. made and attempted (768-1,500), free in 1,053 games; assistant coach with with his work ethic and his desire to contributors in point guard Jalen Rose throws made and attempted (450-590), Milwaukee and Charlotte. learn, he’s going to be a better coach and second-year forward Chris Bosh. Associated Press, Reprinted from in February than he is in November.” Asked whether the Raptors are The Macon Telegraph, June 30, 2004 Basketball Legends Named to Conference Anniversary Team

By Joel Lamp, with Mitchell playing in the NBA for rewrote the record book, becoming in A-Sun history, with Sports Information Director 13 years and Congreaves playing in the University’s all-time leading scorer Florida International’s the WNBA for the Charlotte Sting. with 1,986 points. Albena Branzova coming (Note: Atlantic Sun Conference Mitchell played for Mercer from But Mitchell made his impact on in second with 2,515. (A-Sun) was known as the Trans 1982 to 1985 and led the Bears to the conference as well as he is second During her stint as America Athletic Conference the NCAA Tournament in 1985, where on the all-time scoring list in the A-Sun, a Bear, Congreaves led (TAAC) before 2001. For this story, Mercer lost to Georgia Tech in Atlanta. behind only Centenary’s Willie Jackson. Mercer to two A-Sun everything is referred to A-Sun.) During those four years, Mitchell He was named A-Sun “Player regular season titles, of the Year” in 1985 and was going 10-2 in 1990-91 am Mitchell, CLA ’93, and a two-time all-conference and and 1991-92. She was a Andrea Congreaves, CLA ’94, all-tournament selection. three-time all-conference S had legendary careers at On top of that, he was selection and was named Mercer during the 1980s. And their named MVP of the A-Sun A-Sun “Player of the legend continues to grow as both were Tournament in 1985 after Year” all three times. named to the Atlantic Sun Conference’s leading Mercer to the title. On top of that, she was 25th Anniversary team this spring. On the women’s side, named “Player of the Both players left their mark at Congreaves transformed Week” 10 times and is Mercer before making it to the pros, women’s basketball at also second all-time in Sam Mitchell went on to play for Mercer, becoming the the A-Sun in rebounding. the Minnesota Timberwolves in the NBA. ‘This is a great honor for two University’s only All- “This is a great honor for two of of the greatest players ever to America honoree. the greatest players ever to wear the College of Charleston’s Thaddeous In her four seasons Mercer uniform,” said Mercer athletics Delaney, Jackson from Centenary and wear the Mercer uniform. at Mercer, Congreaves director Bobby Pope. “Sam and Andrea Georgia Southern’s Jeff Sanders. Sam and Andrea played at a racked up a school played at a very high level their entire On the women’s side, Branzova of very high level their entire career record 2,796 points, career and have really set the bar high FIU joined Congreaves along with averaging 25.9 points for our players now to attain.” Leslie McElrath of Georgia State, FLU’s and have really set the bar high Andrea Congreaves is Mercer’s per game. Her point Joining Mitchell on the men’s team Andrea Nagy and Campbell University’s for our players now to attain.’ only basketball’s All-America honoree. total is also the highest is Georgia State’s Shenard Long, April Cromartie.

14 THE M ERCERIAN / SUMMER 2004

MERCER ATHLETICS UPDATE

Former Mercer Basketball Player Now Suits Up in Hungary By David Driver

t was early in the third quarter, and Mercer graduate Ledon ever since as a player. “Anybody who loves basketball, you Green had a prolonged conversation with a basketball are going to continue to play as long as referee during his professional game in Hungary’s top league. you can,” he said. I Each Hungarian team is allowed Green was whistled for a foul, and he gently pleaded his two non-Europeans, and Green’s case with the man with the whistle and the black and white shirt. fellow American teammate the past two seasons has been Patrick Lee. There is nothing unusual about a played. His girlfriend is from Szeged, A guard, Lee grew up near Charlotte basketball player debating such calls. Hungary, a town of 175,000 where he and played in college at Virginia But in this instance Green was speaking played during the 2001-2002 season. Commonwealth University. in Hungarian, considered one of the Debrecen is two hours east of Americans are generally the top- world’s most difficult languages to capital Budapest and is also home to paid players on European teams, but learn for a non-native speaker. Calvinist College, and the largest Green said Debrecen does not allow “I am about 95 percent fluent. I can Protestant denomination in Hungary. him to comment on his salary. He is understand everything,” said Green, “I am real comfortable. There are also provided a car, apartment and one after leading Debrecen to a close win in a lot of different customs you have to meal per day for a regular-season that late November in tiny Szolnok, Hungary. learn,” the 6-7 forward said of Hungary, runs from early October to early April. Ledon Green is currently the only former Mercer men’s basketball player playing professionally. Green played for Mercer from which is about the size of Indiana. Green said he is not sure how long 1992-96, and averaged 18.8 points So what was the biggest challenge he plans to play overseas. He said he “It is kind of like showing respect. “Did you see it? Did you see it?” and 5.2 rebounds per game in his of moving to a different country? evaluates his future after each season. We would have (also) done (a salute) he said. final season. “Getting adjusted to the customs. The quality of play in Hungary is if we would have lost,” Green said. But Editor’s note: David Driver, a free-lance He is the only former Mercer You just can’t go to a normal store and not as good as Italy, France or Spain, Debrecen came back to win that game, journalist, has covered basketball for the player with a pro hoop team overseas, buy something without learning some which pays some top Americans at and perhaps Green’s prodding with the according to the website usbasket.com. of the language,” he said. least $300,000 per year. But Hungary Associated Press, Eastern Basketball and referees made a small difference. major daily newspapers. He is a native Last season he was named to the Green has a degree in business is ahead of some eastern European So, exactly what does Green say, of Virginia and is spending this year in Eurobasket.com All-Hungarian first- from Mercer, and credits his college countries, and this season former in Hungarian, of course, to the whistle Szeged, Hungary, where his wife is a league team, and this season he was education for his success on and off college players from major blowers? visiting English literature professor. averaging about 17 points per game the court in Europe. conferences, such as the Big 12, Big in November. “I had a great education at Mercer. 10 and Atlantic 10, are in the league. Green, 30, was born in Jacksonville, I had a great experience,” he said. Most Hungarian games draw about Fla., grew up in Columbus, Ga., and Green averaged 28.1 points per 2,000 to 3,000 fans in arenas that do New Women’s Golf Coach spends his summers in Atlanta. But game for Falco in his first pro season not hold much more than that. But Sally Hammel, who was a four- this southerner is getting more in Hungary, in 1996-97. He then most of the fans are loud, and some year starter for the Bears from 1996- comfortable in Hungary, a former averaged 25.7 points per contest for bang on drums throughout the game. 2000, has been named the new women’s Communist stronghold that joined the Corpus Christi in the United States, and After Debrecen won at Szolnok in golf coach by Director of Athletics Bobby European Union in May, 2004. 21.7 points an outing for a team in November, Green led his teammates Pope. Following her graduation from This is Green’s seventh season as a France the next season. to one side of the court after the game Mercer in 2000 with degrees in pro player in Hungary, and Debrecen is But he returned to Hungary for the and saluted about 100 of their fans marketing and management, Hammel the fifth different team for which he has 1998-99 season, and has been there who traveled for the road game. served as an assistant coach for the men’s and women’s golf teams at East Carolina. At ECU, she helped launch the women’s Student-Athletes Honored for Athletic, golf program that advanced to the NCAA regional tournament in its third year. This past year, she worked as an assistant professional at the Greystone Golf and Country Club in Birmingham, Ala. Academic Accomplishments By Joel Lamp

Each year, the Mercer player with the highest cumulative grade leading scorer on the team with 10 NCAA Announces Certification of Mercer point average after two semesters. points, booting four goals and dishing Athletics Department hands Emerson has a perfect 4.0 GPA and out two assists. For his efforts, Canovas ercer was one of 10 have undergone the Association’s out its awards to several played in 30 games as a sophomore, was named second-team all-conference. colleges and universities second cycle of athletics certification. averaging 5.5 points and 3.5 rebounds. For the past five years, Emerson who were fully certified The purpose of athletics student-athletes who excelled M Additionally, Emerson was named has been the backbone of the men’s by the National Collegiate Athletic certification is to ensure integrity in both on and off the field. to the District III and A-Sun basketball team, leading the Bears to Association (NCAA). The accreditation the institution’s athletics program All-Academic team. their first A-Sun Championship in 2003. process was a nearly two-year and to assist institutions in improving Senior Roger Alvarez of Lake Claiming the Virginia “Cowboy” Despite being hampered by injuries, process in which some 50 University their athletics departments. NCAA Worth, Fla., won the Doyle E. Watson Williamson Award for most outstanding Emerson led the Bears in scoring, faculty and staff members completed legislation mandating athletics Leadership Award, which is presented female student-athlete was Andrea averaging 15.3 points and 8.2 the athletics self-study process. certification was adopted in 1993. annually to the baseball player displaying Shipley of Soddy Daisy, Tenn. A senior rebounds per game. Dr. Thomas G. Estes, senior A designation of certified means outstanding leadership. Alvarez started on the volleyball team, Shipley battled The Sportsmanship Award is given vice president for Mercer, served as that an institution operates its athletics as shortstop for the Bears this season, through injuries to lead the Bears to their each year to the student-athlete who the chair of Mercer’s 21-member program in substantial conformity finishing second on the team in batting first A-Sun Tournament since 1996 and displays a strong team spirit on top of Steering Committee that compiled with operating principles adopted average at .302 and was third on the a school best 7-3 record in conference. being an exemplary sportsman. The data in the areas of academic integrity; by the Division I membership. team in runs batted in with 24. The Charles C. Morgan Award that award is voted on by the Mercer head equity, welfare and sportsmanship; The second round of athletics On top of that, the sure-handed goes to the most outstanding male coaches and administrative staff. Thiago fiscal integrity; and governance and certifications is being completed on Alvarez committed just 10 errors in student-athlete was shared between Aleixo of Brazil of the men’s soccer compliance for the University’s report. a 10-year cycle rather than the five- more than 200 chances at shortstop. seniors Scott Emerson of St. Marys, Ga., team and Bobby Hansen of Ocala, Fla., The NCAA Division I Committee year cycle used during the initial Will Emerson of St. Marys, Ga., won and Ramiro Canovas of Argentina. of the men’s basketball team were both on Athletics Certification announced certification process. All 325 active the Henry H. “Trot” Ware Jr. Award, Canovas led the men’s soccer team to honored for their achievements both the certifications in May of the 10 Division I members participate in given annually to the men’s basketball the A-Sun semifinals this season as the on and off the field. Division I member institutions that the certification process.

THE M ERCERIAN / SUMMER 2004 15

CLASS NOTES

MERCER ALUMNI N EWS

Robert Parris Performs Famed Piece at Disney Hall By Wes Griffith

obert Parris, University and Orchestra” is shrouded in mystique. still living to have publicly performed it Hall. Built by architect Frank Gehry, the have garnered much attention and Sowerby, who won the Pulitzer Prize with an orchestra. hall opened in October of 2003 to rave make the organ extremely unique. Organist at Mercer, R in1946 for composing “The Canticle of This was quite a pleasant surprise reviews for its elaborate architecture. “Sowerby’s ‘Concerto’ was gave quite a performance at the Sun,” originally wrote the famed to Frederic Swann, president of the The Manuel Rosales-designed pipe enthusiastically received at the Lincoln the 2004 National Convention piece for E. Power Biggs. It was not American Guild of Organists. Last year, organ was under construction until a Center 40 years ago,” said Parris. published, nor did anyone but Biggs Parris had dinner with Swann, who few weeks before the event. “It is fitting that it was the for the American Guild of play it, until his death in 1977. was in Macon playing a recital. When Gehry also designed the first piece played on the Organists on July 8. At that time, many had heard of conversation led to Sowerby’s organ’s façade, including its Disney Hall organ and the piece, but few had actually heard it. “Concerto,” Swann was delighted to distinctive pipes, which are the grand finale of the After being interviewed on National Since Biggs performed it with the learn Parris could play the piece. Days 32 feet long and bent. They convention.” Public Radio’s Soundscapes earlier that Philadelphia Orchestra in the Lincoln later Parris received a call from Swann day, Parris perform Leo Sowerby’s Center in 1963, there had been no who offered Parris the prestigious job. Robert Parris, Charles B. Thompson “Concerto for Organ and Orchestra,” performances of it in a major venue Parris took a sabbatical from his Professor of Music a piece so difficult that only four people until Parris’s recent performance. university responsibilities last semester and University Organist have ever performed it, with the Los The spectacular piece consists of to prepare for the performance. Though Angeles Philharmonic in the newly- three movements, all of which require he had played it before, extensive constructed Disney Hall, one of the and make extensive use of a full practice was required to perfect it. finest performance halls in the nation. orchestra. Many rumors have circulated Occurring every two years, the It was the inaugural performance on in the music world as to who has or convention is the main event of the the hall’s Manuel Rosales-designed can perform it. Nonetheless, Parris, organ profession. Parris was one of pipe organ. who performed the piece in 1996 (not three organists performing for the The 35-minute “Concerto for Organ in a major venue), is the only person convention in the $274 million Disney

C OLLEGE OF L IBERAL A RTS

ACHIEVEMENTS 1956 1965 1980 1994 The Rev. Stephen Krysalka, AB, of Toni V. Sweeney, AB, had her fifth Linda Hester Browne, BA, complet- Mary Jo Kieve Hollis, BA, earned her 1945 Macon is retiring from the pulpit after book, The Rose and the Dragon, ed her chaplaincy residency at Wake master’s degree in chemical engineering Dr. Malcolm Lester, AB, was 53 years in the ministry. accepted for publication in hardcover Forest University Baptist Medical Center in December 2003 from the University presented a plaque Feb. 8 by the 1957 by PublishAmerica Inc. It is a futuristic in June and accepted the position of of Tennessee at Chattanooga. In Davidson College Presbyterian Church Elliott E. Brack, AB, retired as romance and will be released at the chaplain and director of Spiritual Life February, she was promoted to as the oldest ruling elder in years of associate publisher of the Gwinnett end of the year. She also has an article, of SalemTowne Moravian Residential environmental, health and safety site service and for his contributions to the section of the Atlanta Journal “The Life You Save,” concerning Community in Winston-Salem, N.C. manager with GE-Energy Services, diagnosis and treatment for breast working at the Municipal Electrical life and governance of the congregation Constitution, and is now publishing 1981 cancer, published in The Torch, the Authority of Georgia in Roopville. and to the larger Presbyterian Church. an executive news digest of Georgia Chris J. Brantley, BA, was named Beta Signa Phi Sorority magazine. 1953 news on the Internet. GeorgiaClips, managing director for IEEE-USA, the Ethelene Dyer Jones, AB, continues published each business day, is a 1972 organizational unit that promotes the MARRIAGES to write a column for two newspapers compilation of the most significant Charles L. Pritchard, BA, resigned careers and public-policy interests & BIRTHS and the quarterly Attitude magazine. news of the day compiled from state as ambassador and special envoy for of more than 225,000 technology She wrote a drama for Lebanon Baptist and national media about Georgia. negotiations with the DPRK in the Bush professionals who are U.S. members 1950 Church in Epworth, which was 1958 Administration to join The Brookings of the IEEE. Brantley is a 15-year Kermis M. Frost, AB, and his wife, presented May 10-14 in the church’s The Rev. Bradley D. Brown, AB, Institution in September 2003. veteran with the IEEE. Jean, announce their 60th wedding anniversary Oct. 2, 2003. They Sesquicentennial Celebration. She and celebrated 50 years of ordination as David A. Thompson, M.Ed., 1982 celebrated by taking a short cruise. her husband, the Rev. Grover D. Jones, a Baptist minister on April 7 after received his master of liberal arts Ernest W. Lee II, BA, was presented The couple resides in Lakeland, Fla. BA ’52, reside in Milledgeville. serving 37 years as a Southern Baptist degree from St. Edward’s University in with an award from the Atlanta chapter 1955 missionary in Liberia, West Africa. December 2003. He presently works of the International Association of 1962 A. Wayne Joiner, AB, M.Ed., reached 1962 as coordinator for undergraduate Business Communicators at the annual Dr. Edward A. Johnson III, AB, his 50th year of perfect Sunday school Brenda Storey Bynum, AB, was award- programs at St. Edward’s University in IABC/Atlanta Golden Flame Awards married his wife, Chumpea, in attendance at Central Baptist Church in ed the Heilbrun Distinguished Emeritus Austin, Texas. He is also a member of program Oct. 16, 2003, at the Fox October 2001. They announce the Sanford, Fla. He and his wife, Nancy, Fellowship for 2004-05 by Emory the executive board of the Texas Theater, Atlanta. He is a legal counsel birth of their son, Jeisada Kendrick, reside in Longwood, Fla. University College of Arts and Sciences. Storytelling Association and was the and adviser at the Savannah College of March 30. The family resides in 2002 and 2003 National Irish Art and Design. Ukiah, Calif. Storytelling Champion. 1985 1991 Mercer Alumna Honored in Augusta 1975 Jennifer Thomas Lindsay, BA, was Elizabeth McLeod Bower, BA, JD, Col. Frank B. Bragg Jr., BA, recently named quality assurance and her husband, James, announce the Janet Kirely Hudson, BA ’68, was recently honored as the recipient of retired from the U.S. Army Jan. 1, coordinator for child welfare for the birth of their daughter, Tessa Delaney, the James W. Bennett Advocate of the Child Award at the MCG Children’s 2003. He and his wife, Cynthia, Marshall County Department of March 29. Tessa joins older sister Medical Center in reside in Riva, Md. Human Resources. She also earned Brynn, 3. The family resides in Evans. Augusta. She was intro- a master of arts degree from 1976 1992 duced by Advocate of the Jacksonville State University in April. Child nominations com- Anne Braughton Kerr, BA, was Jennifer Brown Arends, BA, and her mittee member Rodger named president of Florida South- Cynthia Hall Chandler, BA, was husband, Gregory, announce the birth B. Murchinson, right, ern College. Her term began June recently promoted to director of of their daughter, Avery, Oct. 27, 2003. of the First Baptist 1. She is the school’s 17th presi- development for the Gwinnett She joins her brother, Knox. The family Church of Augusta. dent. She resides in Lakeland, Fla. Hospital System Foundation. resides in Travelers Rest, S.C. Ms. Hudson and her 1978 1986 1993 husband, David, BA ’68, Dr. J. Dale Browne, BS, was John D. Mills, BA, has recently Catherine Tutterow Flanders, BA, are loyal supporters promoted to professor of surgical published his third novel, The Objector. and her husband, Doug, announce the of the University. sciences at Wake Forest University The novel is a murder mystery set on birth of their daughter, Emily Grace, School of Medicine. an island in southwest Florida. Jan. 9, 2003.

16 THE M ERCERIAN / SUMMER 2004 CLA CLASS NOTES

CLASS NOTES

MERCER ALUMNI N EWS

1995 their son, Quentin James, Jan. 1. Douglas is in graduate school at announce the birth of their daughter, They reside in Louisville, Ky. Jeffrey J. Marshall, BA, and his wife, Mississippi College in Clinton, Miss., Kate, March 25. 1997 2001 Candace Austin Marshall, BA ’94, pursuing a MM in choral conducting. Rebecca Porter Bronnum, BA, and her 2000 Shelli L. Sheets, BA, married announce the birth of their daughter, The couple resides in Ridgeland, Miss. husband, Peter, announce the birth of Jeremy Attaway, BA ’00, JD ’03, Madelna Ruth, Sept. 25, 2003. She Jennifer Niemeyer, BME, married their son, Tanner Roger, Sept.21,2003. 1999 March 29, 2003. Shelli works for joins their son, Jackson. The family Stephen McGrew July 19, 2003. The Athena Bolden Lock, BA, married University Advancement at Mercer as resides in Baltimore, Md. 1998 couple resides in Kennesaw. Carlos A. Lock Dec. 27, 2003. Both are Adrienne Harris-Hill, BA, married Executive Forum coordinator. Jeremy Erica Khan Graus, BA, and her captains in the U.S. Army. Carlos is sta- Kimberly Smith, BA, married Brad Tyrone Hill in June 2003. The couple is works with the Superior Court Ocmul- husband, Mike, of Surfside Beach, S.C., tioned in Korea. Athena is enrolled in a Nash Oct. 18, 2003. The couple resides expecting their first child in September. gee Judicial Circuit with Judge J. Lee in Gainesville. announce the birth of their daughter, clinical laboratory scientist program at Parrott. The couple resides in Macon. Ashton Leigh, Feb. 17, 2003. Douglas F. Grogan, BA, married Walter Reed Army Medical Center in Jason Walraven, BA, married Rebecca Siver, BA ’99, on May 31, Washington, D.C. Mary Burgin Edwards, BA, 1996 Elizabeth Highsmith in 2000. Their 2003, at Newton Chapel. Rebecca cur- announces the birth of her daughter, Christophor J. Lyons, BS, and his Wendy Sellers Bennett, BA, and her son, Luke Isaac, was born in 2002 rently works for the Methodist Allison Elizabeth, April 10, 2003. The wife, Debra, announce the birth of husband, Christopher, of Bremen and Nicholas Asher was born in 2004. Children’s Home of Mississippi. family resides in Gainesville, Fla.

IN SYMPATHY

COLLEGE OF Margaret Zeigler Winship, AB, 1951 1967 1958 LIBERAL ARTS of Bainbridge died May 29, 2003. Charles R. Rawlins, AB, of Walter Y. Rhyne, BS, of Albany Sara McCall Dix, BS, of Ralph L. Conner, of Vidalia died Loveland, Ohio, died Feb. 3. died May 24. Greenville, S.C., died Jan. 10. 1979 1972 1918 Feb. 9, 2003. Chaplain S. Jack Payne, AB, of T. Brad Vaughn of Leary died Lt. Col. Stephen M. Knowles, Dr. Luman F. Marsh, BS, of H. Rogers Nelson, BA, of Bartlett, Tenn., died May 13, 2003. April 20. M.Ed., of Warner Robins died Berkeley, Calif., died Feb. 11. Concord died in August 2001. 1953 1980 Dec. 19, 2003. 1928 1943 The Rev. E.C. Ruffin of Decatur Roy A. Wood of Fort Myers, Fla., G. Price Barnwell of West Point Ann Maria Domingos, of Macon died June 9, 2003. died Jan. 10. FRIENDS OF died Jan. 9. died Jan. 16. W. Ellis Birch, AB, of Macon died 1933 1982 THE UNIVERSITY Addison L. Webb, of Signal Mtn., May 9. Robert P. Ruff, AB, of Decatur Gwendolyn Sorrell Sell, MLS, of Tenn., died Oct. 10, 2003. died Jan. 30, 2003. Julian N. Sparrow, AB, of Macon Macon died Jan. 18. Dr. G. Chester Owens, of Palm died Dec. 19, 2003. Coast, Fla., died Sept. 4, 2003. 1934 1944 1987 , AB, of , of Atlanta died John W. Lewis, M.Ed., of Atlanta Dr. Millard E. Agerton Dr. Irvin L. Northcutt, AB, of Lisa Merrifield Riley, BA, of Sara G. Moore Sept. 7, 2003. died Feb. 2. Preston died May 23. Douglas died June 7. Lawrenceville died Feb. 9. 1935 1946 1954 Dr. W. Derrel Hazlehurst of The Rev. Alvin Hearl Brackett SSBE Macon died Sept. 10, 2003. Louise Smith Paulk of Greens- The Rev. Joseph S. Andrews, AB, boro died March 2. Jr., AB, of Macon died April 30. of Macon died June 1. 1980 Lamartine G. Hardman III of 1936 , AB, of Athens died Sept. 13, 2003. Helen Williams Wynn Doris Reeves, AB, of Albany died William R.Durrance, BBA, of Sarah Martin Oxford, AB, of Clarkston died May 17, 2003. Oct. 17, 2003. Appleton, Wisc., died June 7, 2003. Philip H. Dohn Jr. of Atlanta died Culloden died June 5. Dec. 23, 2003. 1947 1983 1937 Carolyn Worthy McClanahan, Thomas A. White Jr., BA, of John B. Hain, MBA, of Roswell Sara K. Skelton of Mableton Russell L. Floyd, AB, M.Ed., of AB, of Norcross died Jan. 30. Gordon died April 19. died April 30. died Sept. 15, 2003. Macon died May 26. 1956 The Rev. Richard Blanchard, AB, 1988 Jane S. Struby of Tampa, Fla., Dr. Charles L. Ridley Jr., AB, of Paul R. Oxley Jr., AB, of St. of Swannanoa, N.C., died April 19. died Nov. 9, 2003. Macon died Feb. 27, 2003. Simons died April 5. H.T. Anderson II, BBA, of Macon 1948 died May 22, 2003. Minta J. Greene of Conyers 1938 1957 Joe W. Andrews Jr., AB, of Macon died April 6. C. Copeland Ozier, of Bowdon Doris Stutts Waters, AB, of 1990 died June 2. died May 23, 2002. Mauldin, S.C., died Dec. 17, 2003. Paul F. Sullivan, BS, of Thomaston Orrin Skolnick of Atlanta died 1949 died March 13, 2003. May 3. 1939 The Rev. John H. Davidson Jr., George L. Abernathy, of Ruth Petty Hitchcock, AB, of AB, of Athens died June 29, 2003. Americus died March 6, 2003. 2000 Evelyn B. Smith of Blowing Rock, Macon died Dec. 17, 2003. Valerie Katrina Nushan, EMBA, N.C., died June 1. M. Royce Gordon, AB, of Macon 1958 of Knoxville died April 5. 1940 died April 4. William T. Wood, AB, of Rev. Ralph H. Norman Jr. died Joseph Emory Barge Shi, AB, Tallapoosa died March 26. on June 19. Rev. Norman served as W. Earl Marshall III, AB, M.Ed., of Gainesville died March 10. TIFT COLLEGE Vice President of Development at of Perry died Jan. 23. 1959 Mercer from 1987 until 1999. Robert E. Rivers Jr., AB, of OF EDUCATION Joseph P. Massey, AB, of Harold P. Scogin, AB, of Buda, Tallahassee, Fla., died Aug. 28, Mrs. Virginia Childs Bootle, Chamblee died March 2. Texas, died Feb. 11. 1952 2003. wife of Judge W.A. “Gus” Bootle, 1960 William G. Hasty Sr., M.Ed., of 1941 Dr. Robert S. McMichael, AB, AB ’24, LLB ’25, LLD ’82, died June Katherine G. Fite, AB, of Atlanta Canton died Nov. 5, 2003. Eloise Kilgore Neisler, AB, of of Macon died Oct. 11, 2003. 24 in Macon. Judge Bootle is a died March 16. San Antonio, Texas, died Jan. 13. Dr. James W. Waters Sr., AB, 1954 lifetime member of the Mercer 1961 , M.Ed., of Albany University Board of Trustees. The 1942 of Macon died Feb. 12. Velma J. Rigsby Bobby L. Bedgood of Bandera, Bootles were married Nov. 28, 1928. , AB, of died Jan. 8. Dr. Joe W. Daniel Jr. 1950 Texas, died in May. Lizella died Dec. 17, 2003. 1956 Helen Walker Clark, of Macon 1962 , M.Ed., died April 20. Carolyn Wilder Dillard Gary A. Bunting of Shallote, N.C., of Cochran died Sept. 11, 2003. died Feb. 16.

CLA CLASS NOTES THE M ERCERIAN / SUMMER 2004 17

CLASS NOTES

MERCER ALUMNI N EWS

S TETSON S CHOOL OF B USINESS & ECONOMICS

ACHIEVEMENTS marketing manager for women’s consulting firm specializing in business with CoreBrix Inc. CoreBrix is a 1997 services, Arnold Palmer Hospital for brokerage, business appraisals and commercial real estate service and Lawrence K. Kemper, MBA, and his 1983 Children & Women and M.D. Anderson general consulting since 2001. He technology company focused on wife, Katie, announce the birth of their Alan L. Wilkinson, BBA, was Cancer Center, Orlando. currently resides in Canton. providing real estate professionals daughter, Avery Lynn, on Aug. 4, 2002. promoted when Marmon/Keystone and organizations process and The family resides in Macon. 1990 1997 Corporation announced management information outsourcing services. Todd S. Duffy, BBA, joined SunTrust Reginald D. Lewis, BS, was named B. Todd Smith, MBA, and his wife, changes. His additional responsibilities Securities Inc. as an investment Outstanding Young Man of America in He resides in Atlanta. Mary Kay McPherson Smith, BA include the Houston and Denver/ consultant. Duffy will serve SunTrust’s 1998, Mr. Georgia-America in 2002, ’93, announce the birth of their Kansas City operations. He presently regional brokerage firm by providing Mr. Black America Achievement in 2003 MARRIAGES triplets: Benjamin Todd, Matthew oversees the Eastern region, investment solutions and services to and Mr. Nubian Gentleman America in Jackson and Mary Margareton on May including Atlanta, Orlando, Charlotte, & BIRTHS high net worth consumers. He 2002. He is a business analyst and 31, 2002. The family resides in Lizella. Birmingham, New Castle, Southampton previously worked for Morgan Stanley adjunct professor at the Art Institute of 1986 Jennifer L. Jenkins, BBA, married and Butler. of Atlanta where he was an associate Atlanta. He resides in Fairburn. J. Todd King, BBA, and his wife, Dustin Heizer on June 21, 2003, at 1984 vice president of retail investments. Carrie, announce the birth of their the Catholic Shrine of the Immaculate Layne Graham Hadaway, BBA, was Nekita L. Robinson, BBA, recently daughter, Kayla Marie, on Jan. 12. The Conception in Atlanta. She received her promoted to director of employee Carlos A. McCloud, BBA, has passed the Georgia Real Estate Exam family resides in Stockbridge. MBA from Emory University in May relations at the Medical Center of become founder and pastor of the and is now a licensed real estate agent 2003. The couple resides in Atlanta. Central Georgia. She resides in new Abundant Love Fellowship, a full for Ben Farmer Realty in Savannah. 1994 gospel church in Brunswick. Milledgeville. 2000 Elise Hudgin Hertweck, BBA, and 1998 April L. Angeles, MBA, married 1986 1991 Jeffrey L. Williamson, BBA, her husband, Jeff, BBA ’95, announce Carey Wells on Sept. 20, 2003. The Jeanne DiAngelo Adam, BBA, has Gary Yip, BBA/MBA, began his real received his juris doctorate from the the birth of their daughter, Elizabeth couple resides in Braselton. been appointed director of alliance estate company in March. He and his University of Georgia School of Law Marie, on July 22, 2003. The family marketing for Orlando Regional wife, Hsiao, MBA ’92, reside in Duluth. in May of 2003. resides in Tampa, Fla. 2003 Healthcare. She has more than 13 1993 2003 1995 Amy Lynn, MSHA, was married on years experience in the healthcare Donald J. Humphrey, MBA, has Melvin Carol Moore, MBA, Jeff T. Hertweck, BBA. See Elise H. May 22. The couple resides in marketing industry. She has served as been the president and CEO of a accepted a position as vice president Hertweck, BBA ’94. Dunwoody.

18 THE M ERCERIAN / SUMMER 2004 SSBE CLASS NOTES

CLASS NOTES

MERCER ALUMNI N EWS

UNIVERSITY NEWS B RIEFS

The first class of students in the This year, the Southern School of Doctor of Ministry Degree Program at the Pharmacy’s applicant pool for the entering McAfee School of Theology will began class of 2004 had a record 1,822 their studies in July 2004. The School will applicants, an increase of 35 percent from initially accept 15 students into the last year. The School continues to have one program each year. of the highest applicant pools in the nation. Mercer University Press will Daisy Hurst Floyd became the new The Georgia Baptist College of celebrate its 25th anniversary of publishing Dean of the Walter F. School of Law Nursing has a record fall enrollment of excellence at the 15th annual Author’s on July 1. Dean Floyd comes to the Mercer more than 400 students. Up 23 percent Luncheon on Saturday, Nov. 13, at the Law School from Texas Tech University. from last year, the College also received a Westin Buckhead Atlanta. Mercer Alumni Get Connected During her 13-year career at Texas Tech, record number of applications. Authors in attendance will be Rick Allen, she served two terms as associate dean Ron Chernow, Steve Berry, David Bottoms, The School of Engineering’s Chapter Marietta Mercer alumni enjoyed an evening of conversation and for academic affairs. A member of the James Cook, Lucy Corin, Louise Dodd, Hollis of Society for Technical Communication State Bars of Georgia and Texas, and the Gillespie, Terry Kay, Buck Melton Sr., William refreshments at the Mercer Connection held at the Gone With The Wind (STC) was honored with two awards at the American Bar Association she is a Fellow Rawlings Jr., Haywood Smith and Michael Museum in Marietta. Sponsors for the spring event were, left to right, Society’s international conference in May. of the American Bar Foundation and the Thurmond. These authors and more will be Matthew A. Getz, BUS ’91; Melissa McMath Nohr, BUSM ’93; Thomas For the second straight year, the chapter Texas Bar Foundation. in attendance to meet, greet and autograph received the Student Chapter of Distinction E. Cauthorn III, LAW ’72; Allene Corley, NUR ’84; Pamala Smith copies of their latest and previous works. The School of Medicine, which only Award, the highest honor given to a Marquess, PHA ’93; Sharon Mills Sherrer, PHA ’84; John T. Sherrer, accepts Georgia residents into its doctor of student chapter in this professional society. The Tift College of Education is in PHA ’77; Micheline Hicks; Robert E. Hicks, CLA ’50, LAW ’51; Martha medicine program, received 634 applications The chapter also was honored with the the process of developing a master’s Ware Curtis, CLA ’65; and Alton E. Curtis Jr., CLA ’64, LAW ’66. Check for its 60 seats. The entering class of 2005 Award of Excellence in the STC Newsletter program in educational leadership for out the Mercer Connections for 2004-2005 by visiting the Mercer’s website at represents 41 Georgia counties. Competition. school administrators. www.mercer.edu and clicking on “Calendar” on the top bar.

T IFT C OLLEGE OF E DUCATION

ACHIEVEMENTS Management Group at Cross Keys 1999 Make the Woodruff House Counseling Center in Forest Park. Elizabeth Highsmith Walraven, 2001 She resides in Jonesboro. BA, married Jason Walraven in 2000. a Holiday Tradition! Carole Anderson, M.Ed., was The coupled welcomed their first Jill Lehman, BS-ECE, traveled to the selected Teacher of the Year at child, Luke Isaac, in 2003. In 2004, Middle East in January for two years Holiday Open House at the Woodruff House Stoneview Elementary School after six they gave birth to their second son, of missionary service. years of teaching experience. Nicholas Asher. The family resides in Tuesday, Nov. 30 – Thursday, Dec. 2 I 6 – 8 p.m. Stephanie McClung, BS, is working MARRIAGES Louisville, Ky. Tour this wonderful antebellum home on Coleman Hill in Macon decorated for the holidays! Live music by Mercer as a teacher and minister to children. 2000 & BIRTHS students, readings and refreshments. Free to everyone! In January, she plans on pursuing her Amy Phelps Fouse, M.Ed., and her master’s degree at NOBTS. 1966 husband announce the birth of their Christmas in Olde Macon 2002 Louise Donnan Priester, M.Ed., and daughter, Brenley Elise Fouse, on Friday, Dec. 3 I 6 – 9 p.m. Kathryn Leshea Walker, BLS, is her husband Wyman of Macon announce Jan. 29, 2003. Amy also received her Visit four beautifully decorated historic homes in enrolled at in graduate school at the their 60th wedding anniversary on April secondary education degree on May 22, 2003. They celebrated in March with 10, 2003. downtown Macon: Woodruff House, Hay House, Cannon Ball University of West Georgia. She plans House and Sidney Lanier Cottage. Adults $10, Children $2. to receive her degree in special a reception for 200 people. 2002 education/interrelated study. 1996 LaKisha Dennis Deon, BLS, was For more information, call Jennifer Joyner , CLA ’95 and BA, married in October 2002. She is an at (800)837-2911 or (478)301-2131. Michael Terrance McCain, BSSS, Julie Daniel Scott admissions officer for Wesley College was appointed city of Cartersville’s and her husband Bryan, JD ’98, of in Dover, Del., and is working on her chief of police on April 1. McCain is Macon announce the April 17 birth of MBA in executive leadership. The Cartersville’s first African-American their daughter, Avery Clare. Please complete the form, detach and mail to Mercer University. couple resides in Dover, Del. police chief. 1997 Cassie Dorsey Rayburn, BS, and her 2003 2003 Mercer University alumni, students and friends have husband, Stacey, of Thomaston Lornette Grace Dunbar, M.Ed., Amanda Lynn Rachels Nation, BAS, an opportunity to proudly display their school loyalty by announce the birth of their first child, worked as the domestic violence married Jon Paul Nation July 21, purchasing a Mercer University commemorative tag. Colby, in 2002. advocate for the Atlanta Municipal 2003. Their son, Jon Kaleb Nation, If you would like to Court and was promoted to manager Tyrone A. Hill, BA, married Adrienne celebrated his first birthday July 31, receive a Mercer University of support services in May 2003. N. Harris, BA, in June 2003. They are 2003. The family resides in Griffin. commemorative tag, please She is also a facilitator for the Anger expecting their first child in September. complete this form and return it to the Mercer University Office of University Relations S CHOOL OF E NGINEERING at 1400 Coleman Avenue, Macon, GA 31207, along with a $25 check made payable to Mercer University “Commemorative Tag.” ACHIEVEMENTS 1997 MARRIAGES Mercer will mail you a release form to take to your county tag office, which Erick R. Holsonback, BSE, completed will have your tag shipped from the Bibb County Tag Department. his M.S. in management from Rensselacs & BIRTHS 1995 COMMEMORATIVE LICENSE TAG INFORMATION Polytechnic Institute in Troy, N.Y. He Barry F. Hollis, BSE, was awarded 1995 is pursuing his M.B.A at Carnegie (Please Print) Name his master’s degree in chemical Tuan Nguyen, BSE, and his wife, Mellon Graduate School of Industrial engineering in December 2003 from Angela, announce the birth of their Address Administration in Pittsburgh, Pa. the University of Tennessee at first daughter, Paris, in February. The City State Zip Chattanooga. In February, he was 2002 couple resides in Melbourne, Fla. promoted to environmental, health Larry Compton, MSE, recently Barry F. Hollis, BSE, and his wife, Phone and safety site manager with accepted a position in Las Vegas, Nev., Mary Jo, announce the birth of their County in which vehicle is registered GE-Energy Services working at the as an electronics/radar engineer. He son, James Riley, on Feb. 10, 1998, * Your local tag office may require additional fees for commemorative tags. Municipal Electrical Authority of previously worked at Robins Air Force and their daughter, Rachael Caroline, Georgia in Roopville. Base in Warner Robins. on July 5, 2002.

EDUCATION & ENGINEERING CLASS NOTES THE M ERCERIAN / SUMMER 2004 19

Non-Profit Org. U.S. Postage PAID THE Atlanta, Georgia 1400 Coleman Avenue • Macon, Georgia 31207-0001 Permit No. 2281 MERCERIAN A Publication for Alumni and Friends of Mercer University Summer 2004 • Vol. 14, No. 2

www.mercer.edu INSIDE ShareYour Latest News! THE Alumni Services would like to keep your classmates up to date on your MERCERIAN latest news. If you’ve recently moved or are planning to relocate, please send in this form so we can keep our records current. We also want to Summer 2004 • Volume 14, Number 2 know if you have recently married, had a baby, received a promotion, 1 Business School Receives AACSB Accreditation retired or accomplished something else noteworthy. Commencement Speakers Inspire More Than 1,600 Graduates Name ______2 University Offers Tuition Pre-Pay New Administrators Assume Posts at Mercer Maiden Name ______3 New University Center Buzzes with Activity Class Year ______4 McDuffie Named Distinguished University Professor School or College ______Franklin Awarded Stegner Fellowship Degree ______Bluestone Wins Merton Poetry Award Fraternity/Sorority ______5 ’Dr. Sallie Carter: ‘Pediatrician Hits the Road’ Street or Box Number ______University Honors Its Finest Faculty City/State/Zip ______6 ‘Carl Vinson: Patriarch of the Armed Forces’ Home Phone ( _____ ) ______7 Business School Unveils MBA for Physicians E-mail ______8 Budding Lebanese Pop Star Studying at Mercer Nancy Grace Returns Home to Speak at Executive Forum Business Name ______Truett Cathy, Featured Speaker Title ______9 Elementary Students Become Published Authors Business Address ______Mercer Partners with Cross Keys High School City/State/Zip ______Courtesy raptors.com 10 Students Honored for Leadership Business Phone ( _____ ) ______11 Faculty Awarded for Academic Excellence E-mail ______12 Students Learn Link Between Religion and Science “Chip Off the Old Block” — Robots Face Off in Botball Competition at Mercer Please list any family members who are Mercer alumni. New Online Alumni Directory ______13 Mercer Reaffirms Partnership with Robins Air Logistics Center ______Freshmen Battle It Out During Field Day ______14 Raptors Name Mercer Alumnus Sam Mitchell Head Coach Basketball Legends Named to Conference Anniversary Team News to Share ______15 Former Basketball Player Now Suits Up in Hungary ______New Women’s Golf Coach Named ______Student-Athletes Honored for Athletic, Academic Accomplishments Sam Mitchell NCAA Announces Certification of Mercer ______tesy raptors.com Cour ______16 Robert Parris Performs Famed Piece at Disney Hall New Head Coach Sam Mitchell with Named NBA Head Coach Janet Hudson Honored in Augusta PLEASE RETURN TO: Office of Alumni Services, Mercer University, Raptors general manager Rob Babcock — See story on page 14.

Class Notes 1400 Coleman Avenue, Macon, GA 31207 • Fax: (478)301-4124 elegraph Or visit our Web site at www.mercer.edu

19 University News Briefs Macon T tesy Cour