Oct. 9, 2010 Page 20 ECU’S Four Star General Page 8 New Business & Conference Center Plans Underway Page 12

Aloha HomecomingOct. 9, 2010 Page 20 ECU’s Four Star General Page 8 New Business & Conference Center Plans Underway Page 12

The Columns 1 The Columns of East Central University President’sOffice Page 3 Fall 2010

The Office of Alumni Relations is dedicated to Reader’s Guide establishing and nurturing lifelong, mutually beneficial The Columns is published biannually—fall and spring—by the relationships with alumni, friends and future students. Offices of Alumni Relations and Communications and Marketing. General Dedicated staff members of this office manage friend-raising Feature Writers: Jill Frye, Cathie Harding & Brian Johnson Thurman Page 8 activities in order to preserve and enhance the traditions and Other Contributors: Catie Caton, Amy Ford, Tiffany Grant, John pride of East Central University. Hargrave & Buffy Lovelis Designers: Amy Ford, Jill Frye, Susan Ingram & Gina Smith East Central University’s mission is to foster a learning Photographers: Amy Ford, Jill Frye, Susan Ingram, Buffy Lovelis, environment in which students, faculty, staff, and community Gina Smith & US Army

UniversityNews interact to educate students for life in a rapidly changing and Alumni News and Events: Buffy Lovelis Page 12 culturally diverse society. Within its service area, East Central Sports Information: Brian Johnson & Brian DeAngelis University provides leadership for economic development and Online Version: Ryan Wetherill cultural enhancement. How to update your information: East Central University will be recognized both within Fill out and mail the form at the bottom of this page, or contact ECU Alumni the state and nation as Oklahoma’s premier comprehensive the Office of Alumni Relations in one of the following ways: Page 18 student-centered regional university, offering outstanding Post us: Alumni Relations academic programs and experiences for its students and East Central University contributing to the betterment of the region and beyond. 1100 E. 14th, PMB Y-8 Ada, OK 74820 In compliance with Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, Executive Order 11246 as amended, Title E-mail us: [email protected] Hang 2010 IX of the Education Amendment Act of 1972, Sections 503 and 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, HomecomingPage 20 and other federal laws and regulations, East Central University does not discriminate on the basis of Call us: 580-559-5651 race, color, national origin, sex, age, religion, handicap, disability, or status as a veteran, in any of Fax us: 580-332-3042 its policies, practices or procedures. This includes, but is not limited to, admissions, employment, financial aid, and education services. This publication is issued by East Central University as authorized by Title 70 OS 1981, Section 3903. Mercury Press, Inc., of Oklahoma City has printed Let us hear from you! Your opinions and suggestions and mailed 1,800 copies at a cost of $3,201.96. 08/10 are encouraged and appreciated.

Alumni

SpotlightPage 22 Been promoted? Honored? Awarded? Recently moved? Married? Had a baby? What’s the scoop about you and your family? We want to hear from you!

Personal Information Date______Other colleges/universities attended: ECU Institution ______Name______Page 27 Foundation, Inc. first middle last (maiden) Major______Street______Degree ______Grad Year______City______State ______ZIP______Family Information Home Phone ______Cell Phone ______Spouse’s Name ______ECU Email ______DOB ______Spouse DOB ______Anniversary Date ______AthleticsPage 30 ECU Grad Year(s) ______Major ______Did spouse attend ECU? ______Grad Year(s) ______Campus Affiliations and Activities ______Cell Phone ______Email ______Spouse Employer ______Spouse Occupation ______Personal News ______Legacy Information Page 35 Tiger Tracks ______Child(ren) Information: please provide full name and full date of birth ______Name______DOB ______Name______DOB ______Name______DOB ______Employer ______Occupation ______

Page 39 Did You Know?

2 The Columns From the President’s Desk Has it been a year already? July 1 marked my first anniversary as president of East Central University. The time has simply flown as I have been privileged to get acquainted with our students, faculty and staff as well as the citizens of Ada and many alumni in Oklahoma and Texas. Kay and I are very happy to be in Ada. People here are great. I have come to believe that educators have the greatest of all professions. They get to share their knowledge with a new group of young people every year and watch as the light bulbs go on in their minds. I am convinced that our educators are more approachable and caring than those at almost any other college or university. I love working with students. Their spirit and enthusiasm are contagious. I also love hearing all the stories from alums and friends about ECU. I have my own, of course, but hearing others’ stories binds us together as Tigers and, I think, shows we are part of something bigger – a continuum of history and traditions as one generation blends into another. Did I mention that I love East Central University more than ever? And one of our own, Gen. James D. Thurman (’75), was promoted to four-star general in June and took over huge responsibilities for thousands of American soldiers. I am thrilled to announce that he will be in Ada for Homecoming. He will be our parade marshal and will attend the Homecoming football game. I want to invite you to be here as well. This year has been a wonder beyond my wildest imagination. Enjoy the campus with me – see you at homecoming.

John R. Hargrave, J.D. President, East Central University

TheThe ColumnsColumns 3 ECU began in 1973. His four years were typical of any student, any year. As a student, he was given the sense that he was wanted at the university, that he was family and that he would be taken care of, a sense he would like to pass on to current students. Fond memories include rushing to the Memorial Student Union to make sure he got his favorite spot in the crowded booths and then finding it hard to leave to go to class. “I can still hear the loud voices of the happy students,” he said. “They are wonderful memories.” He remembers Billie Floyd not only teaching him tennis and how to bowl but encouraging him to take ballroom dancing. He remembers history professor Dr. James Harris giving him his first raw oyster and teaching him to approach life as a gentleman. “I would like to make sure that our students have some of those experiences to prepare them both socially and culturally,” he said. When ECU broke the barriers for students with disabilities, he was proud to be a part of that experience. “It taught us to be accepting and tolerant to John Hargrave knew last year students with physical challenges,” he said. when he was thinking of returning to East Central If current students tell him that ECU is a University to become its eighth president that, as suitcase college and that everyone goes home on Paul McCartney once put, it was time to, “Get back, the weekends because there is nothing to do on get back, get back to where you once belonged.” campus, he is reminded of the Student Senate’s Now, after a little over a year on the job, he attempt to keep students on campus with a “Don’t will take his turn with the mace and medallion, Go Home This Weekend, Weekend.” ceremonial symbols of leadership and responsibility One of his favorite memories is Gary Childress entrusted to the president, to continue what he running for homecoming queen and the national hopes is the “last job he ever has.” media attention it garnered. President Hargrave’s formal inauguration will At first the administration did not want a man take place the afternoon of Nov. 19 in the Ataloa to tarnish the tradition of homecoming queen, but Theatre, Hallie Brown Ford Fine Arts Center. The mindful of the ensuing uproar, they decided to allow public is invited to the ceremony and reception it. The talk of the campus was who was going to which follows in the Bill S. Cole University Center. kiss him if he won. Naturally, the captain of the “This inauguration is not just for me and my football team was out. family, but for the family of ECU,” Hargrave said. “The stadium was on fire with excitement the “I look forward to celebrating another page of our evening of homecoming,” Hargrave said. “It was institution’s history.” one of the most exciting things that happened Hargrave came to this conclusion a long way on campus. It was decided that Student Senate from home. president Becky Gallup would do the kissing Traveling last May with Dr. Mara Sukholutskaya, honors.” professor of English and languages, on her 10th However, the kiss never happened because anniversary trip to Ukraine and Russia for ECU Gary was the first runner-up. students and community members, Hargrave was President Hargrave left ECU in 1977 when he taken with the grandeur and permanence of the graduated with honors with a major in speech and Russian culture. sociology. The artifacts of the czars and the history they Now as president, one of his main goals is to represented made him realize that an institution’s expand activities that will not only bring potential traditions are all part of the fabric of its history. students to campus to become part of the ECU “The pomp and circumstance were essential to family and share in their own memories but to show publicly that this is how we do business,” he encourage alumni to return and share their favorite said. moments. The inauguration in the fall would become yet Hargrave would like to encourage the entire another piece of the ECU family to heed fabric that is the history the words of Paul of the family of ECU. “Get back to where you once belonged.” McCartney and “get Hargrave’s saga at back” to ECU.

Presidential Inauguration Date Set -- Paul McCartney

44 TheThe ColumnsColumns The President’s Circle round-up July 16, 2010 Wintersmith Lodge

TheThe ColumnsColumns 5 27 years, and personally, I miss his counsel and advice. His impact on my professional life was Dr.president Bill emeritus S. ofCole, East immeasurable. He was a credit to this university Central University, died March and to this community.” 10 in Ada after a battle with Cole came to ECU after budget cutbacks cancer. caused by the oil bust of the early 1980s postponed His funeral service was maintenance and repairs to campus buildings. held at the First Baptist Church Not only did he have to tackle those problems, he in Ada, followed by a memorial helped build new academic programs and kept service at Redlands Community College in El Reno abreast of the technology revolution, which he said where he also served as president. He was buried was the biggest change during his presidency. in El Reno. He also established relationships with people, “The entire ECU family mourns the passing of agencies and organizations that helped enhance Dr. Bill Cole,” ECU President John Hargrave said the university as it relied more on grants and private after learning of his death. “He was a great leader gifts to attract high-quality faculty members and pay with great vision and East Central University has for physical improvements. flourished because of his leadership.” He oversaw 21 construction, renovation or Cole, 72, was ECU’s sixth president from 1989 expansion projects, 16 endowments of chairs, until his retirement on June 30, 2006. That was the professorships and lectureships, approximately first day he had not been president of a college or $100 million in grants, the growth of the ECU university for 30½ years, since 1976 when he was Foundation, Inc. from less than $2 million to named president of El Reno Junior College, now approximately $20 million in assets, and ECU’s Redlands Community College. entry into NCAA Division II athletics. “Dr. Cole loved being a president and he cared Cole was called a builder because something deeply about those who worked for him. His sense of on the campus was undergoing either repairs, loyalty and ability to support us had no boundaries,” renovation or construction most of the years he said Dr. Duane C. Anderson, ECU provost and vice served as president. president for academic affairs. “I worked for him for His construction projects included the

“Dr. Cole loved being president and he cared deeply about those who worked for him.” Longtime ECU President Remembered

66 TheThe ColumnsColumns Bill S. Cole University Center Linscheid Library and the University Center, which State Regents for Higher Education, and two was renamed the Bill S. Cole University Center on terms as president of the Presidents’ Council for Feb. 26 by the Board of Regents of the Regional the Board of Regents of the Regional University University System of Oklahoma. The largest project, System of Oklahoma. the $27 million Hallie Brown Ford Fine Arts Center, He was a member of the Board of Directors of was under construction when he retired. Cole was the ECU Foundation, Inc. He was a past president instrumental in securing a $5 million gift from Hallie of the Ada Area Chamber of Commerce and served Brown Ford to get that project underway. on the Boards of Directors of the Ada Area United Cole, the first person in his family to goto Way and the Oklahoma Chamber of Commerce college, could count about 40 degrees earned by and Industry. He was a member of the Ada Sunrise those in his immediate family and their spouses Rotary Club (Paul Harris Fellow) and of numerous when he retired. professional and civic groups in Ada and El Reno. He received an associate’s degree from The former ECU president was inducted into Eastern Oklahoma State College in 1957, a the Oklahoma Higher Education Hall of Fame in bachelor’s degree in education from ECU in 1959, 1996, the Oklahoma Educators Hall of fame in a master’s degree in natural science from the 2005 and the ECU Educators Hall of Fame in 2007. University of Oklahoma in 1965 and a doctorate in He received the Distinguished Leadership Award education from Oklahoma State University in 1973. in 2005 in Washington, D.C., from the Council of He was born in Stuart and grew up in McAlester. Opportunity in Education for his service to federal He graduated from McAlester High School in 1955. TRIO programs. He taught biology at Putnam City High School Cole is survived by his wife Sondra, their five from 1959 to 1964 and science at Purcell High sons, Brent, Page, Rhys, Wade and Drew, and their School from 1965 to 1967. He was chair of the families, including 11 grandchildren. Science Department at Redlands from 1967 to The family designated two funds for memorials, 1975, then assistant dean of instruction until he the Dr. Bill Cole Presidential Scholarship Fund was named president in 1976. through the East Central University Foundation, Cole held numerous leadership positions, Inc. or the Falls Creek Building Fund through the including two terms as chair of the Council of First Baptist Church of Ada. Presidents, an advisory council to the Oklahoma

TheThe ColumnsColumns 7 Army Chief of Staff Gen. George W. Casey Jr. (left) removes Lt. to a four-star general at the U.S. Army Forces Command at Fort Gen. James D. Thurman’s three stars in order to promote him McPherson, Ga. Thurman was accompanied by his wife Dee.

GENERALBy Jill Frye Gen. James D. Thurman (‘75) Takes Over largest Army Command

If he were a civilian, Gen. James D. His employees are soldiers who work in Basically, he’s in charge of all U.S. Thurman would be the equivalent of the treacherous situations, and he is very much Army troops outside Iraq and Afghanistan. CEO of a major corporation – a very aware that each one is also someone’s son “My command is responsible major corporation with approximately or daughter, parent, husband or wife. for 237,000 active duty and 560,000 245,000 employees in 120 countries On June 3, Thurman, a 1975 graduate reserve component soldiers,” Thurman and another 13,000 in the United States. of East Central University, was promoted to said. “We are responsible for their He travels around the world to talk with four-star general and took over command training, mobilization, deployment and them, attends high-level meetings, makes of the U.S. Army Forces Command sustainability. The bulk of operational operational and budgetary decisions and (FORSCOM) at Fort McPherson, Ga. It is forces inside the Army rests inside this develops strategies for success, just like the Army’s largest command. command.” other CEOs. FORSCOM, which also has 3,500 But Thurman’s civilian employees, oversees three Army responsibili- Gen. Thurman will be corps and eight of the Army’s 10 divisions. Cover Story ties go a little “Our job is to train that force to send deeper, affect- parade marshal at into Iraq or Afghanistan right now,” he ing the very lives said. “The bulk of that rests with me. It’s of thousands of Americans, Homecoming on Oct. 9 a huge mission. We provide Gen. Petraeus not to mention national security. with combat units that are properly

8 The Columns Above: Following Fort McPherson tradition, Gen. James Thurman, Charles Campbell inspect the troops at the change of command Maj. Gen. Jeffery Hammond, FORSCOM chief of staff, and Gen. ceremony. Below: Gen. Campbell congratulates Gen. Thurman. manned, trained and equipped. While this generation of young people “We can never send someone’s son differs from others, “I’ve got to tell or daughter into combat without being you,” he said, “I have observed them on properly equipped, properly manned or the battlefields, and the men and women properly led. That’s a rule with this soldier today, they really want to do a tremendous from southern Oklahoma.” job, and they are doing it.” FORSCOM is an Army command They understand the Army’s core responsible directly to the chief of staff values, he said. of the Army. It also is an Army Service “It’s all about leadership,” he Component Command that reports to the explained. “How you build units and build Joint Forces Command in Norfolk, Va. – a winning attitude. It’s amazing to watch the Army, Air Force, Navy and Marines. what they do on any given day.” “I’m the Army component of that,” the Celebrities who visit troops in Iraq general explained. “When they need Army and Afghanistan often comment on the the environment they’re going into. We forces, they come to me.” soldiers’ dedication, patriotism, focus and train a lot virtually now with web-based Tens of thousands of FORSCOM politeness. software and simulators. As we get soldiers are deployed ready to send units into every day to Operation “You never stop training, even in combat. You’re Iraq or Afghanistan, they Iraqi Freedom, En- are getting the very best during Freedom in constantly conducting an after-action review of what training. Afghanistan or other you’ve done, and what you can learn from it. This is a “We are more culturally locales around the requirement in this nature of fighting. aware today,” he added. world, and in the Unit- “We’re doing more with ed States to support It’s a pretty tough enemy.” language training. We homeland defense by have to be culturally adept. protecting key national Gen. James D. Thurman We are more adaptable, assets, assisting in civil more agile. I’ve seen a defense and helping “That speaks to their quality,” huge change. protect against terrorism. Thurman said. “It gets back to the basic “Everybody has a GPS today. We They also provide assistance abroad values we have in the Army. We inculcate are fully instrumented today and fully following such crises as tsunamis and that in every soldier – loyalty, duty, digitized. I’m not using a grease pencil earthquakes and after hurricanes at home. respect, selfless service, honor, integrity and a map any more.” By the time Thurman took command, and personal courage. You’ve got to Even mine-resistant vehicles have FORSCOM had overseen the training, demonstrate that and the warrior ethos: training packages, he said. Soldiers train readiness and deployment of more than Always accomplish your mission, never with weapons simulators and with trainers 832,000 soldiers since the terrorist attacks accept defeat, never quit and never leave a who have been “in theater” to learn what on the United States on Sept. 11, 2001. fallen comrade.” is needed for real-time training. Thurman said training has really “At the end of the Leadership advanced since he entered the army in day, there’s a “Nobody joins the Army to lose,” the 1975. soldier be- Cover Story general said. “Our combined training centers are hind all that. “When someone enlists, we’ve got world class,” he said. “They use role I tell everyone an obligation to provide good training, playing and are fully instrumented. that with confidence leadership and equipment.” Soldiers train on the ground just like in yourself, confidence in your

The Columns 9 equipment and confidence in your leader- Soldiers and civilians ship, you’ll be able to do anything.” of the Army Forces Command watch in a FORSCOM building Experience atrium as Army Thurman was an Army aviator for Chief of Staff Gen. 15 years, flying AH-64 Apache attack George W. Casey helicopters. He has commanded at all Jr. promotes Gen. levels, up to the top corps level, with most James. D. Thurman in of his career focused on training. a ceremony held just “I was director of Army training at before the FORSCOM change of command. the Pentagon, and as the deputy chief of staff, G-3/5/7, I was operations officer for the U.S. Army for Gen. George Casey and Military photos courtesy the secretary of the Army. As a colonel, I of U.S. Army worked at Fort Irwin, Calif., and ran the National Training Center.” Storm from 1990-91; chief of operations a captain in the Army who had served in He also has served as the commander for the Coalition Forces Land Component Vietnam and was going to ECU through of a troop in the 11th Armored Cavalry Command during Operation Iraqi Free- the Army’s Bootstrap Degree-Completion Regiment, a squadron in the 2nd Armored dom from 2002-03; and the Multi-Nation- Program. He is a retired colonel who now Cavalry Regiment and another in the 3rd al Division-Baghdad Commander in 2006. lives in Elizabethtown, Ky. Infantry Division, a brigade in the 3rd Thurman majored in history because Infantry Division, the National Training How It All Began it tied in with the military. He minored in accounting, but didn’t like it as much as he Center’s Operations Group, the 4th Thurman played football at Marietta had expected. Infantry Division and V Corps in Germany. High School and many of his leadership “Dr. (Palmer) Boeger was the director His army and joint staff experience analogies relate to building a successful of the History Department,” the general includes serving as assistant to the chief football team. He also worked for Willis remembered. “We had some very good of staff for plans and policy, Allied Forces Choate, publisher of the Marietta Monitor. instructors in history. I ate that up. I Southern Europe, Regional Command “I helped print that paper,” he said. had a very good experience with all my South in Italy; chief of operations for “I never will forget that. It was one of my professors. They were there to help you the Coalition Forces Land Component first jobs.” learn.” Command C3 in Kuwait; and director of When it was time to go to college, Thurman enrolled in ROTC and was the Army Aviation Task Force. Thurman wanted a school that offered offered a scholarship as a sophomore. His combat assignments were as a ROTC (Reserve Officer Training Corps) “When I got that ROTC scholarship I battalion executive officer in the 1st Cav- training. was offered the opportunity to go to OU alry Division during Desert Shield/Desert “Second, I didn’t want to go to a and OSU. I chose to stay at ECU. I think I big school,” he said. “Third, I went up did okay,” he said with a smile. there (ECU) and there was a friendly “If I had it to do over again, I would Gen. Casey (center) passes FORSCOM’s atmosphere. They had the things I wanted come to ECU. I got a very good education. colors to Gen. Thurman (left) during to study.” It was a springboard to move forward to a ceremonies at Fort McPherson. Gen. His older brother, J.W. Thurman, was Campbell looks on. ‘He had the mark of a good commander’ Jim Hamby once harassed a four-star general. Of course, James D. “Jim” Thurman was only a freshman at the time and a cadet in ECU’s ROTC program. “I was his Cadet Corps commander,” Hamby said. “Now I tell him, ‘All your successes are because of what I taught you,’” Hamby said with a laugh. “He says, ‘Yeah, right.’” Thurman was two years behind Hamby at ECU. Hamby was very good friends with Thurman’s older brother, J.W. Thurman, a decorated Army captain who had come to ECU through the Army’s Bootstrap Degree-Completion Program. “J.W. was a helicopter gunship pilot who had done one or two tours in Vietnam. He had been shot down four times,” Hamby said. The younger Thurman ran around with the two upperclassmen. Cover Story Hamby, now the chief executive officer of Vision Bank in Ada, didn’t imagine that James D. Thurman would become a general, but he knew Thurman had a bright future. “He had the mark of a good commander,” Hamby said. “He is a leader of men. He’s very smart. He’s an extremely hard worker. He leads by example and his troops follow him because they respect him.”

10 The Columns Command Philosophy Thurman’s Six Imperatives – 1. Discipline – you can’t do anything without that. That goes back as long as there have been armies. 2. Training and leader development. 3. Maintenance – of yourself and your equipment. 4. Leading – leaders leading 5. Caring about the soldiers and their families. 6. Risk management – the Thurman, then a three-star general, visits with ECU faculty members after being named an ability to protect soldiers, the ECU Distinguished Alumnus and giving the Commencement address in December 2008. human dimension. “There have been times when I thought Thurman and Gen. George W. Casey Jr., maybe I ought to get out,” he admitted. “I secretary of the Army, to review the troops very good career.” saw (the Army) as a way to get in and get a on horseback. Because of his success in his career good start to progress to a good career.” “It was quite a day,” Thurman said. and personal life, Thurman was named That is what motivates many soldiers, “Fort McPherson is a historic installation. an ECU Distinguished Alumnus, the he said. It was held on the polo field where they university’s highest honor, in December “Inside Forces Command, we’ve met used to play. They were keeping alive 2008. He gave the Commencement address our retention goals for the year,” he said. some of the traditions. All the commands for fall semester graduates. “A lot of folks are attracted to the military. were represented on the field. It was quite a As a student, he worked for campus You can get a good education and benefits. deal. Many family and friends were there. security and lived in Pontotoc Hall (and They see it as a way to a good career. It can Some of them had never seen anything like remembers Mrs. Thompson, who “made help you out later in life. that.” sure your room was clean”) until he “I was at ECU when they stopped He said he would build on Campbell’s married his high school sweetheart, Dee, the draft. I’ve watched us build an all- leadership and move to the next level. in 1974. volunteer force. We’ve been in nine years “As I come into this job, I’m bringing “I could not have done this without of war and we’re holding it together.” 35 years of experience,” he said. “I her support,” the general said of his career. It all equates back to good leadership just take this job like all the others – do “We’ve moved 26 times. We just saddle up and the right benefits to take care of the best I can. It’s an honor to serve our and go.” soldiers’ families, he said. great country, to move up to the level of There will be another move for “The Army is the place to be. I’ve leadership the civilian leaders expect. the Thurmans in the near future. Fort learned so much in the Army. The human “You should never take yourself McPherson is scheduled to be closed and dimension is so much of what we do.” seriously,” he added. “You can’t change FORSCOM will relocate to Fort Bragg, Thurman also earned a master’s degree (just because you have a more prestigious N.C., next year. in management at Webster University job).” The Thurmans have two daughters. through the Army. Thurman doesn’t know what lies Jaime is married to Lt. Col. Miles Brown. “As I look back, I would do it again,” ahead in his career. They have two children, Abigail and he said. “I would not change one thing I’ve “I haven’t thought about it,” he Andrew. Carey is married to Maj. Scott done. It’s been a challenge, but nothing is said. “I’ve got so much to do. So much Thomas who is serving in Iraq. They have easy.” responsibility. At this level you serve at the two children, Tyler and James. The change of command ceremony pleasure of the chief of staff of the “We’ve had someone (in our family) on June 3 was held on Hadeiken Field Army and the president. in Iraq since the war started in 2002-03,” at Fort McPherson. Thurman succeeded You just give it the general said. Gen. Charles C. Campbell who retired all you’ve after 40 years of service. Soldiers from the got and do Cover Story 1st Cavalry Division Horse Detachment, the best job A Good Career dressed in 1870-era cavalry uniforms, you can to provide Thurman never intended to be in the led horses onto the field for Campbell, leadership.” Army for 35 years.

The Columns 11 New Business and Conference Center East Central University has “We received a $1.5 million can also be made. taken yet another step in building FEMA grant,” said ECU President Currently there are several for the future. John Hargrave. major donors involved in the Plans are in the works for a The projected construction cost project. new Business and Conference of the building is $11.1 million. “In this day and age, there Center. The facility will not only As of now $7.4 million has been is no limit to the amount of enhance the ability of the campus secured in pledges or gifts. An technology and costs associated and community to host conferences additional $3.7 million needs to be with a conference center. but will house ECU’s school of raised. Therefore, even long after the business. Sponsorship opportunities are building is completed, there will Located at the gateway available for anyone who would be opportunities for sponsorship,” entrance to campus, the center like to contribute to any part of Hargrave said. will be adjacent to the Hallie the center. Classrooms, offices, The 51,300 square-foot Brown Ford Fine Arts Center lounges, conference rooms, etc., building will be three stories high and Centennial Plaza. It will be can be named after the donor or for with the first floor housing a multi- within walking distance to the Arts a loved one. Anonymous donations use conference center capable of District of Ada. Financing for the project is more than halfway completed.

12 The Columns New Business and Conference Center banquet seating for 500 people. A enhanced conferencing technology Hotels and restaurants will benefit. synergistic learning center, small it will provide will be consistent Everyone will benefit. business development center, with the dream of a viable arts “I look forward to continuing campus police office, food court district. the partnership with the people and and community safe room will also “Enhancing Main Street is organizations that have made the be located on the first floor. a priority to the city of Ada and dream a reality,” he said. The second floor will primarily the university,” Hargrave said. contain the School of Business “More people will come to Ada. classrooms and student lounge. Each classroom will be equipped with state-of-the-art technology. The third floor will consist of Two ECU Alums the dean’s office, faculty offices, conference rooms, computer labs Return to Campus and a student work area. “ECU’s school of business has long enjoyed an outstanding reputation as the best in the Wendell Godwin (‘84), has area,” Hargrave said. “Having a been named the dean of ECU’s modern facility filled with modern technology and innovative new School of Business. Godwin was approaches will guarantee its a senior business executive who legacy for years to come.” directed all sales functions in an The added pedestrian traffic the 18-state area for a national For- new center will generate and the tune 1000 company.

Dr. William R. (Rudy) Lewis (‘62) has been named acting director of university advancement at ECU. Lewis has been in higher education for most of his professional career, beginning in the 1970s when he was dean of students at ECU.

Together, Godwin and Lewis will help finalize fund- raising for a new school of business and conference center. Several naming opportunities are available. For more information call 580-559-5537 or 580-559-5274.

The Columns 13 TOMPKINS PRESIDENT, CEO OF KANSAS BOARD OF REGENTS Dr. Andy Tompkins, a 1969 graduate to 1996, the commissioner of education Fame in 2001. In 2002 he received the of East Central University, has been for the Kansas State Department of Governor’s Award from the Kansas State named president and CEO of the Education from 1996 to 2005 and an High School Activities Association and Kansas Board of Regents, the governing associate professor at the University of the Leadership Kansas Alumnus of the board for the state’s six universities Kansas from 2005 to 2007. Year Award. and the statewide coordinating board He was named the Kansas Tompkins received the KU School of for Kansas’ 32 public higher education Superintendent of the Year in 1992 and Education Alumni Distinguished Service institutions. inducted into the Kansas Teachers Hall of Award for exemplary service to the fields Tompkins, called a highly respected of education or human services in 2004. leader in the education community in The award recognized the outstanding Kansas and beyond by Kansas education leadership Tompkins provided throughout leaders, assumed the position on June 1. the state and nation on behalf of children, His leadership abilities, educational policy teachers and public education. expertise, public service and knowledge He was inducted into the Mid- of Kansas higher education were cited for America Education Hall of Fame at his selection. Kansas City (Kan.) Community College He had been the dean of the College in 2007. of Education at Pittsburg State University Tompkins also has served as a since 2007. Kansas commissioner to the Education Tompkins began his career as a high Commission of the States since 1995. school English teacher in Pauls Valley in He received a bachelor’s degree 1969, became a high school principal and from East Central University, a master’s was the superintendent of three different degree from Emporia State University school districts from 1977 to 1994. He was and a doctorate from the University of an interim dean and associate professor Kansas. at Pittsburg State University from 1994 Evening of Honors & Recognition

Dr. Davis D. Joyce, professor emeritus of The 2010 distinguished alumni are August Petersen (center history, received the Distinguished Former photo), a senior partner, officer, board member, investor and Faculty Award. He taught at ECU from 1987 consultant to numerous Texas business ventures and a faculty to 2002. member at the University of Texas, and Randy Grinnell, the deputy director for the Indian Health Service, part of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services.

1414 TheThe ColumnsColumns ECU Helps Hinkle Find His Directionby Mike Hinkle There aren’t many people who can to stop on my way to Oklahoma City and point to a precise moment in time when let him treat me to lunch at Folger’s. He their life takes a permanent turn for the persuaded me to stay a few days and better. I can. It was 10 minutes to four, we’d go to OKC together that weekend. Tuesday, June 4, 1974. I was meandering After lunch, he went back to work and down the hall of the administration I spent some time loitering around the building at ECU when O.J. Collins campus. I was winding up my tour of the bumped into me as he backed out of the campus when I bumped into O.J. financial aid office. Lucky for me, this was Being the gentleman he is, he asked the day he had to leave the campus 10 if there was something he could do to minutes early. Let me back up a minute. help me. O.J. inquired if I’d like to attend I was just passing through town school at ECU. that day. I had no job, no fixed place Timing was perfect as classes started of residence, no plans, no car and no the day before and I could hit the ground money. In the six years since I graduated running. from high school, I had been a soldier, I explained that I’d love to give East Mike Hinkle (‘77) publishes his first a truck driver, a bartender, a wandering Central a try, but I had no money, no minstrel, a vagabond, an itinerant grape place to stay and no job. O.J. laughed novel, “The Butane Gospel.” harvester in France, a preacher, a part- and told me there was plenty of financial time college student and a petty criminal. I aid available and getting a job on campus just couldn’t seem to find an occupational was no problem. shoe that would fit. Within 24 hours, I was enrolled, my ago and spend my time writing, speaking My old friend Fred Ury was working tuition and books were paid, and Fred and traveling. for Southwestern Bell in Ada and, put me up until I got a job. This was the Thanks, O.J. And thank you, ECU. returning from some aimless wanderings beginning of a story that took me to law around southeast Oklahoma, I decided school. I retired from the law five years

Evening of Honors & Recognition April 23, 2010 ~ 6 p.m. ~ ECU’s Stanley P. Wagner Ballroom

The Distinguished Family Award was presented to the Clements-Compton Family, actually two families who are connected by marriage and as former ECU football players.

TheThe ColumnsColumns 15 Lights, Camera . . . Action

16 The Columns Lights, Camera . . . Action William C. Thrash Television Studio

A series of donations by William honored by Gov. Brad Henry at manager and station manager. C. “Bill” Thrash and his wife Billie the 31st Annual Governor’s Arts Thrash joined OETA – the is allowing future broadcasters from Awards in 2006. He received the Bill Oklahoma Network in 1988. He East Central University and the Ada Crawford Memorial Media Award produced the award-winning historical community “to keep the bar high.” which recognizes an individual series “Oklahoma Passage,” the most The Thrashes completed their member in the print and/or electronic popular nationally broadcast series in pledge of $50,000 over several years media who demonstrates commitment the history of public television. He to the ECU Foundation, Inc. to help to the arts in Oklahoma, documented develops the Emmy Award-winning build and furnish the new television through public awareness support arts and culture television series, studio in the Hallie Brown Ford Fine and fairness, initiative, creativity and “Gallery.” He also was involved with Arts Center. professionalism in reporting. OETA’s state centennial productions The William C. Thrash Television He began his broadcast career in in 2007. Studio was dedicated July 22. It is the 1955, learning the live TV production The OETA station manager also first true high-definition TV studio in business from the ground up at produced and directed many Lawrence this part of Oklahoma. KTEN-TV in Ada while attending Welk television specials for the Public The 1961 ECU graduate is an Ada High School. Since then, he has Broadcasting System, raising more award-winning television producer brought numerous arts activities into than $50 million for PBS stations. and the station manager of OETA – the Oklahoma homes through television, Thrash was inducted into the Oklahoma Network. helping produce or direct some of the Oklahoma Association of Broadcasters Although there are no pending biggest entertainment productions in Hall of Fame. He received national plans, the ECU studio also could state history. attention as the Public Television involve area high school students to He joined KOCO-TV in Oklahoma Programmer of the Year and has produce public affairs programs or City in 1962 where he produced and won several Emmy Awards for his it possibly could be used to support directed numerous specials involving statewide OETA productions. community initiatives and local orchestras and ballet companies When asked in interviews if he has businesses. ECU students’ work is from state universities. One of his been in television all his life, Thrash broadcast online at www.youtube. specials was the first Oklahoma City gives this response, “Not yet.” com/ectvhd. Symphony concert broadcast on live For information about donating “It is hard work to make good television in 1967 from the newly to the university, contact Phyllis television,” Thrash said at his renovated Civic Center Music Hall. Kunze, executive director of the ECU induction July 18 into the Gold Thrash moved to Channel 4 in Foundation, Inc., at 580-559-5514. Circle of the Heartland Chapter of the Oklahoma City in 1971 and directed a National Academy of Televisions Arts nationally televised series of patriotic & Sciences. Fourth of July shows, the “Stars and To be eligible for the Gold Circle Stripes Shows,” for NBC with such Emmy Award, a recipient must have entertainers as Bob Hope, Tennessee been in broadcasting for 50 years and Ernie Ford, Kate Smith and others. made a significant contribution to the He supervised “Danny’s Day” with industry. Danny Williams and the now-famous He previously was inducted into Mary Hart. the Heartland Silver Circle for at least He also directed numerous country 25 years in broadcasting. music and holiday specials and series Thrash was one of 20 people and became Channel 4’s program

The Columns 17 ECU Alumni Association 2010-11 Board of Directors

President Greetings from the Tiffany Grant “ I would like to personally thank Alumni Association the ECU Alumni Association Board of Directors for their hard work and dedication to East What a busy and exciting time for the Alumni Association and East Central Central University. I am very University! The spring and summer months were packed with alumni reunions and blessed to have the opportunity to work with such an amazing events, including newly added reunions in Denver, Austin and at Wewoka Lake. group of people.” - Tiffany We hope you had a chance to attend an area reunion and reconnect with friends and fellow alumni. Join us in 2011 as we plan to expand the area reunions to even more cities to help us stay connected with our ECU family! President-Elect The fall semester is in full swing and it’s great to see the new and returning Mark Walters students, faculty and staff enjoying ECU and the various events going on around campus and in the Ada community. What an exciting time to be on campus! There are so many ways to be involved at ECU, I encourage you to check out the campus Vice President events calendar at www.ecok.edu and get involved with your alma mater. Tommy Vass We are gearing up for another successful Homecoming. On behalf of the association, I invite you back to campus for “Aloha Homecoming,” Oct. 8 and 9,

Treasurer Pat Fountain

Secretary Tori Petete

Past President 2010. There will be plenty of activities for you and the whole family. Join us for Zeak Naifeh traditional activities like the golf tournament, 5k Tiger Run, Golden Tiger Brunch

and parade as well as new activities such as a luau and pep rally, La Fragua Other Board Members Reunion and fireworks after the game! Visit our website at alumni.ecok.edu for more Lance Allee information and to register for many of the 2010 Homecoming events. Jesse Allen James Brown It’s a wonderful time to be a Tiger and I look forward to seeing you on Sam Caton campus this fall! Kassie Cothran Monica Cowart Robyn Elliott Go Tigers! Hillary Farrell Brooke Holman Ronda Martin Edie McCracken Maxine McFalls Barbara Miller Ray Nicholas Tiffany Grant, Class of ‘07 Curt Rawls Joe Sharber President, ECU Alumni Association Dustin Smith Beth Vezina 18 The Columns 2010 Epsilon Omega Alumni Association 4th Annual Reunion

“Once a PIKE, Always a PIKE” is something every PKA member learns from his earliest days of pledge-ship. With this in mind, a great time was had by all who attended the 4th Annual Pi Kappa Alpha Epsilon Omega Reunion in Oklahoma City at the Bricktown Brewery on Aug. 7, 2010, sponsored by the Epsilon Omega Alumni Association. This event is intended as a time when all members, both active and alumni can connect/ reconnect and celebrate our common bond. The guest list encompassed all decades of ECU Pikes, with over 125 in attendance including over 70 fraternity alumni, spouses/significant others and distinguished guests such as ECU administrators and Epsilon Omega Alumni, President John Hargrave (’77), Dr. Gerald Williamson (initiated ‘09) and Wendell Godwin (’84). Many attendees had not seen each other since their days at East Central University, so there was a lot of catching up to do. Members of the active chapter on campus were present to meet and mingle with fraternity alumni while also handling event registration. Current members Taylor Howard and Isaac Ramirez gave a brief update on the “state of the chapter.” Along with fellowship, food and good spirits, there were a few other highlights to the 2010 ECU Alumni Reunions evening. Accomplishments of the Alumni Association in 2009-10 were mentioned, including sending two current members as delegates to the Pi Kappa Alpha International Convention in Austin, Texas, and the presentation of new PKA letters to the chapter for permanent display on Pesagi Residence Hall. Members celebrating 25 years of membership in Pi Kappa Alpha were Greg Flanagan (‘88), Kelvin Williams (‘88) and Michael Corcoran (‘88). During the evening $1,000 was raised for the Dr. James R. Harris ('74) scholarship at ECU, while there was also a "passing of the hat" for donations to help upgrade the PIKE lounge on campus which totaled more than $800. Plans are now underway for the 5th annual Pi Kappa Alpha Epsilon Omega Reunion to be held on Aug. 6, 2011. While the location is still to be determined, this annual event promises to be a date to circle on your calendars! For more information on joining the Epsilon Omega Alumni Association or upcoming events, please visit www.EastCentralPikes.com or email us at [email protected].

Are you planning a mini-reunion with your fellow alums? Send us the photos and we will publish them in an upcoming edition of The Columns!

TheThe ColumnsColumns 19 Saturday ~ Oct 9

Open House, CollegeTBA of Health & Sciences

8:00 a.m. ScheduleMonday12:30 of p.m. ~ Oct Events 4 5K Tiger Run, Wintersmith Park

Banner Contest Starts, University Center 9:00 a.m. - 6:00 p.m. 11:00 a.m. - 1:00 p.m. Funky Fall Art Fair, Centennial Plaza

**while t-shirts last** Homecoming T-Shirt Sale, University Center 10:00 a.m. Golden Tiger Brunch, Ballroom

Tuesday11:00 a.m. - ~1:00 Oct p.m. 5th Veteran Appreciation11:00 Event, a.m. ECU Honor Plaza Athletic Alumni Meeting, Kerr Center Room 213 Homecoming T-Shirt**while t-shirts Sale, last** University Center 12:00 noon 1:00 p.m. Parade, Main Street School of Business Alumni Luncheon, Ballroom Baseball Alumni Game,2:00 p.m. ECU Baseball Field Wednesday8:30 a.m. - 6:00 p.m. ~ Oct 6 Band Alumni Meeting, HBF Fine Arts Center King & Queen Voting, on the Mall 11:00 a.m. - 1:00 p.m. Honors Program2:00 Open p.m. House,- 4:00 p.m. Faust Room 159

**while t-shirts last** Homecoming T-Shirt Sale, University Center 3:00 p.m. Fools, Chalmers Herman Theatre Thursday11:00 a.m. - 1:00 ~p.m. Oct 7 4:00 p.m. - 5:30 p.m. Homecoming T-Shirt**while t-shirts Sale, last** University Center Tailgate, Norris Field Parking lot many groups will have tables for gathering 7:30 p.m. Fools, Chalmers Herman Theatre 5:30 p.m. Coronation, Norris Field Friday ~ Oct 8 11:00 a.m. - 1:00 p.m. ECU vs. Incarnate6:00 Word,p.m. Norris Field Homecoming T-Shirt**while t-shirts Sale, last** University Center Fireworks immediately following the football game 11:30 a.m. 9:00 p.m. Golf Tournament Lunch, Oak Hills La Fragua Reunion, Elks Lodge 1:00 p.m. Tee Off Golf Tournament, Oak Hills 5:30 p.m. please check Luau, on the Green alumni.ecok.edu 6:00 p.m. often for updates or changes Pep Rally, on the Green 7:30 p.m. Fools, Chalmers Herman Theatre

20 The Columns Saturday ~ Oct 9

Open House, CollegeTBA of Health & Sciences

8:00 a.m. Monday12:30 p.m. ~ Oct 4 5K Tiger Run, Wintersmith Park

Banner Contest Starts, University Center 9:00 a.m. - 6:00 p.m. 11:00 a.m. - 1:00 p.m. Funky Fall Art Fair, Centennial Plaza

**while t-shirts last** Homecoming T-Shirt Sale, University Center 10:00 a.m. Golden Tiger Brunch, Ballroom

TheThe Columns Columns 21 lumni potlight :

What comes to mind when people think of graduates of “You basically need a pretty good number for both or a AEast Central University? Teachers? Nurses? Athletes? Well, really good numberS for one or the other,” said Blake Parsons how about attorneys? (‘07), a legal studies major at ECU who recently graduated For students studying at prestigious law schools, hopefuls from the Oklahoma City University School of Law. “Applicants taking the bar exam and teachers motivating budding law can also compensate for a low number in one by writing an students, ECU guided the way. exceptional personal statement explaining to the law school Dr. Christine Pappas, associate professor of political why they should be admitted.” science, believes that an ECU education is actually better than Parsons learned at an early age the huge impact lawyers one from a larger university. can have on the lives of others. “Professors are able to spot student weaknesses and “I’ve always wanted to be a lawyer to help ensure that focus on improvement,” Pappas said. “We spend hundreds of those huge impacts are good ones,” he said. hours with students. Our letters of recommendation are more According to Thomas Pack, a 2006 graduate in political detailed and supportive.” science, coming from a small school can be a plus or minus Getting into law school isn’t easy. Applications far depending on the school of choice. outnumber available seats in first-year classes. Schools look “I’m sure OU and OCU prefer candidates from the larger at two main criteria in determining whether to admit a student, universities in Oklahoma,” Pack said. “But if you’ve truly undergraduate grade point average and Law School Admission excelled at East Central, then national law schools are quite Test score. interested in increasing their regional and socioeconomic

22 The Columns diversity with students from less well-known schools.” of jealous mistresses....just ask my wife.” Pack is in his second year of law school at Stanford Shiloh Renes (‘07), a political science major at ECU who University in Palo Alto, Calif. Since 1992 Stanford, along with graduated from OCU with Parsons, said her three years in law Harvard and Yale, has been ranked in the top three schools of school were pretty much what she expected. law by U.S. News & World Report. Every year from 4,000 to “I read in a book once that the first year they scare you to 5,000 hopefuls apply for admission but only around 170 are death, the second year they work you to death and the third accepted into first-year classes. year they bore you to death,” Renes said. “This is one of the The American Bar Association does not recommend any truest statements I have ever read. The first year is extremely major or course of study before admission to law school, competitive and terrifying.” but recent ECU students lean toward political science, legal Renes knew that she wanted to be a lawyer from the studies, history and criminal justice. However, students found moment she was told that she had to dissect a cat in zoology professors across the campus to be helpful. class. Up until that time, she had been toying between the law “The legal research and writing classes with Dean Peterson and a career as a veterinarian. were invaluable, as was civil rights and liberties with Dr. “I had constitutional law with Dr. Pappas and fell in love Pappas,” Parsons said. “Those two professors were particularly with it,” Renes said. “I’m not brave enough to be a soldier in special to me, as they wrote letters of recommendation for my the army, but I feel like in a much smaller way I am serving law school application process. Dr. Pappas was even more our country by seeking justice for those who can’t find it by special, as she helped me immensely with writing my personal themselves. Plus, my mom always told me that if you have a statement. Dr. Pamela Jackson’s classes were helpful in job that you love, then you will never work a day in your life.” illustrating that some professors enjoy taking your life and Renes and Parsons were joined at OCU’s commencement making it their own via voluminous amounts of coursework, by fellow alum Virgil Barksdale, a legal studies major. The three something that all law professors love to do.” spent the early part of the summer studying for the Oklahoma Others found the link to the real world provided by adjunct Bar Exam which they took in late July. professors from the legal profession valuable. Steven Foster, director of academic achievement at OCU, ECU also provided the extracurricular activities crucial recommends studying for the bar approximately 600 hours in forming the well-rounded student. The ABA suggests that spread out over the 10 weeks between graduation and the students take advantage of any opportunity to develop research exam. That breaks down to 10 hours a day, six days a week. and writing skills. All three students tried to stick to that schedule with a little help

potlight : ttorneys A Journey of three ECU grads to Law School & Beyond by cathie harding S “Any classes or activities thatA teach you to think critically from family and friends. and write well will prepare you for law school,” Pack said. “My family has always been very supportive and “For me, working at The Journal, ECU’s student newspaper, understanding,” Renes said. “I had to learn to make the most was helpful as was my political science and Honors Program out of the time that I had with them. Now that I am out of law coursework. You don’t need to be a legal studies major. Law school, I think that I appreciate my family much more and take school is the place to learn the law. Undergrad is the time to them for granted less often. learn how to think about big issues in a systematic way.” Though time consuming, it is not all work. The life of a law student can be grueling. Law student “Earlier in the quarter, my life looks pretty much like a 40- stress and depression are problems that have become national hour per week job, with a healthy break for some exercise in scope. While students enter law school suffering from and California sunshine during the middle of the day,” Pack clinical stress and depression at a rate that mirrors the national said. “There’s usually a speaker and free food during the law average, this number skyrockets during the first year of law school’s lunch period. During my first year, I heard from both school. Chief Justice Roberts of the U.S. Supreme Court and Chief “To be successful, one must be willing to put law school Justice Yazzie of the Navajo Nation Supreme Court. before all other priorities, especially the first year,” Parsons Parsons and Pack share similar career interests. Parsons said. “Lawyers frequently say ‘the law is a jealous mistress.’ hopes to practice Native American Indian law. Pack would like For me, law school was more like a jealous wife and a couple to make it a part of his legal career as well and eventually land

The Columns 23 somewhere in government. Renes is just hoping to find a job and “get some sleep.” ECU ALUM WINS FULBRIGHT Jenna Owens, new director of legal studies at ECU, chose a different path to express her love of the law, a love she has ENGLISH TEACHING had since high school government class. Owens, a direct product of ECU’s legal studies program, ASSISTANTSHIP IN KOREA graduated from the University of Oklahoma College of Law, took the bar exam and returned to practice in Ada. When asked A fascination with East Asian to speak on a “Women in Law Day” panel at ECU, she learned history has led a new East Central that the director position would soon be available and went for University graduate to become it. the university’s first recipient of a “I thought this would be a unique opportunity to be involved prestigious Fulbright grant. in the program that I respect so much and that got me where I Dianna Kriegh of Vanoss was am today,” Owens said. “It is unique in that it strikes a perfect awarded a Fulbright English balance between preparing students to work in the legal field Teaching Assistantship last spring as well as preparing them for law school.” through the Fulbright U.S. Student Following in the footsteps of Christine Pappas, former Program which offers fellowships director of legal studies and her “most favorite teacher in my for study, research and teaching life,” Owens plans to carry on the tradition of learning she in other countries. She applied to experienced at ECU. teach English for a year in South “I hope to offer students an opportunity to utilize this unique Korea. program to its fullest and leave inspired and excited about their The US. Student Program is futures as members of the legal community,” Owens said. one part of the large Fulbright Program, the Other East Central graduates currently preparing for the international educational exchange program legal profession include Megan and Lauren Hensley, both sponsored by the U.S. government and named history majors who have been accepted at the University of for the late Sen. J. William Fulbright of Arkansas. Oklahoma, and Jacobi Nichols, a political science major who It is designed to increase mutual understanding is in her second year at OU. History major Matthew McCready between the people of the United States and and political science major John Baca are going to Oklahoma other countries. City University in the fall and Ryan Logan, political science,

lumni potlight : and Jeremy Cumbie, criminal justice, are currently attending Approximately 7,500 Fulbright grants are OCU. Greg Roller, political science, is at Washburn University awarded annually in a number of categories Ain Topeka. S for students, scholars, teachers, professionals, Graduates of ECU populate the legal landscape across the artists, musicians and scientists. country including John Hargrave, president of the university, The goal of the English Teaching and his father Rudolph justice of the Oklahoma Supreme Assistantship is for foreign students to improve Court. their English language abilities and knowledge Hargrave and Dr. Pappas are in the process of reviving of the United States while American students the ECU Lawyers Alumni Association. For more information, enhance their knowledge and language skills of contact Pappas at 580-559-5640 or [email protected]. their host country. Kriegh wanted to go to Korea to learn to speak the Korean language. The South Korean government wants its children to learn to speak English fluently. “There is a big demand in Korea for native English-speaking teachers,” Kriegh said. “They want all their high school graduates to be able 24 The Columns to speak fluent English. They want them to have the proper That’s where she found out about and considered applying pronunciation and accent. Native Koreans can’t teach the for the South Korean government’s TaLK program in which proper pronunciation and accent.” Americans teach English for six months to two years. She was one of 90 English teaching assistants chosen to Back at ECU, she learned about the Fulbright Program go to South Korea. She left the first of June for six weeks of and decided to apply. orientation at a university before being placed in a rural area. Kriegh was notified by email in January that she wasa She learned in August that she will teach at Seondeok Girls' finalist, but heard nothing more until she received a contract in High School, a private school in Gyeongju, and should return the mail on April 22. to the United States toward the end of July 2011. The hardest part was waiting to find out, she said. Since Fulbright pays for her travel and some other expenses. she was about to graduate from ECU, she worried mainly about Her Korean school furnishes her housing, which she expected what to do if she didn’t receive the Fulbright grant. She didn’t to be with a family, and pays her a stipend of 1.6 million won apply for the graduate school she wants because it’s highly each month, or $14. competitive, and if she had to turn it down to go to Korea, she “In Korea, teachers are very respected. There is no could lose that opportunity. disrespect in their school system,” Kriegh said. “It is a very Now, she sometimes thinks, “Oh, my gosh, I can’t believe strict system, a rote system, what we try not to do here.” I did this. But I’m really looking forward to it.” She is expected to teach 40 students 20 hours per week, There is a little fear of the unknown, she admitted. What in addition to spending 20 to 30 hours planning, grading papers concerns her most, though, is that she won’t be allowed to and helping Korean teachers. leave South Korea until July 2011. “Their schools go pretty much year-round,” she said. “They “That’s a long time to be gone from home.” have a longer school day, from eight to 10 hours each day. The Kriegh had a 4.0 grade point average at ECU and was one students get out at 5 or 6 p.m. Since the school systems are of the finalists for the Nigh Award presented annually to the so highly competitive, and future jobs depend on the school top graduating senior. She is a member of Alpha Chi national system they are in, many students go to special academies in honor society and presented a paper in March at the Alpha Chi the evenings. School is a 24-hour job.” Super-Regional Convention in Little Rock, Ark. She also is a Because the academies and universities are expensive, member of Phi Alpha Theta history honor society and the ECU many South Koreans go to high school and college in other Honors Student Association. countries, Kriegh said. The Fulbright teaching assistants are not required to know the Korean language. potlight : eachers “I’m a lot better reading and writing Korean. My ECU GRADS NAMED conversational skills are pretty much nil. It’s kind of scary,” she S said before she left. T TEACHERS OF THE YEAR Kriegh completed her student teaching at Roff last spring and graduated from ECU with a bachelor’s degree in history LaDeanna Andrews (‘98, ‘01), Roff School with teacher certification. She plans to earn a graduate degree Churee Chaffin (‘95), Lone Grove High School in East Asian history, hopefully at the University of Pittsburgh. Cross Timbers Elementary in Tecumseh “I’ve always loved history,” she said. “I want to know as Brandi Dickson (‘95, ‘00), much as I possibly can. I got intrigued with East Asian history. Matt LaHue (‘00), Shawnee High School It’s as different, compared to U.S. history, as you can get.” Greg Lovelis (‘04, ‘07), McLish Middle School One of her ECU roommates was from South Korea, and Billy Marquard (‘73), Maud Middle School one thing led to another. Syrena Moreland (‘01, ‘05), Tishomingo Elementary School Kriegh needed a foreign language component to qualify Janice Parrott (‘08), Parker Intermediate Center in McAlester for graduate school. One of her history professors directed her to a Korean language course last summer at the University of Jerry Raper (‘73), Davis High School California at Berkley. Elizabeth Smith (‘93, ’97), Byng Junior High in Ada “If I hadn’t done that,” she said, “I wouldn’t be doing this.” Susan Walker (‘96, ’08), Maud High School

The Columns 25 ECU Educators Hall of Fame Induct Three Three educators who began their successful careers Muskogee Development Corporation, Tulsa Area United at East Central University were inducted into the Gene and Way, Volunteer Center of Tulsa, Broken Arrow Chamber of Evelyn Keefer Educators Hall of Fame on April 14, 2010 in Commerce and Big Bothers and Sisters of Tulsa. ECU’s Danley Hall atrium. The inductees are Dr. Donnie Nero, president of Connors Dr. Joe Parsons State College in Warner; Dr. Joe Parsons of Ada, retired ECU Dr. Joe Parsons, who has always been professor and administrator; and Dr. Jimmy V. Scales Sr., known for his caring spirit, quick wit and superintendent of Hamilton County Schools in Chattanooga, dedication to education and ECU, was a Tenn. student at ECU when World War II began. Their photographs will be displayed in the Hall of Fame in He was a veteran of the D-Day invasion on the Education Building along with those of past inductees Dr. Utah Beach in France and participated in Bill Cole, Clarence Oliver, Marvin Stokes, Pat Kellogg Roller, all the major European campaigns. George Abshire, Stephanie Canada, Kenneth Murphy, Billie He returned to ECU and completed Floyd, Leon and Mary Pauline Lanoy, Ray Stout and John his degree in business education in 1948. He also received Zimmerman. master’s and doctoral degrees from Oklahoma State University. The Educators Hall of Fame is sponsored by Janice He taught a year at Pharoah High School, his alma mater, Diamond and Paul Keefer, the children of Gene and Evelyn then was principal of Graham High School before moving to Keefer, to recognize ECU-prepared educators at any level who Weleetka Public Schools where he served as principal and have made a significant contribution to the field of education. superintendent of schools. The Hall of Fame is dedicated to the Keefers and other In 1966, Parsons joined the ECU Department of Education. parents like them who could not afford to go to college but who He later served as vice president of student services; vice made it a priority that their children have that opportunity. president for development, university services and personnel; Inductees in the Keefer Educators Hall of Fame can be and executive director of the ECU Foundation, Inc. He was a support staff member, teacher educator or administrator. interim president of ECU during the year preceding the They must have completed a program of preparation at the selection of Dr. Bill Cole as president in 1989. bachelor’s or master’s degree level or have taken significant Parsons was a member of the Ada City Council for five course work toward completion of an education degree or years and served as mayor one year. He was active in civic certification program at ECU. and public affairs and served terms as president of the Ada The inductees are: Chamber of Commerce and the Ada Lions Club. His late wife, Harol Deane, also an educator, and his three Dr. Donnie L. Nero children, Paula, Penny, and Patrick, all graduated from East Dr. Donnie L. Nero has been president Central University. of Connors State College in Warner, which also has campuses in Muskogee, for 10 Dr. Jimmy V. Scales Sr. years. He was a secondary teacher and Dr. Jimmy V. Scales, Sr., a nationally administrator in Sapulpa for 12 years and recognized educator, civic and social held numerous positions for 15 years, leader, is superintendent of Hamilton including provost, at Tulsa Community County Schools in Chattanooga, Tenn. He College’s Southeast Campus. was one of the first two African American Nero has been a program analyst for Rockwell football players at ECU in 1963. International in Tulsa. In 2002 he received the Department He was a teacher, coach and principal of Human Services Trailblazer Award and was named ECU’s of Millwood High School in Oklahoma City Distinguished Alumnus and the Phi Theta Kappa Distinguished and McLain High School in Tulsa before becoming deputy CEO for the Oklahoma/Arkansas Region. He also received the superintendent of the Dallas Independent School District and 2007 Progressive Award. He is a board member of the Office superintendent of the College Station (Texas) Independent of Juvenile Affairs, Communities Foundation of Oklahoma, School District. Governor’s CLASS Task Force and the Oklahoma Community Scales was the first African American appointed to the Institute. Oklahoma State School Board in 1984 by Gov. George Nigh. In He earned a bachelor’s degree in health, physical 1984, Millwood High School received the National Exemplary education and recreation at ECU and both his master’s degree School Award from the United States Department of Education. in educational administration and his doctorate in occupational He received the Distinguished Alumni Award from Booker and adult education at Oklahoma State University. T. Washington High School in Idabel. He is a former trustee of Nero has also has been president of the Muskogee Area Hillcrest Hospital in Tulsa and Texas College in Tyler. Scales is Educational Consortium, the Indian Capital Technology Center an avid supporter of the United Way of America. He also is a and the Muskogee Rotary Club. He also has served on the Rotarian and a member of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity Inc. and boards of the Muskogee Chamber of Commerce, Greater Grand Boule’ Sigma Pi Phi Fraternity.

26 The Columns Helping ECU by Remembering

Craig & Christy Scheef

East Central University has received a gracious commitment East Central University Business School graduate from Craig and Christy Scheef. Through planned giving, the Craig Scheef, former College of Education faculty Dallas couple included the member Don Kellogg and ECU Distinguished university in their estate plan Alumnus, the late Lee Horne, have combined for by committing one half of their accumulated wealth to ECU. decades of loyalty to the university. They or their A native of Plano, Texas, families have recently made commitments to The Craig was recruited to Tigerland to play football for Coach Pat ECU Foundation, Inc. Through their caring O’Neal. He earned a marketing degree from the East Central University School of Business in 1985. Craig continued his and generosity, students in the future will have education at the University of North Texas, where he completed an opportunity to enjoy and gain from the ECU his MBA and met his wife, Christy, who is an elementary schoolteacher in the Dallas area. Together they share a love of experience. raising boxers. Craig has spent the past two decades in the banking industry. In 2008, he started Texas Security Bank and currently serves as CEO, president and chairman of the board. Craig has remained in close contact with his alma mater, serving on the ECU Foundation Board of Directors and as a member of the President’s Circle. He has also been a generous supporter of the athletics program as well as the School of Business. In 2004, Craig was honored with the Milam Award, which honors a former Tiger football player who has distinguished himself in his chosen field. The Scheefs’ bequest will be used to enhance funding for the East Central University football program. “This was an easy decision for Christy and me,” Craig says about their legacy to ECU. “East Central provided me so much at the time I needed it the most. As time passes, I’ve realized what an excellent job the School of Business and East Central athletics did in preparing me for my career. The relationships created while I was at East Central continue today. My ECU Foundation, Inc. hope is that East Central will continue to grow and prosper for generations to come.”

The Columns 27 Evan Lee Horne The Kelloggs have also named the foundation in their estate plans. The inclusion of the endowment in their estate Lee Horne, a former ECU will assure that qualified and deserving students preparing football player for the legendary to teach math or science will forever have a resource to help Elvan George, a former coach at defray the cost of attaining a degree at ECU. Don says, “This Cameron University, president is an excellent way for Jane and me to be able to see some of of the ECU Foundation, Inc. the results of our contributions.” in 1998 and the Distinguished Alumnus in 2000, left a legacy at ECU that will last forever. After his untimely death in September 2009, his family established an endowed scholarship that will Helping ECU be used to defray educational expenses for an upper-level or graduate student in the ECU football or basketball program who is pursuing a career in coaching or business. As a long-time generous supporter of ECU Athletics, the School of Business, and the ECU Marching Band, Lee was passionate about ECU leads to and the relationships that he developed while attending school there. Unique Donations One of his long-time friends, Ken Johnson, stated, “Lee always talked about the wonderful experiences and the great relationships that he established at ECU. After his graduation, ECU gets $100,000 his main goal was to repay his debt to the University.” Another friend and fellow coach, Pat O’Neal, noted that “Lee was a true endowment from Masonic gentleman, 100 percent for ECU not only while in attendance Fraternity but for the remainder of his life. The University was of utmost importance to him.” And Grace George, also a lifelong friend, A new $100,000 endowment fund will be bringing more stated that “Lee was one of the most loyal and dedicated best cultural enrichment programming to East Central University. friends that Elvan George and ECU has ever had!” The endowment was established at ECU by the Masonic Because of Lee’s generous donations throughout the Fraternity of Oklahoma in May. years, combined with his family’s contributions and continuing "The Masonic charities called us totally unsolicited and donations from friends and alums, future students will benefit said they had an endowment scholarship and asked us what in the best way possible: by gaining an excellent education at we'd like to use the money for. They're just so generous - it's one of the premier regional universities in Oklahoma. very heartwarming to know these people are everywhere in Oklahoma,” ECU President John Hargrave said. The $100,000 endowment will help fund new cultural enrichment programming at ECU's new Hallie Brown Ford Fine Arts Center. The $28 million center was completed about a year Don & Jane Kellogg ago and ECU administrators say this endowment will help fulfill the building's potential by expanding the programming inside. For 25 years, Don "With the additional programming needed to really utilize Kellogg taught aspiring math the versatility of this building, we felt like that would be the best and science teachers at East use of the money,” Hargrave explained. Central University. The university is still planning how it will spend the interest For 20 years, Don from the endowment, but Hargrave said it will fund programs Kellogg has been a retired across the arts and will touch as many students as possible. ECU faculty member. The Masonic Fraternity of Oklahoma said this endowment Forever, Don Kellogg’s is one of six going to regional universities. generosity will help recruit, "We know what great students go to these universities, recognize and reward East Central University students pursuing and we just feel like they need to have some of the same degrees in math or science education through a scholarship opportunities that the large ones do,” explained Charles endowment he set up with the Belknap, grand master of the Masons of Oklahoma. ECU Foundation, Inc. Hargrave said the endowment will benefit students across ECU Foundation, Inc. Don donated a life insurance the campus and people in the community. It will bring in notable policy he purchased in 1975 speakers and fill the stage with headline performances for to the foundation. By naming everyone to enjoy. the foundation as owner and beneficiary of the policy, he’s not only helping ECU students, but he also receives a significant income tax deduction. By donating the insurance policy, Don and his wife, Jane, were able to fulfill their dream of helping to increase the number and quality of science and math teachers.

28 The Columns Donations fund centennial Gateways

Dr. Duane C. Anderson, interim The gate at the northeast corner of president of ECU during its Centennial year, campus (across from Tiger Comons) honors had a 15-year-old vision of three memorial Dr. Joe Parsons as an ECU faculty member, gateways to mark the boundaries of the vice president for student services, dean of campus. From the date that he issued a students, vice president for development/ “challenge” for construction of the gates university services/personnel and interim until the funds were raised was less than president. Parsons six weeks, and from was also inducted into his “challenge” to final ECU’s Educator’s Hall construction was less of Fame in April 2010. than nine months. It This gift was provided was apparent that by Parsons, his three his “vision” belonged children, Paula Kedy, to the University, its Penny Martin, and faculty, staff, students, Pat Parsons and their and alumni. families. The Centennial The third gate Gateways were constructed at a cost of $15,000 each. The one at the southeast corner of the campus (by Married Student at the southwest corner of the campus (by the tennis courts) Housing) was funded by a gift from Louise Young, a 1969 was funded by the ECU Alumni Association, which made the graduate of ECU, and Vivienne Armstrong, a 1974 graduate. first donation, and honors all alumni from 1909 through 2009.

During the Evening of Honors and Recognition on April 23 Centennial Gate donors were recognized. Pictured from left: President Hargrave, Zeak Naifeh, Duane Anderson, Tiffany Grant, Gerald Williamson, Paula Kedy, Phyllis Kunze, Vivienne Armstrong, C.J. Vires and Louise Young.

ECU Foundation, Inc.

The Columns 29 was an undergraduate summer research said with a chuckle. program that determined which fork in the Karner completed require- road Courtney Karner (’04) would take. The ments for a bachelor’s degree It East Central University scholar-athlete also in biology in 2003, but a glitch in known as “Moose” was majoring in biology, trying to decide the enrollment process at another whether to go on to medical school or graduate school. graduate school kept him at ECU Then in the summer of 2002 he was selected to participate for another year. That allowed in the Summer Undergraduate Research Experience at the him to take additional ECU cours- University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center in Oklahoma es and minor in chemistry, math City and discovered how much he enjoyed research. That and physics as well as continue sealed the deal. playing football for the Tigers as Today he has a Ph.D. in developmental biology from the a starting right tackle and deep University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center in Dallas, snapper. one of the foremost medical research centers in the world – He was named an academic and in May was awarded the highest honor bestowed by the All-American his senior year and received the Lone Star university’s Southwestern Graduate School of Biomedical Conference Male Scholar Athlete Award in 2004. He won the Sciences. Tri-Beta Biological Honor Society’s Frank G. Brooks Award for Karner received the Nominata Award which is presented excellence in undergraduate research. annually to a senior graduate student who has demonstrated His graduate mentor at UTSMC, Dr. Thomas Carroll, academic excellence and an exceptional level of research assistant professor of internal medicine and molecular achievement. The award includes a $2,000 prize and the biology, has said Karner’s intellectual curiosity, work ethic and honor of presenting the last seminar of the University Lecture excitement about science set him apart. In a UTSMC story, Series. Other speakers for the weekly lectures are prominent he described the ECU graduate as “completely fearless about scientists and speakers from UTSW and across the country tackling a new technique or idea,” and said it was fun to have and the world. back-and-forth conversations about his research. Karner’s lecture, titled “Canonical and Non-canonical Karner went to UTSW in 2004 and completed his doctorate

TIGER13 Sports...1 Team AthleticCOURTNEY KARNER Alumni (’04) RECEIVES PhD, PRESTIGIOUS RESEARCH AWARD

Wnt9b Signaling Regulates Kidney Progenitor Expansion, last November. In December he began work in a postdoctoral Differentiation and Tubule Morphogenesis,” was based on program at the Washington University Medical Center in St. research he conducted for his doctoral dissertation. Louis and married Brittany (Vawter) Karner of Southlake, “I was shocked (to get the award),” he said. “I still don’t Texas. She is a 1st grade teacher who completed her school believe they picked me. year in the Dallas area before moving to St. Louis in June. “I’m borderline between being confident and cocky,” he They met when one of her childhood friends married one explained. “I probably toe that line often. Every time I submit a of Karner’s football teammates, Stephan Langford. poster at a meeting, I expect to win. But I know the people who Karner said he still maintains his ECU friendships. won this thing the last two or three years, and it’s so shocking “I keep in touch with the majority of people in my class that I won – to say I’m on the level of those people. for sure, and some others. It’s mostly by phone,” he said. “I’m “Hopefully, they haven’t realized they made a mistake,” he not into Facebook and those kinds of things. There are a few

Join the ECU Athletic Alumni Association Former ECU Athlete? Join the revitalized Athletic Alumni Association today for just $50 and receive a t-shirt, e-mail updates and more. Call Brian DeAngelis at 580-559-5604 or e-mail him at [email protected].

30 The Columns Courtney Karner (far left) delivers a far I can take this thing. See if I can thrive at the top. lecture on his research as the winner of the “But, I like to fish and hunt, things like that. That’s not really Nominata Award at the University of Texas accepted, and the effort and time it takes to be successful is Southwestern Medical Center. A framed not conducive to having a life outside the lab. announcement (left shared the stage with “As you can see, I haven’t figured that out yet.” Karner. He demonstrates (below) how he Realistically, he said, he will never find the cure for any grew cells associated with wound healing in diseases, and that’s not where his interests lie. 2002 at the OU Health Sciences Center. “I’m more interested in how I or you have developed. How we go from a single cell to a couple trillion cells. I’m more interested in what regulates that. How does an organ form? How does it know to turn into a specialized organ rather than people I talk with weekly.” something else?” It takes between five and six At UTSW he investigated the molecular regulation of years to complete a PhD in his stem cell maintenance, mesenchymal to epithelial transition research field, Karner said. Most and epithelial morphogenesis during the development of the of his former teammates who kidney. His work under the original grant led to a million-dollar have been coaching for several grant for his mentor. years needle him for staying in From his first undergraduate research experience through school so long. his “long, interesting journey” to his doctorate, Karner has been “They laugh at me because quick to praise the broad-based education he received at ECU. they make twice as much money “I always felt I was much better prepared (than other as I do and I just got out of students) for everything we faced in graduate school,” he said. school,” he said. “That was attributable to the education I received at ECU. No Someday, maybe it will pay off, he added. one else had that type of education. Everyone had part of what Because he always made good grades, people would tell I had but no one had the whole picture.” him he should be a doctor, but that’s not what he wanted to do. Karner grew up in Altus. He is the son of “I couldn’t see racking up $200,000 just for tuition and Dawnelle Karner, who now lives in Broken books over four years,” he said “I thought that was asinine.” Arrow, and the late Dr. Miles Karner, who In research, however, graduate students are paid between

$20,000 and $26,000 per year and have health insurance, “a was the area entomologist nice alternative,” Karner said. and state cotton specialist Karner also was offered postdoctoral positions at Harvard, for Oklahoma State Columbia, the University of Texas, Stanford and the University University’s Cooperative of California at Berkley but chose a postdoctoral position at Extension Service in Altus. Washington University Medical Center in St. Louis to study bone Karner donated his development and its role in the development of hematopoetic father’s 49 reference stem cells. and technical books on “I went from working on the kidney to bone systems,” entomology to ECU in 2006. he said. “A postdoctoral position is supposed to enrich your experience and prove that you’re versatile enough to produce knowledge in different areas,” he said. It also is supposed to be training for researchers to run their own labs, but, Karner said, they just do more research and don’t run anything or supervise anyone. He has five years, under National Institutes of Health policy, to be a “postdoc.” The title could be changed to instructor, he said, but the aim is for the postdoc to find his own position. That will be the next fork in the road – either stay in the research world or teach. “Some days I want to shoot the moon,” he said, “see how

Continue to be a TIGER!

The Columns 31 Desiree’ Nordie (.314), freshman outfielder Laura Loughmiller ECU softball (.306) and junior outfielder Cassandra Nordie (.300). Junior third baseman Kasey Barber batted .295 with six squad stages homers and led the team with 41 runs batted in. The team’s only senior, second baseman Hillary Hughes, memorable 2010 season was named to the All-LSC Second Team for the second year in a row after finishing with a .979 fielding percentage for the was a season to remember for the 2010 season (with only three errors). She also batted .237, drove in East Central University softball team. 18 runs and doubled five times. Posting their most successful Simmons and Barber were honorable mention all- campaign in school history, the Lady Tigers conference picks for 2010. flourished to a 34-21 record and reached the The Lady Tiger pitching staff had a solid 1-2 punch in junior finalsIt of the Lone Star Conference Championship Tournament right-handers Wanda Malone and Randee Crockett. Malone, for the first time. who was named LSC Newcomer of the Year and a Second In fact, it was ECU’s first appearance in the tournament Team All-LSC North honoree, posted a 15-12 record with a since the 1998 season. 2.48 ERA while Crockett earned a 15-4 mark with a 3.69 ERA. “This is something we had been building. These girls The strikeout to walk ratio was also impressive as Malone knew we had potential to be this good and kept working and struck out 153 batters and walked only 35 while Crockett working,” said Lady Tiger head coach Destini Anderson, who fanned 122 batters and issued just 19 free passes. wrapped up her fourth season at the helm. “Team chemistry Defensively, ECU had a .960 fielding percentage, was strong and we meshed well together.” compared to a .951 clip for the opponents. The three major ingredients – hitting, pitching and defense “With Randee we’ve had a strong pitcher the last couple of – came together for ECU as the team finished with a combined years and then we add Wanda to the mix. I thought our pitching .296 batting average, compared to the opponents’ .277. The was real deep this year. Offensively, we had more hits with Lady Tiger pitching staff also had a combined earned run runners on base and, defensively, we got better as the season average of 3.37, compared to the opposition’s 3.44. ECU went along,” Anderson said.

TIGER13 Sports...1 Team also committed 18 less errors (77-59) than the opponents. Offensively, the Lady Tigers had six players hit Athletics The Lady Tigers .300 or better, led by junior capped off the season outfielder Nicole Sanchez, with a surprising and who batted .380 with four magnificent run in the LSC homers, five triples, 12 Postseason Tournament, doubles and 21 runs batted going 3-2 and earning while hitting in the leadoff three victories over spot. Sophomore first NCAA Division II regional baseman Emily Kennemer qualifiers. ECU entered was next at .342 with six the tournament as one of home runs, 14 doubles and the two lowest seeds after 34 RBIs. finishing fourth in the LSC Sanchez and Ken- North Division. nemer were named to the ECU opened play All-Lone Star Conference in the tournament with North First Team and both a stunning 6-1 win over were also voted to the LSC 11th-ranked West Texas All-Academic Team for their A&M, the No. 1 seed success in the classroom. from the South Division, Also hitting .300 or Lone senior Hillary Hughes (kneeling with flowers) poses with her behind the pitching of better were freshman teammates on senior day before the last home game of the season on Crockett, who allowed no shortstop Shelby Simmons April 27. The Lady Tigers finished second overall in the conference earned runs off six hits (.337), sophomore catcher tournament this year. with only two walks and

32 The Columns ECU Names new men’s basketball coach

East Central University has named Joe Redmond as its new men’s head basketball coach. Redmond, 36, brings a wealth of experience to Ada as an NCAA Division I assistant and Division II head coach. Redmond most recently spent three seasons as an assistant at the University of North Carolina-Wilmington. The NCAA Division I Seahawks made vast improvement during his second season there, going 20-13 in 2007-08 after a 7-22 finish in 2006-07. Prior to that, Redmond was at Henderson State University Former Lady Tiger Softballers Hold (Ark.) for six seasons, the first three as an assistant and the Reunion in June next three as head coach. “We’re excited about having someone of Joe’s experience Pictured Back Row (left to right): Tammy Muncrief and character join our Tiger family,” said ECU Director of Odom (‘94 & ‘04), Stacie Becker Wartchow (‘99), Tina Athletics Brian DeAngelis. “His background in Division II and Blankenship (‘02), Shawn Richmond (‘99), Erin Regier recruiting in this region will be a valuable asset to our basketball (‘98), Coach Ron Miller (‘78), Staci Tompkins Trenary program and help propel it toward future success.” (‘98), Paije Fauser (‘00), Carey Vestal (‘99), and Jennifer ECU President John Hargrave agreed. Sperling Jones “I appreciate Joe’s enthusiasm about the future of our basketball program,” Hargrave said. “He is ready to go to work, Front Row (left to right): Teresa Thompson (‘99), Mandy and we are looking forward to the next Tiger basketball season Caster (‘98), Shawna Melton (‘01), Tammy Daniels Arthmann (‘00), Jennifer Landrith Russell (‘98) under his leadership. He brings with him head coaching experience. He is known

eight strikeouts. Simmons went 3-for-3 in the game and scored three runs while Desiree’ Nordie was 2-for-3 and knocked in for teams that play a disciplined and two runs. rugged defense.” In the next round, the Lady Tigers shocked the No. 2 In his first season as head coach at seed from the North in Central Oklahoma 5-4 as the sister Henderson State in 2003-04, he guided combination of Cassandra and Desiree’ Nordie homered while the Reddies to a 23-7 record, the Gulf South West Division title Sanchez and Kennemer drove in another run apiece. Malone and their sixth straight NCAA South Regional berth. His teams allowed six hits, walked two and fanned four in the win. went 13-14 in 2004-05 and 15-12 in 2005-06. That led to the winners’ bracket finals in which the Lady His overall head coaching record on the Division II level is Tigers fell to Angelo State 4-1. ECU’s only score came off 51-33. Courtney Gaines’ single down the right field line, scoring “I’m extremely excited. There’s a wealth of potential for the Barber from second base. basketball program here. The interest, energy level and overall But as was the case through most of the season, the Lady excitement from the president on down is intriguing,” said Tigers bounced back in an elimination game as ECU, trailing Redmond. “I’m ready to roll up my sleeves and get to work.” 1-0 entering the bottom of the seventh and final inning, strung a As for the style of play, it all depends on returning personnel two-out walk with three consecutive singles to stun UCO again, and recruiting, according to Redmond. 2-1. “We will be a man-to-man defensive team and a good one. A Barber walk and a Cassandra Nordie single set the stage I know that,” Redmond said. “I really need to try and evaluate for Gaines’ RBI single down the left field line to tie it up. Then who is returning and see what holes we need to fill. I know we Hughes came through with a walk-off game-winning single to need to add as much post depth as possible.” center, sending the Lady Tigers to the tournament finals. As Henderson State’s top assistant, Redmond helped Unfortunately, ECU was no match for Angelo State in the guide the team to a 30-5 finish as the Redddies captured title game as the Rambelles cruised to a 9-1 victory. ASU, the Western Division and Gulf South Tournament championships in only team to defeat the Lady Tigers in the tournament, also 2002-03. That team went on to advance to the South Regional advanced to the regional playoffs. finals. Through the course of the season, ECU earned seven In his six-year span at HSU, the Reddies earned two GSC victories over regional-qualifying teams, beating UCO three titles and three GSC West Division crowns while making four times and West Texas A&M twice while topping Midwestern NCAA Division II Tournament appearances and reaching the State and Angelo State one time apiece. regional finals twice.

The Columns 33 Redmond, a native of Parsons, Kan., was also a head coach at Labette tiger athletics Community College (Kan.) for three fall 2010 HOME SCHEDULEs: seasons. for a complete athletic schedule He played football at Independence listing check out the athletic website @ www.ecutigers.com! Community College (Kan.), before transferring to Pittsburg State (Kan.). DATE Sport TIME While completing his degree at Pittsburg 9/6 volleyball 5 p.m. State, Redmond coached freshman 9/11 football 6 P.M. basketball at Pittsburg High School. 9/16 volleyball 7 p.m. He spent one season as a graduate assistant at the now defunct Phillips 9/18 volleyball 2 p.m. University in Enid. 9/21 volleyball 7 p.m. Redmond and his wife Carla have 9/25 volleyball 1 p.m. The weather an 8-year-old daughter, Mae. 9/25 football 6 P.M. 9/26 soccer 2 p.m. Didn’t dampen the 9/28 soccer 4 p.m. competitive spirit Charles Terry named 10/1 soccer 4 p.m. of the players and Assistant Coach 10/9 Football (homecoming) 6 P.M. host Gil Morgan at 10/14 soccer 4 p.m. this year’s Tim Green 10/14 volleyball 7 p.m. New East Central University men’s All-sports golf head basketball coach Joe Redmond 10/16 football 2 P.M. has announced that Charles Terry will 10/16 volleyball 7 p.m. tournament join his staff as the 10/17 soccer 2 p.m. team’s top assis- 10/18 volleyball 6 p.m. 10/23 Cross country 9 A.M. 10/26 volleyball 7 p.m. 10/28 volleyball 7 p.m. 10/29 soccer 3 p.m. 10/30 volleyball 11 a.m. 10/30 football 2 P.M. tant for the 2010- 10/31 soccer 12 p.m. 11 season. Terry most re- Home games are located at: cently served as head basketball coach football: Norris Field volleyball: Kerr Activities Center at Lincoln (Mo.) for six years. Prior to soccer: Soccer Field that, he spent three years as the head Cross Country: coach at Oklahoma Panhandle State Pontotoc Technology center, Ada University in Goodwell. Terry also had assistant coaching stops at Fayetteville High School (Ark.), Little Rock McClellan High School (Ark.), University of the Ozarks (Ark.) and Drury (Mo.). He is a 1972 graduate of Emporia High School (Kan.) and was a junior college All-American at Hutchinson Com- munity College (Kan.) where he played for the legendary Gene Keady. After his two-year stint at Hutchin- son, Terry played two seasons for another legend, coach Eddie Sutton, at the University of Arkansas. Terry was a two-time All-Southwest Conference selection for the Razorbacks. “Coach Terry brings a wealth of experience,” said Redmond. “We’re lucky to have someone of his caliber on our staff. We look forward to working with him.”

34 The Columns TSeeiger What’s Happening Tracks With Your Fellow Alums Jennifer Diane Putman Lesley Ann Claxton and Jarrod Anthony (’07) and Christopher Tollett (’00) exchanged Ian Cottrell exchanged wedding vows on Dec. wedding vows on June 26, 2009 at the Bennett 5, 2010, at the Walnut Church of the Nazarene in Norman. Jennifer Creek Chapel. Lesley is graduated from Little Axe High School in 2001 a 2003 graduate of Ada and from Seminole State College in 2008 with an High School and a 2007 associate’s degree. Jarrod graduated from Ada graduate of ECU where High School in 1995 and from ECU in 2000 with she received a bachelor a bachelor’s degree in history. of science degree in nursing. Christopher is 1997 graduate of Carl Lacy Soward (’08) and Albert High School and a 2001 graduate of Rose Cody Grammer (’01) State College. exchanged wedding vows on April 21, 2010, Amy Lynn Cox (attending) at Shalimar Wedding and Stephen Joel Chapel in Las Vegas. McDonough (’04) Lacy is a 2004 graduate exchanged wedding of Ada High School and a 2008 graduate of ECU vows June 5, 2010, at where she received a bachelor of science degree the Central Church of in business administration/finance. Cody is a Christ. Amy graduated from Ada High School in 1996 graduate of Lone Grove High School and a 2001 and is a student at ECU majoring in nursing. 2001 graduate of ECU where he received a Stephen is a 1995 graduate of Sulphur High bachelor of science degree in business School and a 2004 graduate of ECU where he administration/management. received a degree in art.

Beverly Medcalf (’04) and Cody Weaver (’05, ’07) exchanged wedding vows on June 26, 2010, at Weaver Acreage in Noble, Okla. Beverly is a 2000 graduate of Latta High School and a 2004 graduate of ECU where she received a bachelor of science degree in biology. She is also a 2008 graduate of the SWOSU College of Pharmacy. Cody is a 2001 graduate of Noble High School and a 2005 graduate of ECU where he received a bachelor of

Bayne Bonner Davis Hargrave Son of Paige Orstad (‘10) Grandson of John (‘77) & Kay (‘78) Hargrave

The Columns 35 arts degree in rehabilitation counseling. He also bachelor of science degree in education. Nicholas ECU Professor wins earned a master’s degree in rehabilitation is a 1999 graduate of Plano East Senior High and award counseling from ECU in 2007. a 2001 graduate of New Mexico Military Institute. Dr. Karen Williams, He is also a 2009 graduate of ECU where he professor of physics Mary Kathryn Beam and received a bachelor of science degree in at East Central James Andrew Scivally (’04) sociology exchanged wedding vows University, has June 26, 2010. Mary is a 2007 received the Winter Rachel Rayburn (’05) graduate of Texas Christian 2010 American and Wiley Barnes University where she received Association of Physics Teachers exchanged wedding a bachelor of science degree in Distinguished Service Citation... vows on July 10, 2010. nursing. James is a 2004 Rachel is a 2001 graduate of ECU where he received a bachelor of graduate of Pauls Valley EMsa names lehman science degree in business administration. High School and a 2005 as vp of financial graduate of ECU where she received a bachelor services Zack Womack (‘04), of science degree in education. Wiley is a 1996

former ECU football player, graduate of Ponderosa High School in Parker, EMSA has named Angie Lehman has been named ECU’s Colo., and a 2001 graduate of Oklahoma State (‘96) as vice president of financial new director of strength and University. services. Lehman will work out of conditioning. EMSA’s Oklahoma City office.... Womack played three Tiffany Denise Moreau and seasons as a running Brent Matthew Williams lorene rocker earns back for ECU from 2001- (’05) exchanged wedding degree at 80 03 after transferring from vows on April 17, 2010, in Pittsburg State University (Kan.). As a Tiger, the Slade Methodist “You gotta Womack scored 14 career touchdowns, eight on Chapel in Orange, Texas. live until pass receptions and the other six off rushes. He Tiffany graduated from you die,” finished with 50 career receptions for 526 yards Little Cypress High School says Lorene and had 177 career carries for 657 yards. in Orange. Brent graduated from Ardmore High Rocker, A native of Davis, Womack earned his School and from ECU in 2005 with a bachelor’s which bachelor of science degree from ECU in 2004 degree in environmental health science. explains why and completed 12 hours in the exercise and she finished sports science master’s program at the University Nicole Burnett (’06) and her bachelor’s degree at ECU this of Memphis. Mark Elkins (’10) exchanged summer – at age 80 and with 13 wedding vows on June 5, great-grandchildren... Tammi Lea Fry (’05) and 2010, on the beach of Nicholas Doyle Jones Nassau Bahamas. Nicole Retired educators (’09) exchanged graduated from Coalgate Association honors wedding vows June 5, High School in 2002 and from ECU in 2006 with huggins 2010, at the First United a bachelor of science degree in biology. Mark Maudie Huggins of Davis is the Methodist Church in graduated from Ada High School in 2002 and 2010 Very Important Member of the Plano, Texas. Tammi is from ECU in 2010 with a bachelor of science Murray County Retired Educators a 2000 graduate of South Gray High School and degree in kinesiology. Association... a 2005 graduate of ECU where she received a

Angie Sherrell (‘84) named one of most powerful women in texas Jadyn & Colton Howard The Texas Diversity Council hosted Daughter & Son of its sixth Annual Diversity and Joe & Kellie (‘95) Howard Leadership conference April 7-9, which included the Most Powerful and Influential Women of Texas Breakfast... see the full stories at alumni.ecok.edu/news Grads i n the N ews.... see full stories at

Caroline McBride, Marshall McBride & Matthew Hooser Children of Christi (‘10) Carruth

36 The Columns Semah Yekzaman (’06) is High School and the University of Oklahoma. Rosa Mae Harrison in Bulgaria as a volunteer Christopher is also a graduate of Ardmore High (attending) and for the Peace Corps. school and a 2008 graduate of ECU with a Easton Dakota Dale She will be there for 27 bachelor of science degree in business Denton (attending) months. Three are for administration/finance. exchanged wedding training and learning the vows on June 5, language, followed by Kasi Jordan Darbison 2010. Rosa is a two full years of living in a (attending) and Brandon graduate of Porum community to work as a volunteer in social work. Hopstein (’09) exchanged High School and a Semah graduated from ECU in 2006 with a wedding vows May 14, current student at bachelor of social work degree and then earned a 2010, at Fossil Creek ECU where she is master of social work degree from OU Tulsa. Ranch. Kasi is a 2006 pursuing a degree in early childhood education. She will be helping underprivileged children in graduate of Ada High Easton is a graduate of Konawa High School and Bulgaria. School and a current a current student at ECU pursing a degree in student at ECU majoring in family & consumer communication studies. Sarah Danielle Johnson and sciences/retail merchandising. Brandon attended Chad Lee Henry (’07) Seminary High School in Seminary, Miss. and is Danna Howry (attending) exchanged wedding vows a 2009 graduate of ECU where he received a and Jonathan Borntrager June 4, 2010, at the First degree in kinesiology/exercise science. exchanged wedding United Pentecostal Church vows May 22, 2010. in Ada. Sarah is a 2005 Michelle Krzywda (’10) Danna is a 2007 graduate of Byng High School and a 2009 and Zachary Campbell graduate of Ada High graduate of Gateway College of Evangelism with (’10) exchanged School and a current a bachelor’s degree in music. Chad is a 2000 wedding vows May 24, student at ECU majoring in elementary education. graduate of Vanoss High School and a 2007 2010, aboard the Jonathan is a 2005 home school graduate and graduate of ECU where he received a bachelor’s Carnival Cruise Ship attended the College of the Ozarks in Branson, degree in criminal justice. Ecstasy while in port at Galveston, Texas. Mo. Michelle is a 2006 graduate of Norman North Katrina Elaine Miller (’07) High School and earned a bachelor’s degree in Danli Mills (attending) and Jeffery Todd Brown elementary education from ECU in 2010. and Cowboy Sanford exchanged wedding Zachary is a 2005 graduate of Ada High School (attending) exchanged vows on May 27, 2010, and earned a bachelor’s degree in kinesiology wedding vows on at Provodencialse, Turks from ECU in 2010. March 12, 2010 at & Caicos Islands. Bethel Free Will Katrina graduated from Ada High School in 2002 Pfc. Rachelle Higgs and Baptist Church in and from ECU in 2007 with a bachelor of science Ronald Lee Black II Allen. Danli is a 2009 graduate of Allen High degree in kinesiology. Jeffery graduated from (attending) exchanged School and currently attends ECU where she is Ada High School in 1985 and from Oklahoma wedding vows on April 4, majoring in accounting. Cowboy is a 2007 State University in 1991. 2009, at the Arbuckle graduate of Holdenville High School and currently Wedding Chapel. Rachelle attends ECU where he is majoring in criminal Amy Byrd and Christopher graduated from Lone Grove High School in 2009 justice. Hopper (’08) exchanged and serves in the United States Army at Fort wedding vows on June 12, Gordon, GA., as a private first class. She is a 2010, at the First United communications signal specialist. Ronald Church of Ardmore. Amy is graduated from Dickson High School in 2005 and a graduate of Ardmore is a current student at ECU.

Jordan & Makai Blades Grandchildren of Donnie (’71) & Shirley (’71) Nero

Adryn & Brayden Ingle Sons of Daniel & Kassie (‘09) Ingle Caleb Allen Son of Amy (‘10) Allen

The Columns 37 Kaci Patton (attending) and Trevor Angel In Memoriam (attending) exchanged The ECU family offers our deepest sympathy to the wedding vows on July families of the alumni and friends we have lost. 24, 2010, at Abba’s House Worship Center. Lorita Bonifield, attended Mabel Jones, 1939 Kaci is a 2006 graduate Jane A. Bullard, 1987 & 1990 Richard Lee Jones, attended of Vanoss High School and is currently attending Nathan Burris, attended Willie Lawson, attended ECU where she is pursuing a degree in business Beth LaTrell Burwell, attended Leola Lindley, 1969 administratio/finance. Trevor is a 2009 graduate Nancy Campbell, attended Leatrill Lockhart, attended of CCS and is currently attending ECU where he Josie Christian, attended Don James Loveless, 1951 is pursuing a degree in kinesiology. Dr. Bill Cole, 1959 Muriel Edwards Lowrance, 1954 Phoebe Kate Price President Emeritus (1989-2006) Roger McCracken, 1951 (attending) and Jeffrey Paul Dorothy June Schafer Cox, 1978 Charles McKenzie, attended Barron (attending) Wayne Leroy Craig, 1953 Hermie “Totsie” McKinney, attended exchanged wedding vows William Edward “Ed” Denny, attended Alta Meneffee, 1959 May 15, 2010, at the Percy Dale “Leo” Dittemore, 1953 Blanche Marie Sanders Monroe, 1938 Chickasaw Lake Club in Cecil “Blair” Easley Jr. 1965 Syble Moore, 1955 Ardmore. Phoebe graduated Iris Faye Gaar, attended Judson “Jud” Porter, 1964 from Ardmore High School in 2007 and is Mary Jean Gaffaney, attended Frances Virginia Rhoads, attended currently attending ECU where she is a Joan Ganus, attended Bill Rodebush, 1964 communication studies major. Jeffrey graduated Annetta Beth Gibson, 1974 Margie “Pepper” Sands, attended from Schulter High School and is a current Jim Clark Gillispie, attended Roy K. “Ted” Smith, 1948 student at ECU majoring in business James Goddard, attended Mary Lou Southerland, attended administration. James Harold Haines, 1952 Pat Summers, attended Henry Lee “Hank” Heiskill, 1979 David Taylor, 1975 & 1995 Former ECU cross coun- Mark D. Hendon, 1983 Billye Verticchio, attended try runner Josh Stewart (at- Glossye Isaacs, attended Lawrence Waggoner, attended tended) won the 10th Annu- Gary Jackson, 1980 Lorene Wallis, 1942 al Oklahoma City National Carroll Ray Johnson, 1998 Winna Jo Gray Wilmer, attended Memorial Marathon and Kay C. Johnson, attended Patsy Young, 1971 John Sutrick (‘08) finished 10th. Stew- Josh art, who just com- Stewart & pleted his senior Hayley season of cross Jennings country at Cameron We Want to Hear From You! University, clocked in at 2:34:26. Sutrick, who wrapped up his career at ECU in 2009, posted a time of 2:50:35. Send us your Tiger Track information today! ECU cross country alumnus Matt Aguero Log on to: alumni.ecok.edu (‘03), who is the current men’s head cross country coach at Cameron, won the 2005 race with a time of 2:31:42. As an alum your child and/or grandchild is a Legacy and very important to us. Hayley Jennings (attending) finished third We want to send a FREE t-shirt to them, and if you share your overall in the Oklahoma City National Memorial Women’s photo, we’ll publish it in an upcoming edition of The Columns. Half Marathon in Oklahoma City April 25. Jennings, who just completed her rookie campaign La Fragua with the ECU women’s cross John Reunion country team, Sutrick finished the half- & Matt marathon race Oct. 9, 2010 Agureo (13.1 miles) in (after Homecoming) 1:29:36 as she took first in the 19-and-under age division. 9:00 p.m. Elks Lodge Don’ t Forge !

38 The Columns 2010 ECU Quick Facts Enrollment – 5,705 (highest enrollment ever!) States/Countries Represented: 20/30 Average Class Size: 21 Student-faculty ratio – 18 to 1 Male/Female Ratio: 6:10 Campus Size: 38 buildings, 140 acres Total faculty – 278 Full-time faculty – 168 Part-time faculty – 110 Percent of faculty with advanced degrees – 65%

There* are* several* ECU* alums *who * “Hire A Tiger” The ECU Career Development Center’s mission provides educational services, student learning opportunities and programs enhancing the overall experience for those we serve. The Center is dedicated to helping students and alumni identify, develop and implement their career goals over a life span for success in a rapidly changing and culturally diverse society. Services provided for current students & alumni: • Career Services • Mock Interviews • Online Assessments • Job Shopping • Placement Services • Tiger Mentoring • Online Job Board • Career/Job Fairs • Resume & Cover Letter • Alumni Speakers Templates • Clinics/Workshops • Resume Development • Networking Events For more information visit: www.hireatiger.org us on : F ollow

The Columns 39 Non Profit Organization U.S. Postage PAID Permit No. 162 Ada, OK East Central University 1100 E. 14th Street, PMB Y-8 Ada, OK 74820

40 The Columns