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Campaign Impacts Students’ Lives The Magazine of We Catamount catcher Blake Murphy, a junior from Waynesville who passed up a chance to play professionally after being drafted by The Magazine of Wes t ern Carolina Universi t y the New York Yankees, makes the tag at home in a game against Connecticut. Murphy helped lead Western’s baseball team to impressive early season wins over three nationally ranked opponents—Clemson, Georgia Tech and N.C. State from the ACC—and a victory over SEC The Magazine of Western Carolina University is foe Georgia. The bat Cats continue their march produced by the Office of Public Relations in the Division of Advancement and External Affairs toward the Southern Conference tournament, for alumni, faculty, staff, friends and students of which gets under way May 22 in Charleston, Western Carolina University. S.C. For game and ticket information, visit catamountsports.com.

Western Carolina University Chancellor John W. Bardo Vice Chancellor Clifton B. Metcalf Advancement and External Affairs Associate Vice Chancellor Leila Tvedt Public Relations

Managing Editor Bill Studenc Associate Editor Teresa Killian Art Director Rubae Sander Chief Photographer Mark Haskett ’87 Contributing Writers Phil Cauley ’83 MS ’90 Jess Clarke Jessica Cregger David Driver Randall Holcombe Daniel Hooker ’01 Leila Tvedt Dianne Yount ’79

Class Notes Editor Dianne Yount ’79 Designer John Balentine Contributing Photographer Ashley T. Evans Production Manager Loretta R. Adams ’80  The Magazine of Western Carolina University SPRING 2007 SPRING 2007 The Magazine of Western Carolina University  to change things for the betterment of government, which allocates funding advocating for issues such as new everybody, Andrus said. “That’s where for about 50 organizations on campus student parking regulations, boosting we are starting from,” he said. The and helps keep students informed about community service and expanding program is designed to help students issues such as tuition, parking, food Internet access in residence hall rooms. see their goals as individuals, then work services and financial aid. He’s excited “We disagreed on student government together for a common purpose, such about WE LEAD. “Student leadership but had to work together, and that was as developing a community service on campus is growing exponentially,” a great education for me in leadership,” activity, and ultimately apply their said Grasty, who is majoring in Brock said. “If it wasn’t for that, I leadership skills to benefit society. “We emergency management and criminal wouldn’t be where I am today.” might ask a student to consider, ‘What justice. “We are seeing more and Another legislator who honed his would it be like to be the greatest bio- more freshmen come in eager to step leadership skills as an undergraduate environmental engineer that ever came up to a leadership role.” at WCU is N.C. Sen. Tom Apodaca ’80 out of Western?’” Young alumni who quickly became who is now deputy Republican leader. In the classroom, students take community leaders after graduation, A former member of Western’s board interactive leadership classes offered such as N.C. Sen. Andrew Brock ’98, of trustees, Apodaca says experiences through the College of Education and are excited to see Western expand a at Western helped prepare him for the Allied Profession’s human resources program designed to help more students future. “Jobs as a resident assistant department that teach leadership theory realize early in their college career their and head resident were very valuable and ethics. The courses require so much leadership potential. Brock remembered in learning to work with others and time and commitment that students wanting to get involved at WCU as a deal with numerous situations,” said have asked university leaders to consider student but not feeling ready, at first, Apodaca. “Secondly, working as an offering a minor in leadership, and to be “out front.” That changed as he orientation leader proved to be very Andrus expects a leadership minor to be accepted larger and larger leadership beneficial in enhancing my people skills.” in place as early as spring 2008. roles in student government. He began Outside the classroom, WE LEAD offers workshops, journaling, coaching, a N.C. Sen. Andrew Brock ’98 speaks at a Restore America Rally that drew more than 12,000 people to the legislature. residential living-learning community for freshmen, and mentoring experiences that link incoming students with campus leaders. Members of the freshman community create their own governing structure, such as offices of president and vice president or committees with equal representation. They work together on group activities, including community service. In addition, WE LEAD offers a Students in Western’s increasingly Wellness. The 17 presentations she gave theories she learns in class. leadership certificate and “co-curricular” comprehensive leadership program for C.L.A.W. in one semester helped That’s exactly what Bart Andrus, transcripts to document students' test theories from the classroom in one her gain confidence, and today she’s associate director for leadership extra-curricular achievements of the largest laboratories on campus a resident assistant and leader in her programs, wants the growing number and participation. —the campus itself. They take the sorority, continually and consciously of participants to experience. “You don’t The program continues to expand opportunities as freshmen, assigned applying to her life the leadership get the whole picture of leadership by as WE LEAD charters a new local to observe “leadership” at reading a book. You have to chapter of Omicron Delta Kappa, a university events including apply it, and participants in nationally recognized leadership honor (above) Cody Grasty, a senior involved in WCU's leadership program, presides over a concerts, exhibits, Women’s our program do that right society, this spring. “The chapter brings Student Government Association meeting. Center activities, guest lectures, “ You don’t get the whole picture here at Western. They gain together individuals who, in all phases of career services, club meetings confidence and sharpen collegiate life, help model the outcome (right) N.C. Sen. Tom Apodaca ’80 speaks and football games. of leadership by reading a skills that will help them as of the institution,” Andrus said. In the to a group of local business people. (photo “I saw leadership was all graduates to be leaders in their fall, WE LEAD will roll out new student- courtesy Hendersonville Times-News) around me—even within a book. You have to apply it, and communities,” Andrus said. facilitated leadership workshops. team—no matter what I was The concept of WE LEAD, Cody Grasty, a senior from Maggie doing,” said Bethany Hartshorn, which stands for Western Valley, said the skills he’s fine-tuning in a junior nursing major from participants in our program do Encourages Leadership leadership classes and as president of Hendersonville. Hartshorn came that right here at Western. Education and Development, is the Student Government Association away inspired to get involved ” to help students see leadership will help him pursue a career in city with organizations such as —Bart Andrus as a process of involving other or county management. Grasty Campus Leaders Advocating people toward a common goal practices building consensus in student

 The Magazine of Western Carolina University SPRING 2007 SPRING 2007 The Magazine of Western Carolina University  Among those who have benefited from Western’s graduate education programs are, from left, school principal Sherri Arrington MAEd ’82 EdS ’04, community college administrator Van Wilson ’83 MPA ’91 and banker Catherine Sams MBA ’05.

Alumni Emphasize Value Difference of Graduate Education By PHIL CAULEY ’83 MS ’90 education and research opportunities that enhance their lives is a wonderful way to give back to the university. When we get and the lives of others,” Higgins said. great students, the value of everyone’s degree is enhanced.” Help wanted. Minimum education required: master’s degree. College made it clear I would likely remain at the technician Many alumni are enhancing lives across North Carolina. New graduate programs such as nurse anesthesia, social Increasingly, phrases like this adorn job postings and career level in my field without an advanced degree,” said Mark Hall “WCU has an excellent school administration program, and the work, sport management, teaching English as a second language, Web site listings throughout the nation. And increasingly, more MS ’05, project manager/regional vegetation ecologist for training is very beneficial to the job,” said Sherri Arrington and the educational doctorate position Western to prepare more students are turning to Western to earn those advanced degrees. Appalachian Trail NatureServe in Arlington, Va. “He also said MAEd ’82 EdS ’04, principal at Hazelwood Elementary School graduates who can be responsive to the needs of the community, Fueled in part by the development of several new it would be good exploration into the many aspects of biology. in Haywood County. Arrington is not sure she would have begun region and state. Online delivery of graduate programs such as graduate programs such as physical therapy and construction After finishing my graduate research, I actually felt like a without support. “Balancing between a full-time job, being a construction management, entrepreneurship, human resources, management, enrollment in WCU’s Graduate School has biologist capable of acting independently and making informed mom and wife, and going back to earn another degree was very nurse educator, project management and school administration increased by 58 percent since the fall of 2000. And the growth decisions,” Hall said. challenging, but Keith Wyatt MAEd ’76 EdS ’87, my principal, increases the likelihood that place-bound students can go the of online courses has sparked a dramatic spike in the number Catherine Sams MBA ’05 echoes that sentiment. “When I and Sandy Caldwell MAEd ’78 EdS ’83, my elementary super- distance toward degree completion without having to go to of place-bound working professionals pursuing graduate studies was nearing graduation from Clemson, I was not certain of my visor, both encouraged me to pursue my administration degree.” Cullowhee or Asheville for classes. at Western from the comfort of their own homes. Part-time career path,” Sams said. “Many classmates were applying for Not all of the rewards of a graduate degree are tangible. “Self- Van Wilson ’83 MPA ’91 still recalls the challenge of his graduate student enrollment skyrocketed 425 percent from jobs and having difficult times being hired because of economic confidence could be added to the list of benefits I’ve realized commute to class when he was balancing family priorities and 2000 to 2006. conditions. I decided that graduate school would give me time from gaining an advanced degree,” said Lucille Whiten ’04 a full-time career with the rigors of academic study. “This is my “Having an advanced degree allowed me to choose my career to decide on a career path and an advantage over applicants MEd ’06, coordinator of student leadership programs at the 24th year in higher education administration,” said Wilson, vice rather than having my career choose me,” said Sarah Chadwick who only possessed undergraduate degrees.” Her strategy paid University of West Georgia. “There is an internal pride once you president of student development services at Forsyth Technical ’04 MS ’06, a speech-language pathologist at Aegis Therapies dividends—BB&T hired her as a business banker in Waynesville have set your mind to doing something and you have completed Community College. “The tools I learned while in the graduate in Hickory. “My profession now requires a master’s degree, so as she was finishing graduate school. “Without my master’s it with flying colors.” program at WCU still support me in my professional growth I knew I would attend graduate school.” degree, I would not have started with the company in the Gibbs Knotts, the Graduate School’s associate dean, today.” Wilson is quick to caution those who are considering Even among disciplines that do not require advanced study position I did,” she said. spearheads new initiatives to improve the graduate experience, graduate school: “Make sure the commitment is there.” Good for entry-level employment, an undergraduate degree alone Scott Higgins, Graduate School dean at WCU, is encouraged and realizes an added benefit of graduating well-prepared, well- advice from someone who is nearing completion of a doctoral sometimes seems more like a hunting license than a ticket by this type of alumni feedback. “We are building meaningful pleased students. “Our alumni are our best recruiters,” Knotts program in higher education leadership. to a career-related position. “My adviser at Davis and Elkin relationships with our students and faculty designed to expand said. “Word of mouth is critical, and helping us recruit students

 The Magazine of Western Carolina University SPRING 2007 SPRING 2007 The Magazine of Western Carolina University  Class Act Lateral Entry Program Leads to Top Teaching Award By ANDRE RODRIGUEZ

The staff and faculty of Asheville High School gathered often acquire the critical thinking skills necessary to after school one day recently for what they thought was express creativity at many important levels.” going to be another meeting to go over procedures and Now Hughes and seven other regional Teachers of policies. But the meeting turned out to be a celebration the Year will compete for statewide honors. The 2007-08 announcing that Jerome Hughes MAT ’06 has been Teacher of the Year will be announced May 1 in Cary. selected as North Carolina’s 2007-08 Western Region “Jerome Hughes represents an incredible group Teacher of the Year. of teachers at Asheville High School and throughout Hughes, who teaches English and the Advancement Asheville City Schools,” Logan said. “That translates Via Individual Determination curriculum, a program directly into the steady improvements we have posted better known as AVID, previously had been selected as in academic achievement over the past several years. Asheville City Schools’ Teacher of the Year, qualifying him The teacher of the year selection process simply for the regional award. validates and recognizes that fact.” Superintendent Robert Logan ’76 said it was difficult keeping news of the WNC honor a secret. “But when we Reprinted in edited form with permission of the Asheville School Administration Program Making the Grade got the call that Mr. Hughes had been selected as the Citizen-Times. By RANDALL HOLCOMBE Western Region Teacher of the Year, I told the individual who shared the information with me, ‘He certainly Score one for Western’s principals-in-training! Graduates of earning her bachelor’s degree in education and graduating with emulates everything that I would want in a teacher,’” WCU’s master’s degree program in school administration have honors from WCU, Taylor began her teaching career in the coastal Logan said. again made high marks on a national test that indicates how well county of Perquimans, but returned to the mountains the following Hughes, who earned a bachelor’s degree in English as a prepared they are to fill the top leadership positions in North year and has taught for 14 years in elementary schools in Haywood Morehead Scholar at the University of North Carolina at Carolina public schools. and Buncombe counties. Chapel Hill in 1987, was working in the school system’s Test scores recently released indicate that MSA students who Taylor enrolled in WCU’s MSA program in 2005 prepared to take AVID program when he decided to begin work toward a took the School Leaders Licensure Assessment between September some face-to-face classes, but learned that the program was available graduate degree in education through WCU’s NC TEACH. 2005 and August 2006 scored above state and national averages in all-online. “I tried it and absolutely loved it,” she said. “I have two The program, which stands for Teachers of Excellence for

all five test categories—determining pupil and community needs; small boys and my husband travels often for work, so online classes Coutlakis. John photo by Citizen-Times Asheville All Children, is designed to help working professionals curriculum design and instructional improvement; development of afforded me great flexibility in my schedule.” staff and program evaluation; school management; and individual Taylor found the MSA instructors to be “supportive, encourag- in the middle of non-teaching careers qualify as “lateral and group leadership skills. ing and available to students,” and said the program destroys the entry” teachers while they’re taking education courses And, as usual, all the students passed the test and became eligi- common notion that online classes are less demanding than on-site leading to the master of arts degree in teaching, or to ble for licensure as principals in North Carolina. Students in WCU’s classes. “I’ve enjoyed the learning experiences and the opportunity state licensure. program have recorded a 100 percent pass rate on the licensure to become part of a larger community of students dedicated to the “This is such an honor to be honored among my col- assessment for the past five years, said Jacqueline Jacobs, professor common goal of improving education,” she said. leagues,” said Hughes, who has eight years of experience at and head of the department of educational leadership and founda- Jacobs said the graduates’ achievement on the licensure assess- Asheville High School, the past three as a teacher. He has tions in WCU’s College of Education and Allied Professions. ment and the growth in WCU’s program is good news for the state also served as AVID coordinator and as a peer helping/me- Students who enroll in the MSA program, which is offered fully of North Carolina, which is facing a critical shortage of licensed diation teacher. “I’m going to do my best to represent what online, are mostly working teachers who aspire to become principals. principals, particularly in the secondary schools. Current students we represent, which is valuing every student. It’s really all Since WCU’s MSA program became completely Internet-based in include those who are taking the full MSA program, and others about the kids,” he said. the fall of 2005, the number of students in the program has blos- who already have earned a master’s degree in a related educational The last Asheville City Schools’ teacher to be named somed from 28 to a total of 157 who are enrolled now. “Word is field, but are taking additional courses so they can become licensed Western Region Teacher of the Year was also a Western spreading across the state about the quality of our online program,” principals. While enrollment has soared, the students’ mean scores alum—Sandra Wells ’71, who went on to become North Jacobs said. on the national assessment have risen each year, indicating that Carolina’s Teacher of the Year for 1994-95. Shawna Taylor ’91 doesn’t need any convincing. The Jackson the quality of the instruction they receive has improved even as the “I believe that creativity is birthed out of discipline,” County native is completing the program by serving as a principal program shifted to an online format, Jacobs said. Hughes said. “Students who master the core curriculum Jerome Hughes MAT ’06 is the WNC Teacher of the Year. intern at Waynesville Middle School in Haywood County. After (above) Shawna Taylor ’91 is serving as a principal intern at Waynesville Middle School.

 The Magazine of Western Carolina University SPRING 2007 SPRING 2007 The Magazine of Western Carolina University  “The people of North From Good to Great Western Launches Historic, Carolina have been very good to $40 Million Fundraising Campaign their universities, but excellence By BILL STUDENC

After bubbling quietly beneath the surface during a requires additional resources two-year “silent phase,” the first comprehensive fundraising campaign in the university’s 118-year history has gone —especially focused resources that public, with a goal of at least $40 million in private support for Western by 2010. Chancellor John W. Bardo officially unveiled The address specific quality questions.” Campaign for Western during his State of the University address, “Esse Quam Videri.” The title is borrowed from —Chancellor John W. Bardo Western Carolina University the North Carolina state motto, which means “to be rather than to seem.” In his address, only the second State of the University speech in his nearly 12 years as WCU chancellor, Bardo focused on excellence—and the steps necessary to continue raising the academic bar at Western. One major step in enhancing the institution, Bardo said, Phillip D. Walker ’71 is chair of The Campaign for Western. is to supplement existing resources with additional private- sector support through the campaign, whose theme is “Cre- ating Extraordinary Opportunities.” “The people of North athletic program support; and endowed professorships to been focused on the needs of the people for education, for my fellow Western alumni have similar stories to tell. Carolina have been very good to their universities, but enable the university to continue to attract accomplished research and for support in the form of public service,” he That’s because Western has a long and proud tradition of excellence requires additional resources—especially focused scholars in a variety of disciplines. said. “But quality has to be defined in regard to the needs providing a college education to the children of Western resources that address specific quality questions,” he said. The additional resources the campaign will bring to of the people as they change. We need to preserve yesterday, North Carolina—many of them the first generation of “Throughout American higher education—in North Western will enable the university to take the next steps in but we can’t afford to live in the past. The people need their families to go to college. Even as the university has Carolina and elsewhere—the level of private support improving its overall quality while maintaining its tradi- us more today than they ever have, and they are asking vastly expanded its influence and dramatically improved its tips the balance, turning good universities into great tional emphasis on meeting the educational needs of the for our help.” academic quality, that sense of loyalty to the people of the universities, good faculties and academic programs into people of Western North Carolina and the rest of the state, Phillip D. Walker ’71, a senior vice president for BB&T region remains constant.” great faculties and programs, and good graduates into great Bardo said. and former chair of WCU’s board of trustees who is chairing graduates,” said Jim Manring ’74 MBA ’76, campaign Citing “The People’s University,” a recent book by Bruce the campaign, said it is important that alumni and sup- executive director. “That is the goal as we launch The Henderson, professor of psychology, Bardo said that porters of Western step up financially to help the leaders Campaign for Western.” Western and institutions like it educate the majority of the of tomorrow be able to attend the university. “If it had not For information about With the campaign now in the “public phase,” it continues nation’s public four-year university students – and those been for scholarship assistance I received years ago, this The Campaign for Western, to focus on three top priorities: merit-based scholarships universities hold the key to future prosperity. “Western is, small-town North Carolina boy would never have been able to help recruit the best students available; academic and and always has been, the people’s university. We have always to afford to go to college,” Walker said. “I know that many of visit the Web site at campaign.wcu.edu or call (828) 227-7124.

10 The Magazine of Western Carolina University SPRING 2007 SPRING 2007 The Magazine of Western Carolina University 11 Johnson, president and chief executive officer of Pied- mont Pharmaceuticals in Greensboro, earned a bachelor’s degree in social work from Western in 1976 and a master’s A Solid degree in business from Central Michigan University. Before he joined Piedmont Pharmaceuticals, Johnson was a founder Foundation and vice president of Ciba Animal Health (now Novartis New Directors Animal Health) and founder and president of Blue Ridge Ready to Help Meet Pharmaceuticals. He has three children and lives in Lexington Like loving grandparents wanting only the best for their with his wife, Janie. family, Coulter and wife Barbara recently made a gift of $26,000 Fundraising Goals “I’d just like to contribute in some small way to Western’s to the university as the first installment on a total pledge of By JESS CLARKE $100,000. The gifts will create an endowed fund to provide re- continued future growth and opportunities for young men and sources for faculty members and graduate students researching The newest members of the West- women to get a better education and, as a result of that, greater success in life in ways to improve learning outcomes for WCU students. ern Carolina University Foundation’s whatever they choose,” Johnson said. Announced at a December campus ceremony, gifts establish- board of directors share a motivation ing the Myron and Barbara Coulter Fellowship Fund for the in taking the leadership roles—to Scholarship of Teaching and Learning are helping kick off the give back to their alma mater. Roland Campaign for Western, a three-year effort to raise $40 million Johnson ’76, Duane Reid ’82 and Reid recently sold his interests in Rome Ford Lincoln Mer- in private support for scholarships, professorships and program- Dave Steed ’73 came on the board in cury in Rome, Ga., and Parkway Ford in Adairsville, Ga. He is matic resources. July for three-year terms. They join now general manager of Daytona Lincoln Mercury in Daytona The campaign, the first in university history, was officially 24 other members of the board, which Beach, Fla., part of the Matthews Automotive Group with launched in February after an initial “silent phase” that included helps raise money from the private several stores in central Florida. He graduated from WCU the Coulters’ contributions. sector for WCU scholarships, endow- cum laude (with honors) in 1982 with a bachelor’s degree in “This gift is from both of us to all of you, and to the thou- ments and other needs, and sets business administration. Reid, who was a city commissioner sands of students who have already profited from your skills policy regarding fundraising activities. in Rome, has owned and managed auto dealerships in North and your complete dedication to education, as well as to the As the university embarks upon an Carolina and South Carolina. He and his wife, Wanda Reid ’83, thousands of students who have yet to come and who have yet ambitious comprehensive fundraising have three children. to profit from all that you do,” Coulter told a crowd of faculty campaign, the first in WCU’s history “Joining the Foundation board is my way of giving back to help and staff gathered for the announcement. “We hope that we can continue to help in some small way to further the cause of the and boasting a goal of $40 million, the others,” said Reid, a former president of the WCU Alumni Association. “I under- Foundation and its board of directors scholarship of teaching and learning.” Barbara and Myron Coulter are more vital than ever before. stand that there’s a financial need for a lot of students. I don’t want a student to Through the Coulters' gifts, the center will provide support to Foundation board members, be deprived of a quality education because they don’t have the means.” faculty members and graduate students conducting research on elected by the WCU board of trustees, the study and enhancement of teaching in classroom, labora- are ambassadors for Western, said tory and field settings. The fund specifically supports projects that test or apply innovative strategies and enhance practices of Clifton Metcalf, vice chancellor for Steed, senior vice president and general merchandising Campaign Kickoff teaching, with a focus on the personal interaction between the advancement and external affairs and manager for building products with Lowe’s headquarters in Gifts from Former Chancellor Will professor and the learner. the board’s executive secretary. “They Mooresville, earned a bachelor’s degree in business administra- Support Faculty Excellence Center director Anna McFadden said such vital support are all strong financial supporters tion from WCU in 1973. Steed, who has two children and lives By BILL STUDENC will enable faculty and students to contribute important new of the university, first of all. Second, in Mooresville with his wife, Lois, started with Lowe’s as soon insights into the teaching and learning process, like a study by by reason of their careers and their as he graduated. He is now No. 32 in seniority among Lowe’s Although Myron Coulter stepped down as chancellor at Kathy Starr MS ’86 of the physical therapy department. Starr spheres of influence, they’re able to more than 200,000 employees. Western in 1994 after a 10-year stint as chief executive officer, combined WCU physical therapy students with colleagues from identify other people who can help the While helping guide one of the nation’s largest home the man known as Barney has never strayed far from a univer- physical therapy assistant programs at nearby community university from a financial perspective. improvement retailers, Steed is determined to help sity he loves. As chancellor emeritus, Coulter maintains an colleges in a service learning project designed to replicate real- Thirdly, by reason of their knowledge Western improve. and interaction with the university, office on campus, where he keeps close watch on one of his world clinical relationships they will encounter in the healthcare “I felt the need to reconnect with the university, and I felt the they are able to interpret the universi- progeny—a center for faculty excellence. industry. The findings are published in the Coulter Center’s ty’s needs to the community in which obligation to start giving back in some way,” Steed said. “I’m so impressed with During his tenure as chancellor, Coulter appointed a task electronic journal MountainRise. force charged with improving the state of teaching and learning “The Coulters’ gift allows the center to expand its work on the they interact and are able to reflect to where the university has progressed since I left there, with Chancellor John the university the needs of their com- for students at WCU—and beyond. Dubbed by Coulter scholarship of teaching and learning. The gift offers incentives Bardo’s commitment and all the good things he’s doing. I just want to be a munities,” Metcalf said. “the Devoted Dozen,” in tribute to “the Noble Nine” who in 1889 and support for faculty to try something new in the classroom, contributing force to that in whatever way I can.” established the school that evolved into Western, the task to conduct research on the innovation and to make those results force recommended the formation of a center to help faculty public,” McFadden said. “The ultimate beneficiaries are the In fact, as evidence of their commitment to the university and the members strive toward excellence in teaching. That center is students. The Coulters believe in the faculty at WCU and their capital campaign, Steed and his wife have pledged to help establish a new now known as the Coulter Faculty Center for Excellence in ability to affect student learning in a positive way. We are most endowed professorship at Western. Teaching and Learning. grateful for their generosity.”

12 The Magazine of Western Carolina University SPRING 2007 SPRING 2007 The Magazine of Western Carolina University 13 The research instruments Jason family-like community where everyone Bryenton ’03 maintains and monitors in relies on one another for survival. “This Antarctica catch everything from shock- is probably one of the most overeducated waves that originate from nuclear blasts and underutilized group of people I’ve to the sound of the tide changing. “You been involved with —a dishwasher with also can hear things like the wind—winds a master’s degree,” he said. that can be in excess of 140 mph here For fun, Bryenton works out in the —going across the mountains. It is analo- gyms, plays guitar and recently ordered gous to a person blowing across a bottle,” a bass. In the 140 pounds of luggage he said Bryenton, who was looking for an was allowed to bring, he included an iPod, adventure and a job when he agreed to a few books, drawing materials and a work for a year as a research assistant at camera. He polishes stones collected from McMurdo Station in Antarctica. the area, including crystals grown in the “This is the probably the most extreme magma beneath a volcano. On Christmas adventure I’ve done,” said Bryenton, a Eve, he hiked the 9-mile Castle Rock Trail veteran runner, snowboarder, backpacker to Mount Erebus, the world’s southern- and hiker who recently sailed north of most active volcano. “It was a beautiful Seattle around the San Juan Islands, day,” he said. where the average water temperature is For work, Bryenton is an “all-around below 55 degrees. Summer in Antarctica physics and IT person,” monitoring com- warmed to only about 45. “I’ve heard it plex instruments including an extremely actually gets up to 50, but I didn’t see that low frequency and very low frequency this year though it’s amazingly warm— radiometer, fluxgate magnetometer, mi- well, once you become accustomed to the cropulsation magnetometer, Fabry-Perot temperature,” interferometer, cosmic ray monitor and said Bryenton. ultraviolet spectroradiometer. The infor- He’ll be mation they yield reveals seismic activity, “wintering global thunderstorm activity, changes in over” with the Earth’s magnetic field, signs of ozone- about 120 destroying atmospheric chemical reac- people, which tions, wind speed and temperature in the means they upper atmosphere, galactic radio noise, will continue neutron showers and radioactive debris living and from explosions. That may sound odd working at for a chemistry major, but Bill Kwochka, McMurdo a WCU associate professor of chemistry Station for who has kept in touch with Bryenton, about six points out that chemistry degrees prepare months students for all kinds of jobs in medicine, punctuated dentistry, optometry, pharmacy, art by extreme darkness and no air traffic. restoration, forensics and, apparently, “There will be no way of leaving, no fresh instrumentation specialization in Ant- food, no mail and no correspondence arctica. “Jason is bright, interested in a other than e-mail and telephone,” said lot of areas of science, an athlete and an Bryenton. He’s not too concerned. The adventurer,” Kwochka said. “His job camaraderie is strong among the extended in Antarctica seems perfect for him.”

Jason Bryenton ’03 conducts research (left) and hikes (insert) near Mount Erebus, the world’s southernmost active volcano.

14 The Magazine of Western Carolina University SPRING 2007 SPRING 2007 The Magazine of Western Carolina University 15 Sarah Lowell ’84 MAEd ’89 had finished a dozen High points for Lowell were seeing moose tracks, three 100-mile races—five in Alaska—but none as brutal as the wolves and a dog musher who stopped to chat as he reset Arrowhead 135-Mile Ultramarathon in February. A severe his team-in-training, which, surprised to see a person on cold front had forced temperatures in the Minnesota “Ice- the trail, had jumbled into a 16-dog pile-up. box of the Nation” down to 30 below. “On day two, it got a Low points were crawling hand and foot up a hill to little bit warmer, like minus 10 and minus 12,” said Lowell, keep her sled from pulling her backward and struggling to a physical education teacher at Cartoogechaye Elementary stay awake the first night. “I would veer off course, kneel School in Franklin. “It really challenged everything I knew down in a snow bank and think ‘holy cow.’ It happened about cold weather racing and survival.” three times before I started catching myself and deciding Only 10 of 46 entrants completed the race, and all of to ‘snap to it.’” the finishers were on bikes designed for snow—except On the second night, she got lost during a windy run Lowell, who was on foot. With a time of 55 hours and 4 across a lake. A light on in a house at 1 a.m. drew her there minutes, Lowell made history as the first woman runner to ask for directions. “I had a ski mask on and scared the ever to complete the event. “I was the last one standing,” man to death. It was kind of a comedy,” she said. “Several she said. “I had resigned myself that things had to be slow hours later, I got back on the trail, only to get lost again at and methodical.” about 4 in the morning. I could see light, so I walked a mile Changing socks took 30 minutes in the grueling condi- and half down to a mercantile store.” tions. Getting a snack required a step-by-step plan to avoid The store owners arrived to find her outside in a sleep- frostbite: Take hand out of glove. Unclip harness. Put ing bag, let her in to collect herself and pointed her back hand in glove. Take hand out of glove. Unzip bag on sled. to the trail—17 miles to the finish. A reporter making a Put hand in glove. Take hand out of glove. Pull out food. documentary joined her for the last segment, and cheers Put in pocket, and so on. “Normally in races, you just run carried her to the end. “They couldn’t believe it,” Low- through an aid station, and they hand you stuff, but in ell said. “I called someone and then sat down and ate a this, buddy, you are on your own,” Lowell said. cheeseburger, even though I am a vegetarian.” Lowell towed a sled with 30 pounds of equipment She felt good about finishing and great about raising including a sleeping bag rated for minus 40 degrees, a $3,000—and counting—to help Daniel’s family. Jody stove and fuel for melting snow, more than 5,000 calo- Tomberlin, Daniel’s father, said he and his wife, Cindy ries of food in the form of chocolate Boost drinks, and a Peek Tomberlin ’95, followed Lowell’s progress online. picture of 5-year-old Daniel Tomberlin, the brother of one “I was just deeply touched she dedicated the race to of her students. A cancerous tumor in Daniel’s abdomen Daniel,” he said. wrapped around his spine, and Lowell dedicated her race Contributions to the family can be directed to United to him and named her sled “Daniel’s Polar Express.” “I Community Bank, Attention: Michelle Green, P.O. Box

thought about him constantly,” said Lowell. 1269, Franklin, N.C. 28744. Photo courtesyand Rick Mangan of Matt Maxwell

“

Ultrarunner Sarah Lowell ’84 MAEd ’89 tows her sled during the Arrowhead 135 in Minnesota in February. To prepare for the endurance event, Stuart Cowles, owner of Climbmax Climbing Gym in Asheville, helped tailor a harness system for Lowell (bottom left), and she trained near Cataloochee Ski

Area. (bottom right)

Asheville Citizen-Times photo by Bill Sanders photo by Citizen-Times Asheville photo by Katharine Brown photo by

16 The Magazine of Western Carolina University SPRING 2007 SPRING 2007 The Magazine of Western Carolina University 17 Sudden Explosion of Residential, Commercial Growth Swain County Haywood County Means Opportunities, Challenges for Western, Jackson County By JESS CLARKE

It has amenities many people want where they live: Linda Cable. People are drawn partly to Jackson’s Cherokee performing arts, museums, an art gallery, a library, “great quality of life,” which includes WCU, Cable athletic events and facilities for professional develop- said. At least 25 percent of the marketing of Moun- ment and lifelong learning. And it’s surrounded by tain River, a new development in Cullowhee about a scenic beauty and opportunities for outdoor recreation. mile from Western, includes information about the The description fits Western Carolina University, university, said Michael Wade ’77, a partner in the which, with the surrounding mountains, the nearby development and in Rabbit Ridge, a student housing Tuckaseigee River and its enduring small-town complex in Cullowhee. appeal, is influencing a steady increase in residential “A lot of people want to be around an active place. development around Jackson County. And the uni- Sixty-five is your new 55. The last thing they want to versity is making plans to integrate itself more with do is be around a retirement community. They want the growing population of second-home buyers and to be around energy. One way to be around energy is Sylva retirees and other permanent residents. to be around a college campus,” Wade said. “You can’t escape your environment,” said Some retirees who move to Jackson use Western’s Chancellor John W. Bardo. “The environment is library and attend athletic events. “They love that such that people want to be here. They look around campus atmosphere,” said Julie Spiro ’98, executive and see a university that is on the move. We are director of the Jackson County Chamber of Commerce. improving. We’re looking to create an academic “They become fans of the Catamount athletics community that really links business, education department, and this is their hometown college now.” and community support.” Second-home residents and other newcomers also Cullowhee The people making those links need housing, and enjoy WCU’s Fine and Performing Arts Center. “The Macon County there’s more of that popping up all over the county, center has fantastic performances that would rival which has a population of about 37,000. More than any show that you could see in a large city. That’s a 50 new subdivisions, including several upscale gated very attractive thing to someone who is moving here communities, have been planned in the county in the from a metropolitan area—that they can still have last five years—from Noah’s Landing with 11 lots in that cultural amenity but in a mountain setting. And Webster, to Garnet Ridge Preserve with 100 home they want to live in the mountains,” Spiro said. sites outside Dillsboro, and from the 4,440-acre Bal- The performing arts center offered four shows sam Mountain Preserve between Sylva and Waynes- last summer, partly to meet the demand of tourists ville, to RiverRock with its Phil Mickelson-designed and seasonal residents, and university officials plan golf course south of campus. to have summer shows again this year, said center In 2006 alone, the county issued about 700 resi- director Paul Lormand. The center and other ameni- dential building permits for single-family and multi- ties on campus engage people with Western, but Glenville family homes, said Jackson County planning director the university benefits from retirees who move to Jackson in more ways than just ticket sales. Some newcomers volunteer at Western and oth- ers take continuing education classes. “There’s a trend nation- ally for baby boomers to return Cashiers to their alma maters or to a place with a campus that they find attractive,” Bardo said. “We want to take advantage of that as a university.” Transylvania County For retirees who consider Data Source: Jackson County Land Records and Mapping buying lots at Sims Valley, a new Map Layout: The Institute for the Economy and the Future development in Glenville that at Western Carolina University will have about 65 home sites, Michael Wade ’77 oversees work at a new development near campus.

18 The Magazine of Western Carolina University SPRING 2007 SPRING 2007 The Magazine of Western Carolina University 19 marketing tool, especially if somebody’s looking at doing some- in Jackson County: Dills Cove outside Sylva, with 45 home sites; thing here as opposed to doing something in Waynesville or Black Bear Falls near Cherokee, with 80 home sites; and Black Franklin or Murphy. If somebody’s looking here, lots of times Rock near Cashiers, with 60 home sites. Some of the homes being they’re investigating those towns, also,” he said. built this year will use solar energy and other environmentally The university, particularly its centers for performing arts and friendly methods and materials, Ultima office manager Samantha mountain heritage, is part of the marketing pitch at Mountain Burns said. Heritage Preserve, a new gated community near Dillsboro, project “With all the growth that’s going on in Western North Caro- manager Nicholas Berndt said. Most houses at the reserve are lina, our goal is to make sure when you go through the gates of second homes and vacation homes. Amenities at Western “give our communities, you remember why you fell in love with the people something to do in Jackson County that may not be in mountains. You’re going to see views. You’re not just going to see nearby Swain County or Macon houses. We’re going to main- County,” Berndt said. tain the views and the natural It’s not just the university, scenic “ You can't escape your environment. The environment,” Burns said. “If beauty and outdoor recreational developers just keep coming in opportunities that draw developers environment is such that people want to be and ripping up the mountains, to Jackson. There’s another reason here. People look around and see a university there’s not going to be any the county is desirable—no zoning Western North Carolina left.” ordinance or subdivision regula- that is on the move.” District 4 commissioner tions, except for state restrictions on —Chancellor John W. Bardo Mark Jones ’87 of Cashiers developments in a watershed. And understands the appeal of some people worry that the pace of WCU and the mountains that development may be too fast. surround it. And although development is good for the county’s County Commisioner Mark Jones ’87 and chamber executive Julie Spiro ’98 chat in front of the historic Jackson County Courthouse. “You have this wonderful place to live,” said Cable, the county tax base, the growth could pressure the health-care system, planning director. “And now instead of looking at trees, you’re emergency services, roads and other parts of the infrastructure, a university isn’t the only reason to move to Jackson of the developers in that area because you’re getting looking at houses. It’s just taking away from what we are, what Jones said. “Western and the county both are growing at a rate County, project manager Dennis Ford said. “But it’s skilled, trained employees who understand engineer- we were.” At the request of county commissioners, Jackson’s that it’s imperative that we work together, particularly with our part of the menu they’re putting together,” Ford said. ing and all of the aspects of building and construction planning department is drafting proposed subdivision and slope infrastructure needs,” he said. Among the new Jackson residents are younger management,” said Paige Hinton, a vice president with ordinances, she said. And in March, commissioners adopted a University officials agree, and they acknowledge the county retirees with expertise who want to be involved in Centex Destination Properties in Orlando, Fla. Centex five-month moratorium on new subdivisions until officials can needs to regulate development. “It’s time for them to do it,” Bardo higher education. A senior policy fellows group, is developing Bear Lake Reserve, a gated community adopt more stringent regulations designed to protect steep said. But that won’t stop growth, he said. “The realities are that composed partly of transplanted retirees, advises for up to 850 homes, in the Tuckasegee community mountain slopes. the development is going to occur. Let’s try to make it so that we on economic development issues at WCU’s Institute about 13 miles from WCU and one of the biggest new “Some of these developers have come in with that vulture type don’t destroy what we love while the development is going on.” for the Economy and the Future. “It’s increasing the developments in Jackson. of attitude, but most of them have done a good job with what intellectual capital of the campus in a way that’s really Many Bear Lake residents are drawn to the outdoor Jess Clarke is a freelance writer and editor based in Asheville. they’ve done,” Baucom said. And some developers are paying important,” Bardo said. “They’re coming to Western recreation at the development and elsewhere in the increasing attention to land preservation. North Carolina because Western North Carolina is area. Developers consider numerous factors when they Mount Wilderness, a gated community, will have 74 home hot, and they’re discovering Western. A decade ago, research where to locate second-home communities. sites on about 350 acres in Tuckasegee, nine miles south of WCU. these people wouldn’t have known who we were.” “We always look for a quality university nearby for cul- The developer has set aside another 300 acres for a public park The appeal of Jackson County and WNC as places tural activities, for continuing education,” said Hinton, with an outdoor stage, sales associate Trey Watkins said. to live and work also influences the searches to fill who cites Western’s performing arts center. Bear Lake Ultima Carolina Communities is creating three developments faculty and staff openings. “We’re simply seeing includes WCU events in its monthly calendar for resi- people who 10 years ago wouldn’t have returned our dents, some of whom are Western alumni who have New homes (left) and a clubhouse (right) are under construction at Garnet Ridge Preserve. phone calls now calling us because they want to be bought lots or houses for second homes, Hinton said. part of it,” Bardo said. “They’re saying, ‘I really want University students work at the development, too. to be in that area.’” Some new residential communities in Jackson draw Integrating the university with the larger commu- interest from parents of WCU students who want to nity involves more than attracting tourists and retirees buy a house for their child to live in while in college. or recruiting faculty and staff. With upscale housing In some cases, rent from roommates helps pay the communities appearing across the county, Western mortgage. Other people with college-age children ask officials want to help broaden the job base so people about Western when they consider buying property, can afford to live in Jackson. The Kimmel School of real estate agents and developers said. Construction Management and Technology supports Jackson also attracts retirees and second-home business development in construction and high-tech buyers who appreciate that the county is within a few manufacturing in the area to provide jobs with good hours drive of Atlanta, Charlotte, Knoxville and other wages, Bardo said. cities, said Todd Baucom ’94, a real estate agent and The Kimmel School also is a bonus for residential partner in Western Carolina Properties, with a main developers in Jackson. The program “really helps all office in Dillsboro. Baucom’s firm uses WCU “as a

20 The Magazine of Western Carolina University SPRING 2007 SPRING 2007 The Magazine of Western Carolina University 21 Downtown Cullowhee, that little strip of commercial prop- a presence in this area of campus, and new building plans all erty that’s home to a Subway franchise, Cat Chow and Mad across campus will have space for commercial businesses.” Batter cafes, Bob’s Mini Mart, Simply T’s clothing store and Cullowhee merchants already are seeing some improve- the Hair Station salon, now has a new landlord. It’s Western ments as a result of the change in ownership. Workers are Carolina University. sprucing up the area with new paint and outdoor trash cans, The university purchased the 2.18 acres of property on said California native Jeannette Evans, who opened the Mad Centennial Drive earlier this year from EFMB Properties Inc. Batter Bakery and Cafe nine years ago. Evans said she is glad for $1,585,000. University officials were interested in obtain- WCU is reaching out to integrate the business strip into the ing the property, which had been in the Frank H. and Elsie larger campus. “I always wanted to open my own restaurant, Brown Jr. family for generations, because of its location in and I wanted to be on a college campus,” said Evans, who the middle of campus, said Chuck Wooten ’73, WCU went to Sonoma State University but was drawn east through vice chancellor for administration and finance. “We truly working summers in Highlands. “Serving the Western appreciate the Brown family being willing to work with the community, we have a lot of regular customers. I like being university concerning this strategically located property,” part of the community and seeing familiar faces every day.” Wooten said. “In fact, much of the campus is located on The purchase of the property and the continued opera- what was Brown family property, and this latest purchase is tion of the businesses are in keeping with university plans for continuing evidence of the common values of the university development of 344 acres of property west of N.C. Highway and the Brown family.” 107 and part of the existing campus through the Millennial The change in ownership, however, does not reflect Initiative. Western intends to create multiple-use neighbor- a change in the property’s status as a business district. hoods that will house a mix of academic buildings, research Western’s short-term objectives for its latest addition to facilities, businesses, industry and housing. Plans include campus include painting exteriors of the buildings, cleaning development of “town centers” where restaurants, retail up around the strip, relocating large trash containers at the stores and other businesses would provide services to keep rear of the complex, and improving parking for customers students on campus and attract visitors; the recently and employees. “Our long-term goal is to redevelop the entire purchased Cullowhee business district is not intended to area from the Wachovia Bank building to the Centennial become one of those town centers. Park,” Wooten said. “We want commercial businesses to have WCU May Build Retirement Community on Millennial Property

Baby boomers nearing retirement age are more likely “More and more, we are seeing that retirees want to to hit the books or sit in the audience at a cultural event remain active, both mentally and physically,” Thornburg than they are to hit the shuffleboard court or sit in a said. “College-affiliated retirement communities provide rocking chair, and they are growing in number. That’s why all the ingredients for lifelong learning, access to physi- Western is considering the construction of an active-adult cal fitness resources, availability of arts and performance retirement community on its Millennial Initiative prop- activities, and the opportunity for intergenerational erty, a 344-acre picturesque valley acquired in 2004 and connections.” The health and gerontological sciences located across N.C. Highway 107 from the main campus. building also will provide access to nursing and health- Plans call for the property to be developed as a mix of care faculty and students who specialize in medical academic, residential and commercial facilities. The first issues for aging adults. Millennial Initiative project on the drawing boards is a College-related retirement communities for active $46 million health and gerontology building that would adults have been built in recent years at a number of uni- be part of a health- and aging-themed neighborhood. The versities, including Penn State, Notre Dame, Florida and university received planning money for the facility during Michigan. Western’s IEF is conducting a survey to gauge a previous state funding cycle, and construction funding interest among alumni and supporters in a retirement is part of the university’s request for the 2007-2008 community on the Cullowhee campus. A survey card is fiscal year. located in this issue of Western magazine. For more The health and gerontological sciences neighborhood information, contact the Institute for the Economy may include retirement condominiums ideal for WCU and the Future at (828) 227-3462 or visit the Web site alumni, former professors and others age 55 and older, at http://planning.wcu.edu/IEF_Survey.htm. said Alan Thornburg, interim executive director of WCU’s Institute for the Economy and the Future, which (above) Nursing home resident Cliff Woffler enjoys a dance is spearheading plans for the Millennial Initiative. Hous- with student Laura Corriher during a “senior prom” organized ing would be developed by a private sector firm and by recreational therapy majors. Professors and students pause for a break at a Cullowhee coffee shop. would be near the new health sciences building.

22 The Magazine of Western Carolina University SPRING 2007 SPRING 2007 The Magazine of Western Carolina University 23 Hot Ticket

Want to spice up your summer and broaden your cultural horizons? Look no further because Western’s Fine and Performing Arts Center is offering its second annual Sizzlin’ Summer Shorts Series, with acts ranging from side-splitting Broadway entertain- ment to impersonations of country music’s greatest legends. The series will begin with a concert by the North Carolina Symphony Orchestra on Wednesday, May 23. The orchestra, composed of 65 members, will perform its tribute to North Carolina music, titled “Capital Blue Skies and Red Earth.” Traditional and folk musicians from across the state will share the stage with the orchestra, with David Holt as host. Coming to Cullowhee on Saturday, June 16, is Johnny Counterfit. A come- dian, celebrity impressionist and country music recording artist, Counterfit has been called “the Rich Little of country music.” “Johnny Counterfit is, without a doubt, the best Johnny Cash impersonator anyone has ever seen,” said Paul Lormand, Fine and Performing Arts Center director. Next up is a Saturday, July 7, show designed to entertain crowds of all ages. Avner Eisenberg, more commonly known as “Avner the Eccentric,” is a Broadway clown, mime and physical comedian who juggles, does magic tricks and performs Chaplin-esque farce. Eisenberg may be best known for his role as the title character in the hit motion picture “The Jewel of the Nile.” Concluding the summer series is a performance that is part of the 24th annual Folkmoot USA, North Carolina’s official international folk festival, on The old joke goes that the only way you can get to Carnegie and a Broadway show on Saturday evening. On Sunday, the group Tuesday, July 24, featuring performances of music and dance by six groups Hall is to practice, practice, practice. Or, you could simply join the is planning to go to the Guggenheim Museum before returning from around the world. Smoky Mountain Brass Quintet at the famous music hall for the home. While a package tour isn’t available, those interested can “The events we have planned are very diverse and unique,” said Lormand. group’s debut in New York this summer. The quintet, composed make their own arrangements for travel, accommodations and “Several of the events are comic in nature. That is what summer is all about; of Western music professors and known affectionately by their performances based on information on the group’s Web site, www. it is fun and entertaining, and it is about having a good time.” fans as SMBQ, will perform at 8 p.m. in the Weill Recital Hall at smbq.com. Tickets for the Carnegie show will be available after All performances begin at 7:30 p.m. in the main performance hall of the Carnegie Hall on Friday, June 8. April 9 at www.carnegiehall.org. People who would like to help Fine and Performing Arts Center. “We’ve been all over the world, but the one place everybody underwrite the SMBQ’s expenses should contact Terri McDermot, Tickets for the symphony, Johnny Counterfit and Avner performances are knows is Carnegie Hall,” said Brad Ulrich, trumpet professor at director of major gifts, at (828) 227-3052 or [email protected]. $25 for adults ages 18 and older, $20 for senior citizens ages 60 and older and Western and member of SMBQ. “People who couldn’t go with us The quintet, which performs a wide range of pieces from early WCU faculty and staff, $15 for groups of 15 or more, and $5 for students ages to Ireland, England and Wales in May 2006 or to St. Petersburg music and classical to ragtime, jazz and contemporary composi- 5 and older. in Russia in 2005 are more likely to be able to travel to New York. tions, tries to do a major tour every year. “The concert at Carnegie Tickets for the Folkmoot USA event are $18 for adults, $15 for WCU We’re already seeing a lot of excitement building for this tour.” Hall will present music inspired by our region and our culture for faculty and staff, and $5 for students and children age 12 and younger. The other members are David Ginn ’92, trumpet; Travis Bennett, the people of New York and the world. This is a very big deal for For reservations or more information about the series, contact the box horn; Daniel Cherry, trombone; and Michael Schallock, tuba. Western, the SMBQ, and our area of the Southern Appalachians,” In addition to the Carnegie performance on Friday evening, said Ulrich. Coming to Cullowhee this summer office at (828) 227-2479. For Folkmoot USA reservations, contact the Folkmoot ticket office at (828) 452-2997 or visit www.folkmootusa.org. WCU’s resident faculty brass quintet is hoping arts enthusiasts Those who hope to follow the quintet after its Carnegie Hall are (from the top), Avner the from Western North Carolina will stay for a visit to the Metro- debut might want to start saving up now—Ulrich already has his Eccentric, Piedmont bluesmen Jessica Cregger is a senior majoring in English and is an intern politan Museum of Art on Saturday with Martin DeWitt, direc- sights set on Italy in 2008 and China in 2009. John Cephas and Phil Wiggins in the Office of News Services. tor of the Fine Art Museum at Western; dinner with Terrence with the N.C. Symphony, and Mann, Western’s Distinguished Professor of Musical Theatre; (above) SMBQ members are, from left, Michael Shallock, Daniel Cherry, Johnny Counterfit. Travis Bennett, David Ginn ’92 and Brad Ulrich.

24 The Magazine of Western Carolina University SPRING 2007 SPRING 2007 The Magazine of Western Carolina University 25 athletics Liz Rondone

is a former commissioner of the Big South Conference. While Western Carolina’s Liz Rondone was recognized earlier A committee whose membership represents a wide cross- executive in Spartanburg, S.C.; and John Isgrig ’83, owner of an athletics director at Coastal Carolina, Sasser was a part of the this year as one of the “Rising Stars” in women’s college section of university life is conducting an in-depth examination Asheville financial services company. study that looked at the feasibility of starting a football pro- volleyball as chosen by the Collegiate Volleyball Update. of Western’s football program to develop recommendations to Representing university faculty and staff are Chuck Wooten gram, and he is currently involved with UNC Pembroke as Rondone, a freshman from Bloomington, Ill., who set the help the program improve and move back among the leaders in ’73, vice chancellor for administration and finance; A.J. Grube, a consultant for the beginning of its program. Southern Conference single-season digs record with 770 last the Southern Conference. assistant vice chancellor for academic affairs; Gibbs Knotts, as- As an athletics department, Western has shown great season, was among 15 NCAA rookies recognized for their Chip Smith, director of athletics, announced the formation sociate dean of the Graduate School and NCAA faculty athletics improvement in many of its programs in the past few years, performances during the 2006 season, as well as for their potential for the future. of the committee earlier this year to help define priorities and representative; Justin Menickelli MAEd ’95, chairman of the Smith said. The Catamounts have captured SoCon titles in “This is a tremendous honor for both Liz and our volleyball set goals for a successful program, and to identify a course to university athletics committee; and Bruce Henderson, professor women’s basketball, men’s indoor and outdoor track and field, achieve that success. The committee will share its overall find- of psychology. Students are represented by Cody Grasty, WCU program,” said WCU head coach Stephanie Dragan. “Liz had women’s soccer and softball during the past three years, he an amazing freshman season and has committed herself this ings later this year with Smith, who will in turn present the student body president, and Sharhonda Bell, president of the said, and WCU played for a share of the conference crown and results to Chancellor John Bardo. student-athlete advisory committee. Two or three additional off-season to improving for next year. Her being recognized and a NCAA playoff berth in football two seasons ago. listed among some outstanding volleyball players from across “This is a very significant time for Catamount football,” members are expected to be named soon. Western is scheduled to open its 2007 football season with the nation is a true testament to her work ethic.” said Smith. “We appreciate the support that has been received The committee will be assisted in its work by Buddy Sasser, three consecutive road games, beginning on Saturday, Sept. 1, In her position as a libero, Rondone had a stellar first season concerning this idea. The response has been very positive and who has coached at Appalachian State University, East Tennessee at Alabama in Tuscaloosa. as a Catamount, shattering Western’s single-season digs enthusiastic. I feel confident that this group will provide a road- State University and Wofford Col- record by more than 273 (previous mark was 497 by teammate map for the success of Catamount football that Coach Kent lege. Sasser also has served as the Kate Willard in 2005). She also established a new benchmark Briggs ’79 MAEd ’81 and his staff can build on next year and director of athletics at Wof- for digs per game at 5.97 (previous record was 4.25 by Robin into the future.” ford and Coastal Carolina Langley ’86 in 1985), which ranked second in the SoCon The group is chaired by Jim Moore, a retired banking execu- University, and and 15th nationally. She was, however, the highest ranking tive who has been closely associated with WCU throughout his freshman in both categories. life. He is a past chairman of Western’s board of trustees and is In addition to leading Western defensively, Rondone currently chairman of the WCU Foundation board of directors. was tied for the team lead in service aces with classmate Katie Hennessey, each with 34. She ranked second on the Joining Moore on the committee are members who repre- team in aces per game (0.27) and ranked third on the team sent various affiliations with the university. They include WCU with 87 assists. board of trustees members Teddy Phillips and Gerald L. Kiser Joining Rondone on CVU’s Rising Stars list are standout ’69; Catamount Club president Tobe Childers ’61; Reg Moody freshman volleyball players from Nebraska, Penn State, Duke, Sr. ’59, retired owner of Moody Funeral Home in Sylva; Jim Texas, Ohio, Utah, Southern Cal, Missouri State, Florida Hartbarger, owner of the Jarrett House in Dillsboro and International, Lousville, Louisiana State, Florida and Siena. former WCU coach; Kirk Roach, former football player and “It is an amazing honor for Western to be listed among member of the WCU Athletics Hall of Fame; Brad Hoover programs such as this year’s national champion, Nebraska. ’00 of the National Football League’s Carolina Panthers; I really have not needed any extra incentive or motivation to Rob Sales ’69, a Savannah, Ga., businessman; strive to get better. But this recognition really has done that,” U.S. District Court Judge James Beaty ’71; Rondone said. “Coach Dragan has been working really hard at rebuilding the program to return it to where it was just a few automobile dealership owner Duane Reid ’82; years ago, at the top of the Southern Conference. Knowing Haywood County insurance executive Kathy what we have coming back, with the addition of very talented A committee chaired by Jim Moore is working to provide a “roadmap Lance; Kenny Messer ’86, a textile industry incoming freshmen, I am looking forward to next season.” for success” for Head Football Coach Kent Briggs ’79 MAEd ’81 (top right) and staff, includingDon Powers ’68 MAEd ’69 (bottom right). 26 The Magazine of Western Carolina University SPRING 2007 SPRING 2007 The Magazine of Western Carolina University 27 The 19th annual Catamount Club Athletics Scholarship Auction The birth of his first son, a banana milkshake and a pizza all is relocating to Hickory this year, a move designed to reduce the cost stood between Steve White ’67 and his streak of consecutive of staging the event so that more money goes directly to help WCU games attended for Western Carolina football. That was more student-athletes. The 2007 auction, the highlight of a full weekend slate than 20 years ago, but “Whitey” – a beloved figure to anyone of activities for Catamount backers, is set for Saturday, June 2, at the associated with WCU athletics – found a way to make it to the Hickory Metro Convention Center. football game that day at East Tennessee State University. Before the bidding begins, auction-goers can visit the Hickory Since 1970, White, 63, has attended every football game Furniture Mart to take advantage of discount offers, play golf with the Catamounts have played. That’s 402 games over 37 years, fellow Western supporters, or relax in the spa at Rock Barn Country through about 200 road trips, for the ex-sports information Club with special discounts for Catamount fans. director who has worked as a radio analyst since his retirement “The Hickory Metro Center recently underwent a substantial in 1998. “That’s a lot of football,” White said. “Some of it’s been renovation, and offers a very attractive site for our auction,” said very good, some of it not so good, but I’ve loved it all.” Through Bill Richter, director of athletics development. “The layout for the five coaches and thousands of players, White has pulled for the silent and main auction, the banquet and the checkout area will be much more convenient for everyone. Also, this location can comfortably Catamounts while doing his jobs and has made friends every- accommodate our growing auction family of nearly 600 participants where he’s gone. and is within easy driving distance for most of our Catamount Club His streak began in 1970 when the young WCU graduate was members and supporters.” hired as the school’s SID. A young coach named Bob Waters was Steve White ’67 has seen 402 football games… and counting. Relocating to the Hickory facility is expected to cut auction expenses in his second season of building a solid program in Cullowhee, and I took off. I got there right at the kickoff and (ETSU SID) John in half, and will allow the club to save about $18,000—roughly the and part of White’s job was attending games, catering to the equivalent of two full, in-state scholarships, Richter said. “That fact media’s needs and taking care of statistics decades before Cathey had already passed out cigars in the press box, and afterward the team gave me the game ball.” alone made this decision a ‘no-brainer,’” he said. computers or even fax machines made the job easier. Auction activities get under way with a Catamount coaches’ Several dramatic games stand out—a playoff game at Holy Cross And there was one memorable day when the streak almost reception at 4:30 p.m. featuring updates from WCU head coaches. in 1983 when WCU was en route to playing for the I-AA national ended. “The closest call came in 1982, when my wife was preg- The silent auction area opens at 5:30 p.m. and remains open for bidding championship, a 1975 battle against an 8-1 Appalachian State team nant,” said White. “It was about noon and I was getting ready to until 7:30 p.m. Dinner and the main auction get under way at 7:45 p.m. when the 2-7 Cats won 20-11, a 1979 contest in Boone that was the leave for the game at (ETSU) when my wife said, ‘I believe today Reservations are now available for $70 per individual, $135 per is the day.’ I said, ‘Yep, it’s a big day. It’s football day and I’m second game ever televised by ESPN, a heartbreaking 12-7 loss to couple, or $500 per table of eight. Reservations include admission to fired up,’” he said, laughing. “She said, ‘No, I think today is the rival ASU in 1994 when both teams were nationally ranked. the coaches’ reception and to the silent and main auction, the banquet day the baby is coming.’” Almost all of the road trips have been by bus or car, and dinner, and two complimentary beverages at the cash bar. The Cata- White made arrangements to have a student assistant White has spent much of his adult life around college sports. mount Club also is currently soliciting donations of auction items and is take care of his duties and drove wife Elaine MAEd ’73 to the He’s also been to approximately 1,100 WCU basketball games offering sponsorship packages. hospital.” His second child and first son was born at 3:58 p.m., and has missed only about a dozen, usually when basketball For more information about sponsorship opportunities or contrib- but there were complications. “My wife told me she wanted a conflicted with a football game. uting items, or to make a reservation, contact the Catamount Club at banana milkshake and a pizza,” White said. “The milkshake “I can’t remember a time when Steve wasn’t involved in Western (828) 227-3047 or toll-free at (800) 492-8496, e-mail [email protected] place didn’t have bananas, so I went to the A&P and got a athletics,” said football coach Kent Briggs ’79 MAEd ’81. “If or visit the Web site at www.wcu.edu/catamountclub/. Information banana, then I got the pizza and went back to the milkshake anybody bleeds purple, it’s Steve White. Nobody knows more about about accommodations and shopping, golf and spa outings also can be found online. place to give them the banana.” our sports history. You would think after 400 games some of that White delivered the goodies to his wife and got the OK to enthusiasm might fade, but he’s still as upbeat and positive about leave. “She told me she was going to sleep and the baby’s going Western as he’s always been.” to the nursery, so you can go on to the game. I said, ‘Gotcha,’ Reprinted in edited form with permission of the Asheville Citizen-Times.

The Catamount football program lems halted the streak last fall. Upon lost one of its most loyal supporters noticing that one of their biggest fans March 13 when Raymon Stovall of wasn’t in the stadium, Head Football Sylva passed away at age 96 after a Coach Kent Briggs ’79 MAEd ’81 period of declining health. Stovall and three Catamount seniors visited had attended every home Western Stovall last season. From left to right Carolina football game for more are Bennett Swygert, Briggs, Stovall, Soccer Coach Tammy DeCesare (above left) was among the hundreds than 50 years before health prob- Bubba Hamrick and Darius Fudge. of Catamount faithful bidding on everything from signed football helmets to vacation trips at last year’s auction. 28 The Magazine of Western Carolina University SPRING 2007 SPRING 2007 The Magazine of Western Carolina University 29 Photo courtesy KentPhoto courtesy Smith

In less than a year, former Catamount basketball player Corey Rans Brempong ’04, who ended his WCU career in 2005, Muirhead ’06 has gone from Western Carolina to Eastern was playing in The Netherlands. Meanwhile, European veteran Austria. And the change has been dramatic. “It was definitely a Frankie King was in Cyprus, as was David Berghoeffer, who culture shock in every sense of the word,” said Muirhead, who began this season in Poland before signing with Nicosia turns 24 in June. “The people, the food; it was definitely an in Cyprus. adjustment.” “Out of college, I signed to play in Poland for Znicz of Jaro- Muirhead ended his basketball career at WCU during the slaw,” said Berghoeffer, who averaged 11.4 points per game for 2005-06 season as he averaged 12 points, 5.1 rebounds and WCU in the 2005-06 season. “A couple weeks after training 2.4 assists in 30 games. With the help of an agent, he went to camp began, I broke my foot and had to come to the States and Brad Hoover ’00 Oberwart, Austria, in August to begin his pro basketball career get it looked at. As the doctor gave me the clearance to play, I after attending camps for European prospects at Hofstra chose Cyprus because of the short season. I didn’t know how my University in New York and in Columbus, Ohio. Oberwart, near foot was going to hold up, so I took the safe route.” the Hungarian border and about two hours south of Vienna, Berghoeffer, who needs an internship to finish up his degree is a town of about 50,000 people. in sport management, said he has had to adjust to life both on “It is probably the busiest small town I have ever seen,” said and off the court. “The level of play has changed drastically for a car, and their salaries are normally Muirhead, who has played point guard, shooting guard and my position. In college, I was going up against people around my tax-free. The Catamounts playing over- small forward this season for the Gunners. He was averaging size or smaller. Out of eight teams here, I’ve been taller than two seas are adjusting to some of the rule 21 points, five rebounds and a couple of assists per game in opponents that I’ve matched up with and that’s only by an inch. differences in Europe—the ball can be Raise money for scholarships when January. Other American natives on the team include Adam There are three players taller than 7-2 here,” he said. “Off the touched inside the cylinder once it hits you tee off this summer at one of Boone (University of Minnesota) and Jason Johnson (Tennessee court, the hardest adjustment has to be maintaining a good diet. the rim; the game consists of quarters; Charlotte’s premiere private country clubs State), who has been playing for Oberwart since 2000. “It was a I haven’t mastered the art of cooking. At school, I had access to a the three-second lane is wider near the with Carolina Panther Brad Hoover ’00. good fit for me. They felt like I was the missing link,” cafeteria, which always had cooked food.” basket; and a player must clearly put Western’s Catamount Alumni Golf Classic will begin at 1 p.m. Wednesday, said Muirhead, who majored in sociology with King scored 26.5 points per game for WCU in 1994-95, and the ball on the floor before he picks up June 13, at Carmel Country Club located a minor in physical education. had the second-best mark in the nation in that category. He his pivot foot, or walking will be called. Muirhead says his experience as a at 4735 Carmel Road in Charlotte. Muirhead is not the only Ca- was drafted in the second round by the Los Angeles Lakers in Registration is $180 and includes a nadian from WCU playing pro 1995, and has played in the NBA for the Lakers and Philadelphia Catamount readied him to deal with those adjustments, whether in transi- round of golf, free range balls, lunch, hoops in Europe in 2007. 76ers. Since the late 1990s, the Georgia native has played in beverages, cocktail reception with tioning from man-to-man to zone defense, or to life in a foreign coun- Ontario product Greece, France, Venezuela, Turkey, Israel and Cyprus. He began heavy hors d’oeuvres, a $10 club house this season with Deltalcon APOEL Nicosia in Cyprus. try. “I couldn’t have been prepared any better than I was at Western credit, gift bag and the chance to meet Brempong averaged 8.6 points and 6.0 rebounds per game Carolina. We practice two times a day, six days a week in Austria. It is Hoover. Sponsorship opportunities also in his last season for WCU in 2004-05. He then began his pro very demanding. But it is not as intense as the college level,” he said. are available, and proceeds benefit a career with the Matrixx Magic Nijmegen in the Netherlands scholarship fund that helps student- in 2005-06, and he averaged 9.9 points and 10.5 rebounds per David Driver, a free-lance writer and Virginia native, covered American athletes at Western. game in his first season. He signed a two-year contract with the basketball players in Europe from 2003 to 2006 from his home in Hungary. team prior to this season. Catamount ties to European hoops extend to the current coaching staff. Anquell McCollum ’00, assistant coach and former Catamount standout, played four seasons as a pro after his college career ended in 1996, with stints in France, Venezuela, Colombia, Hong Kong and the Dominican Republic, as well as in the United States Basketball League. “I met people from different cultures. It was a great experience. When I went to France, that was the first time I had been out of the States,” McCollum said. Most teams in Europe allow at least two non-European play- ers, and most of the time they are North Americans. Most North American imports are provided the free use of an apartment and

Canadian Rans Brempong ’04 (left), Corey Muirhead ’06 (bottom right) and Anquell McCollum ’00 (top right, current assistant coach) are among the Cats who have played internationally.

30 The Magazine of Western Carolina University SPRING 2007 SPRING 2007 The Magazine of Western Carolina University 31 Twice in his lifetime, Dan Robinson ’50 defense, Robinson was co-captain of the has stepped forward to help “change the 1949 team that won the North State course of history.” The first time occurred Conference Championship, WCU’s first on the famed “D-Day” of World War II, football title. when he and thousands of other soldiers After receiving his bachelor’s degree were called upon to help save the world in education at Western and earning from Nazi domination. The second instance a master’s degree in educational came 56 years later, in Cullowhee, when administration and physical education Robinson played a major role in igniting the at George Peabody College, Robinson biggest construction campaign in Western worked as a teacher and football coach in Carolina history. high schools, but he returned to WCU as A McDowell County native, McDaniel head football coach in 1956. He guided Robinson was just 17 when he joined the the Catamounts through 1968, recording U.S. Navy and was chosen to enter gunnery several outstanding seasons while working school. Robinson became a member of with the Carolinas Conference’s smallest the Navy’s amphibious forces and a crew budget. Robinson also taught health and member on a 315-foot-long vessel. With physical education during those years, huge hinged doors in its bow and a flat and continued as a faculty member until bottom, the LST (Landing Ship, Tank) was his retirement in 1986. He met his wife of designed to deposit troops and tanks onto 44 years, Jean, when she was attending shore. In March 1944, Robinson and his WCU, and the couple has three children fellow crew members sailed their LST across who attended Western. the Atlantic to England. Robinson was honored with an D-Day, the largest seaborne invasion honorary doctorate of humane letters in military history, began early on June 6, in December in recognition of his 1944, as Allied troops crossed the English contributions to WCU and education Channel to invade German-occupied France in North Carolina, and in particular at Normandy. About 4 a.m., gunner’s mate for his advocacy on behalf of Robinson and crew were involved in the Western when N.C. voters approved invasion’s second wave as they unloaded the historic bond issue for higher their cargo of Canadian troops into 4 feet of education in 2000. water at Juno Beach. Their LST was quickly Robinson’s influence as a state converted into a floating hospital as injured senator directly led to Western’s share Canadians began returning to the vessel. of the bond funds being increased The battle for Normandy continued from $38 million to $98.4 million, for more than two months and making possible the construction concluded with the liberation of Paris. and renovation projects that have Nazi control of Western Europe was transformed the campus since then, Dan Robinson ’50, former player and coach for the Catamount football broken, foreshadowing the end of Adolph Chancellor John W. Bardo said. Hitler’s dream of Nazi rule. “The record really needs to show team, shows off some of his memorabilia, including old copies of The Robinson served on the Navy LST for what this man did for this university,” 15 months in Europe, and when the war Bardo said. “There are few people whose Western Carolinian, a football from the 1949 North State Conference ended he left the military and enrolled at lives are able to change the course of WCU in the fall of 1946. As a Catamount history at an institution. One such Championship team, and letterman jackets. football player, starting on both offense and person is Dan Robinson.”

32 The Magazine of Western Carolina University SPRING 2007 SPRING 2007 The Magazine of Western Carolina University 33 the production of catchable-sized trout and the average size of hatchery-raised trout. Just before his retirement from the commission in 2005, the Pisgah Fish Hatchery, located near Brevard and the state’s largest hatchery, was renamed the Bobby N. Setzer State Fish Hatchery, honoring his in- novations and accomplishments during two six-year terms Since his retirement from Western in 1992, Bobby as District 9 representative. One of those accomplishments Ken Hughes ’74 has been known to schedule N. Setzer ’57 MAEd ’60 has been much too busy to get was the introduction of the popular delayed-harvest trout- an extra four hours driving or a midnight flight bored. The former assistant football coach and athlet- fishing program in Western North Carolina. just to make it back in time for his daughter’s ics director, who also is professor emeritus of industrial In renaming the hatchery, N.C. Wildlife Commission basketball game. That’s just who Hughes is education and technology, has devoted much of his energy officials praised Setzer’s dedication and compared him to —someone who goes the distance for people. during the last 15 years to ensuring that Western North another state treasure, North Carolina’s only native trout He does so for his clients and co-workers at Carolina's natural resources species: “Like the brook trout, Bobby is a native son of Dixon Hughes, a certified public accounting firm are treated with the respect the mountains.” A more appropriate comparison couldn’t he helped grow into one of the 20 largest in the they deserve. be found—he has been an avid trout fisherman since his nation. In the 1980s, Hughes made room for Appointed to the N.C. formative years in Haywood County. shared file cabinets and a refrigerator in his part Wildlife Resources Commis- “Since childhood, I had enjoyed fishing the streams of a three-room office in downtown Asheville. sion in 1993, Setzer, as chair- and hunting the mountains of Western North Carolina, Today, the Asheville office fills a three-story, man of the Coldwater Fisheries and I welcomed the opportunity to work toward making 26,000 square-foot building, and Hughes, co- Committee, immediately set to hunting and fishing opportunities available to present chief executive officer, travels to offices across work upgrading the commis- and future generations,” Setzer said. “My votes on new the Southeast where more than 1,000 Dixon sion’s four trout hatcheries. As regulations and policies during my 12-year tenure on the Hughes employees serve individual, regional, a result of his efforts, the com- commission were governed mainly by two principles. First, national and international clients. The firm’s mission spent more than $2 young people should be given opportunities to hunt and annual revenues exceed $160 million. million from 1992 until 2004 fish, and to practice ethical ways of harvesting game. Hughes, who recently won Western’s Profes- to renovate the hatcheries, Second, my vote should always be on the side of the sional Achievement Award, says the grace of increasing by 19 percent both environment and the critter.” God, a commitment to people, hard work and, Another significant honor for Setzer was receiving the especially, great teammates helped him get where Photo courtesy N.C. Wildlife Resources Commission Resources Wildlife Photo courtesy N.C. Order of the Long Leaf Pine, the highest civilian award in he is today. “In business, you surround yourself North Carolina, presented to individuals who have a proven with good people who share your values and your record of service to the state through a long history of vision. I’ve just been fortunate to associate with service to their community. Gov. Mike Easley recognized a lot of great people,” he said. Setzer with the award in May 2005. They say they are fortunate to associate with Other recognitions highlight Setzer’s conservation him, too. Ed Cody ’79 followed Hughes not just work: In 1999, the Southern Appalachian Multiple Use to one job, but two. A recruiting visit led Cody Sue Swanger MBA ’93, associate professor of accountancy (far left), and Leroy Kauffman, dean of Council awarded him the Natural Resources Stewardship to an accounting firm in South Carolina where the College of Business (far right) introduce Ken Hughes ’74 to future accountants Ruby Brady, a Award. The Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation recognized Hughes worked. “When I got there, Ken was Dixon Hughes intern in High Point, and Tony Thomas, an intern with the firm’s Charlotte office. him in 2001 for his significant contribution to the experi- packing his office to leave for a new job,” mental release of elk in Great Smoky Mountains National Cody said. Several years later, Hughes invited member, Monty Lindsey, helped him and 2004, Accounting Today named Hughes Park. Also in 2001, the Bowhunters Association of North Cody to join him at a firm just getting off the other students gain working experience in one of the 100 Most Influential People in Carolina named him Wildlife Commissioner of the Year. ground. “I chose again to follow Ken because of Sylva and at regional internships. Accounting. In addition, Setzer, who was on the board of directors his vision, his excitement and his dedication, Hughes worked in South Carolina until “I got to know Ken when we were busi- of the Cullowhee Volunteer Fire Department until and it has been a great journey,” said Cody, partnering with Mitch Crisp ’75 at a new ness competitors. He’s honest, ethical and 2006, served from 1995 to 2003 on the Pigeon River partner in charge of Dixon Hughes’ health firm in Western North Carolina. “I’m in always trying to figure out how to do the Board, a group whose purpose was to clean up the care consulting group. Asheville by choice,” Hughes said. “When I right thing,” said Eddie Sams, former CEO Pigeon River in Canton. When a high school physics class turned am waiting for a connecting flight, I think of Dixon Odom and now co-CEO of Dixon Setzer and wife Anne ’59 MAEd ’67 celebrated their Hughes away from engineering, an aptitude test about how I only have to go through two Hughes. “Together we concluded that our A fish hatchery near Brevard 50th wedding anniversary in December. They have four and a course at Western steered him to account- traffic lights to get to work.” two firms could work through a merger was named in honor of Bobby children and 10 grandchildren. ing. “I don’t think I could have imagined the His participation and leadership in state, successfully that would majorly impact our N. Setzer ’57 MAEd ’60. doors that opened as a result of going to West- national and international professional profession. That has been the case.” ern,” said Hughes. A freshman math professor accounting organizations has taken him Dixon Hughes’ home on the Web is helped him understand the difference between to the United Kingdom, Germany, Rus- www.dixon-hughes.com. getting by and going all out. Another faculty sia, Brazil, Italy, Mexico and Australia. In

34 The Magazine of Western Carolina University SPRING 2007 SPRING 2007 The Magazine of Western Carolina University 35 At left, K. Ray Bailey ’70 talks with visitors at Asheville-Buncombe Technical Community College’s Enka campus, which is home to Western’s nursing school. At right, Chancellor John W. Bardo and Provost Kyle Carter (right) bestow honors on Bailey after presenting him with an honorary doctorate at fall commencement.

Asheville-Buncombe Technical Community College issues the Professional Excellence. At WCU, he has received not only the paychecks to K. Ray Bailey MAEd ’70, but the stands he has Alumni Association’s Professional Development Award but also, taken again and again for education benefit all of Western North most recently, an honorary doctorate. “You have been called the consummate people person, a mas- Photo courtesy of Gwinett Daily Post Carolina. “There are few, if any, community leaders who have impacted our region as significantly as K. Ray Bailey has during terful communicator, a man with few equals in the desire to give Jennifer Gardner ’05, former WCU basketball star, is now a member his stellar career at A-B Tech,” said Richard Hurley, member and of himself, a person with incredible energy, and an approachable of the Norcross Police Department. former chair of the A-B Tech board of trustees. person who believes in giving everyone the personal touch,” said Bailey, who will retire this fall as the college’s president, Chancellor John W. Bardo, reading from the honorary doctorate helped secure the largest donation of property ever made to certificate at fall commencement. The delay allowed her to pursue a different dream—one any community college in the country. The nearly 37 acres and Bailey, a Tennessee native, credits Western for helping him that she also prepared for as a student at Western. “I have three buildings with 277,000 square feet of space from the BASF learn the basic principles of education administration. After When a shoulder injury delayed Jennifer Gardner ’05 from always been interested in the law,” said Gardner, who finished corporation became the third campus for A-B Tech. Bailey did he joined the staff at A-B Tech as director of adult basic educa- playing basketball overseas, the former Lady Catamount known a degree in criminal justice with a 3.34 grade-point average. not stop there, though. He invited the University of North Caro- tion in 1966, he began working on his master’s degree at WCU. as “Baby Shaq” put her degree in criminal justice to work at the “I know I can’t save the world, but I feel I can make a difference. lina at Asheville and WCU to explore how their students could “Those were the days before the interstate was finished, and a Gwinnett Police Department. I like being in a position where I can make an influence on benefit too. Today, programs at the Enka campus include the group of us drove from Asheville to Cullowhee one, and some- As a forward at Western, Gardner practically rewrote the young people, not just going to a car at a traffic stop for base for Western’s program in nursing and the Western North times two nights a week,” said Bailey, who became president Southern Conference tournament record book. She scored 45 something negative but getting to them before something Carolina Medical Simulation Lab. of A-B Tech in 1990. points to help the Lady Cats outlast Georgia Southern 97-95 in negative can happen.” “This is a real win-win-win,” said Bailey at a celebration of the Anita Metcalf MS ’89, vice president of college relations at double overtime and claim Western’s first Southern Conference Gardner seized the chance to return to her hometown in partnerships. “It’s a win for UNC-A because they need space to A-B Tech, said Bailey is a servant leader who has never missed an championship. Along the way, she set new tournament records Georgia and join the Norcross Police Department. “I relate law grow. It’s a win for Western because they needed room to expand opportunity to promote the college. “Any time President Bailey for points (106), rebounds (43), field goals (33), free throws enforcement to playing basketball because that’s what is easiest their nursing program. And it’s a win for A-B Tech because it has an audience of one or more, he tells student stories, each one attempted (46) and free throws made (37). “Individually, it for me,” Gardner said. “The chief is your head coach and you presents an opportunity for our graduates to continue their compelling and inspiring—a single mother, a first-generation was the highlight of my career,” said Gardner, who was named have your assistant coaches. Just like in basketball, you have educations, whether bachelor’s or master’s degrees in nursing, college student or displaced worker overcoming major obstacles the tournament’s most outstanding player. “But what really your steps and you have to practice. There’s so much to learn.” right here in Asheville.” and receiving their degrees,” said Metcalf. “He takes great pride mattered was that we had two more points than Georgia Community members such as Gardner’s former high school The achievement is one of many in which Bailey has had a in the work of this college, and this college is proud of him.” Southern and my team had a championship.” head coach, Mike Lee, are excited about what she has achieved. guiding hand – achievements that have inspired numerous Bardo also pointed out that Bailey has been a loyal supporter A play-related injury, though, put her basketball career on “She’s a wonderful role model to have in the community and distinctions and awards. The North Carolina community of Western over the years. “You have been a faithful ally,” Bardo hold. A tear to the labrum in her left shoulder required surgery the school,” said Lee, who is still coaching at Norcross. “We college system named him the most effective and outstanding said. “You led the creation of inter-institutional agreements “If I hadn’t hurt my shoulder, I would probably be overseas loved her for her basketball skills, but we’re most proud of her president. A survey conducted by the Asheville Citizen-Times and joint programs that have benefited A-B Tech, WCU, playing professional ball right now,” Gardner said. “My injury for graduating with that degree.” held me back as far as getting out of shape and going through identified him as one of the most influential people in Bun- UNC-Asheville, and, most importantly, the citizens of Western North Carolina.” therapy and rehab. That’s a tough thing to go through.” Story reprinted in edited form courtesy of the Gwinnett Daily Post. combe County. Rotary Clubs in Western North Carolina selected Bailey for one of 10 Rotary Centennial Service Awards for

36 The Magazine of Western Carolina University SPRING 2007 SPRING 2007 The Magazine of Western Carolina University 37 students. “Many of our students served the university in various come to us with the desire to capacities for almost 20 years. serve the citizens of the world. A number already have experience 1982 A nationally recognized leader in in underserved communities Former members of the WCU Baptist Student Union recently both here and abroad. I want our the field of museum education, students to explore health issues Ray Williams last August was formed an alumni organization and are seeking updated informa- that transcend national boundaries appointed head of education tion from all individuals who participated in BSU while attending and work to provide them with at the Rhode Island School of Western Carolina. Keith Henry’85 MBA ’92 of Sylva is chairman the opportunities to meet these Design Museum of Art. Named “Art Museum Educator of the of the organization, which is planning a reunion for the fall of challenges,” she said. The adult 2007 and is asking that all BSU alumni send current contact in- nurse practitioner program at Year” in 1997 by the National Art UNC–Chapel Hill is consistently Education Association, Williams formation—including address, phone number and e-mail address. ranked in the top 10 graduate brings to RISD years of experience nursing school programs, according from various museums, including to U.S. News and World Report. Peabody Essex Museum in Salem, Harwood has two children, Mass., Freer and Sackler Galleries Camille Harwood Stephens and at the Smithsonian Institution, and Gregory Brooks Harwood. University of North Carolina– Chapel Hill’s Ackland Art Museum, 1978 where he was the first curator Director of branch sales and of education. He also brings a product training for Le Bleu philosophy that underscores a new “super center” in Winston- Corporation, Gregory Shouse his devotion to his work: “Art Salem at the end of 2006. A was elected last May to the museums have a responsibility resident of Winston-Salem, Clark is Winston-Salem/Forsyth County to put their collections to work working on a book about creative High School Sports Hall of Fame. in the world—to heighten our dreaming and psychic phenomena. At RJ Reynolds High School, he appreciation of beauty, to raise Associate professor of emergency lettered in football, wrestling and questions about society, to teach medical care for Eastern Kentucky baseball and made All Conference, us about our differences and

University’s department of loss by Staff Sgt. Shawn Weismiller Shawn Staff Sgt. by by Tech. Sgt. Christopher J. Matthews Christopher J. Sgt. Tech. by All District and All City-County commonalities…. They show us prevention and safety. teams in both football and baseball. who we have been and suggest With a .471 batting average, he led who we might become.” Sandy Hunter, who earned the district his senior year. Shouse his doctorate in educational 1983 National Cemetery and represent the Army in ceremonies and received a football scholarship to psychology in 2005, recently Benjamin A. Comm has been play for Coach Bob Waters in the was appointed to the board of special events, while also remaining battle-ready and deployable. named senior vice president and early 1970s. He and wife Martha Virginia and Maryland as well as in directors for the Committee of Tilley is training to be a sentinel at the Tomb of the Unknowns regional manager in the leasing and have two sons—Taylor, 16, and Washington. He and wife Paige live Accreditation of Education for at Arlington National Cemetery. Sentinels must cross a 63-foot management group in Washington, Logan, 12. in Ashburn, Va., with daughters Abby, the Emergency Medical Services D.C., for Jones, Lang, LaSalle, rubber-surfaced walkway in exactly 21 steps, face the Tomb for 12 ½, and Olivia and Erica, 11. Professions, the nationally 1979 one of the largest full-service 21 seconds, turn again, pause for 21 seconds and retrace their recognized accrediting agency for Spc. John Tilley ’04 does not deny that standing at attention Last August, Bobby Justice MBA commercial real estate companies 1984 steps. They bear their weapons away from the Tomb and speak paramedic programs. He also will with his rifle straight out in front on a windy, 25-degree day at ’88 was appointed university in the world. Comm heads the Working for Wal-Mart in sporting only under specific circumstances. continue as a site reviewer. a Michigan airfield was tough. As the casket of former President controller at Western. He has company’s operations in Northern goods, Shawn Clark moved to The Old Guard assumed the post of guarding the Tomb in Gerald Ford was escorted off the plane, though, Tilley, who 1948, and soldiers chosen for the honor must have spotless graduated from Western with a bachelor of science in history, records and “impeccable military bearing,” according to infor- just felt fortunate to be part of it. “We put so much work into mation from The Old Guard. “With this assignment, too, I feel the whole funeral to make sure we showed the utmost respect incredibly honored, humbled and blessed to have the opportu- to our former commander in chief,” said Tilley, who participated nity to be part of it,” Tilley said. “At the Tomb, the standard is in providing military honors for Ford’s funeral in California Former assistant principal at West Lincoln ber, he went to two games. For the others, he absolute perfection, but it is worth it to honor and remember and Michigan as part of his service in The Old Guard. “I felt High School in Lincoln County, Lt. Col. Robbie was thankful for a live Internet Web cast the the men who gave not only their lives but also their identities.” incredibly humbled.” Robbins ’84 is currently serving a one-year school system’s technicians set up for him to The soldiers in The Old Guard, the Army’s premier ceremo- tour in Iraq, helping train, equip and men- see all his school’s home games on a private Photos of military honors for former President Gerald R. Ford. tor Iraqi police and security forces. A 24-year Web page. The streaming video provided audio nial unit, render final honors in funeral services in Arlington Courtesy of U.S. Air Force. veteran of the Army Reserves, Robbins lives from the public address announcer, focused on on a compound with a group of Australians Jarrett during play, and included shots of Rob- contracted by the U.S. government to train bins’ wife and daughter. It was nice, he said, 1968 You made a difference in the lives program at the University of the National Police, which serves as a bridge but it wasn’t the same as being there in person. of countless students over the North Carolina–Chapel Hill Floretta C. Graham, one of between the Iraqi police and their military. Scheduled to return home in June, Robbins the first African Americans to years. You can say with pride, ‘I was School of Nursing. As director, receive a bachelor’s degree in a teacher; I touched the future. I Harwood is responsible for “I’m the American making sure they do what looks forward to a change of scenery in the education from Western, retired made a difference, and that is what training advanced-practice nurses the contract says. I’m the government’s eyes form of a new challenge. Selected for battalion in July after teaching 38 years in matters!’” Graham is pictured with to provide diverse populations and ears,” he told the Lincoln Times-News. command, he will spend one weekend a month Pitt County Schools. In a letter Beverly Reep, superintendent of with compassionate, competent Wife Phyllis, son Jarrett (17), and daughter for the next two or three years in Orlando, Fla. of congratulations, Michael Pitt County Schools, and Michael and culturally relevant care. One of Charli (16) are at home in Lincolnton. One of He also anticipates returning to the duties of Dougherty, dean of the College of Dixon, chairman of the her priorities is to increase access the most difficult things about being away this assistant principal. Along with memories of his Education and Allied Professions, board of education. to the program through distance year, Robbins said, is missing his son’s senior time in Iraq, he will come home with a greater said, “As you enter this new phase learning so nurses across the state of your life, you will be taking on 1975 and the nation can pursue their football season at North Lincoln High School sense of appreciation for the life we too often In October, new activities and new challenges. Elaine Brooks educational goals at UNC. Another and watching his daughter, a junior, cheering take for granted. “Being over there makes you was appointed director But one thing will always remain: Harwood priority for Harwood is expanding each Friday night. Home on leave in Septem- appreciate America,” he said. of the adult nurse practitioner global health opportunities for Robbie Robbins ’84

38 The Magazine of Western Carolina University SPRING 2007 SPRING 2007 The Magazine of Western Carolina University 39 1986 are fortunate indeed to have her executive officer of Granville our staff,” said Neal Mitchell, GC’s Director of music at The City on campus and in our community,” Medical Center in Oxford, which head coach. “He has experience Church of New York since 1997, said Michelle Pearce, director of offers comprehensive health coaching our spread offense, so he Myra Vassian MA recently the conservatory. Vassian shares services through its five facilities. really has hit the ground running. began teaching voice classes for her time between New York City He has more than 18 years of Craig is a former star player and young singers at Wilkes University and Wilkes-Barre, teaching private experience in the health services has experience coaching at Triad- Conservatory in Wilkes-Barre, Pa. voice and performing in many field, nine of them with WestCare area high schools, which should “Myra is an incredibly talented genres. She plans to release a CD Health System in Sylva. Isley and really help our program.” Aiken teacher and performer, has a of solo sacred music in 2007. wife Melissa have four children. lives in Winston-Salem. varied professional background,

and has been a wonderful mentor 1987 1988 1998 assumed his duties In August, The N.C. Department of to young women especially. We L. Lee Isley Gerald “Gerry” last August as the new chief Neal received his doctorate in Correction and the Division of educational leadership from the Community Corrections named University of North Carolina– Brent Witter one of eight Greensboro. Currently a middle Probation/Parole Officers of the school administrator in Charlotte, Year for 2006. Witter, the youngest ALUMNI BOARD he earned a master’s degree recipient of the honor, developed from UNC–Charlotte and an a “Wanted Wall” that displays educational specialist degree from photographs of parole violators UNC-Greensboro. He and wife and shares possible leads from NOMINATIONS Cindy live in Charlotte with sons community members. He created Taylor, 13, and Garrett,10. a packet of information about sex offender supervision for his co- workers, part of ongoing training Why should this alumnus/alumna for the department. Witter also be considered as a candidate for a position was appointed to serve on the Purple and Gold Reunions N.C. Sex Offenders Task Force, on the WCUAA Board of Directors? where he is both the youngest Wine and cheeseCome porch socials, home to Cullowhee Brevard resident Betty Moody member and only field probation/ campus tours, luncheons, dinner dances parole officer. Tinsley ’56 caught up with one of What contributions has the individual made and a weekend of memories old and new her college roommates at the event to 2000 await Western alumni this summer at reminisce. “Just walking around brought in any volunteer or leadership positions In December, Jamie Bodenlos Purple and Gold Reunions. many memories back,” Tinsley said. with WCU or other organizations, and are the received her doctorate in clinical psychology from Louisiana State “The inaugural Purple and Gold qualities and characteristics University. She now lives in Reunion last summer was a huge success Mark Your Calendar: they display befitting of arepresentative of Worcester, Mass., where she is a —so much so that we are expanding 1992 postdoctoral fellow in the division June 29–30 – Alumni from the Western Carolina University Last August, Anthony Turner this year’s reunions to the entire decades of preventive and behavioral of the ’30s, ’40s, ’50s and ’60s, while spe- 1930s and 1940s. Honored (pictured above) joined First Citizens medicine at the University of Bank as an assistant vice president Massachusetts Medical School, cially honoring the classes of ’37,’47,’57, Classes: 1937 and 1947 and financial services manager in doing full-time research in health and ’67,” said Marty Ramsey ’85, The Western Carolina University Alumni Association Nomina- Waynesville. disparities in obesity and obesity- Alumni Affairs Director. July 13–15 – Alumni from the tions Committee is asking for your assistance in nominating related disorders. 1994 Florida resident Carolyn Blanken- 1950s. Honored Class: 1957. qualified candidates for service on the WCU Alumni Association After spending 12 years in various Matthew MPM ’05 and Nina ship Ashton ’46 said she enjoyed the re- positions at Haywood Community (WCUAA) Board of Directors. Alumni who have earned an ’02 Chadwick celebrated the birth union 100 percent. “We had not been on College, Greg Rutherford of Andrew Luke in September. campus for years, and it was astounding July 27–29 – Alumni from the undergraduate or graduate degree from Western may be nomi- in February became president Matthew is director of admissions of York Technical College in to see the growth not only of the campus 1960s. Honored Class: 1967. nated for the board. These nominees must be willing to serve at Southwestern Community Rock Hill, S.C. According to College in Sylva, and Nina teaches itself but also the number and variety of for a three-year term for this position. The WCUAA endorses Tony Vaughan, chairman of the kindergarten at Sylva’s Fairview degrees available now to students,” said college’s commission, Rutherford’s the university’s commitment to diversity, encourages minority Elementary School. Ashton, who returned with her husband. enthusiasm and interest in Call toll-free (877) 440-9990 or e-mail [email protected] for candidates, and seeks geographic representation among its nomi- students were key factors in his Son Owen McNeal Johnson was “The Fine and Performing Arts Center more information or early bird overnight accommodations selection, as was the fact that “he’s born in November to Crystal was an incredible showpiece.” nees. With your help, the board hopes to recruit members who a product of the tech system,” MAEd ’02 and Daniel Johnson. ($60 per night) at the Madison Conference Center on campus. represent the diversity of the WCU family and the dedication beginning his career as a student Crystal is an instructor in and later a part-time continuing communication, theatre and dance that has been a hallmark of WCU alumni service through the education coordinator at Asheville- at Western, and Daniel works in 2002 a director and member of the welcomed Vance Grayson in joining a select group of 1,167 years. Thank you for your continuing assistance in strengthening Buncombe Technical Community sales at WLOS-TV in Asheville. The In November, Natalie Sipe Audit Committee of Wellco October. Both Billy and Kimberly GIS professionals worldwide. He College. Most recently at HCC he family lives in Fletcher. Enterprises Inc. With more than work at Eaton Corp. in Arden; works in the Fort Myers, Fla., office our proud alma mater. Campbell MS ’04 and husband was vice president for economic Tate welcomed daughter Sarah 17 years of sales and marketing he is an inside sales engineer and of WilsonMiller Inc., which offers 2001 and work force development. and management experience in she is a customer support sales high-level, diverse services for Currently employed by the Florida Neeley. Natalie is a speech- language pathologist currently both international and domestic representative. The family lives in land development, infrastructure, 1996 State Board of Administration living in Lawrenceville, Ga. markets, Kemper has achieved Hendersonville. transportation and resource With extensive experience on as a fixed income portfolio For more information or a nomination form, please contact the certification of professional management projects for public the staff of several Triad-area high manager, Ken Hill Jr. completed President and shareholder certified marketer by the A geographic information system and private clients throughout school football teams, Craig his master’s degree in financial Marty Ramsey ’85, Director of Alumni Affairs of KemperStrategy Inc. and a American Marketing Association. specialist, Bryan J. Piersol last Florida and beyond. “Bryan’s Aiken was hired last August mathematics at Florida State director of Chemtronix Inc. of summer earned the certified GIS commitment, integrity and as offensive coordinator at University in the summer of 2005. (toll-free) Waynesville, R. David Kemper Proud parents Billy Lockamy Jr. professional designation from expertise have been widely [email protected] 877-440-9990 Greensboro College. “We are Last August, he married Kendra MBA in August was appointed and Kimberly Cox Lockamy the GIS Certification Institute, recognized by our company, our really excited to have Craig join Preugschat, whom he met at FSU. 40 The Magazine of Western Carolina University SPRING 2007 SPRING 2007 The Magazine of Western Carolina University 41 42 married in married Waynesville. Bochynek and last October, were infullswingoncampus While Homecomingfestivities 2005 master’s degree. WCU. ona Heisnow working obtain hisbachelor’s degreefrom the graveyard shiftfor to two years Community College, thenworked associate’s degreefromHalifax an Office and went onto earn CountySheriff’s the Northampton for hebegan working certificate, basic law enforcement training sight ofhisgoal. the 1990Gulf War, hedidn’t lose Macon leftChowan Collegefor toattain.than 10years When degree wasagoalthattookmore factor inthedecision. that Earning in law enforcement wasahuge said Macon’s four-year degree September. Mayor Johnny Draper named policechiefof Weldon in since1991,the department was Mark Macon Office’sThe HalifaxCountySheriff 2004 couple lives inCanton. ofRevenue.N.C. Department and Paige isataxofficerwiththe representative withUCBPharma, and Last May, 2003 outstanding academicbackground.” I amtoday ifitweren’t for my wouldn’t bewhere “I certainly credits Western for hissuccess: business unit.GIS corporate Piersol vice presidentandmanagerofthe said co-workers,”clients andBryan’s couple lives in specialist atHome and at Kimmel Nick works on thebeachatOchoRios, Jamaica.

T he M lexandra is a loan servicing is aloanservicing Alexandra Adam Carnow, a WilsonMiller Alexandra Stephania Adam Bridges ’04 agazine Paige Henderson were getting married were gettingmarried of Nicholas J. Iosue Asheville. , whohadbeenwith W fter earning his After earning es T t ern rust Bank.rust C Associates, Adam isa arolina were

The The U niversi t y 3; Raleigh. Nov. 24; Sylva. Chattanooga, professor ofart, Dec. 23; Lexington, Ky. William ChesterBuchanan, former University Deaths Irene Biles Wooten ’32 Ky. Mike Wix ’80 13; Commerce, Ga. Clara McGuire Wendt ’38 Maumee, Ohio. Laura Vannoy ’90 Shannon Glenn Trantham ’00 Darnell PhillipsSpann’39 Terry LeeSmith’85 ’69 Mason Randall Courtsworth Waynesville. Charles E. Milner’47 Christopher LelandLyon ’96 (age 105); Hayesville. Sue CarltonHaigler’39 MAEd Wanda HasellForrest ’82 21; Wilmington. Peggy Jo Gibbs Freund ’55 Burley Champion’71 Deaths Anne Leadford 2006 Waynesville. Old Fort. Joseph H. Rogers, retired staff, Nov. 1; Jan. 9; Cheraw, S.C. last October. in Greensboro, Sapp Chris married director for W

SPRING 2007 , Feb. 7; Charleston, S.C. T yler, , Dec. 1; Cullowhee. T exas. T OZN-FM (98.7FM) enn. , July 5; Brandenburg, , promotions , Sept. 25; , June10; , Dec. 25; , March13; areness district the town’s which guides sociation, the Downtown Waynesville As Western alumsare membersof two MountainSmoky News. The director foradvertising the and ville, inWaynes Bank Community loan officerat United mortgage Waynesville’s busi Main Street , Dec. 4; , Jan. 5 Helping lead the resurgence of , Nov. , Dec. , Feb. , , G reg Boothroyd ’95 Julie Chitea ’91 Chitea Julie Go to the Western Carolina University Alumni Association Web site (alumni.wcu. Office of Alumni Affairs, Suite 440, H.F. Robinson Building Postmaster: Send address changes to edu) to add a class note, update your information, or catch up on campus events. or via e-mail: [email protected] Suite 420, H.F. Robinson Building Please send story ideas and suggestions to Western Carolina University, Cullowhee, NC 28723 Western Carolina University The Magazine of Western Carolina University Cullowhee, NC 28723 http://alumni.wcu.edu/ or visit the Alumni Association Web site Suite 440, H.F. Robinson Building The Magazine of Western Carolina University Drop us a line at: Cullowhee, NC 28723 - - - , , Molly, 4. family in February, joining sister to the Regan comed daughter Greg and wife 4. 8,and Megan children—Caleb, executive, have two industry tion VA wel Hospital inAsheville, ’94 aconstruc Chitea, Geoff husband Julie and revitalization efforts. Main Street award-winning

at the , aregistered dietician Jennie Boothroyd - -

Western Carolina University is a campus of the University of North Carolina system and an Equal Opportunity Institution. Office of Publications May 2007 60,000 copies of this public document were printed at a cost of $28,194.00, or $0.47 each. 07-078 Tour,” Earth and Red showcasing the state’s traditional music. Center.7:30 p.m. ,Fine and Performing Arts (828)227-2479 Field. (828)227-7338 ConferenceSouthern game. 2p.m. Hennon Stadium/Childress Field. (828)227-7338 ConferenceSouthern game. 7p.m. Hennon Stadium/Childress Field. (828)227-7338 Childress ConferenceSouthern Game games. vary. times Hennon Stadium/ (828) 227-7338 (828) 227-7338 Tournament. Greensboro. Conference Championship Thursday, May 10– Sunday, May 13 Skies Symphony “Blue Series—N.C. Sizzlin’ Summer Shorts Wednesday, May 23 Park, S.C. Riley Charleston, Conference Tournament. Championship Baseball—Southern Tuesday, May 22–Saturday, May 26 Southern. Georgia Catamount baseball—vs. Thursday, May 17–Saturday, May 19 Field. (828)227-7338 Stadium/Childress Point.High 7p.m. Hennon Catamount baseball—vs. Tuesday, May 15 Softball—Southern State. Appalachian Catamount baseball—vs. Sunday, May 6 State. Appalachian Catamount baseball—vs. (828) 227-7495 Center. Activity Regional commencement. 2p.m. Ramsey Spring Saturday, May 5 May 2007

Field. (828)227-7338 Hennon Stadium/Childress 7p.m. Carolina. Coastal Catamount baseball—vs. Wednesday, May 9

(828)227-7397or (800)928-4968 species. day, Tuesday and Wednesday. (828)227-7397or (800)928-4968 Performance Center. Hall, Fine and Performing Arts Center.7:30 p.m. Fine and Performing Arts (828)227-2479 physicalBroadway of comedy. mime clown, and master the art of (828) 227-2479 Center.Activity (227-7495) folk festival. Fine 24th annual Carolina’sNorth (828) 457-2997 and Performing international official Folkmoot USA, Center.Arts July 24 Regional Summer commencement. 7p.m. Ramsey Friday, August3 August 2007 Series— Shorts Sizzlin’ Summer Tuesday, plant native to of Southeastern increasedesigned knowledge Conference—Native Cullowhee The inthe Landscape, Plants Wednesday, July 18–Saturday, July 21 (828)227-7397or (800)928-4968 active inband competition. tracks foractivity; marching band directors and staffcurrently students; judges as for tracks marching for band adults whoserve major, leadership and marching percussion tracks for school high the Mountains of Marching Symposium—drum Pride Band Sunday, JulyThursday, 15– July 19 Series—“AvnerSizzlin’ Summer Shorts the Eccentric,” Saturday,uly J 7 July 2007 Moneducators Evening concerts and skill. share their experience Mountain Week—the Dulcimer and top performers country’s Sunday, June24–Friday, J une 29 music.” country of featuring Little 7:30 p.m. Rich “the Johnny Show,” Counterfit Series—“The Sizzlin’ Summer Shorts Saturday, J une 16 [email protected] Metro Convention Center, Hickory. (828)421-4786; ScholarshipAuction.Auction—19th Catamount Annual Club Saturday, J une 2 June 2007

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niversi - t y 43 New York stage star Jared Bradshaw and a cast of students and community members thrilled sell-out crowds in the spring semester production of “The Music Man.” The show marked the Cullowhee directorial debut of Terrence Mann, the new Phillips Distinguished Professor of Musical Theatre. For information about upcoming events, see page 24.

WESTERN CAROLINA UNIVERSITY NONPROFIT CULLOWHEE, NC 28723 ORG. U.S. POSTAGE PAID Return Service Requested PPCO