Dear SCSU Foundation Stakeholders, SC State Alumna July 2009 The turmoil in our finan- Promoted to Colonel cial system over the past year has been unlike anything in SC State alumna Christine Glover was recent history. The impact recently promoted to the rank of Colonel ��������������� has been far-reaching, and during a promotion ceremony on May 3, �� you are probably wondering 2009 at the Adjutant General’s Building ���������������� how it has affected the SCSU Auditorium in Columbia, S.C. Foundation. Endowment “This promotion is a huge accomplish- ������������ losses are nationwide prob- ment for me. As a Private First Class at lems currently experienced SC State, I never thought I would one day by virtually all higher educa- attain the rank of Colonel,” said Glover. “Other people saw a lot of things that I tion institutions and SCSU Dr. Jackie Epps, ‘69 did not see in myself and I’m grateful for A newsletter forocus alumni, friends, faculty, & staff | July 2009 Foundation is no exception. F This letter represents an effort to keep you abreast of their leadership and guidance,” she contin- the impact that the global economic crisis has had on ued. SCSU Foundation’s endowments and investments. Glover graduated from SC State in 1984 Col. Christine Glover, ‘84 The overall value of SCSU Foundation’s endowments with a bachelor of science degree in Ac- and investments fell by approximately 18 percent for cal- counting. In 1987, she was commissioned endar year 2008. The Foundation entered 2008 with a as a Second Lieutenant through the Palmetto Military Academy in Easto- portfolio invested in about 65 percent equities. As a re- ver, S.C. Glover went on to obtain her master’s degree in Business Admin- sult of the plummeting financial markets, our investment istration from Webster University in Columbia, S.C. committee proactively shifted out of equities into cash Currently, Glover serves as director of Internal Auditing at the South and fixed income. The 2008 closing portfolio mix includ- Carolina Department of Revenue in Columbia, S.C. ed only 20 percent equities and 80 percent cash and fixed Glover’s military assignments include Platoon Leader, Assistant Commu- income. Rebalancing the portfolio investment mitigated nication Electronics Officer, Systems Integration Officer, Radio Systems SCSU Foundation’s losses to about 18 percent while most Officer, Company Commander, TAC Officer, Automation Officer, De- University endowments fell nearly 25 percent in just the tachment Commander, Battalion S-3, Battalion XO, Battalion Command- last half of 2008. Other leading financial indices are pro- er, Deputy J-6, State Equal Opportunity Manager, and she is currently vided below for comparison. assigned as the director of Human Resources for the National Guard. ����������������������� She is a graduate of the Signal Officer Basic Course, Signal Officer Ad- DJIA down (34%) vance Course, Combined Arms Service School, Command and General S&P down (38%) Staff College, Signal Pre-Command Course, and she received a master of NASDAQ down (41%) science degree in Strategic Studies from The Army War College in Carlisle, During the first quarter of 2009, SCSU Foundation Pa, making her one of two African Americans in South Carolina to have investments were down 2 percent but are showing signs graduated from the College. of improvement in the second quarter. We will continue Glover also attended the Defense Equal Opportunity Management In- to monitor the market’s volatility and adjust our portfo- stitute at Patrick Air Force Base where she was certified as a mediator and lio balance to maximize returns. Our hope is that the as an equal opportunity advisor. economy will recover and investments will rebound as the She has been awarded the Meritorious Service Medal, the Army Com- market improves. mendation Medal, the Army Achievement Medal, the Army Reserve Com- Thank you for your trust and thank you for supporting ponents Achievement Medal with Silver Oak Leaf Cluster, the National SC State University. Defense Service Medal with Bronze Star, the Army Forces Medal with Sil- ver Hour Class, The NCO Professional Development Ribbon with Bronze Sincerely, Numeral 2, the Army Service Ribbon, the Palmetto Service Ribbon, the South Carolina State Achievement Ribbon, and the Active State Service Ribbon. Jackie Epps, ‘69 Glover has one daughter, Brittany, who has recently been accepted into the Interim Executive Director Pharmacy Doctoral program at the University of South Carolina. International best-selling author, Terry McMillan, served as the 2009 Commencement Convocation Speaker. Dear SCSU Foundation Stakeholders, SC State Alumna JanuaryJuly 2010 2009 Focus ����������������������������������� Non-Profit TheThe turmoil Office of Universityin our Relationsfinan- and Marketing Promoted to Colonel Organization o n t h e P.O. Box 8124, 300 College Street NE Focus The Office of University Relations and Marketing U.S. Postage cial systemOrangeburg, over SC the 29117 past year has beenP.O.Crawford-Zimmerman, Box unlike 8124, 300 anything College Room Street 262 in NE SC State alumna Christine Glover was PAID recentCrawford-Zimmerman, history. The Room impact 262 recently promoted to the rank of Colonel Orangeburg, SC 29117 Columbia, S.C. inside this issue future���������������SOUTH CAROLINA has been far-reaching, and during a promotion ceremony on May 3, Permit #920 on�� you Dr. are Jackie probably Epps wondering 2009 at the Adjutant General’s Building Interim Vice President ο Spring Commencement 2009 Recap ����������������STATE UNIVERSITY how Institutionalit has affected Advancement the SCSU Auditorium in Columbia, S.C. Foundation.Erica S. Taylor Endowment “This promotion is a huge accomplish- ο SC State Hires New Vice President for Academic Affairs ������������FOUNDED 1896 Director, University Relations and Marketing lossesCarl are A’see nationwide prob- ment for me. As a Private First Class at ο SC State Student Interns with the Tyra Banks Show lemsProject currently Manager/WSSB experienced General Manager SC State, I never thought I would one day by virtuallyRolondo allDavis higher educa- attain the rank of Colonel,” said Glover. Student Media Adviser/University Photographer “Other people saw a lot of things that I tion Antia institutions Dawkins and SCSU Dr. Jackie Epps, ‘69 Public Informations Specialist did not see in myself and I’m grateful for A Anewsletter newsletter for for alumni,ocus alumni, friends, friends, faculty, faculty, & &staff staff | January| July 2009 2010 Foundation is no exception. Ashley Elliott F This letter represents an effort to keep you abreast of their leadership and guidance,” she contin- DearAssistant SCSU FoundationDirector of Public Stakeholders, Relations July 2009 the impactTameka Kenan that the global economic crisis has had on ued. SC State Alumna Assistant Director of Marketing SCSU Foundation’s endowments and investments. Glover graduated from SC State in 1984 Col. Christine Glover, ‘84 TheTheAndrea overallturmoil S. Milford-Williams value in our of finan-SCSU Foundation’s endowments with a bachelor ofPromoted science degree in to Ac- Colonel cial systemOffice Manager over the past year and investmentsKay Snider fell by approximately 18 percent for cal- counting. In 1987, she was commissioned endarhas beenPublications year unlike 2008. Manager anything The Foundation in entered 2008 with a as SCa Second State a Lieutenantlumna Christine through Glover the Palmetto was Military Academy in Easto- portfoliorecent history. invested The in about impact 65 percent equities. As a re- recentlyver, S.C. promoted Glover went to theon torank obtain of Colonelher master’s degree in Business Admin- ��������������� during a promotion ceremony on May 3, Decembersulthas of been the 2009 plummeting far-reaching, financial and markets, our investment istration from Webster University in Columbia, S.C. �� committeeyou are probably proactively wondering shifted out of equities into cash 2009 Currently, at the Glover Adjutant serves General’s as director Building of Internal Auditing at the South ���������������� how it has affected the SCSU Auditorium in Columbia, S.C. Dearand SCSU fixed income.Foundation The Stakeholders: 2008 closing portfolio mix includ- Carolina Department of Revenue in Columbia, S.C. edFoundation. only 20 percent Endowment equities and 80 percent cash and fixed Glover’s“This promotion military assignments is a huge accomplish- include Platoon Leader, Assistant Commu- ������������ losses are nationwide prob- ment for me. As a Private First Class at income. Rebalancing theAs weportfolio approach investment the close mitigated of 2009, I am pleasednication Electronicsport our students Officer, during Systems this Integration time of severe Officer, economic Radio crisis.Systems As our SCSUlems currentlyFoundation’s experienced losses to about 18 percent while most Officer,SC State, CompanystudentsI never thought return Commander, for I would the spring TACone day Officer,semester, Automation many will be Officer, financially De- chal- to share with you my final Foundation updateattain for the rank of Colonel,” said Glover. Universityby virtually endowments all higher educa-the fell year. nearly Looking 25 percent back over in just this the year, we experitachment- lenged Commander to remain, Battalion in school. S-3, ScholarshipBattalion XO, dollars Battalion will enable Command- those stu- “Other people saw a lot of things that I lasttion half institutions of 2008. andOther encedSCSU leading a very financial challengingDr. indices Jackie first Epps, are quarter pro-‘69 as theer, eco De-putydents J-6, to State remain Equal in school Opportunity and achieve Manager, their andeducational she is currently dream. Your did not see in myself and I’m grateful for A newsletter forocus alumni, friends, faculty, & staff | July 2009 videdFoundation below isfor no comparison. exception.nomic crisis continued its downward spiral.assigned The ascontribution the director will of makeHuman an Resources enormous for difference the National in the Guard. lives of many F This letter represents��������economic an��������������� effort downturn to keep you subsided abreast during of the second their She leadership is astudents. graduate and ofguidance,” the Signal she Officer contin- Basic Course, Signal Officer Ad- As you make your gift, please consider the All Clearing House (ACH) the impact DJIA that the down globalquarter (34%) economic and began crisis to show has signs had onof improvementvanceued. Course, Combined Arms Service School, Command and General Glover approachgraduated for from ease SC and State convenience in 1984 which allows us to automatically SCSU Foundation’s S&P endowmentsdownas we (38%)concluded and investments. the quarter. The recovery Staffbegan College, Signal Pre-Command Course, and she receivedCol. Christine a masterGlover, ‘84 of to gain momentum during the third quarter and debit your bank account and credit the SCSU Foundation on a month- The overall NASDAQ value downof SCSU (41%) Foundation’s endowments sciencewith a bachelordegree in of Strategic science Studies degree from in Ac- The Army War College in Carlisle, and investments fell bycontinues approximately to show 18 improvement.percent for cal- I am pleasedcounting. to ly In basis. 1987, To she arrange was commissioned for your ACH donation, visit SC State’s web-site During the first quarter of 2009, SCSU Foundation Pa, makinghomepage her one (www.scsu.edu)of two African orAmericans call (803) in 536-7190. South Carolina to have endar year 2008. Theindicate Foundation that SCSU entered Foundation 2008 with investments a as aare Second Lieutenant through the Palmetto Military Academy in Easto- Dr.investments Jackie Epps, were ‘69 downup 2 overpercent 10% but for are the showing year in signs spite of verygraduated tur- And from finally, the College. thanks again for your loyal support and trust as we sort portfolioof improvement invested in in the about second 65 percentquarter. equities.We will continueAs a re- ver, Glover S.C. Gloverout also the attended wentoptimum on the to investmentobtainDefense her Equal master’sstrategy Opportunity degreeto maximize in BusinessManagement returns Admin- for In- SCSU bulent and volatile first and second quarters.istration Over from Webster University in Columbia, S.C. halfsultto ofmonitor of last the year’s plummetingthe lossesmarket’s have financial volatility been restoredmarkets, and adjust andour ourtheinvestment recoveryportfo- continues.stitute at FoundationPatrick Air Force endowments Base where and sheinvestments. was certified as a mediator and Throughoutcommitteelio balance the proactively to maximize first three shifted returns. quarters, out Our ofFoundation equities hope is into investments that cash the wereas veryCurrently,an equal On opportunity behalfGlover ofserves the advisor. SCSU as director Foundation, of Internal have aAuditing joyous holiday at the seasonSouth and conservativelyandeconomy fixed willincome. skewed recover The toward and 2008 investments lowclosing risk portfolio(fixed will reboundincome mix includ-& as cash). the As the Carolina marShe- has Departmenta beenHappy awarded New of Year! Revenuethe Meritorious in Columbia, Service S.C. Medal, the Army Com- ketsedmarket improvedonly improves.20 percent during equities the back and half 80 percentof 2009, cash we andbegan fixed to reallocatemendation Glover’s in- military Medal, theassignments Army Achievement include Platoon Medal, Leader, the Army Assistant Reserve Commu- Com- Sincerely, vestmentsincome. Thank foryouRebalancing a for more your balanced trustthe portfolio and portfolio thank investment you mix. for Although supporting mitigated the economyponentsnication is ElectronicsAchievement Offi Medalcer, Systemswith Silver Integration Oak Leaf Officer, Cluster, Radio the NationalSystems strengthening,SCSUSC State Foundation’s University. it remains losses difficult to about to assess 18 percent whether while normalization most hasDefenseOfficer, ful- CompanyService Medal Commander, with Bronze TAC Star, Officer, the Army Automation Forces Medal Officer, with De-Sil- ly Universityreturned. We endowments expect some fell volatility nearly 25to continuepercent inthrough just the the first quartervertachment Hour Class,Commander The NCO, Battalion Professional S-3, Battalion Development XO, Battalion Ribbon with Command- Bronze oflast 2010 half when of 2008. we should Other have leading a much financial clearer indices picture are of pro- the economyer, and De puty J-6, State Equal Opportunity Manager, and she is currently Sincerely, Numeral Jackie2, the Epps,Army ‘69 Service Ribbon, the Palmetto Service Ribbon, the marketvided stability. below for comparison. assigned as the director of Human Resources for the National Guard. Thank you for sustaining your support during these difficult economicSouth CarolinaInterim State Executive Achievement Director Ribbon, and the Active State Service ����������������������� Ribbon. She is a graduate of the Signal Officer Basic Course, Signal Officer Ad- conditions. By now, you should have received your annual fund envelope,vance Course, Combined Arms Service School, Command and General and Jackie I encourage Epps, DJIA ‘69 each ofdown you, (34%)at the highest level of exhortation to Gloversup- has one daughter, Brittany, who has recently been accepted into the Interim Executive S&P Director down (38%) StaffPharmacy College, Doctora Signall program Pre-Command at the University Course, and of sheSouth received Carolina. a master of NASDAQ down (41%) science degree in Strategic Studies from The Army War College in Carlisle, During the first quarter of 2009, SCSU FoundationSouth CarolinaPa, making her one State of two UniversityAfrican Americans in Foundation South Carolina to have International best-selling author, Terry McMillan, served as the 2009 Commencement investments were down 2 percent but are showing signs graduated from the College. of improvement in the second quarter. We will continue Glover also attended the Defense Equal Opportunity Management In- Convocation Speaker. to monitor the market’s volatility and adjust our portfo-Scholarshipstitute at Patrick Air Force Gala Base where she& was certified Tribute as a mediator and SC State graduates 364 during the Fall Commencement Ceremony lio balance toocus maximize ���� returns.������������������������������� Our hope is that the as an equal opportunity advisor. Non-Profit economyF will recover and investments will rebound as the She has been awarded the Meritorious Service Medal, the Army Com- The Office of University Relations and Marketing Organization o n t h e marketP.O. improves. Box 8124, 300 College Street NE mendationA N Medal,IGHT the ArmyAMONG Achievement THE Medal, S theTARS Army U.S.ATReserve PostageTHE Com- Focus ThankOrangeburg, you for SC your29117 trust and thank you for supporting ponents Achievement Medal with Silver Oak Leaf Cluster, the National inside this issue Crawford-Zimmerman, Room 262 PAID Defense Service Medal with Bronze Star, the Army Forces Medal with Sil- SC State University. Columbia, S.C. o SC State Graduates Challenged to Enrich Perspectives and Change Lives ver HourC Class, TheOTTON NCO Professional Development CLUB Ribbon with Bronze inside this issue future Permit #920 o The I.P. Stanback Museum and Planetarium Presents a New Exhibit Sincerely, Numeral 2, theFeaturing Army Service Ribbon,Recording the Palmetto Artist, Service Regina Ribbon, Belle the o South Carolina State Achievement Ribbon, and the Active State Service Theο Latest Spring Update Commencement on SC State’s Hodge 2009Hall Expansion Recap Ribbon. ο SC State Hires New Vice President for AcademicFocus Affairso n t h e Jackie Epps, ‘69 GloverSaturday, has one daughter, Brittany, February who has recently been 20, accepted 2010 into the Interim Executive Director Pharmacy Doctoral program at the University of South Carolina. ο SC State Student Interns with the Tyra Banks Show Smith-Hammond-Middleton Memorial Center future South Carolina State University International best-selling author, Terry McMillan, served as the 2009 Commencement Convocation Speaker.

Focus ����������������������������������� Non-Profit The Office of University Relations and Marketing Organization o n t h e P.O. Box 8124, 300 College Street NE U.S. Postage Focus Orangeburg, SC 29117 Crawford-Zimmerman, Room 262 PAID Columbia, S.C. inside this issue future Permit #920 ο Spring Commencement 2009 Recap ο SC State Hires New Vice President for Academic Affairs ο SC State Student Interns with the Tyra Banks Show

Focus ����on �������������������������������South Carolina State University A newsletterA newsletter for alumni,for alumni, friends, friends, faculty, faculty, & staff & staff | January | July 20092010 SC State Graduates Are Challenged to Enrich Perspectives and Change Lives During Fall 2009 Commencement Ceremony by Ashley Elliott “I have three simple questions for you this morning that may help what you achieve, and it’s what you try to fix and heal in this world,” you enrich your perspective,” said Dr. John S. Wilson, Jr., executive explained Wilson. “You need to know it’s up to you to be beautiful; director of the White House Initiative on Historically Black Colleges beauty is a decision,” he added. Wilson also noted that having the and Universities (HBCU’s). Wilson delivered the keynote address dur- right values, ethics and goals makes you beautiful. ing SC State University’s Fall Commencement Ceremony, held on As he concluded his message, Wilson left the graduates with a final Dr. George E. Cooper Greetings, Saturday, Dec. 12, 2009, at the Smith-Hammond-Middleton (SHM) question and challenge. “Are you true?” he asked. “SC State has over Address of SC State University Memorial Center. 30,000 alumni, but only 10 percent give back,” The 2008-2009 academic year has come to a close, “If you can find a way to change your per- noted Wilson regarding financial contributions and President so too has myDr. first-year George tenure E. asCooper President of spective, you can gain a brand new brilliance, given to the University. “I challenge you to be insightfulness and a newSC energetic intelligence,” State Commencementtrue. Be2009 the class that makes a difference,” con- South Carolina State University. Despite the econom- ic challengto thees faced S.C. by Generalour state and Assembly nation, this year has exclaimed Wilson to the 364 SC State gradu- cluded Wilson. ates. SC State graduate and St. George, S.C. native been very rewardingJanuary and productive. 8, 2010 I want to thank SC State’s Oliver C. Dawson stadium was filled with laughter and tears of joy as nearly 500 graduates gathered on Friday evening, May 8 to the University and all its constituents for consistently At the beginning of his message, Wilson told Tinisha Moore said she greatly enjoyed Wilson’s thereceive graduating their respective class that degrees. they must An continueestimated to 7,500 family members and friends were in attendance,message. cheering “Dr. Wilson’s from thespeech stands. was very interest- offering support in moving the University forward. President George E. Cooper introduced commencement speaker, Terry McMillan, international best-selling author of novels such as “How ILadies want to and share gentlemen with you anda few distinguished highlights of members the 2008- excel once they leave SC State. He then asked ing,” said Moore. “I really enjoyed his three keys threeStella simple,Got Her yet Groove important Back” questions and “Waiting regarding to Exhale.” to life, and I’m looking forward to getting the of2009 the academic General year: Assembly: Thank you for the op- “It seems very appropriate to have the author of the novel ‘Waiting to Exhale’ with us tonight”, said Cooper. “We are all in a recession in portunity SC State to is address continuing you totoday. improve As we its begin facilities a new and enriching their perspective. book, ‘The Beautiful Ones Are Not Yet Born,’ this “The country, first questionso economically I have forwe youare allis, waitingare you to exhale. All of the graduates here tonight thatare anxioushe spoke to about,” receive shetheir continued. degrees, so they are decade,make major I’d likestrides to reviewin completing South Carolina several major State facili-Uni- waiting to exhale”, continued Cooper. The audience clapped in agreement when he said, “The parents, now free from paying tuition, are also versity’sties projects. vision Construction and mission, on and Lowman share Hallthe blueprintis coming rich?” asked Wilson. “You are not poor, but if In 2006, Moore obtained her bachelor’s de- youwaiting think to exhale.”you are, you will never be rich, and gree in speech pathology and audiology from wealong have well, developed and occupancy for the is future scheduled outgrowth for fall of of our this McMillan congratulated the graduates and told them they are to now seek joy, not fame and fortune. “Success should not be based on how 2006-2011year. The Hodgestrategic Hall plan. Annex is also progressing well, I’m not talking about just money,” exclaimed SC State. After taking a year off, she decided to Wilson.much money “You you can have,” be so said distracted McMillan. with “You’re what really about to join a long list of African-Americans,return includingto obtain Barackher master’s Obama, degree who in are the making same and Founded completion in 1896 is currently as a land-grant on schedule institution, for fall 2010. this us proud. You have finished something you started. It’s a big deal.” UniversityThanks to hasa grant an obligation from Orangeburg to effectively County execute govern- the you think you don’t have that you miss the op- area of study. portunity The exuberant to be rich author in knowledge, stressed the rich importance in ambi- of patience when seeking careers. As a journalism “SC State graduate University of the isUniversity an outstanding of California- institu- land-grantment, the mission swimming (Academic pool at Infrastructure, the Smith-Hammond- Berkeley, McMillan admitted that she was more favorable to creative writing rather than the journalistic approach. “I never knew my writing ResearchMiddleton and Memorial Extension/Outreach). Center has been That repaired mission and isis tion and rich in perspective and money as well,” tion. I learned a lot while I was here and gained hewould continued. lead to whatever I’ve enjoyed,” said McMillan. a lot of valuable experience,” said Moore. “SC aopen covenant for use. with Students, the public. faculty, SC Stateand staff is a enrolledpublic in in- “Many of you will have uncertainty when seeking the career you would like to pursue,” said McMillan. “You are restlessly and relentlessly stitution,summer programs and therefore are using exists the to pool. meet Airthe condition-needs of Wilson’s challenge for the graduates to inspire State has a very strong Speech Pathology and themwaiting to to do live great the lifethings of yourupon dreams. leaving Many SC State college graduates don’t know what they want to do.Audiology Even those Program, who do will which usually has end prepared up chang- me theing public. chillers have been installed to replace temporary ing their minds. Don’t apologize for your uncertainty.Dr. John Keep S. Wilson, plugging Jr. challenges away graduates at whatever during the itFall is that you enjoy and be the best at what you love,” led to his second question. “Are you ambitious 2009 Commencement Ceremony. for my career,” she continued. Moore currently SCchillers State in meets our classroom the public’s buildings, needs inadministrative multiple ways. of- said McMillan. Forfices, example, library, and it offers: dormitories. Roof repairs were made and are you going to be a great person that makes serves as a speech language therapist at Sheridan a profoundCivil Engineering difference?” graduate, he asked. Theodore “You Hamiltoncame to SC Jr. State of Green so that Pond, you S.C.Elementary says he was School inspired in Orangeburg, by McMillan’s S.C. message. •to The the onlyMartin undergraduate Luther King, degree Jr. Auditorium, program in Fine nuclear Arts “I felt that through her message, Terry McMillan was trying to take us to the next level in our lives. She gave us helpful advice that we can engineeringCenter, and Hodge in South Hall Carolina Science Building. and at a historically might leave here better educated and trained so that you can help Reflecting on her journey at SC State, Moore would agree that her solvecarry withsome us of as life’s we enter profound into our mysteries. careers,” Are said you Hamilton. aspiring to change most challenging experience was one that many graduate students are black The college/university;University has enjoyed many successes as posed In 2006, during his sophomore year at SC State, Hamilton completed a summer internship with URS Corporation, one of the largest engi- •by The our onlystudents. Master Particularly, of Science our degree athletic in transportateams have- the world, or are you just selfishly improving your place in the world?” all too familiar with. “The most challenging experience I was faced askedneering Wilson. design firms worldwide, and a leading U.S. federal government contractor.with was working During two his full internship, time jobs he while assisted obtaining with the my largest master’s bridge de- tionexcelled and in the their only respective Master of sport. Business The Men’sAdministration and Wom- project in the U.S. at the time, the Woodrow Wilson Memorial Bridge that connects Alexandria, Va and Maryland. The bridge is one of only degreeen’s Tennis with Teamsa concentration are the 2009in agribusiness MEAC Conference in South His third and final question regarding perspective was, “Are you gree, said Moore. “As I look back, though, I can really say it was all abeautiful?” handful of “Beauty drawbridges is not in what the U.S.you Interstatelook like. Highway It’s what System. you do, it’s worth it.” Carolina;Champions. and The Cheerleaders also won the title of the This summer, Hamilton will put McMillan’s advice to use as he pursues his passion in the field of engineering. He will serve as an engineering •2009 The MEAConly Doctor Conference of Education Champions. degree Thein the Bulldog state highway inspector with Atlantic South Consultants, a full service civil engineering design company in Charleston, S.C., organized as a minority withfootball a concentration team became inthe educational 2008 MEAC administration. Champions. owned business to provide engineering, surveying, and right-of-way acquisition services to the private and public sectors. All This these academic are unique year, to SC SC State State. University We are: launched its Towards the end of her message, McMillan reminded the graduates of“Modern the motto, “Treat and others Chic” as you would like to be treated.” McMillan •television The lead show,institution “A New for theSTATE South of Carolina Mind” Minority on April continued, “Try not to lie, cheat, or hurt others, because it will only hurt you instead.” Participation11, 2009. Initially, Alliance, the show a consortium is airing on Comcast,of 12 colleges Chan- McMillan closed with her final advice, “MakeSC God State’s proud and Hodge find the good Hall in everything.” Expansion Will Soon Lend a andnel 2 universitiesin Charleston that (county), support South programs Carolina in (as science, well as technology,Berkeley, Dorchester, engineering Colleton, and math; and Beaufort counties) • The lead University in providing math and science New Look to the SC State Campus at 12:30 p.m. every Saturday. It is anticipated that the by Tameka Kenan textbooksshow will alsofor theair incountry Orangeburg, of Zanzibar Columbia, in East and Afin - Reunion Classes Gather During rica; and the Upstate. “Quality is the signature of a true craftsman.”Commencement These are the words that line Highlightsthe interior of the con- • A As member we continue of the to South move Carolina the vision Minority forward Teacher for the Alumni Weekend 2009 Recruitment Partnership as well as the education struction trailer which sits amidst what will soon be the site of the Hodge Hall Expansion, housing University, a team of administrators are being as- the Department of Biology and Physical Sciences. The building, which is adjacent to the K.W. Green programsembled. forDr. non-traditionalJoyce Blackwell students.has been named the vice More than 450 alumni and While my examples are limited, I recognize that Student Center and directly beside the current Hodge Hall, is well on its way to completion, thanks to president for Academic Affairs, effective July 1, 2009. Randolphguests, and Son some Builders, who traveled Inc. and as the project team. While construction is on track, the quality will SCAdditionally, State has committeesother excellent have andbeen relevant established programs for the far as California, gathered dur- managed under Academic Affairs, Research, Institu- not be compromised. position of vice president for Research and Economic An aluminuming this canopy year’s Alumni that will Weekend extend over the front entrance of Hodge Hall Expansion will be com- tionalDevelopment, Advancement, Student Student Affairs, Affairs and Institutional and Athletics. Ad- which was held Friday, May 8 Currently, 87 percent of our students come from pleted in January. A concrete and brick patio housed at the front entrance, along with a brick exterior, vancement. The committees will meet this summer accent theto Sunday,new building. May 10, Although 2009. The some detail work must still be done, James Dickinson, project man- Southand we Carolina, expect appointments and the remainder fall of this are year.from across the United States and 21 foreign countries. Our cam- ager forclasses Randolph in reunion and Son were Builders, ’39, ’44, Inc., concurs with the University’s idea to utilize a brick exterior. Alumni giving to SC State has increased 38% (2009 “Brick adds’54, ’59,a certain ’64, ’69, air ’74, of qualityand ’84. and class,” says Dickinson. pusvs. 2008).is home Seventy-five to the most diverse percent faculty of unrestricted of any South gifts Carolina public university, with 80 percent holding The standing The seam weekend roof is began another with element of the timeless quality incorporated into Stubbs Muldrow support need-based student scholarship, ten percent Herin Architect’s excellent design. This roof, whicha welcome requires receptionnext to no wheremaintenance, will not crack, shrink, erode or perforate, and comes in a doctoralinvested in terminal scholarship degrees. endowments, SC State’s and nearly fifteen 30,000 per- (l to r) Dr. Rodell Lawrence, Assistant Vice President of alumni include eight college presidents, thousands of varietyAlumni of Relations, styles Nedand Felder sizes ‘59, to First achieve Lady Diane an array Cooper of alumni visual effects. reacquainted “This is the them- best roof that you can have,” according to Dickinson. The aestheti- cent as discretionary support for SC State University. cally pleasing exterior is not all that will fascinate alumni, prospective students and others. minority The University, officers in likethe manyU.S. Army, other and institutions, not surpris con-- and President George E. Cooper selves and reminisced about ingly, several members of the South Carolina Gener- Step inside Hodge Hall Expansion to find elevators,their dayssurrounded at SC State. by architectural The event pre-cast walls and columns throughout the lobbies. The monu- tinues to face challenges as we experience declining mental staircase will be complete by the end of next month. This staircase wraps around the elevators on the first and second floor, overlooking alresources Assembly. from One the of state. our alums We are is the all Majority affected Whipby the was a happy and momentous occasion, as many of them had not seen each in the U.S. House of Representatives and serves our theother student since lobby they graduatedand open fromatrium, the and University. includes mahogany handrails and tile steps. The offices, easily indicated by the single-hung windows, declining economy, but we must retain our ability to are located on the south wing of the three-story building and are ready for ceiling tiles and carpet installation. According to Dickinson, general stateprovide and education nation well to inour Washington, students and DC. a good quality Following the welcome reception, many classes attended private gatherings SC State has a proud athletic tradition as well, hav- caseworkof their suchown, as to desks include and the cabinets Golden will class be of placed 1959, in who these held offices a private within recep- the next two weeks. learning environment. The recent budget cuts have While faculty will admire these chic offices that wrap the perimeter of the south wing with a kitchenette, private bathroom and conference inghad produceda tremendous more impact than on 100 the professional overall operation athletes. of tion luncheon at the I.P. Stanback Museum and Planetarium. During the 2009 The Bulldog football team under Coach Buddy roomCommencement on each floor, Convocation, students will thebe mesmerizedclass of 1959 with received the state-of-the their membership art classrooms and laboratories. The computer room, for example, has a the University. In spite of this, we continue to main- raised floor to accommodate the electrical wiring underneath. The main corridor on all three floors has an exposed ceiling, showing some duct Poughtain academic has won excellence, two consecutive provide MEACsupport champion for critical- medallions. At the end of the evening, the Golden class held an afterglow ships and captured the 2009 Sports Black College work and electrical gadgets. There are two large tiered classrooms, with a capacity of 80 students, to be used as lecture classrooms. A series of student support functions, and maintain a safe and se- terracessocial atwith the a Bulldog row of Lounge.built-in tables will be for the students, while a demo table on an elevated 6-inch hardwood floor will be specifically for Nationalcure environment SBN Championship. for students and Under employees. the leadership Despite On Saturday afternoon, the Golden class held a business and memorial lun- ofsignificant Coach Judge, reduction our men’sin State and appropriations, women’s tennis we teams ended cheon in the STATE room, while other classes held reunion luncheons in the see Modern on page 3 arethe alsofiscal reigning year in good MEAC shape conference and without champions. a deficit. We J.W. Washington Dining Hall. Later that evening, during the Alumni Honors have In addition other coaches to the accomplishments who uphold a winning mentioned tradition above, and Awards banquet, the class of 1959 was honored as Golden club members. andthe Universityprovide excellent also experienced guidance the to following:our student ath- The reunion classes also presented their gifts to President George E. Cooper letes. • The Nuclear Engineering Program received its ini- and the University. The total amount of gifts received was $412, 678. tial As accreditation proud as we and are the of theseVisual accomplishments, and Performing Arts, on and off the field, we must continue to focus on the “The attendance during Alumni Weekend was extraordinary,” said Dr. Ro- ����������������������������������� Business, Nursing, and Family and Consumer Sciences, dell Lawrence, assistant vice president of Alumni Relations. “It was great to Focus future. While our mission has not changed, the con- Focus on South Carolina State University is published for alumni, friends, faculty and received reaccreditation status. see how all of the reunion classes were eager to support their alma mater, text• Renowned in which best-selling we pursue author it is dramatically Terry McMillan different deliv- staff of SC State. All news items may be reproduced with credit to FOCUS. Information especially during these difficult economic times,” continued Lawrence. should be submitted to the Office of University Relations and Marketing, thanered thethat Spring of our Commencement founding in 1896. Address The 21st to the century largest P.O. Box 8124, 300 College Street NE, Orangeburg, SC 29117, hasgraduation catapulted class us at into SC Statethe information University. and telecom- Collectively, 69 members from SC State’s Golden Class of 1959 contributed Crawford-Zimmerman, Room 262. munications• The Cecil William’s age. Technology Photography reigns. Collection It is projected was for- over $217,000, the largest amount ever donated to the University by a class Dr. Jackie Epps thatmally this dedicated age will to demand the Miller focus F. Whittaker on the biological Library. Thissci- during Alumni Weekend. The class of 1954 contributed the second largest Interim Vice President ences, medicine, and recognition that we are part of amount during this year’s Alumni Weekend, totaling $70,000. Institutional Advancement allows sharing of the significant civil rights photo col- Erica S. Taylor alection fully integratedwith libraries global around economy. the world. The Commission Ned Felder, 1959 class reunion committee chairman, says as a class they Director, University Relations and Marketing on Higher Education (CHE), in its draft of “Trans- are guided by the motto, “Giving Thanks by Giving Back” and he is touched • The University held a successful grand opening of Carl A’see formthe James SC,” Brown is proposing Collection several at the focus I.P. areasStanback to leadMu- by everyone who made the decision to give during such adverse economic Project Manager/WSSB General Manager funding priorities for colleges and universities, in- seum and Planetarium. conditions.| a new state of mind Rolondo Davis cluding• SC State technology, University sciences, hosted thehealth 1890 sciences, Cooperate teacher Ex- “As we reflect on the importance of making a difference in the lives of Student Media Adviser/University Photographer educationtension Annual and business.Meeting, which Information brought administrators sites for this others, I appreciate more than anything else classmates who made profound Antia Dawkins are www.newcarolina.org and the March 2009 Report Public Informations Specialist and staff of the Historically Black Land Grant Institu- Atsacrifices SC State to University, give back weto theircontinue Alma to Mater,” build uponsaid Felder. our legacy of excellence. SC State University leads the way in producing graduates who will “Leveragingtions to Orangeburg. Higher Education for a Stronger Caro- “We deeply appreciate the support of our alumni. Their giving helps our Ashley Elliott lina: Action Plan Implementation: Goal 3 – Objec- become leaders in a global society. SC State University has produced 14 generals andAssistant thousands Director of ofPublic army Relations officers through its ROTC program. SC State will continue to build upon its legacy of Amongstudents America’s to succeed Best and Colleges, provides listed them by with US the News opportunity and World toReport achieve, SC educa- State University is home of the 2009 MEAC Football Champions. The tivesexcellence. of Recommendations We must continue (p. to 41-42). be student centered, Tameka Kenan mention andal excellence,” women’s Tennis said President teams also Cooper. claimed the 2009 MEAC Championship. Our Assistantunique Director programs of Marketing and services offered in three colleges pave excellent in academics, efficient and effective in fund- the wayOn forSunday excellence morning, in nuclear a farewell engineering, breakfast agribusiness,was served for nursing, all alumni and andeducation. Andrea Join S. SCMilford-Williams State University, where establishing excellence is raising,For diverse,the full and General accountable Assembly in managing Address, resourc- ourguests “New as Statethey recalledof Mind.” weekend activities and prepared to depart their ‘home Office Manager es. With your continued support and guidance, we will visit the SC State website: www.scsu.edu away from home.’ Kay Snider continue to excel during the 2009-2010 academic year SC State • 300 College Street NE • Orangeburg, SC 29117-0001Publications • www.scsu.edu Manager • (803) 536-7000 and beyond. Focus on South Carolina State University A newsletter for alumni, friends, faculty, & staff | January 2010 Creating Alternative Energy: From Vegetable Oil to Biodiesel Fuel by Ashley Elliott SC State Faculty and Student Create Biodiesel Fuel for the First Time History was recently made on the campus of SC State University as faculty members and junior biodiesel fuel, which is powerful enough to operate many cars, large trucks and heavy commercial nuclear engineer student, Latavis Belton, created biodiesel fuel for the first time. machinery to include airplanes and tractors, Danjaji says the production process was very tedious Belton along with Dr. Musa Danjai, associate professor of nuclear engineering and laboratory and time consuming. director for Energy Studies, Dr. Kenneth Okafor, associate professor of Nuclear Engineering and “Once the vegetable oil was poured into the processor, it was heated to a particular temperature. Dr. Legunchim Emmanwori, assistant professor of Civil and Mechanical Engineering Technology Once heated, a portion of the oil used was taken from the processer to create a chemical process created nine gallons of biodiesel, a clean burning alternative fuel that can be used directly in any called titration, which helps determine how diesel engine without modification. Biodiesel is much potassium hydroxide should be used simple to use, biodegradable, nontoxic and free of as a catalyst,” said Danjaji. sulfur and aromatics. It can also be used as a heat- “Then methanol, also known as methyl ing fuel in domestic and commercial boilers. alcohol, and potassium hydroxide, were “I was very excited once we produced the biodie- thoroughly mixed together in another res- sel fuel,” said Danjaji. “This has been a long-stand- ervoir on the processer then added to the ing initiative of the University and to have assisted heated vegetable oil. The three ingredients in this endeavor is an incredible feeling,” he con- are mixed together to create a chemical reac- tinued. tion that produces biodiesel fuel,” continued Dr. Kenneth Lewis, dean of the College of Sci- Danjaji. ence, Mathematics and Engineering Technology at Once the mixing is complete, the proces- SC State was instrumental in obtaining two grants, sor is turned off and the mixture sits for 8 one from the U.S. Department of Defense in to 10 hours, which allows the substances to the amount of $263,000 and the other from the continue to blend, thus creating biodiesel U.S. Department of Education in the amount of fuel. SC State engineering faculty and student create biodiesel fuel. $197,000 to conduct extensive research in the area Belton, who is from Winnsboro, S.C., was of alternative energy and to purchase two Raven fascinated by the extensive process. 24 Gallon Biodiesel Processors, which produce the “Working on the biodiesel project was a wonderful opportunity as it allowed me to experience, fuel. first hand, the production of alternative fuel on our campus. This has shown me that I, along with SC State’s James E. Clyburn University Transporta- other students, will have limitless educational and career opportunities while at SC State and after tion Center also joined in research efforts of creat- graduation,” exclaimed Belton. ing biodiesel fuel, which assists with meeting the In early October, faculty members successfully tested the fuel in a small 6-HP diesel engine. future critical needs of transportation. “The long-term objective of the project is to be able to produce commercial quantities of “SC State will not be left behind in the area of biodiesel for use on campus from waste vegetable oils from the University cafeteria and local res- (l to r) Dr. Musa Danjaji and Dr. Kenneth Okafor, Energy Studies research. This is one of several taurants,” concluded Danjaji. associate professor of Nuclear Engineering, drain projects that we are continuously working on to en- SC State’s Laboratory for Energy Studies is also working on other alternative energy projects to waste water and glycerin, by-products of biodiesel fuel production. sure our involvement,” said Lewis. include solar energy initiatives, nuclear direct conversion, the production of hydrogen fuel cells Although few ingredients were used to produce the and the production of hydrogen evolution from switchgrass. The Savannah River Site Environmental Sciences Field Station by Antia Dawkins Receives $125, 000 Grant to Protect Natural Resources The Savannah River Site Environmental Sciences Field Station (SRESFS) was recently award- Department of Agriculture (USDA) through the 1890 Institutions Capacity Building Grant. ed a $125,000 grant from the Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS)/ United States The ESFS also awarded funding through the Natural Resources Conservation Service as a Cen- Department of Agriculture (USDA). The funds were awarded for the federal fiscal year from ter of Excellence (COE) in the USDA. Oct. 1, 2009-Sept. 30, 2010. Since its formation in 1996, the SRESFS has expanded to 29 colleges and universities across This grant will allow the SRESFS to increase its capacity to train students in natural resources. the nation, also known as member institutions, 21 of which are Historically Black Colleges and The grant will also provide program and technical support to the SRESFS located in Aiken, Universities (HBCU’s). The SRESFS collaborates with the Department of Energy (Savannah S.C., preparing students for careers in the environmental sciences field upon graduation. SC River Operations Office), the USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service and the U.S. For- State University students, as well as student participants at the SRESFS member institutions, est Service to cultivate and initiate hands-on student training and internship opportunities at the will be able to enroll in courses that have disappeared from many of our campuses, such as Savannah River Site. SRESFS has also provided leadership for activities in emerging technolo- soil science and agronomy. These courses are vital for preparing students to solve soil-related gies and systems analysis, and has delivered new, innovative technologies to underserved and problems. limited resource farmers, partners and ranchers. “The SRESFS offers the integrated, multi-disciplinary approach necessary to solve society’s “I am very grateful for this opportunity to showcase some of the more positive things that we resource problems. With training from the SRESFS, students will be prepared to use and pro- are doing here at SC State,” said Grant. “The SRESFS has a long standing relationship with the tect our natural resources wisely. We need professionals who understand those resources and NRCS and its employees. Over the history of the SRESFS, NRCS has provided both financial the social systems that govern their uses,” said Prof. Denise Grant, director of the SRESFS. and technical support for the program. We are grateful to have support for two new course The Environmental Sciences Field Station (ESFS) concept was originally proposed in 1995 by offerings, soil science and agronomy,” she continued. Dr. Ambrose O. Anoruo, a science professor at SC State. The program was funded by the U.S. For additional information about the SRESFS, contact Prof. Denise Grant at (803)536-8859.

SC State University’s Biological and Physical Sciences Department Host Annual Undergraduate Research Conference by Antia Dawkins SC State University’s Biological and Physical Sciences De- Below is a list of the LS-SCAMP Program participants partment recently held the annual LS-SCAMP Undergraduate who placed in their STEM field: Research Conference at Allen University in Columbia, S.C. The theme for this year’s conference was, “Embarking on Engineering and Physics I the Pathway to Success: Energizing Minority Education through Portavia Featherstone, first place; College of Charleston, Charleston, S.C. Research Collaborations.” Samuel Foster, second place; University of South Carolina, Columbia, S.C. The Louis Stokes South Carolina Alliance for Minority Par- ticipation Program (LS-SCAMP) is one of the longest serving Engineering and Physics II Science, Technology, Engineering and Mechanical (STEM) ini- Charmayne Smith, first place; Clemson University, Clemson, S.C. tiatives in the state of South Carolina. The LS-SCAMP Under- Demetrius Ray, second place; SC State University, Orangeburg, S.C. graduate Research Conference has successfully showcased the accomplishments and achievements of LS-SCAMP research Chemistry interns over the past 12 years. The research abstracts published Denita Pleasant, first place; Claflin University, Orangeburg, S.C. Njenga Stella, second place; Allen University, Columbia, S.C. in� this year’s conference journal represent a broad range of in- novative STEM projects that were conducted in academic, in- dustrial, and national government laboratories. Mathematics and Computer Science Over 70 students majoring in STEM disciplining majors from the Alliance Institutions attended the event. The uni- Brittany Johnson, first place; SC State University, Orangeburg, S.C. versities are Allen University, Columbia, S.C.; Benedict College, Columbia, S.C.; Claflin University, Orangeburg, S.C.; SC Darius Lou