FALL 2010

THE MAGAZINE FOR DELTA STATE UNIVERSITY ALUMNI AND FRIENDS

ALUMNUS OF THE YEAR Major General Thomas L. Moore Jr. Speaks Freely Sororities compete in tug-of-war on the Quad during Homecoming Week 2009.

PULL YOUR WEIGHT! Show your school pride by helping recruit future Statesmen and Lady Statesmen.

There are several ways alumni can help recruit. Try staffing a college fair in your community, submit names and addresses of the college bound students in your family, and market Delta State in all your travels.

Contact the Office of Admissions at 662.846.4020 or visit www.deltastate.edu to find out more ways you can help! 1.800.GO.TO.DSU . www.deltastate.edu  Contents Fall 2010

Alumni Magazine FEATURES

President...... Dr. John Hilpert

Executive Director, Alumni-Foundation ...... Keith Fulcher CCOMINGOMING HHOMEOME The boys are back in town! Join the green and white Alumni Magazine Advisory Committee: for Homecoming 2010. Editor...... Jeffrey Farris

Alumni Board Representative ...... John Cox

Foundation Board Representative ...... Judson Thigpen

Alumni Staff Representative ...... Bevin Lamb

Foundation Representative...... Sharon Krugler

Athletics, Department Editor ...... Matt Jones

Communications and Marketing Editor ...... Michael Gann

Board of Directors Delta State University Alumni Association: John Cox, President; George Bassi, President Elect; Serena Clark, Secretary/Treasurer; Daye Dearing, Past President; Judson Thigpen, Foundation President; Michael Aguzzi, Rob Armour, Billy Dorgan, Ryan England, Sayward Fortner, Chrissy LaMastus, Felecia Lee, Richard Myers, Cary New, Jeremy Pittman, Russ Russell, Karen Swain, Sarah Tapley, Walter Trevathan, Dwaun Warmack, Dana Warrington, Lynn Weaver

Board of Directors Delta State University Foundation, Inc: Judson Thigpen, President; Mike Neyman, Vice President; Anne Weissinger, Secretary/Treasurer; Frank Sibley, Past SSEMPEREMPER FIDELISFIDELIS President; John Cox, Alumni President; David Abney, Dr. Bill Alford, Louis Baioni, Anita Bologna, Ike Brunetti, Hunter At ease. Major General Thomas Moore, Delta State’s Cade, Jeff Ross Capwell, John Crawford, Rex DeLoach, most decorated alumnus, is the softer side of hardcore. Keith Derbes, Dr. Anna Looney Dill, Hank Drake, Carl Easley, Webster Franklin, Bryce Griffis, Earnest Hart, Tim Harvey, Tom Janoush, Peter Jernberg, Gloria Johnson, Ed Kossman, Jr., Rex Lyon, Ned Mitchell, Billy Nowell, Carol Puckett, Randy Randall, Nan Sanders, Jeff Tarver, Sam Waggoner, Brian Waldrop, Margaret Walker, Dr. FFINGERINGER LICKIN’LICKIN’ BBQBBQ th David Webber Competition is heating up for the 25 annual Pig Pickin’ celebration. The Alumni & Foundation Magazine is published by the Delta State University Alumni & Foundation DSU Box 3104, 1003 West Sunflower Road, Cleveland, MS 38733 E-Mail: [email protected] Phone: 662.846.4660 DEPARTMENTS

SPECIAL THANKS TO OUR DELTA STATE ALUMNI ASSOCIATION CORPORATE SPONSOR 2 President’s Message 8 Athletics 3 Alumni Message 12 Development 4 Campus Briefs 24 With the Classes

Design by Mothlite Media On the cover:

Note: In an effort to reduce our environmental impact, Major General Thomas “Tango” Moore at his home. Photo by Gil Ford Photography. only one magazine per household is mailed.

Fall 2010 • Delta State Magazine • 1  President’s Message

Dear Friends,

This letter appropriately begins with several expressions of thanks:

• Thank you to John Cox who has served so well as National Alumni Association President for the past two years. John’s energy and enthusiasm match his creative leadership abilities, and the growth and revitalization of the organization show it. • Thank you to George Bassi for many years of service on the board of the National Alumni Association and for agreeing to become its President for the next two years. George typifies the cliché, “if you want a job done well, ask a busy person to do it!” • Thank you to all who paid dues to the Alumni Association. It was the biggest year ever in this important effort. • Thank you to alumni who have reached into pockets, purses, piggybanks, and billfolds to help us through the extended downturn in the economy. Giving for scholarships, faculty development, and many other elements enhancing university quality have never been stronger. • Thank you to everyone for 25 years of Pig Pickin’. Who could have guessed at the beginning that this annual event would become so significant in the life of the university?

As many who read this publication will know, this past summer was our first experience hosting a training institute for Teach For America. For eight weeks we had more than 800 new corps members and staff on our campus. The corps members are recent college graduates from institutions across the United States who have agreed to spend two years teaching in some of the nation’s most challenged K–12 schools. They are committed to the principle that each child has the right to a good education. We competed to host this Summer Institute, the eighth site for Teach For America. The other programs are located on major university campuses in Atlanta, Chicago, Houston, Los Angeles, New York, Philadelphia, and Phoenix. Thus, we became the first rural site, and Cleveland, Mississippi, responded wonderfully. Hundreds of volunteers from the community helped campus personnel with one event after another, and the institute was a rousing success. Of course, this is a tremendously important program not only for Delta State and Cleveland, but especially for the schools of the Mississippi Delta. I encourage everyone to attend both the 25th Anniversary Pig Pickin’ on September 25 and Homecoming on October 16. These are always great events, and this year’s celebrations have several new and creative aspects. We will honor alumni for a variety of accomplishments with Major General Thomas Moore receiving the Outstanding Alumnus of the Year Award (see the article about him in this issue). This will be another great year at Delta State! Please visit often.

Sincerely,

John M. Hilpert President

2 • Delta State Magazine • Fall 2010  Alumni Message

Dear Alumni and Friends:

By the time you read this letter, the fall semester will be in session and the students will be back on campus and in full swing. We have had a busy spring at the Alumni Association and have had the opportunity to visit alumni and friends in places such as New York City, Atlanta, Memphis, Jackson, and our usual stops around Mississippi. Thank you for that support! The fall semester will bring our two biggest alumni events in Pig Pickin’ and Homecoming. Pig Pickin’ is celebrating its 25th birthday on September 25 this year, and what started as a small barbecue cooking in Shumate Park has now blossomed into a full-fledged Delta tradition. Homecoming 2010 has been set for the weekend of October 15–16, and I do hope that all of our alumni and friends will make a special effort to come back to campus to take part in the many, many activities planned for the weekend. Highlights of the weekend include our inaugural Homecoming Awards Gala on Friday evening honoring our 2010 Outstanding Alumnus, General Thomas Moore of Columbus, and our other service award winners, the Homecoming Parade, and, of course, the football game versus Harding University and the crowning of our 2010 Homecoming Queen on Saturday. In closing, please let me say that it has been an absolute thrill and honor to serve all of you as your National Alumni Association President. I want to thank Jeffrey Farris, Liza Vaughn, Bevin Lamb, and all of the Alumni staff for their patience and hard work. Dr. John Hilpert and all of the University faculty and staff have always been receptive to even my most far-out suggestions or ideas and I sincerely appreciate their support. I would like to thank my Board of Directors for their dedication and service and willingness to work for Delta State. My friends and family were kind enough to allow me this great opportunity to serve my alma mater, and I treasure all of the new friends that I have met along the way. My name is not worthy of being included with all of the great men and women who have served as Alumni Association President, but I am humbled to have been a small part of our great history. I have no doubt that my successor, George Bassi of Laurel, will take us to new heights, and I look forward to working with him in the future. I am and will always be a Statesman.

All mmyy best,

JohnJohn C.C CoxCoxx ’96’969

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Phone (H) ______(W) ______(C) ______Life dues can be paid in installments of $50 each year Fall 2010 • Delta State Magazine • 3 Campus Briefs Teach for America Only one week after spring commencement, courses at Delta State University. Delta State University officials welcomed a new “Having a Teach for America training group of students and teachers to the campus. institute in the heart of the Delta is an invaluable Over 800 people arrived on campus in June for resource for improving education in our state’s the Teach For America (TFA) training institute. neediest areas,” Governor Haley Barbour said. In July 2009, TFA announced it would “I appreciate Teach For America choosing open its first Mississippi Delta teacher training Delta State University to house this program. It institute at Delta State University in June 2010. will complement the outstanding educational The Delta institute became the eighth TFA programs already in place at Delta State.” training location and the first in a rural area, Teach For America has been placing teachers joining Atlanta, Chicago, Houston, Los Angeles, in the Delta since 1991. The organization is

New York City, Philadelphia, and Phoenix. Teach For America members are eager to share tripling the number of new teachers it brings to Teach For America is the national corps of top their enthusiasm with Delta students this fall. the area compared with last year, as 275 corps recent college graduates who commit to teach members arrived this July. The Delta will see the for at least two years in urban and rural public members to be effective teachers while they biggest increase in incoming corps members schools. work under the close supervision of veteran of all TFA regions. These teachers are part of a “Delta State University is proud to host educators and Teach For America staff to national corps of 4,100—the largest incoming Teach For America’s training institute and measurably increase the academic performance class in Teach For America’s history. to welcome its corps members and staff to of students in summer school classrooms. “We’re grateful for the leadership and our community,” said Delta State University During their institute training, corps members dedication of Dr. Hilpert and his staff at Delta President John Hilpert. “We look forward to complete interactive courses and clinics to State,” said Ron Nurnberg, executive director helping prepare these bright young people to build knowledge, deepen skills, and apply their of Teach For America in the Mississippi Delta. be outstanding teachers in the Delta and in the learning in the classroom. Corps members “[They] have been passionate about working many other regions where Teach For America is attending the Delta institute will teach in with us to create a rigorous training program helping to close the achievement gap.” summer school programs across at least 14 area that will benefit the Delta’s students and set our Teach For America’s institute prepares corps school districts while living at and attending teachers up for success.”

The Teach for America training institute was held on the Delta State campus during summer 2010.

4 • Delta State Magazine • Fall 2010 Miriam C. Davis, NEWSMAKERS

Roseann Buck This summer Roseann Buck became the newest head of the Bologna Performing Arts Center. An Ohio native, Buck formerly served as associate director at The Valentine Theatre in Toledo where she supervised 193 volunteers and 22 employees. Buck is excited about the opportunity to lead the BPAC into the future: “the Bologna Performing Arts Center is absolutely first rate and I’m looking forward to working with everyone at Delta State.”

Dr. Susan Ford Dr. Susan Allen Ford, Delta State professor of English, Writing Legendary Blues artist B.B. King is recognized as an honorary Delta State Center coordinator, graduate by National Alumni Association President John Cox. and editor of the Jane Austen Society of North America journals, was presented the Woman of Achievement Award by the American B.B. at the BPAC Association of University Women (AAUW) during its state convention in Legendary Blues artist B. B. King Blues Band. It was a blockbuster evening!” April. Since 1881, AAUW has been performed for the first time on the Delta State Following the performance, King visited one of the nation’s leading voices University campus on Wednesday, June 30, in and toured the Delta Music Institute (DMI). promoting education and equity for women and girls. the Bologna Performing Arts Center (BPAC). After the tour, King was named an honorary King entertained the sold-out crowd with a Delta State graduate and was presented Dr. John Green mesmerizing blend of music and storytelling. a plaque by Delta State National Alumni Delta State Associate “It doesn’t get any better than B.B. King Association President John Cox. Cleveland Professor of Sociology live at the BPAC. To be comfortably seated Mayor Billy Nowell followed by presenting and Community in this extraordinary venue in the middle King with a key to the city. Development, Dr. of the Mississippi Delta and to hear and “The DMI has been working hard to John Green, was feel the magic that can only come from the arrange visits of professional performers awarded the 2010 hands and mind of B.B. King is very special,” and musicians to our recording facilities, Ted K. Bradshaw Outstanding Research Award. The said Allan Hammons of Greenwood, a and we were thrilled to have B. B. and his award is presented by the Community founding board member of the B. B. King band members visit Studios A and B after Development Society in recognition of Museum. “B.B. was at home and it showed. their recent show on the Delta State outstanding contributions to community His abilities as a master showman and campus,” said DMI Director Tricia development. Green is the founding musician were evident throughout the Walker. “They were very impressed director of the Institute for Community- evening. Even as B.B. approaches his with our set-up, and B.B.’s road Based Research at Delta State. During 85th birthday, there is no one who manager indicated that he would 2009–2010, he has been interim chair can do what B.B. King does with like to consider working on a for the Division of Social Sciences and a guitar—no one. And, you can’t project here. I can’t imagine a greater chair of the Department of History. say enough about the B.B. King collaboration.”

Fall 2010 • Delta State Magazine • 5  Campus Briefs Griffis Conferred with Honorary Degree

Delta State alumnus, Bryce Griffis (’54), was bestowed with one of the university’s highest honors—an honorary Doctor of Public Service degree—during the 2010 Senator Cochran speaks to Delta Council on the Delta State Spring Commencement University Quadrangle. ceremonies. A well-known proponent of higher Delta Council’s education, Griffis has been a generous supporter of Bryce Griffis is presented an honorary degree at the 83rd Diamond Year academics and athletics commencement in Spring 2010. throughout his life. Griffis A champion of universities, Griffis Politics, agriculture, and the economy were the hot served for 16 years as a member of the has given generously to Delta State, topics on a hot Delta morning as hundreds braved the Board of Trustees of State Institutions from which he received a degree in rising temperature to attend the 75th annual meeting of of Higher Learning, the second- business administration in 1954, and the Delta Council, Friday, May 28, on the campus of Delta longest tenure in Board history, and he to Mississippi State University. He State University. has been an active supporter of Delta has been a volunteer leader in fund- The event kicked off with a presentation by State University and other educational raising and alumni activities at both Washington political pundit Stu Rothenberg concerning institutions. universities. the outlook for the Senate and House races in this watershed election year. The business session of the annual meeting began at 10:30 a.m. in the Bologna Performing Arts Center. U.S. Senator Thad Cochran was the featured speaker for the Patti Ryan featured at DMI meeting. Cochran thanked members of the council for the Anniversary Celebration invitation to speak at the event, stating he was particularly proud to keynote the diamond anniversary of Delta Tricia Walker, singer and Council. songwriter and director of the Noting the importance the Council plays in crafting Delta Music Institute (DMI), legislation, Cochran stated, “I’ve counted on Delta accompanied Grammy-nominated Council for input when the Congress develops the Farm singer-songwriter Patti Ryan, as Bill, the major legislation considered every five years to Duff Durrough, bandleader for set national agriculture policy. Because of the historic and Thacker Mountain Radio’s house ongoing prominence of agriculture in the Delta, the Farm band, The Yalobushwhackers, Bill has a major impact on this region.” provided musical backing at the In closing Cochran stated, “For over 75 years, the DMI Anniversary Celebration. residents of the Delta have looked to the leadership Ryan performed one of the most of Delta Council for insight, guidance, assistance, and successful country hits of all time, improvement. The current needs of this historic and “Looking for Love,” which she co- unique region require Delta Council to thrive, and I am Patti Ryan entertains along with Tricia Walker at wrote with Wanda Mallette and confident that it will.” the DMI, Studio A. musician Bob Morrison.

6 • Delta State Magazine • Fall 2010 Renovations commence on the historical Dockery Service Station.

Henry Sloan, Charley Patton, Willie Brown, Tommy Johnson, and Roebuck “Pop” Staples. It was at Dockery that these musicians lived and learned from one another. They played in the boarding houses and on the commissary steps at Dockery. In turn they left Dockery and traveled to the North to record. Some of them later returned to Dockery. Their songs influenced the development of popular music all over the world. The extraordinary musical collaboration that happened at Dockery in the early 20th century has made the property a Saving Dockery Farms beacon for music fans and scholars from all over the world. The Dockery Farms Historic Site was added to the National Register of Historic In March, The Dockery Farms Foundation professor emeritus of art and executive director Places with National Significance in 2006 and announced that it has been awarded a Save of the Dockery Farms Foundation. “This Save to the Mississippi Blues Trail in 2008. America’s Treasures Grant through the National America’s Treasures grant and the matching The old service station was built in the Park Service of the United States Department support we have received from Bill and Carolyn 1940s, long after Will Dockery’s death. of the Interior. These funds will enable the Powers and others has enabled us to begin this Nonetheless, it will play an important role in the Foundation to undertake the restoration of urgently needed work.” Foundation’s preservation and public education several buildings at the Dockery Farms Historic “Dockery is widely viewed as being ‘the plans for Dockery Farms. The restored Site, beginning immediately with the Dockery birthplace of the blues,’” said Dr. Luther Brown, and converted service station will include Service Station. Hampton Tucker, Chief of the Director of the Delta Center for Culture and a classroom for school field trips and other Historic Preservation Grants Division National Learning at Delta State University. “College visitor programs, a small café, and the offices for Park Services states, “the National Park Service classes from across the country and tourists the Dockery Farms Foundation. The Service is pleased to participate in the preservation of from around the world want to visit this Station Restoration Project, which is being Dockery Farms. This grant through the Save important landmark, and its preservation is vital conducted by Cleveland Lumber Company, is America’s Treasures program will allow all to the development of heritage tourism as an expected to be completed in four to six months. Americans to experience the birthplace of one economic engine for the Delta.” The Dockery Farms Foundation is a of our great music traditions for years to come. Dockery Farms was established in 1895 by 501(c)3 organization dedicated to preserving Innovative public/private partnerships like Will Dockery to cultivate cotton. By the mid the historic property and heritage of Dockery this are the foundation of preservation of this 1920s, the community at Dockery had grown Farms and developing these for educational country’s rich and diverse heritage.” to encompass several thousand people. At purposes and the public interest. “We are delighted to have the National Park one time Dockery had its own infirmary, post For additional information, contact William Service and Save America’s Treasures as our office, commissary, rail road (the “Pea Vine”), Lester, Executive Director, The Dockery Farms partners in preserving the buildings at Dockery,” and even its own currency. Dockery was home Foundation at 662.719.1048 or blester@ said William Lester, Delta State University to a number of Blues pioneers, among them dockeryfarms.org.

Fall 2010 • Delta State Magazine • 7  Athletics Dollars and Sense: Delta State Athletics making the most with state’s least

By Matt Jones Mississippi with $43.7 million, Mississippi State University next at $37.4, and the When you sit down to compare University of Southern Mississippi at Mississippi’s most successful athletic $19.7 million. departments, it doesn’t take long to realize Of Mississippi’s four remaining that Delta State University can easily schools, none has an annual budget over claim the moniker. Despite having the $7 million. Football Championship state’s smallest budget—$2.7 million Subdivision members Jackson State for fiscal year 2010–11—Delta State University ($6.8 million), Alcorn State Athletics has maintained a winning University ($5.3 million), and Mississippi tradition second to none in the Magnolia Valley State University ($3.3 million) all state. How do the Statesmen and Lady have annual budgets over $3 million. Statesmen do it? Simply put, it’s dollars Only Delta State University, and sense. For years, Delta State athletic Mississippi’s only NCAA Division II directors, coaches, and support staff have school, operates with funding below the made the most with the state’s least. $3 million level. “We have to make every dollar count,” “It comes down to our people. From stated Jeremy McClain, Delta State the coaches to our support staff, our director of athletics. “There’s no fluff, people make Delta State Athletics what no slush fund set aside for lavish trips or it is. Money makes things easier, but it expensive items we want. Every dollar doesn’t guarantee winning,” McClain spent in this department goes to fulfill our added. mission to the institution.” Winning is something to which A quick look at the budgets of Statesmen and Lady Statesmen fans have Mississippi’s seven intercollegiate athletic become accustomed. Delta State has departments paints an interesting claimed nine national championships, 27 picture. The three NCAA Football Bowl NCAA regional titles, and 59 conference Subdivision schools have the largest crowns in its storied history. No other annual budgets, led by the University of Mississippi school comes close.

8 • Delta State Magazine • Fall 2010 SPORTS SHORTS

Athletic Communications Earns Awards The Delta State University Office of Athletic Communications was recently recognized by the College Sports Information Directors of America with three CoSIDA Publication awards, including two “Best in Nation” citations for its Baseball and Swimming and Diving media guides.

While the adage “winning solves largest social network in the Gulf South Eyster Returns everything” is often applied to athletic Conference.” to Cleveland departments, McClain understands that’s This summer, Delta State Athletics A familiar face will not the case. began a “Go Green” initiative within the be patrolling the “We face a unique set of circumstances department. Starting with the 2010–11 sidelines of Delta football stadiums here that our NCAA Division I institutions fiscal year, student-athletes will be able to fill this season as do not face,” McClain stated. “Our private out their forms online without the hassle of former Delta State funding helps us tremendously, but the paper. All-American quarterback Scott challenges get tougher every year.” Going paperless also means no longer Eyster (’06) returns to Cleveland to Increased travel expenses, facility printing Delta State’s nationally acclaimed take the reins of the Cleveland High maintenance and development costs, and media guides, a costly but worthwhile School football program. A two- rising tuition rates are just a few of the items expense. A recycling plan is also being time All-American quarterback for facing McClain and his staff. formulated, and energy conservation is on the Statesmen in 2005 and 2006, McClain doesn’t like to refer to the the agenda as well. the Hammond, Louisiana, native set school and conference records challenges as obstacles but rather as “The switch to our current web provider for passing with 13,889 yards and opportunities for his coaches and staff to has opened the doors for us on so many 116 touchdowns. create new ways to help make the department of these items that we’re going to see a more fiscally sound yet still competitive on a tremendous savings,” McClain said. “Though Home national level. we will no longer print media guides, we’ll Improvement Over the past three years, Delta State still offer the information on our website, and The Delta State Athletics has focused several changes in fans will have the opportunity to print out the football locker operations on improving services to student- information as they see fit.” room just got a athletes, while enhancing the fan experience While these changes may seem small, the facelift. Stripped out and reworked, and helping the bottom line. savings created in these areas help ensure that it now features a In 2008–09, Delta State Athletics cuts will not affect the product our coaches new rubberized launched a new version of gostatesmen.com, put on the field. floor and new paint job. Players the official internet home for Statesmen and “We’re committed to always look for will also get a chance to enjoy a Lady Statesmen athletics. In just two years, ways to improve our department and the new lounge area inside the locker web hits have jumped to over 3 million. student-athlete experience,” added McClain. room. This addition will give players “We have really made an effort to expand “Changing the way you think can be difficult, a place to come after practice, our offerings to our fans,” added McClain. but one thing’s for certain—we will always be class, or games to relax, watch “From feature videos to game day highlights competitive. We will always strive to be the television, and maybe even get some homework done. to increased radio and TV coverage, our best we can be, and we need your help and fans are just a few clicks away from the support to do it.”

Fall 2010 • Delta State Magazine • 9  Athletics The Art of Swimming: How Cetin Oguz fell in love (with Delta State)

By Jimmy Smith The wedding was held next to the pool. me, and I try to reflect that in my drawings and After graduation Oguz headed to Memphis interpret that feeling with line, color, and value.” As a young man in Istanbul, Turkey, Cetin College of Arts and earned a master’s degree Now a successful Associate Art Professor Oguz (’01) loved two things: art and swimming. in 2003. While attending he commuted to going on his eighth year at Delta State, Cetin His art gave him perspective on the world, but Memphis because his wife, Carmen, was a is happy with his decisions. “It changed my life it was his talent for swimming that allowed him successful physical therapist in Cleveland. tremendously,” he said. “Everything took place to see it. His phenomenal success in the pool Lucky for Cetin, a job opened up within Delta here. I have two children, Cooper and Cruz, eventually earned him the scholarship that State’s art department, and in the fall of 2003 he and I have been married for ten years. All of my brought him to the U.S. to study English. became a professor. career has taken place here. Delta State has given Cetin first enrolled in the University of “Once you get a position here at Delta State, me everything.” Arkansas-Little Rock. But not long after he hit or in this area, why wouldn’t you stay?” he said. the States, then head swimming coach Ronnie “The culture, hospitality, friendliness, quality of Mayers (’76) took his Statesmen and Lady education, the quality of the people; it would Statesmen swim teams to UALR for a meet. be very hard to make another decision. You Coach Mayers met Cetin after the meet, and consider everything, and you’re married. You the rest is history. Cetin went on to become look at it from so many different angles. Finally, I Most Valuable Swimmer at Delta State in 2000, found that this is the best place for me to settle.” a NSISC Scholar Athlete in 2000–2001, an Now settled, Oguz takes every opportunity All-NSISC selection in 1999–2000 and 2000– to find inspiration (and competition). “I 2001, and a two-time CSCAA All-American in love playing basketball,” he said. “I am very 1999–2000 and 2000–2001. passionate about basketball and learning about Cetin’s ambition and hard work made a the game. I also like to play ultimate Frisbee. lasting impression on Delta State. Many Turkish Sometimes I find a correlation between the swimmers followed in his footsteps, then state of meditation that I think swimming gives more students from other countries. Almost overnight Delta State Swimming went global. Without Cetin’s courage, the program might not have become the melting pot and NCAA II powerhouse it is today. But for Cetin there was life after swimming, and after finishing his three semesters in the pool he met the love of his life, Carmen Elizabeth Cooper (’93). In his senior year at Delta State, Oguz dived headfirst into a budding relationship. He remembers how their first encounter changed his life. “We had common international friends. She invited us to her house, and that is the first time that I met her,” he said. “Everything grew from that invite.” They were married on Cetin’s graduation day.

Cetin Oguz has turned his love of swimming into a career here at Delta State.

10 • Delta State Magazine • Fall 2010 NEW FACES ON THE SIDELINES

Delta State University Athletics will welcome several new faces to the 2010–11 Statesmen and Lady Statesmen coaching family. In all, four new full-time coaches and several graduate assistants will patrol the sidelines this year. Joining coach Ron Roberts’ football staff are offensive coordinator Greg Stevens Greg Stevens, defensive coordinator Pete Golding (’06), offensive line Murray Takes Reins of coach Travis Mikel (’07), and defensive line coach E. K. Franks. Lady Statesmen basketball head Swimming and Diving coach Sandra Rushing also welcomes her new primary assistant, Greg Long. An exhaustive search came to a conclusion on Friday, July 30, as Stevens comes to Delta State after Delta State University Director of Athletics Jeremy McClain (’99) serving four seasons as wide receivers named Dan’l Murray head coach of the Statesmen and Lady Statesmen Pete Golding coach at Utah State. Swimming and Diving teams. Murray grabbed the reins of the program Golding, a familiar name to many immediately. Statesmen fans, returns after a three- “When we began the process of looking for the next head coach of year coaching stint at Tusculum our swimming and diving program, I wanted to find a candidate with the College. During his time at Tusculum, leadership, integrity, and vision to take the program forward,” McClain the Hammond, Louisiana, native stated. “Coach Murray has all these qualities and I believe he is the right served one season as the defensive man for the job.” backs coach before spending the last Murray has served the past five years as head coach of the Delta two as defensive coordinator. Prior to Aquatic Club (DAC), an age group program based in Cleveland. During coaching at Tusculum, Golding spent Travis Mikel his tenure as DAC head coach, Murray has guided the program through one season as a defensive graduate assistant working for then a major growth spurt that includes two satellite programs in Greenville defensive coordinator Ron Roberts. Golding also spent four and Tunica, while increasing participation from 50 swimmers in 2005 to seasons as a player for the Statesmen, earning All-Conference over 200 today. honors after the 2004 and 2005 seasons. “I’m excited about the opportunity to serve as Delta State’s next head Mikel takes the reins of the offensive line after serving the Swimming and Diving coach,” Murray stated. “The chance to coach last two seasons as a graduate assistant and director of football one of the nation’s top NCAA Division II programs doesn’t come operations. In his two seasons coaching, Mikel worked with along every day, and I’m thankful to Jeremy McClain for his belief in my wide receivers and, most recently, the offensive line. The Fort abilities to run the program.” Walton Beach, Florida, native played four seasons for the Murray’s coaching acumen is without question. The Greensboro, Statesmen, earning All-American honors at center after the 2006 North Carolina, native has coached numerous state champions, state run to the national semi-finals. record holders, and high school champions during his tenure as an age Long returns to the Lady Statesmen basketball program after group coach. Current Lady Statesmen and NCAA All-American Alyce coaching five seasons in his home state of Florida. The Ocala Meador was a member of DAC during Murray’s first two years in the native served the last two seasons as head boys basketball coach Delta. at Trinity Catholic High in his home town. This past season he “I know how to grow a program, and I want to take the same passion led the Celtics to a 22–7 record in route to the “Sweet 16” of that grew DAC into one of the state’s top organizations and lead Delta Florida High School Basketball. Long spent the previous three State Swimming and Diving into the future,” Murray added. “We have seasons as an assistant on the Ocala Forrest High staff. one of the top facilities in the nation, and we’ll use it and our work ethic to bring championships back to Cleveland.”

Fall 2010 • Delta State Magazine • 11 Development

Mr. & Mrs. Pat Denton Mr. George Gilliam (5) Mr. & Mrs. Ray Ishee Mrs. Keith Derbes (2) Mr. Thomas Givens (7) J. Boyd Ingram (2) DELTA STATE UNIVERSITY Mr. James Devers (2) Mr. & Mrs. John Gleason (2) Mr. & Mrs. Hugh Jackson (7) Dr. Anna Dill (2) Gnemi & Hicks Investments Mr. Archie James Mr. John Dillard (2) Mr. William Godwin (7) Mr. Carl James Mr. & Mrs. Phil Dixon Godwin Group Mrs. Annice Jenkins Mrs. Kay Dodge Mrs. Marlene Golby (2) Mrs. Inez Jennings (3) ANNUAL FUND 2009–10 Dr. William Dodson Golden Coach Inn, Inc Mr. & Mrs. Peter Jernberg (16) Mrs. Renee Donald (6) Mr. & Mrs. James Goodman Mrs. Michelle Johansen Mr. & Mrs. William Dorgan, Jr. (5) Mr. & Mrs. Willo Goodwin (3) Dr. & Mrs. Cooper Johnson (3) Recognizing gift s made between July 1, 2009, and June 30, 2010 Mr. Mac Drake (3) Ms. Marsha Goodwin (2) Mr. George Johnson Mr. & Mrs. Henry Drake, Jr. (4) Mr. Boyce Googe (3) Mr. William Johnson The following alumni, friends, parents, faculty, staff , corporati ons, and matching gift DSU Department of Mathemati cs Dr. Edward Gore (4) Mr. Johnnie Johnson (3) Mr. John Duck Mr. James Gorman Mr. & Mrs. Parks Johnson companies helped us break a record in fundraising for the Annual Fund. These 819 Mr. Andy Dufrene (2) Mr. Cliff ord Goudelock (3) Mrs. Fay Johnson donors made a diff erence in the lives of students and also showed their support of Mr. & Mrs. James Duncan, II Mr. & Mrs. James Grafe Mrs. Irene Johnson and belief in the University. The Annual Fund set a record of raising $301,000, the Mrs. Jennifer Dyess Mrs. Jannie Graham (3) Mrs. Gloria Johnson (2) Mr. & Mrs. Carl Easley (4) Senator Walter Graham (3) Mrs. Fayrene Johnson (3) most ever in the fi ft een-year history of the Annual Fund. Gift s to the Annual Fund Dr. Thad Easterwood Ms. Britt any Granger Mrs. Mary Johnson (3) are unrestricted. The alphabeti cal listi ng below only recognizes those who made an Mr. Robert Eiland (2) Mr. William Greenleaf (2) Ms. Jan Johnson (4) Annual Fund gift during the previous fi scal year ending June 30, 2010. THANK YOU Mr. James Ellett Mr. & Mrs. Hilly Griffi n (2) Mr. & Mrs. Harvey Johnston (3) for your support. Dr. Robert & Dr. Mary Elliott Mr. Bryce Griffi s Mr. Kimbol Jones Mrs. Ruth Ellis (2) Ms. Gloria Griffi th (3) Mrs. Ruby Jones (4) Ellis & Hirsberg CPA, LLC Griffi th Real Estate & Griffi th Mr. Brian Jordan The number to the right of a name indicates the number of consecuti ve years that a donor Mrs. Joan Ely (3) Appraisal Services, Inc (2) Mr. & Mrs. Lee Jordan has given to the Annual Fund. All donors of 2 or more years are indicated. Donors who Mr. & Mrs. William English Mr. John Gritt man (2) Mr. & Mrs. Charles Jordan, Jr. (4) Entergy (4) Mr. & Mrs. Louis Robert Grones, Jr. Ms. Mary Juhas reach 3 consecuti ve years automati cally become members of THE LOYALTY CLUB. Mr. John Ervin Guaranty Bank & Trust Company (3) Mr. John Keeton (5) Mrs. Joan Ervin (3) Dr. Roland Guest (3) Mr. Arthur Kelly If you have any questi ons about your gift please email [email protected] or call ESCOM, Inc Mr. Sydney Guest Mrs. Diane Kelly (3) 662.846.4604 or text 662.719.2602. For a video testi monial on the impact your Annual Mrs. Earlene Estes (3) Mr. & Mrs. W. M. Gulledge, Jr. Mr. Moody Kennedy (3) Mr. & Mrs. Brad Evans (2) Mr. & Mrs. Jeff ery Gunn Mrs. Joyce Kennedy (2) Fund gift makes visit htt p://www.deltastate.edu/pages/3813.asp and click on “For video Mrs. Martha Evans H & H Farms (2) Mr. & Mrs. Bobby J. Kent, Jr. testi monial click here.” Mrs. Vicki Everett (4) Mr. DeGail Hadley Mrs. Carol Kiefer (3) Mr. Greg Fahey (2) Mr. & Mrs. Raymond Hale, III Mr. & Mrs. Keith King Mrs. Merideth Fancher (2) Ms. Nancy Hamilton (2) Mr. Glenn Kitchens (3) Ms. Frances Farmer (6) Mr. & Mrs. William Hamilton, Jr. (2) Mrs. Juliet Klein Advance Physical Therapy Mr. & Mrs. William Bizzell (3) Chartre Consulti ng, Ltd Mrs. Patricia Farr (3) Mr. Albert Hammons (2) Mr. & Mrs. James Kline, Jr. (3) Mrs. Mary Aguzzi (3) Mrs. Lesca Black (6) Mr. David Chennault Mr. & Mrs. Charles Farrior (2) Mr. Ralph Hand (2) Mrs. Brenda Knapp (2) Mr. John Ainsworth (4) Dr. Helen Blanchard (3) Dr. Richard Chesteen Mr. Jeff rey Farris (2) Mrs. Linda Haney (6) Mr. Ralph Kollar (4) Mr. & Mrs. Jerry Ainsworth (2) Mr. John Blanks (2) Chevron Texaco (4) Mrs. Susan Feather (6) Mr. Peter Hankinson (4) Ms. Leigh Korb Mr. & Mrs. Noel Akins (3) Dr. James Blanton (2) Mrs. Nellie Childress (2) Mrs. Joyce Fedric Hansen Homes, LLC Mr. Albert Kossman (2) Mr. & Mrs. John Alexander Mrs. Anita Bologna (2) Mr. Ellis Christi an Mr. Sammy Felton (3) Mrs. Martha Harden (5) Mr. & Mrs. Ed Kossman, Jr. Mr. & Mrs. Brooks Alexander (2) Rev. & Mrs. James Bond (2) Citi zens Bank & Trust Company (4) Mrs. Brenda Ferguson (4) Ms. Mary Hardy (6) Ms. Sharon Krugler (2) Mr. Jimmy Alford Mrs. Mary Bonner Dr. & Mrs. Steven Clark Mrs. Jutt a Ferretti (2) Mr. Ben Harper (5) Ms. Helgard Kruse Mr. Edgar Allen (2) Mr. & Mrs. Jonathan Keith Boone Mr. Edwin Clark Ferretti Building Materials, Inc (2) Mrs. Grace Harpole Dr. Herbert Kussman (2) Mr. Christopher Allen (3) Mr. & Mrs. Reno Borgognoni (2) Mr. Fletcher Clark Coach & Mrs. David “Boo” Ferriss Mr. Earnest Hart (2) Mr. Luther Kuykendall (2) Amanda Gardner Real Estate Mr. & Mrs. R.J. Borland (2) Mrs. Jo Ann Clark (6) Mr. Michael Fielder (2) Mr. & Mrs. James Hathcock Mr. & Mrs. Philip Ladner Mr. & Mrs. James Anders (2) Hon. David Bowen (3) Mr. James Clayton (3) Mr. & Mrs. Richard Findley (3) Mr. & Mrs. Allen Lee Havens, Jr. Mr. Curt LaFontaine Dr. Patricia Anderson (5) Rev. & Mrs. John Bowie (2) Mr. & Mrs. Charles Clemmons (7) Mr. & Mrs. Charles Fioranelli (2) Dr. Barbara Hayes Mr. & Mrs. William LaForge Ms. Brenda Anderson (2) Dr. Carol Boyd Mr. John Clift on (2) Mr. Tom Fisher Ms. Teresa Hayes Mrs. Janis Lambert Apache Corporati on (2) Mr. Randall Bradberry Mrs. Teresa Cline Mrs. Georgia Fisher (3) Mr. & Mrs. Johnny Hayward Mrs. Gail Lancaster Mrs. Kathryn Arant (3) Mr. & Mrs. David Bradberry (2) Mrs. Shirley Clinkscales (6) Mr. James Flack (2) Mr. & Mrs. James Hazzard (2) Mr. Bryce Landess (2) Mr. John Armstrong Mr. Frank Bradford (4) Mrs. Debbie Cole Mrs. Hertha Flack (3) Ms. Jane Hearn Larry Davis Farms (2) Mr. Troy Armstrong (3) Dr. Milton & Dr. Janie Allen Mr. Ronald Coleman Mrs. Melody Fleckenstein Mr. & Mrs. Roman Heleniak (3) Ms. Lauren LaSuzzo Dr. Elijah Arrington Bradley (2) Mr. & Mrs. Harris Coleman Mr. & Mrs. Douglas Fleming, II (3) Mrs. Brenda Helms (7) Mr. & Mrs. Billy Latham (3) AT&T Mr. Henry Bradshaw Mrs. Mildred Colott a (5) Mr. George Fletcher (2) Mr. & Mrs. Odis Henderson (2) Mrs. Celia Lavender (6) Atmos Energy Corporati on (2) Mr. Marty Brantley Community Foundati on of Mrs. Lesa Fletcher Mr. Richard Henley Ms. Vicki Lavender Dr. Jill Austi n (4) Mr. Quin Breland Greater Memphis (2) Mr. James Flowers Mrs. Lee Ann Henry (4) Mr. Ellett Lawrence (2) Mrs. Rebecca Austi n (2) Rev. & Mrs. James Breland (3) Ms. Susan Cone Mr. Richard Flowers (8) Ms. Jane Heslep (2) Mr. Barry Lawrence (5) Mr. Bob Avery (2) Mr. Billy Britt (2) Dr. Ann Cook (2) Dr. Richard Flowers, III (2) Ms. Marsha Hester (2) Mrs. Mary Ellen Left wich (7) Mr. & Mrs. Brig Aylward (3) Ms. M. Brooks Mr. Derrick Cook Mr. Joe Floyd Dr. & Mrs. Elbert Hilliard (2) Mrs. Ruth LeRosen Mrs. Lotti e Baglan Mr. Joe Brown (4) Mrs. Carol Cook Mrs. Jean Fly Dr. & Mrs. John Hilpert Mr. Larry Levingston (3) Mr. & Mrs. Ben Bailey, Jr. (3) Mr. & Mrs. Lloyd Brown (3) Cooper Industries Foundati on Dr. Reagan Ford (2) Mr. & Mrs. John Hines (3) Mrs. Norma Lewis Mr. Louis Baioni (2) Mr. & Mrs. James Brown Corkys Footwear, Inc Mrs. Gail Fortenberry (4) Ms. Lucienne Hite (3) Mrs. Lauren Lewis (7) Mr. & Mrs. Edwin Ballard (3) Mr. & Mrs. Ike Brunetti Dr. Alma Corley Mrs. Margaret Forti er Mrs. Martha Hiter Dr. & Mrs. John Lewis, Jr. (2) Bank of Anguilla (2) Mr. & Mrs. Curti s Buchanan (3) Mr. Daniel Corley Mr. Hubert Foster Mr. & Mrs. Nathan Hoff man Mr. & Mrs. Kenneth Libby Mr. & Mrs. Jerry Banks Mr. Arthur Buckley Costco Wholesale Ms. Rebecca Foster Dr. & Mrs. Reed Hogan (2) Mr. David Lindh (3) Ms. Regina Bapti ste (2) Dr. Phyllis Bunn (2) Mr. Ancil Cox (2) Mr. Doug Fowler Mrs. Elizabeth Holbrook Dr. & Mrs. Marvin Lishman (5) Mr. & Mrs. Danny Barfi eld (4) Mr. & Mrs. John Burge Ms. Claire Craig (6) Mr. Charles Fowler Mr. Robert Holladay (3) Dr. & Mrs. Nelson Litt le Ms. Elena Barham (7) Mr. L.H. Burke Mr. & Mrs. John Crawford (2) Mrs. Wanda Fowler (3) Mr. John Holloway (3) Mr. Larry Litt le (2) Mrs. Thelma Barland (2) Mr. & Mrs. James Burkley (4) Mr. Chip Crenshaw (2) Mr. James Franklin Homeboy Farms (2) Mr. Timothy Lockley Mr. Reginald Barnes Mrs. Donna Burris Mrs. Ann Crigler (2) Rev. Percy Frazier (2) Mr. & Mrs. Alben Hopkins Ms. Jeannine Logan (5) Mrs. Maggie Barnes Hon. Jesse Burton Mrs. Suzanne Croft (6) Dr. William Frederick Horizon Lines, LLC (2) Mr. & Mrs. Crawford Logan, IV (4) Ms. Dove Barnes Mr. & Mrs. Earl Burton (2) Mr. & Mrs. Tommy Crosby (2) Mr. & Mrs. Dumont Freeman Ms. Elizabeth Horsman (2) Mr. & Mrs. Kenneth Lommel (2) Mr. & Mrs. Stephen Baronich (2) Mr. Hoyt Butler Mr. William Cross Mrs. Elizabeth Freeman (3) Mrs. Jean House (5) Mr. William Long Mr. George Barrenti ne Byas Funeral Home, Inc Mr. Brian Cuffl e (2) Dr. Robert Freeny (3) Mr. Roosevelt Howard Mr. C.D. Long (2) Mr. Walter Barrett Mr. Obie Byrd Mr. Blain Curry (2) Dr. & Mrs. Robert Frnka (2) Dr. & Mrs. Bobby Howell (2) Longshot Planti ng Co. Mr. & Mrs. Jerry Barton (4) Mr. & Mrs. Jeff Byrd Dalton’s Furniture, Inc Mr. & Mrs. Arthur Fudger (3) Estate of Dr. Daisy Howell (5) Mr. Steven Lowe (4) Mr. George Bassi (4) Byrd Service Stati on, Inc Mrs. Kay Davis Mr. & Mrs. Keith Fulcher (14) Dr. & Mrs. Jay Hubbard Ms. Beverly Lucas (2) Mrs. Katherine Batenhorst (2) Mrs. Barbara Cabaniss (7) Mrs. Peggy Davis Mr. Charles Gailes Mrs. Paty Sue Huff (7) Mr. Therrell Luke (3) Batesville Broadcasti ng Mr. Hunter Cade (2) Mrs. Lera Davis (5) Mrs. Ruth Gardner Mr. & Mrs. Kurt Hughes Mr. & Mrs. Jeff rey Lusk Company, Inc (2) Mr. Joe Calhoun (6) Ms. Sara Davis (2) Mr. James Garrett Mrs. Karen Hughes Mr. & Mrs. Rex Lyon (3) Mr. Charles Batt s (7) Cambridge Marketi ng Davis Crump, PC Ms. Louise Garrett (7) Ms. Leslie Hughes Madison Charitable Baxter Healthcare Corporati on Dr. Sharon Campbell Mr. & Mrs. Albert Day (2) Mr. James Garverick Ms. Linda Hughes Foundati on, Inc Col. Ernest Beall, Jr. (6) Mrs. Marie Campbell Watson (3) Mr. & Mrs. Archie Dean Mrs. Jennifer Gatling (3) Mr. Jonathan Hunsucker Mrs. Ruby Magers (6) Mr. Joe Beckum Mr. David Canonici (4) Mrs. Martha Dean (6) Mr. Karlis Gercens (3) Mr. William Hurst Hon. Percy Malone Mrs. Janet Bernet Mrs. Donna Carr (2) Mr. Quitman Deloach (7) Mr. & Mrs. Hal Gerrard Ambassador Jeanett e Hyde (4) Mr. & Mrs. Bill Malouf (7) Mr. Rickey Berry Mr. Bill Carroll Delta Air Lines, Inc Mr. Joseph Gibbs (2) IBM Internati onal Foundati on Dr. John Mann Mrs. Susan Berryhill (4) Mr. & Mrs. Lynn Carter (3) Delta Council Ms. Mildred Gibson Mr. Julian Boyd Ingram Dr. Carol Manning (2) Mrs. Debra Bertucci Mrs. Emogene Carter Delta Obstetrics & Gynecology (3) Mr. & Mrs. Dennis Giger Mr. & Mrs. Pat Ingram (6) Mr. Charles Marion Mr. Randy Biagioli Mrs. Zelda Casanova Delta State Courtesy Committ ee (3) Gilbows Intel Foundati on Ms. Bett y Marks Mr. Raymond Biagioli (3) Ms. Ladye Casey (3) Mr. Jimmy Dempsey Dr. Bill Gillespie Mr. Ben Irwin (2) Ms. Sheri Marquis Mr. Samuel Billingsley (2) Dr. Lisa Chandler (3) Mr. Butler Denton Mr. James Gillespie (2) Mr. Jimmy Ishee (2) Mr. Jeff Marshburn

12 • Delta State Magazine • Fall 2010 Mrs. Sandy Marti n (2) Dr. Eugene Owen (5) Mr. Dameon Shaw (2) Mrs. Mavis Troyer Ms. Lee Marti n (3) Mr. & Mrs. Barry Owen (4) Ms. Dorothy Shawhan (3) Mr. Ronald Tuberti ni Ms. Dorothy Marti n (3) Mr. John Owens (7) Shell Oil Company Foundati on (2) Mrs. Maxine Tullos Mr. Leroy Matheny (2) Mr. Dean Padavon (2) Mr. Ted Shepherd (5) Mr. & Mrs. Joe Turner (2) Mr. & Mrs. Bobby Mathews Ms. Virginia Palasini (5) Mrs. Felicia Shepherd (3) Mr. & Mrs. Jay Turner (3) Mr. Larry Matt hews Mrs. Peggy Palmer (3) Sherwood Painti ng Mrs. Ruth Turner (2) DELTA STATE’S Mrs. Amanda May Mr. & Mrs. Tony Panti ni (4) Mr. Larry Shores (2) Mrs. Juanita Turney (4) Mr. & Mrs. Don McAfee (5) Mrs. Sue Parker (3) Mr. & Mrs. Ryan Short (6) Mrs. Mia Tutt le Mr. & Mrs. John McCandlish (4) Mrs. Elizabeth Parker (5) Short Line Manufacturing United Space Alliance Mr. Jimmy McClain Mrs. Myra Parrish (4) Company (2) Mrs. Sheila Urevbu ANNUAL FUND Mr. & Mrs. Kenneth McClain (3) Mr. Robert Parsons (2) Short Line to Health, Inc Mrs. Evelyn Van Horn Mr. Robert McClellan Mr. Cameron Parsons (2) Mr. & Mrs. Dennis Silas (2) Dr. Lynn Varner (2) Mrs. Bobbie McClelland (4) Mr. & Mrs. Austi n B. Pate Mr. & Mrs. T.J. Silverthorn Mrs. Azrie Vassel (2) Mr. Horace McCool (3) Ms. Sue Patt erson (3) Mr. & Mrs. Larkin Simpson, Jr. Mr. & Mrs. Edward Vaughn TURNS 15 Mrs. Jill McCracken (3) Ms. Missy Pearce (2) Ms. Brendy Sims (2) Mrs. John Veazey (2) Mr. Eston McGarrh (2) Mr. & Mrs. John Pearson (6) Rev. & Mrs. Kenneth Sissell, Jr. (4) Mrs. Judith Vernon Ms. Nan McGarrh (3) Mrs. Sue Pearson (6) Ms. Sondra Skaradzinski (3) Mr. Max Verret The Annual Fund Offi ce recognizes the following donors Mrs. Louise McGee (4) Mr. & Mrs. Pete Peden Dr. & Mrs. Don Skelton (2) Mr. Leo Vircillo to the Annual Fund who have been faithful yearly Mrs. Barbara McGhee (4) Mr. & Mrs. Charles Peets Mrs. Alinda Sledge (16) Ms. Kathy Waddell (2) contributors. The list represents the Top 50 cumulati ve Mr. William McGinnis Mr. & Mrs. Ray Pendley, Sr. (2) Dr. & Mrs. Charles Small (3) Mrs. Sofi a Wade (4) Mrs. Julie McGregor (2) Mr. & Mrs. Ed Pentecost (2) Dr. Herman Smith (2) Wade, Inc (2) donors to the Annual Fund since 1995. Donors are Ms. Sharon McGregor (3) PepsiCo Foundati on Dr. & Mrs. James Smith (2) Mr. & Mrs. William Wade, III (2) ranked in order of total gift amount. THANK YOU. Your Mr. Clift on McInnis Mr. & Mrs. W.A. Percy (7) Mr. Travis Smith Mr. Samuel Waggoner (3) gift s are essenti al to the future of Delta State University! Mr. & Mrs. George McKeown Mrs. Linda Perkins Mr. Richard Smith Dr. Samuel Waits (4) Mr. & Mrs. Eckward McKnight Dr. Maria Perry Mr. James Smith Dr. Michael Waldrop (3) Visit the Annual Fund website at htt p://www.deltastate. Ms. Rose Anne McKnight Mr. Quinton Perry Mr. Michael Smith (2) Dr. & Mrs. Pete Walker edu/pages/3813.asp for more informati on. Mrs. Margie McLeod (3) Mr. Jordan Peters Mr. William Smith (6) Mr. Henry Walker Mr. & Mrs. Greylin McMaster (2) Mrs. Sondra Pett us Mr. & Mrs. Bradley Smith Mr. Kenneth Walker (2) Hunter Cade Mr. Ronald McMinn Ms. Annett e Phillips Mr. & Mrs. Gordon Smith (2) Mr. James Walker (5) Mr. & Mrs. Bill McPherson (5) Mr. Jess Pinkston Ms. Patricia Smith Mr. & Mrs. Keith Walker (3) Delta Western (Lester Myers) Mrs. Georgia Ann McPherson (3) Pinkston-Seablue, Inc Ms. Susan Smith Mrs. Barbara Walker Elena Barham Merchants & Farmers Bank Swimming Pools Ms. Margaret Smith (3) Ms. Patricia Walker CableOne Mr. & Mrs. Jason Meredith (3) Mr. & Mrs. Tommy Pinnix (6) Dr. & Mrs. Hugh Smith, Jr. Mr. & Mrs. George Walker, Jr. (6) Dr. Joseph Messina (3) Mrs. Jamie Pitt man Dr. & Mrs. William Smith-Vaniz (2) Mr. & Mrs. Hugh Ellis Dr. Daisy Howell (deceased) Dr. Edward Milam Mr. & Mrs. Milton Plitt (2) Mr. Charles Snead (2) Walker, Sr. (3) Nati onal Community Services, Inc (Jeff R. Capwell) Dr. & Mrs. Johnny Miles, Jr. Mr. & Mrs. John Polk (2) Mr. & Mrs. John Soliz (4) Mr. & Mrs. Alan Walters (2) Sam Waggoner Mr. Steven Miller (3) Mrs. Delilah Pollan (3) Mr. Larry Sorgen (2) Mr. Thomas Waring (2) Mrs. Lillian Miller (4) Mr. Gregory Poole Dr. & Mrs. William Spencer (2) Mr. Leslie Warren Louis Baioni Dr. Tim Mills (2) Mr. George Porter Mr. Marcus Spencer (2) Mr. Charles Warren (5) The Baxter Internati onal Foundati on Ms. Lucy Millsaps Mr. Richard Portera (2) Dr. K.P. Sridharan (4) Mr. Joe Watf ord (2) Danny and Deborah Barfi eld Ms. Michelle Miner (3) Mr. & Mrs. Richard Post (5) Mr. & Mrs. Tony Stanford (4) Mr. Lewis Watf ord (6) Madison Charitable Foundati on, Inc Mr. Richard Minor (6) Dr. James Pott s (5) State Farm Companies (4) Ms. Carol Watkins Mississippi Farm Bureau Mr. James Powers Mrs. Helen Staten Dr. Jane Weare (6) Exxon Federati on Lt. Col. Timothy Prater (7) Mrs. Donna Steinle Mr. James Webb (4) Peter and Pat Jernberg Mr. & Mrs. Ned Mitchell Precision Delta Corporati on (3) Dr. Claudine Stevens (6) Ms. Janet Webb (4) AT&T Mrs. Sara Mitchell Mrs. Stella Prewitt (2) Dr. Robert Stewart (6) Dr. David Webber Ms. Cynthia Mitchell Mr. & Mrs. James L. Pritchard Mr. Russell Stewart 9 Mrs. Dena Weeks (4) Mike and Martha Neyman Mr. Davy Mize (4) Mrs. Rodger Puckett (6) Stewart & Company, LLC (2) Mr. & Mrs. Charles Barfi eld & Associates Monsanto Corporati on (2) Ms. Carol Puckett (3) Mr. John Sti tt Weissinger, Jr. (4) Jantran, Inc Dr. & Mrs. Roy Moore (2) Mr. & Mrs. Malcolm Quon Dr. Rose Strahan Ms. Kathy Wells Major General & Mrs. Dr. & Mrs. Robert Ragan Mr. Joel Sturdivant Wells Fargo Foundati on Mr. John W. Brewer Thomas L. Moore, Jr. Dr. Sondra Rakes Pedersen Mrs. Janeil Stutt s Mr. Malcolm Wesson Northern Trust Straddlefork Foundati on Mr. Buck Moore (5) Mr. & Mrs. Garry Randall (2) Mr. Jerry Sullivan Rev. & Mrs. Kenneth West (3) David Lindh Mrs. Mary Moore (2) Ms. Mary Ranney (2) Sunfl ower Food Store #88 Mrs. Mary Westbrook (4) Charles and Anne Weissinger Mr. & Mrs. Collins Morgan (3) Mr. Emmett Ray (5) Mr. & Mrs. Thomas Swilley (3) Mr. Clyde Weston (3) Mrs. Judith Morgan (6) Mr. Greg Redlin (3) Sysco Corporati on Mr. & Mrs. Nott Wheeler (4) W. A. and Lisa Percy Mr. & Mrs. Tommy Morlino (6) Mr. & Mrs. Harold Reed Mr. Michael Tanous Mrs. Margaret White Cambridge Marketi ng Mrs. Stella Moses (3) Mrs. Teresa Reed (2) Mr. & Mrs. Jeff Tarsi (2) Ms. Elizabeth Whitehurst (2) Tom and Bonnie Blackmon Dr. & Mrs. M.E. Muir (2) Mrs. Joyce Reed (3) Mrs. Jeanett e Tarsi Dr. & Mrs. Jack Whites (3) Mrs. Nan Muir (2) Mrs. Pamela Reed (3) Tarver Foundati on (2) Mr. Arley Whitsell Citi zens Bank & Trust Company Ms. Grace Mukes Reed Family Charitable Trust Tarver, Tarver, Kirby & Jackson Mr. Irvin Whitt aker (4) Ned and Bett ye Mitchell Mr. & Mrs. Paul Mullins (3) Mr. Billy Rhodes (4) Mrs. Carol Tatum Mr. C. Whitti ngton Doyle Rippee Mrs. Carolyn Muns (3) Mr. Steve Rice Mrs. Lyda Tavenner Mrs. Donna Wicks (4) Mrs. Reba Murphey Mrs. Connie Richardson Mr. Eric Taylor Mr. James Wilbourn (4) George and Margaret Walker Mrs. Bett y Murphy Mrs. Laneti a Richardson (2) Mr. Tommy Taylor (4) Mr. H. E. Peck Wilkinson (3) J. A. Jones/Atkinson-Constructors Mr. Robert Murrell (3) Mr. & Mrs. Alton Ricks Mr. & Mrs. Troyce Taylor Ms. Susan Wilks (7) Entergy Mr. William Musa Mr. Thomas Riley Ms. Beverley Teague Mr. John Williams John and Hilda Hamner Dr. & Mrs. Clyde Muse (2) Mrs. Brooks Rizzo The Baxter Internati onal Mr. Randolph Williams Dr. & Mrs. Richard Myers (2) Mr. Timothy Roberts Foundati on (2) Ms. Mary Williams (6) John and Beth Crawford Mr. & Mrs. Joe Nassar Mrs. Joan Robertson (2) The Bristol-Myers Squibb Mr. & Mrs. C. Newt Willis (3) Helen Blanchard Nati onwide Foundati on Mr. & Mrs. Ted Rodgers Foundati on, Inc Mr. James Wilson Leila Wynn Mr. & Mrs. R. David Neal (4) Ms. Jenne Rodriguez (3) The Day Group, LLC (2) Mr. & Mrs. Eddie Wilson (3) Mrs. Frances Neal (2) Dr. James Rogers (5) The Fluor Foundati on (3) Mrs. Caroline Wilson (2) Bank of Anguilla Mr. & Mrs. Walter Neely (6) Ms. Diana Rotenberry (7) The Washington Post Company Mrs. Frances Wilson (7) William and Nancy LaForge New York Life Foundati on Ms. Laura Russell Dr. Jacquelyn Thigpen (2) Mrs. Mary Winsley George and Jill McKeown Mr. George Newman (4) Mr. & Mrs. David Russum Mr. Judson Thigpen (2) Dr. Mildred Witt Mr. & Mrs. James Newquist (5) Mr. & Mrs. B.C. Ruth (2) Mrs. Bett y Thigpen (2) Mrs. Linda Womack (5) Precision Delta Corporati on (Joe Tranum) Mr. & Mrs. Arion Newsom (3) Dr. Sylvia Ryan Mrs. Annie Thigpen (4) Mr. Walter Wood (7) Bill and Mavis Alford Mr. & Mrs. Mike Neyman (11) Mrs. Nancy Sackheim (5) Mr. & Mrs. William Thomas Mr. Marti n Woodford State Farm Companies Mrs. Margarita Niewald (3) Mrs. Zula Saff ord (2) Mr. & Mrs. George Thomas (2) Mr. Lee Woods (4) Tyco Electronics Corporati on Mrs. Frances Nix (3) Mr. James Sanders (3) Mr. Vince Thompson (2) Mr. & Mrs. Jason Woods Mr. Glenn Norwood (7) Mr. & Mrs. Mike Sanders Mrs. Paula Thompson (3) Mr. David Work (2) William G Wright, Jr. Ms. Jimmie Norwood Mr. Herbert Sanford (2) Mrs. Vickie Thompson (7) Mr. Robert Worsham (2) Cassie Pennington Mrs. Bett y Norworth (4) Mr. Travis Satt erfi eld (2) Mr. & Mrs. Jerome Thomson (7) Mr. William Wright (4) Horizon Lines, LLC Mr. & Mrs. Billy Nowell Dr. James Scarborough (3) Ms. Vickie Thorn Dr. & Mrs. Kent Wyatt (2) Mr. & Mrs. Charles Oakes (2) Mrs. Delores Scarborough (7) Dr. Patricia Thrash Dr. Leila Wynn (7) Laird and Kati e Hamberlin Mrs. Maribeth Oakes (6) Mrs. Anna Schooler (2) Mr. Billy Tidwell Mr. & Mrs. Hartwell Wynn (3) Carl Easley, Jr. Mr. & Mrs. Ceti n Oguz (3) Dr. & Mrs. John Schwenn Mrs. Pat Tigrett Mr. Jared Yates (2) Wilkie Marketi ng, Inc Mr. Ronald Ola (3) Dr. Ben Seelbinder (3) Ms. Martha Till (7) Ms. Paula Yeska Mrs. Ruth Oliver (2) Mr. Harry Seligman (3) Dr. Raanne Tindle (6) Ms. Jane Youell (3) David and Sherry Abney Dr. Ellis & Dr. Susan O’Neal (2) Dr. Regina Selva (5) Dr. & Mrs. Marion Towery Mrs. Vicki Young Hazel Sanders (deceased) Mr. & Mrs. Bobby Ott s, Jr. (4) Ms. Ann Shackelford Trayner Corporati on Ms. Kelley Young UPS Foundati on, Inc Dr. & Mrs. Henry Outlaw (2) Ms. Courtney Shaff er (2) Treadway Heati ng & Air, LLC (3) Ms. Marjorie Young (2) Mr. Hines Outlaw Ms. Jane Shatt uck Mrs. Sara Trott er (7) Mr. & Mrs. Christopher Zepponi

Fall 2010 • Delta State Magazine • 13 Development Brunetti Family Transforms Lives through Scholarships

A family with heart can defy odds. The way of New Orleans, while his grandmother, the best thing the Lord ever put on this earth as Brunettis of Rosedale are living proof. Ike Elisa Pieroni Brunetti, made her way via Ellis far as I’m concerned. She was a devoted mother Brunetti, the second generation, has taken his Island. They brought with them the passion to and nurse. We’re honoring both of them for all family’s life lessons and created a successful succeed and planted it and their family deep in they’ve given me, and we’re giving back to Delta crop-dusting business, Shelby Air Service. the Delta soil. State and anyone in the Delta who will benefit Now he is using his success to bless generations “Our family has a lot of heart,” Ike said. from these scholarships.” to come. “And that’s what I wanted to pass back through The Finley and Clara Bell Brunetti, Sr. Ike and Karen Brunetti have gifted Delta them with the heart they’ve given us. It’s such Annual Scholarships will be first awarded in State University with a $250,000 life insurance determination that keeps you going through both nursing and commercial aviation in the policy that upon maturity will endow two adverse circumstances.” upcoming school year. Putting together the scholarships: one scholarship in the Robert With the passing of his father when Ike was awards was an easy task for the Brunettis. E. Smith School of Nursing and the other in only 14, his mother went back to school and “Delta State is home,” he said. “What Karen Commercial Aviation. Until the policy matures, became a nurse well loved throughout Bolivar and I have done we hope others will follow. It’s Ike and Karen will provide annual scholarships County. Karen’s mother, Sally Jo Lishman, was very financially manageable for anyone to do, for deserving students. Ike and Karen are paying also a nurse. In fact Sally Jo Lishman and Clara and it has a great impact down the road.” homage to his parents, Finley and Clara Bell Bell Brunetti were nurses at Bolivar County For more information on supporting the University Brunetti, Sr. Through the endowment, Ike has Hospital at the same time and became best through a gift, contact the Development Office at creatively unified his father’s love of flying with friends. 662.846.4708, [email protected], or his mother’s desire “My mother loved nursing,” he said. “She was text 662.719.1732. for him to go to college. “As a young man, I was eaten up with aircraft,” Ike said. “My mother was a big believer in education and made sure we all went in the right direction. I kind of tricked my mother, telling her that I’d go to college if she’d put me through flying school.” But after just one full year at Delta State, Ike knew deep in his heart what he wanted to be doing. At that time Delta State University did not have a Commercial Aviation program. “Most of my friends had no idea what they wanted to do in life, but I did,” he explained. “So I went to trade school to become a pilot.” Ike performed any and every job for local crop dusters to work his way into the cockpit. Ike’s grandfather, Alexandria Finley Brunetti, Sr. standing in front of a Piper Pawnee Brave Brunetti, immigrated to the U.S. from Italy in the early 1900s by Karen and Ike Brunetti

14 • Delta State Magazine • Fall 2010 The Robert E. Smith School of Nursing is the only bachelor’s and master’s of Nursing Program within a hundred mile radius of Cleveland, Mississippi. It enrolls 207 juniors, seniors, and master’s nursing students, the largest enrollment in its thirty-three year history. Mr. Smith (center back) is pictured with students enrolled in the program named in his honor.

terms on the Delta State Foundation Board of Directors. He is a member of the Quadrangle Oak Society, the Foundation’s planned giving club. He is a true example of a philanthropist who has taken the time to prepare his entire estate to accomplish a good to better society. In 2009 Delta State dedicated the Robert E. Smith School of Nursing in appreciation of his support. The first recipient of a Robert E. Smith School of Nursing Scholarship was Ruth Ann Lopez Luciano (’02). Ruth became the first in her family ever to attend college. In a recent visit with Robert E. Smith, Ruth Ann stated, “without you I couldn’t have done this. You were my support.” She is married to an attorney and works as a nurse in the emergency room at North Sunflower Medical Center. Two of Robert E. Smith Named Ruth Ann’s nieces have also attended Delta State. Ruth Ann recently commented that she has been inspired by Mr. Smith’s example, and Philanthropist of the Year she plans to establish her own scholarship. Mr. Smith’s generosity has already inspired two Robert E. Smith, Cleveland native ensured that all earned a college degree. At one others to endow nursing scholarships at Delta and WWII veteran who served as a tank time his mother was the oldest living graduate State. commander under General George Patton, of Mississippi University for Women. Mr. Smith’s goal is to change healthcare in was named “2010 Philanthropist of the Year” In 1996 Mr. Smith, a retired farmer, the Mississippi Delta. His sizable estate gift will by the Mississippi Chapter of the Association contacted the Delta State University one day provide hundreds of scholarships for of Fundraising Professionals (AFP). He was Foundation about establishing an annual deserving nursing students. Since inception selected from nominations submitted statewide. scholarship for students enrolled in Delta seventeen students have received a Robert E. Mr. Smith is a graduate of Mississippi State State’s School of Nursing. Since that time he has Smith School of Nursing Scholarship. University and paid his way through college endowed seven scholarships and has planned Mr. Smith will be honored at the Jackson by working in the MSU laundry and waiting his estate by leaving a significant endowment Country Club on November 18 as part of tables at a fraternity house. He even slept in the for nursing scholarships. The endowment will AFP’s “ National Philanthropy Day” lunchtime laundry on a cot. He comes from a very humble generate approximately 100 scholarships valued celebration with the theme “change the world beginning due to his father dying in 1937 when at $1,000 each. This contribution represents the with a giving heart.” Mr. Smith follows in the he was only 12. Robert E. Smith also attained largest gift/pledge in the history of Delta State. footsteps of former honorees such as The Phil the prestigious rank of Eagle Scout. Emma He has made gifts to Delta State in just about Hardin Foundation, Bob and Sara Hederman, Seelbinder Smith, his mother, was a public every way possible—gifts of cash, real estate, Warren Hood, Stuart C. Irby, Jr., Mac McCarty, school teacher in Cleveland and also ran the Charitable Remainder Unitrust, Charitable Jerry O’Keefe, John Palmer, Joe Frank family farm where she raised three sons and Gift Annuity, and stock. Mr. Smith served two Sanderson and Leila Clark Wynn.

Fall 2010 • Delta State Magazine • 15 Coming HomeBy Lynne Jeter Golden Circle welcomes Class of 1960

The year 1960 was a turbulent one. John Saturday at 11 a.m. The atrium was created Sarah Tapley, President of The Golden Circle. F. Kennedy edged Richard Nixon in the by Dr. James Robinson, a long-time history “The revamping of the Friday activities is going presidential election; U.S. relations with Cuba professor at Delta State, as “a place for students to provide an opportunity for all groups to deteriorated; the civil rights movement gained to sit and study, use their laptops, and realize the be recognized in a more formal manner and ground; and The Andy Griffith Show debuted price veterans paid for their freedom.” celebrate Homecoming as fellow alums.” on television. Back at home, Dr. James Milton Thanks to the work of Robinson and At the gala, Delta State graduates will be Ewing was president of Delta State, and Dave the atrium committee, the atrium has been honored with Outstanding Alumnus of the Year, “Boo” Ferriss, Boston Red Sox Hall of Famer, furnished with benches, plants, bookcases, Alumni Hall of Fame, and Service Awards. took over as coach of the Statesmen baseball plaques, flags, and a recognition tree. “We’re Registration for Homecoming Day events team. continuing to raise funds to honor DSU faculty, will be open from 8 a.m. until noon on Saturday Delta State graduates from the Class of 1960 staff, students, and alumni who served in the in the H.L. Nowell Student Union, with the will no doubt enjoy comparing days gone by military,” added Jeffrey Farris, Director of Young-Mauldin Cafeteria serving a special while catching up on 50 years of post-college Alumni Affairs. luncheon for all students, alumni, and friends. life as they celebrate their landmark anniversary. Homecoming “This year is a special homecoming for me since festivities begin on we’ll be celebrating my class’s 50th graduation Friday as business- anniversary,” said Tom McCormack, Class of tending turns to “I’m looking forward to seeing many 1960. “I’m looking forward to seeing many networking and of my old friends again and sharing of my old friends again and sharing treasured fellowship. A morning treasured memories of those very memories of those very special days of long ago.” meeting of the Delta The Class of 1960 will be honored during State Foundation special days of long ago.” Homecoming 2010 festivities on Saturday, Board of Directors – Tom McCormack (’60) October 16, when the Statesmen return to will be followed by an Parker Field-McCool Stadium to host Harding afternoon meeting of University. At halftime, the Alumni Awards the National Alumni recipients will be recognized in the south end Association Board of Directors. That evening, “Homecoming is an exciting time for Delta zone of the football field. The Golden Circle Class of 1960 alumnae will be inducted into the State University,” said Farris, “with alumni and and the Class of 1960 will be recognized via revered Golden Circle during the Alumni Gala friends returning to campus to experience past loudspeaker and asked to stand. at Walter Sillers Coliseum, open to all alumni memories and create new ones.” A Golden Circle contribution and signature and friends of the University. Homecoming event, the fourth annual Veteran’s “I look forward to visiting with former Find a complete schedule of Homecoming 2010 Atrium program will be held at Jobe Hall classmates and rekindling old friendships,” said events at www.deltastate.edu/homecoming.

16 • Delta State Magazine • Fall 2010 Alumni Association’s 2010 Outstanding Alumni and Friends

Hall of Fame Recipients Alumnus of the Year Major General Thomas L. Moore, Jr. (’82), of Columbus, Hall of Fame Class of 2010

Dr. Wayne Blansett (’73), of Cleveland, Hall of Fame Class of 2010 Service Award Recipients

Dr. Joe B. Whitehead, Jr. (’82), Nancy Gerrard (’50), of Cleveland, is the Dr. Rose Strahan (Friend), of Cleveland, of Hattiesburg, Hall of Fame Class of 2010 recipient of the Hugh Ellis Walker Alumni is the recipient of the Gladys Castle “Friend Service Award: presented to recognize of Delta State” Service Award: presented outstanding service and contributions to to recognize outstanding service and Delta State University by an alumnus. contributions to Delta State University by a non-alumnus. Michael Aguzzi (’97), of Cleveland, is the recipient of the Kent Wyatt “Young Ronald Mayers (’72), of Cleveland, is the Alumnus” Service Award: presented recipient of the Legacy Award: presented to recognize outstanding service and to an alumnus who made an institution- contributions to Delta State University changing impact on Delta State University. by a young alumnus. Outstanding Alumnus of the Year Major General Thomas L. Moore, Jr.

at his home in Columbus. Photography Gil Ford

18 • Delta State Magazine • Fall 2010 Semper Fidelis Faithful Always to Country, Family, Delta State

By Lynne Jeter

When Major General Thomas L. “Tango” Moore, Jr. airport to watch a silver Stearman biplane land,” he said. “I’ll was rising through the military ranks of the United States never forget seeing the pilot climb out of the cockpit. He Marine Corps (USMC), he stayed mum about a special was wearing a leather aviator’s helmet and a pair of goggles. talent he nurtured at Delta State University. His name was Scottie Boudreaux. He talked to me about “It wasn’t that I was embarrassed about my interest in flying, and to this day, whenever I hear a radial airplane art,” said Moore, an affable gentleman who delights in life’s engine, I flash back to Scottie Boudreaux and remember simple pleasures. “It was that in every aviation squadron, how exciting it was to be next to all that noise, to take in all whenever it’s found out that someone has artistic talent, those smells associated with aircraft and think about being the good-idea guys would generate a thousand tasks, up there in the sky.” such as making posters, patches, and drawings of aircraft. Moore played football throughout his youth and I learned early in my career to keep my artistic ability was greatly influenced by Coach Tony Grezaffi at Benoit quiet. It really wasn’t until I made the rank of Colonel High School, who “taught us all about selflessness that [my wife] Lee Ann started letting people know that associated with athletics, which has been influential some of the artwork in our home could be attributed to throughout my Marine Corps career.” me. By that time, I was one of the good-idea guys.” After looking at several universities, Moore Moore, who retired from the USMC as Acting Deputy Commander selected Delta State because of its superb art program. During the of the United States Central Command, a post that holds authority over first few years, however, extracurricular activities—and a special girl combat forces and service members serving in the Middle East, is the he met on a blind date in 1970—distracted his focus on studies. His Delta State University 2010 Outstanding Alumnus of the Year and a schoolwork suffered until Professor Sammy Britt pulled him aside. new inductee to the Delta State University Alumni Association Hall of “He told me that if I was serious about ‘that little girl from Belzoni,’ I Fame. probably better get my act together or I wasn’t going to graduate,” said For Moore, a Delta boy from birth, pursuing a military career was Moore. “He was right.” somewhat of a fluke. He grew up in the close-knit community of Scott, In 1972, the Vietnam War was still raging and Moore had lost his where “everyone had a stake in your ‘bringing-up,’” he recalled. “I had college deferment. His draft number was 42. The likelihood of being many mothers because all my friends’ moms were allowed to give me a called to duty was high. hug or a spanking, depending on what was required.” Many childhood “I had finished four years of college but hadn’t graduated because I days were spent fishing, boating, and swimming. “We camped out year- changed my major from art to biology, because I was pretty sure I was round across the lake, and when my cousin from California came to going to marry Lee Ann Mohamed,” said Moore, who was working for visit, he told my mother, ‘Aunt Barbara, this is really boys’ heaven,’” said Chevron Chemical as a field hand at the Greenville Experiment Station Moore. when his boss, Dr. Marcus Adair, influenced him to change his major. As a young boy, watching crop duster pilots execute low-level “There’s not a lot of money in being an artist. The phrase ‘starving artist’ acrobatic gyrations as they sprayed clouds of yellow smoke over is real unless you’re very talented, and I wasn’t.” farmland fascinated Moore. “One day, my father took me to the local That September, after four months of marriage, Moore received a

Fall 2010 • Delta State Magazine • 19 call from a Marine Corps recruiter asking him if “He told me, ‘no problem. You did well on THROUGH THE RANKS he wanted to fly for the U.S. military. your tests. We’ll enlist you in the Marine Corps “I didn’t know any more about the Marine and you’ll be on the 180-day delay program. After going to Intermediate Level School Corps than what I’d seen in John Wayne movies, This will give us time to process your paperwork and completing a tour at Headquarters Marine and that wasn’t much,” recalled Moore. “At the for Officer Candidate School. If at any stage Corps in the Tactical Space Planning Branch, time, I didn’t even know the Marine Corps during your training, or if your paperwork Moore was elevated to Lieutenant Colonel and had airplanes and helicopters. I told him I was doesn’t go through, you’ll go to Parris Island, assigned to New River Air Station in North interested, but I didn’t have a college degree. South Carolina, for recruit training instead of Carolina as commanding officer of Helicopter He said ‘that’s no problem. We’ve looked at entering as an officer,” recalled Moore, who was Marine Medium (HMM) 261, better known as your record and you’re eligible for the Degree sworn in as a private in Jackson, Mississippi, in “The Raging Bulls.” He was the executive officer Completion Program.’ I got his phone number. October 1972. (second in charge) during Desert Shield and This was a big step. I sat down with my father- In January 1973, Moore kissed his bride Desert Storm, flying combat missions in and in-law, Senator Ollie Mohamed, and asked him goodbye and entered Officer Candidate School around the Kuwaiti theater of operations. He if he thought this might be the way I should go. in Quantico, Virginia. “For the first two months, assumed command of HMM 261 that joined ‘Absolutely,’ he said.” I couldn’t believe what I had gotten myself into,” the 22nd Marine Expeditionary Unit (MEU). In October, Moore passed the aviation test he admitted. “Up to that point, it was easily the Known as the nation’s 911 force, a MEU is and flight physical in Meridian. But bad news most difficult thing I’d ever experienced in my comprised of a battalion landing team (ground), awaited his return to the couple’s Greenville whole life, and I didn’t think I was going to make composite aviation unit (air), and a combat apartment: an oversized letter sticking out of it.” service support unit. His squadron represented the mailbox was marked “Greetings from the In fact, Moore wasn’t certain he wanted to the aviation combat element; Moore was in President of the United States. You’ve been pursue a career in the Marine Corps. “Each time charge of 26 aircraft and some 300 Marines. drafted into the United States Army.” With a I came up for promotion, Lee Ann and I saw “Whenever you hear in the media that 2,200 heavy heart, he called his recruiter. areas where we could contribute,” he said. “We Marines are being sent somewhere due to a saw we were serving with a unique crisis, they’re sending one of the MEUs to deal group of individuals who were with the crisis,” he explained. capable, patriotic, and committed After attending Air War College—Moore to protect the freedoms that all also received a master’s degree in human Americans enjoy.” resources management at Troy State University In 1981, Moore seized the during this time—and completing a tour as opportunity to return to Delta State the senior Marine at Air University, Moore was and complete his undergraduate selected to command the 11th MEU on the West studies; Lee Ann earned a graduate Coast. Twice during the 24-month tour, the 11th MEU was deployed to the Persian Gulf. In addition to operating in the Middle “We saw we were East and Horn of Africa, and handling operations in support of a Joint Task serving with a unique Force in East Timor, the 11th MEU also group of individuals who handled a non-combatant evacuation of French and U.S. personnel from the were capable, patriotic, U.S. Embassy in Eritrea. and committed to protect Toward the end of this tour, Moore was selected for the rank of the freedoms that all Brigadier General and served multiple Americans enjoy.” tours as a general officer, among them Operations Officer (J-3) for Joint Forces Command in Norfolk, Virginia. degree in guidance and counseling. “I was in that billet on 9/11 when our nation The first person he looked up on was attacked by Al Qaeda,” noted Moore, who returning was his former advisor. “I was also responsible for the deployments of told Professor Britt that he’d been personnel to Afghanistan and then to Iraq. correct,” he said. “After the rigors After being selected for his second star, of the Marine Corps, I found that Moore was given the command of 2d Marine setting a study schedule for my art Air Wing (MAW) in Cherry Point, North and multiple history courses was Carolina, one of three active duty wings in the pretty easy.” Marine Corps comprised of more than 400

20 • Delta State Magazine • Fall 2010 aircraft—rotary wing and fixed wing—and government in this nation. The days were very Tango,” Moore recalled meeting his first-born some 15,000 Marines. He was then selected long, spreading my time between my office at grandson as the “coolest thing that happened Chief-of-Staff for Gen. George Casey of the Camp Victory and another office at the U.S. to me in 36 years of Marine Corps aviation.” Multi-National Force, Iraq (MNF-I), serving Embassy in the Green Zone. The only time “Lieutenant Colonel ‘Gumby’ Graham 14 months in Baghdad for Casey, then for Gen. I could get away from my three computers, and I had been to a conference on the West David Petreaus. After the tour in Coast, and I was getting some Iraq, Moore was named Chief-of- flight time in the F-18 Hornet,” Staff for Admiral “Fox” Fallon at he said. “My grandson had U.S. Central Command in Tampa, been born a week prior in Florida. Collierville, Tennessee. The plan was to land in Memphis at the National Guard ramp THE HOME FRONT where Lee Ann was going to pick me up and take me to see In 2005, when Moore was my new grandson. We flew the Commanding General of into Memphis, called for the 2d MAW, Lee Ann had a health break, brought the jet around crisis. Diabetic for several years, and landed. As we taxied to the she had reached a point of line, I could see my son-in-law’s facing kidney failure. “When Honda on the flight line next Tom and I decided to try the to the jet parking spot. At that transplant route rather than point, I realized it wasn’t just dialysis, we were tested to see Lee Ann coming to pick me if we were a match,” said Lee up—it was also my daughter, Ann. “Luckily, we were. Tom son-in law, and new grandson, decided then and there that Jay. We opened the canopy and he would be the donor. No I climbed down out of the jet. one else in my family was even My grandson was gorgeous! tested.” It was hugs all around. During The transplant took place that the entire evolution, despite the summer at Walter Reed Medical noise of two jet engines wailing Center. “The most wonderful away, Jay was sound asleep with thing about the transplant was the a bit of a smile on his face. Is bonding,” she said. “It not only it possible he’s going to be a brought Tom and me closer, but Marine aviator?” also gave us a closer bond to our daughter and three telephones, and a video conference Moore’s extended family now consists of Tom’s sister, both our nurses once we went phone, was when my Marines escorted me and 9-year-old Jay and granddaughters Annie, 7, home. We were surrounded by close friends my gun trucks to the Embassy and back, three and Jane, 2. and family, and as serious as the entire ordeal to four days a week.” Major General Moore’s Delta State sounds, it was truly a time in our lives that After retiring as Acting Deputy connections run deep. His mother received stands out as one of the happiest and most Commander of the U.S. Central Command her degree in the early ’70s. “In fact, she and fulfilling.” and amassing an impressive collection of I attended college at the same time,” he said. By the end of his military career, the personal decorations—Distinguished Service “My only rules were that I wasn’t going to Moores had moved 23 times. Their daughter, Medal, Defense Superior Service Medal, commute with her or be in the same class. She Malinda, had attended seven different schools Legion of Merit, Bronze Star Medal, Defense was an outstanding student, and many friends before entering Delta State in 1995. He had Meritorious Service Medal, Meritorious who had the same classes gave me reports on been deployed eight times aboard ship on Service Medal with gold star, Air Medal and how enthusiastic and smart she was,” he said. “difficult” 6-month deployments. Navy Achievement Medal—Moore and Lee Moore’s daughter met her husband, Jamie “But clearly the most demanding time I Ann relocated to Columbus, Mississippi, Duncan, on campus. “You can see that Delta spent in almost 36 years was the 14 months where he is vice president of marketing and State has been very influential in my life and I served in Iraq as the Chief-of-Staff at works unmanned aerial systems for Stark the lives of those that I hold most dear.” MNF-I,” he said. “Though demanding, it was Aerospace. Moore will be honored during the Homecoming tremendously rewarding because I worked Known to friends as “Tango,” the call- Awards and Gala Dinner, Friday, October15, directly with U.S. Embassy personnel and Iraqi sign/nickname he received when stationed 6pm at Walter Sillers Coliseum. For tickets officials as we tried to stand up a democratic in Hawaii, and to his grandchildren as “Papa contact the DSU Alumni & Foundation office.

Fall 2010 • Delta State Magazine • 21 By Lynne Jeter

Whether molasses-flavored, chili pepper-spiked, smoky-imbued, or on sale at the Hugh Ellis Walker Alumni/Foundation House. tinged with other spices and sweeteners, the barbeque at the 25th annual “Pig Pickin’ has taken our first home football game of the year from a Pig Pickin’ festival in Statesmen Park will be finger-lickin’ yummy. tailgate to a festival,” said Craig Verhage (’92). “I’ve enjoyed watching it Shortly after dawn of the first Saturday home football game at grow into the most attended football game of the year. DSU football is a Delta State—this year, it takes place on September 25, when the bonus!” Statesmen host Henderson State University—cooking teams from all Pig Pickin’ began in 1985 as a way for the Delta State Alumni corners of the Delta will assemble grilling stations on the north side Foundation and Athletic Department to engage alumni—now of Parker Field-McCool Stadium. At 8 o’clock, the 19th annual Delta more than 10,500—and the Cleveland community in a hometown State University Triathlon (benefitting Statesmen and Lady Statesmen celebration while also showcasing campus improvements. The festival Athletics) will kick off the day-long festivities. While athletes are has evolved into an opportune recruiting and networking event, completing their course—a 500-yard swim, 18-mile bike ride, and spawning merchandise such as commemorative t-shirts, stadium cups, 5K run—die-hard grillers will be mopping sauces of all varieties and and other collectibles. consistencies onto chicken, pork, and beef ribs in a fierce, yet friendly Vicki Fioranelli, former alumni director, recalled that the idea for Pig competition to be crowned Grand Champion 2010. Pickin’ took root after then-alumni director Hugh Ellis Walker returned Around 1 o’clock—five hours from a conference. He enthusiastically regaled the staff with stories before the traditional kickoff time— about an epic barbeque event in the Carolinas. the action picks up. Entertainers “He suggested we try it before the first home game at Shumate Park,” serenade the crowd with live she said. “We hoped for 300 people to attend, and it took about three music—usually an eclectic mix of years to reach that goal. It jumped to a new level several years later when blues, R&B, rock, soul and funk— Clyde Weeks suggested we add a barbeque contest similar to Memphis while children romp in KidsZone, in May. After outgrowing Shumate Park, another giant leap was moving and Delta State cheerleaders and the it north of the stadium and creating Statesmen Park in 2007. The rest is marching band usher in the 2010 history.” football team during the pre-game Verhage was impressed when the student recruiting office began pep rally. bringing prospective students to Pig Pickin,’ “because if that’s a senior The official tasting line opens at in high school’s first impression of Delta State,” he said, “they’ll be 3 o’clock; diners have two hours to enrolling soon.” sample the creative ways the teams have blended tomato paste, vinegar, Pig Pickin’ was destined for greatness, said Fioranelli. “When you sugars, and spices. Winners will be announced prior to kickoff and again combine football, fans, good food, music, and fellowship in a festive at halftime. The cost per ticket for the barbeque is a bargain at only $5, atmosphere like Statesmen Park, you’ve got a recipe for success.”

22 • Delta State Magazine • Fall 2010 Fall 2010 • Delta State Magazine • 23  With the Classes Class Notes 1930s 1972 1939 WATKINS

ROGERS LLarryarry WWatkins,atkins of Petal, was named Coach of TTomom Rogers,Rogers of Corinth, was named the 2010 the Year by Hattiesburg American after leading Outstanding Citizen by the Junior Auxiliary of the Petal High Baseball team to win the first WHITCHER Corinth. MHSAA Class 6A State Championship. LLillieillie Whitcher,Whitcher of Tuscola, IL, celebrated her 95th birthday in October 2009. TTerryerry WWilliams,illiams of Collinsville, was inducted into 1977 the Meridian Community College Hall of Fame. 1950s WWalteralter Wood,Wood of Montgomery, AL, was 1954 recognized by the Department of Youth Services Board and Alabama Governor Bob Riley as the longest continuously serving state juvenile

corrections executive in the United States. ARNOLD JJamesames Arnold,Arnold, Jr.,Jr. of Andover, MA, was 1973 appointed Chief Financial Officer of Kofax and RRonnieonnie Tubertini,Tubertini of Ridgeland, was awarded a member of Kofax’s Board of Directors

GRIFFIS the Woodworth Memorial Award, the highest (kofax.com). BBryceryce Griffis,Griffis of Starkville, was awarded an honor bestowed by the Independent Insurance Honorary Doctor of Public Service Degree Agents & Brokers Association. during the Spring 2010 commencement ceremonies. 1974 DDeboraheborah MMcCollum,cCollum of Mandeville, LA, has been selected principal of Covington High 1960s School. RICHARDSON 1969 CConnieonnie Richardson,Richardson of Nashville, TN, was RRevelandeveland WWheat,heat of Brandon, was recognized NNorrisorris AAshley,shley of New Albany, has been named named as a finalist for the 2009 CFO Award as the USTA Sectional Queen in tennis in the the 2010 High School Basketball Mississippi given by the Nashville Business Journal. North Side Sun Magazine. Coach of the Year by The Clarion Ledger.

CCherylheryl MMarchant,archant of Cleveland, was awarded 1975 1980s the 2010 “Perseverance Award” from Baptist Health Systems. 1980 AAnthonynthony Bouton,Bouton of Gainesville, FL, was recognized as being the man “behind the 1970s scenes,” for recording lectures for online classes at the University of Florida.

1970 PEACE BBillyilly D.D. Stroupe,Stroupe of Ripley, was appointed BBeatriceeatrice Peace,Peace of Tunica, was awarded the 1982 interim superintendent for the Prentiss County President’s Volunteer Service Award from JJohnohn Reed,Reed of Houston, TX, was named the new School Board. President Barack Obama and was honored Chief Executive Officer of Global Industries, as the 2009 Community Stars Woman of the Ltd. (globalind.com) 1971 Year at the Northwest Mississippi Community DDannyanny WWhittington,hittington of Carthage, has retired Foundation’s 10th Annual Crystal Ball. after 30 years as an Education Services Specialist for the United States Department of 1976 Defense. JJimmyimmy Headrick,Headrick of Slidell, LA, has joined the team of contributors at neworleans.com/sports. WHITEHEAD DDr.r. JJoeoe B.B. Whitehead,Whitehead of Hattiesburg, has been named Dean of the University of Southern Mississippi College of Science and Technology.

24 • Delta State Magazine • Fall 2010 1983 1991 1994 AAubreyubrey CCox,ox of Carthage, has been appointed JJackack Hart,Hart of Murfreesboro, TN, is the lead pilot JJonon Caudill,Caudill of Oxford, joined the Oxford to the East Central Community College with Flight Management Corp. of Tennessee. Pediatric Group as a Pediatrician at Baptist Foundation Board. Memorial Hospital-North Mississippi. 1992 MMarkark HHargett,argett of Cleveland, received the KKimberlyimberly Broadwater,Broadwater of Cleveland, has been “Book of Golden Deeds” from the Cleveland appointed as Faculty Coordinator of General Exchange Club. Education Reform for Mississippi Valley State University. 1984 LLenageneenagene Waldrup,Waldrup of Drew, received the Jefferson Award, recognizing those improving SMITHER society through volunteerism, and was one of LLynnynn SSmither,mither of Booneville, has been elected the recipients of the 2010 Governor’s Awards to a three-year term representing the state’s for Excellence in the Arts presented by the 15 community and junior colleges on the Mississippi Arts Commission. Mississippi Professional Educators Board of

FAHEY Directors. 1985 GGregreg Fahey,Fahey of Baton Rouge, LA, has been CCharlesharles MMichell,ichell of St. Louis, MO, was named named head of retail banking for Chase in 1995 President and Chief Operating Officer of Louisiana. MMereditheredith Hayles,Hayles of Woodville, has joined AgRobotics. (agrobotics.com) Franklin County Memorial Hospital as a Family Nurse Practitioner. 1986 DDaveave BBufkin,ufkin of Clinton, has been named the 1996 Chief Information Officer for HORNE, LLP. MMartiarti GGreen,reen of Olive Branch, was promoted with ProLogis Management Company. 1987 (prologis.com) YOUNG JJimim Young,Young of Hattiesburg, has been named TToddodd Lott,Lott of Greenville, was named Head Chief Financial Officer for the Wesley Medical Football Coach at Greenville Weston High Center. School. HESTER-SMITH LLaVonneaVonne V.V. Hester-Smith,Hester-Smith of Decatur, GA, was awarded a Ph.D. in Organization and Management from Capella University. She is employed by the Treasury Inspector General for Tax Administration, U.S. Department of the Treasury, in Chamblee, GA.

1989 JJohnnyohnny Ray,Ray of Olive Branch, was inducted into the Northwest Mississippi Community College Sports Hall of Fame for baseball. 1990s 1990 ESTES CCindyindy EEstes,stes of Horn Lake, was appointed as one of the new International Mission Board Missionaries.

Fall 2010 • Delta State Magazine • 25  With the Classes WEAVER OLIVER SIMPSON PPaulaaula Weaver,Weaver of Brandon, was recognized RRuthuth MMariearie OOliver,liver of Owens Crossroads, AL, LLarkinarkin Simpson,Simpson of Diamondhead, has been as one of the “Top 40 UNDER 40” by the has been named the Director of Education at named Chamber of Commerce Director/ Mississippi Business Journal for her success the U.S. Space & Rocket Center, home of Space Project Manager by the Economic Development at Entergy Services as a Senior Environmental Camp and Aviation Challenge, in Huntsville, Authority of Jones County. Analyst. AL. (spacecamp.com) 2003 1997 AAndyndy Dillard,Dillard of Saltillo, was named an DDeshondaeshonda BBrown,rown of Greenville, was named assistant coach for the Tallahatchie Rascals in Greenville Public School District’s “Teacher of the Cotton States Baseball League. the Year.” RRobertobert Taylor,Taylor of Alligator, was promoted to MMartinartin MMitchell,itchell of Greenville, was recognized Assistant Vice President at Mississippi Land in the Delta Democrat Times for serving as a WARMACK Bank of Cleveland. soldier in the Iraq War. DDwaunwaun JJ.. WWarmack,armack of Cordova, TN, has been hired by Bethune-Cookman University as Vice JJacobacob Pryor,Pryor of Water Valley, has been named President of Student Affairs. one of the emcees for an upcoming fashion show presented by the Charleston Arts and 2000s Revitalization Effort. 2000 2004 DDemethousemethous MorrisMorris CChambliss,hambliss of Mansfield,

PORTER TX, received the Livesay Award from Millsaps RRyanyan PPorter,orter of Southaven, was recognized by College; the award honors the spirit of the Southaven Rotary Club as “Teacher of the commitment of Jim Livesay and his volunteer Month.” work.

1998 2005 JOE SSeanean Cannon,Cannon of Florence, AL, has been LLyllaylla CooperCooper Joe,Joe of Madison, accepted a job named the Defensive Coordinator for at the Mississippi Organ Recovery Agency as Itawamba Community College. community outreach coordinator. (msora.org) BBonnieonnie Gillespie,Gillespie of Isola, has been working 2001 in Haiti after the earthquake as a seasoned

disaster responder with the American Red ELDER Cross. MMarksarks EElder,lder of Northport, AL, will serve as HHeathereather WWanner,anner of Memphis, TN, was hired by a graduate assistant and primary contact Peabody Family Care as a nurse practitioner. for men’s basketball and men’s golf while also assisting in the day-to-day duties of the GRIFFIN Delta State Athletic Communications Office. 1999 AAntoniontonio Griffin,Griffin of Southaven, is the buffet (gostatesmen.com) BBrianrian Bishop,Bishop of Cleveland, was named manager at the Paula Dean Buffet Restaurant at “Rookie of the Year” by the Mississippi Harrah’s Casino in Tunica. Firefighters Memorial Burn Association. EElizabethlizabeth Joel,Joel of Cleveland, has been hired as Coordinator of Continuing Studies at Delta 2002 KKadishaadisha M.M. Cain,Cain of Mesquite, TX, was named State University. “Teacher of the Year” 2009–2010 at S.S. Conner Elementary School in Dallas, TX. SStephanytephany OOwens,wens of Corinth, was named one of the North Mississippi State Hospital BBrettrett Marchant,Marchant of Cleveland, was named Employees of the Quarter. District III New Agent of the Year by Farm Bureau Insurance. JJohnohn Polles,Polles of Madison, graduated with the ARMSTEAD 2009–2010 Leadership Mississippi class and DDemetricemetric Armstead,Armstead of Kosciusko, is the currently works with the Mississippi Material Chair of the School of Criminal Justice at ITT Corporation, Inc. in commercial sales and Technical Institute in Chattanooga, TN. business development. (mmcmaterials.com)

26 • Delta State Magazine • Fall 2010 BBrettrett Walker,Walker of Gulfport, has been promoted 2010 to financial advisor within Hancock Investment JJuttautta Ferretti,Ferretti of Shelby, will graduate during Services for all Hancock Banks in Biloxi and the Fall 2010 commencement from Delta State D’Iberville. with her bachelor’s degree in general business at the age of 84. LLauraaura FFleemanleeman Walker,Walker of Cleveland, was recognized along with the Delta State Office of JJasonason WWebster,ebster of Lakeland, FL, has accepted a Communications and Marketing for receiving position with Advance Auto Parts. seven awards from the American Advertising Federation. ATTENDED/PROFESSOR 2006 BBillill DurhamDurham (attended), of Clarksdale, released SScottcott Eyster,Eyster of Cleveland, was named the head his second album, I’ve Got The Song. His football coach at Cleveland High School. album has received press in UP Country Magazine, a popular country magazine in MMichaelichael Lipford,Lipford of Cleveland, accepted a England. (billdurhammusic.com) position as Assistant Director of Housing and Residence and Director of Multi-Cultural Affairs DDr.r. SSharonharon FordFord (professor), of Cleveland, was at Delta State. presented the AT&T Mississippi Outstanding Faculty Teacher Award. CColleenolleen Long,Long of Southaven, is the new principal at Desoto Central Primary School. DDr.r. SSusanusan AAllenllen FordFord (professor), of Cleveland, was presented the Woman of Achievement SStephentephen Ludlam,Ludlam of Olive Branch, has been Award from the AAUW (American Association named the Director of the Delta State University of University Women). Wesley Foundation. TTeresaeresa KilpatrickKilpatrick (attended), of Indianola, is a 2007 financial services representative with MetLife MMichaelichael A.A. Hilborn,Hilborn of Pascagoula, graduated Financial Group. from basic training as an Air Force Airman 1st Class. FFrankrank RR.. KKnightnight (attended), of Greenwood, has joined State Bank and Trust Co. as vice AAndrewndrew Steele,Steele of Diamondhead, accepted a president in agricultural lending. job at Northrop Grunman Information Systems as a Geospatial Engineer. JJamesames KoestlerKoestler (attended), of Vicksburg, joined The Conservatory of the Fine Arts 2009 as an instructor in trombone and low brass WWilliamilliam Everitt,Everitt of Brandon, was named instruments. Assistant Director of the Madison Campus of Tulane University. DDr.r. AAubreyubrey LLucasucas (President Emeritus), of Columbia, has been selected as the 2010– 2011 vice president of the Marion County Historical Society. MCCALEB BBruceruce McCaleb,McCaleb of Roswell, GA, re-signed with the Sioux Falls Storm of the Indoor

Football League as an offensive lineman. MEIKLE-YAW (siouxfallsstorm.com) DDr.r. PPauletteaulette AnnAnn Meikle-YawMeikle-Yaw (professor), of Cleveland, has been selected as the Black FFernandoernando Reis,Reis of Pearl, was promoted to Pack- History Month Educator of the Year by the Off Manager at Sanderson Farms, Inc. Board of Trustees of the State Institutes of Higher Learning’s Black History Month GGarrettarrett WWilliams,illiams of Bay Springs, was hired Committee. by Hol-Mac Corporation as a production supervisor. TELL US YOUR NEWS! DDrewrew WWright,right of Greenville, was promoted We want to promote every Delta State success story. Please notify us of your personal and professional to Assistant Manager at Sherwin-Williams in accomplishments by calling 662.846.4660 or Southaven. e-mail [email protected].

Fall 2010 • Delta State Magazine • 27  With the Classes

Baby Statesmen All dates are in 2010 unless otherwise noted.

Nolan Ty to M/M Clint Groce (WWendyendy VVance,ance AAttended),ttended of Hatchechubbee, AL, on May 12.

Cooper Fioranelli to M/M Eric Fioranelli (LLeanneeanne HHavensavens ’’04),04 of Cleveland, on October 27, 2009. GRIFFIN Lex Jennings to M/M TT.A..A. JenningsJennings (AAttended)ttended (LLindsayindsay HHarkinsarkins ’’06),06 of Coldwater, FL, on December 29, 2009.

Pierce Thomas to M/M MMattatt JJonesones (AAttended)ttended (HHeathereather

JENNINGS HHilderbrandilderbrand ’’05),05 of Goodman, on May 6.

William Tate to M/M JJohnohn KyzarKyzar ’98’98 (Carrie Kay), of Pensacola, FL, on June 20, 2009. Delta State University Pi Kappa Alpha fraternity brothers and their future Statesmen and Lady Statesmen. Charles Caedmon and Helen Asher to M/M RRobertobert

MAY LLineine ’01’01 (TTishish TaylorTaylor ’’01),01 of Hattiesburg, on Caitlyn Leilani to M/M MMichaelichael AoaAoa ’96’96 (Sandy November 20, 2009. Campbell), of Boaz, AL, on June 8. Olivia Louise to M/M Chris May (MMandyandy DDunnaganunnagan Emma Kate to M/M DDrewrew BBarhamarham ’09’09 (KKerieri Bennett,Bennett ’’05),05 of Horn Lake, on March 25. CCurrenturrent SStudent),tudent of Cleveland, on June 21.

BARHAM PICKARD Evie Rose Pickard to M/M BBertert PickardPickard ’06’06 (LLeigheigh John Thomas, to M/M Andrew Brantley (NNickiicki BBridgesridges ’04),’04 of Cleveland, on June 24. AAbrahambraham ’05),’05 of Bovina, on February 8. Caroline Astin to M/M FFernandoernando ReisReis ’09’09 (SSavannahavannah Olivia Sue to M/M HHaysays CCollinsollins ’’0404 (BBrookerooke RutledgeRutledge VValentinealentine ’07),’07 of Pearl, on June 14. ’’04),04 of Brandon, on January 29. Lydia Campbell to M/M MMarkark RRobinetteobinette ’93’93 (AAimeeimee COLLINS SAVAGE Chase Edward to M/M RRobertobert EdEd ConnellConnell ’96’96 (LLauraaura HHammackammack ’97),’97 of Cleveland, on July 16, 2009. LLeeee LanceLance ’00),’00 of Cleveland, on August 21, 2009. Guy Hathorn Robinson II to M/M EEdd RobinsonRobinson Colby Bennett to M/M BBryantryant CooperCooper (AAttended)ttended (AAttended)ttended (SScarlettcarlett Sheldon,Sheldon AAttended),ttended of Indianola, (MMeaganeagan HaseltonHaselton ’’06),06 of Cabot, AR, on April 14. on September 23, 2009. COOPER TOMASZEWSKI Trilby Grace to M/M DaveDave CCumminsummins ’’9191 (EErinrin RobertsRoberts Robert Hayes to M/M RRobertobert CannonCannon SavageSavage ’06’06 ’’94),94 of Madison, on February 2. (LLynnynn NNickelsickels ’07),’07 of Senatobia, on November 25.

Charlie Grace to M/M AAbebe DraperDraper ’06’06 (JJenniferennifer William Semmes to M/M Andy Strehlow (FFranran HaagaHaaga FFratesiratesi ’’06),06 of Brandon, on January 26. ’’00),00 of Brandon, on February 18. CUMMINS TOWLES Tucker Eldridge, to M/M Brady Eldridge (AAmymy HamiltonHamilton Vance to M/M SSteventeven TomaszewskiTomaszewski ’’0202 (LLauranneauranne ’’05),05 of Summit, on January 31. VVanceance ’03),’03 of Ocean Springs, on February 26.

John Coley to M/M JJohnohn MarkMark ElliottElliott ’97’97 (EEmilymily DyeDye Lawson Allen to M/M AAllenllen TowlesTowles ’03’03 (CCallieallie SellersSellers ’’02),02 of Tupelo, on July 29, 2009. ’’02),02 of Cleveland, on March 10. ELLIOTT WALKER Mary Katherine to M/M RRobertobert FranksFranks ’’0505 (Stacey Aiden Russell to M/M JJimim WalkerWalker ’02’02 (SSusanusan HHellenellen Vlahos), of Birmingham, AL, on May 6. ’’05),05 of Olive Branch, on June 4.

Beckham Gary to M/M RRussellussell GGainspolettiainspoletti ’’0404 (RRiversivers Myla Paige to M/M KKyleyle WallaceWallace ’04’04 (JJamieamie HudsonHudson GGistist ’’06),06 of Cleveland, on April 15. ’’04),04 of Yazoo City, on April 24. FIORANELLI WALLACE Carter Myers to M/M CCoreyorey GGriffinriffin ’’0303 (Bridgette Abby Lawerence to M/M GGeoffreyeoffrey WWestest (AAttended)ttended Deters), of Jackson, on April 13. (HHannahannah WWoolfoolf ’’04),04 of Cleveland, on March 15.

Noah Winston to M/M Ryan Griffin (JJenniferennifer RiceRice ’02),’02 Whittington ’Whit’ Jackson to M/M EElili WhitesideWhiteside ’01’01 of Gulfport, on December 24, 2009. (AAmymy FarrisFarris ’’00),00 of New Albany, on February 24. FRANKS WILLIAMS

28 • Delta State Magazine • Fall 2010 Wedding Bells All dates are in 2010 unless otherwise noted.

AAlicialicia BaileyBailey ’04’04 to Curt MMaryary GGretchenretchen SStubbstubbs ’’1010 to JJasonason PPaulaul JJessicaessica NNicoleicole StanleyStanley ’06’06 to GGregoryregory CChadhad Spencer, of Hernando, on GGiachelliiachelli (AAttended),ttended of Greenville, on June 26. RRobertsoberts ’’08,08 of Leland, on February 27. September 26, 2009. KKathrynathryn BBrookshirerookshire BarnesBarnes NNatalieatalie BrightBright ’07’07 to DDerekerek ’’0808 to CChristopherhristopher JJamesames SSewellewell ’05,’05 of McKinney,

BAILEY-SPENCER HHodgesodges ’’06,06 of Grenada, TX, on June 12. on May 22. CChristyhristy GGranberryranberry ’’0808

to DDustinustin BBarrickarrick ’’07,07 of HODGES-BARNES SEWELL-BRIGHT Jackson, on June 5. RRileyiley HHutchisonutchison ’’0707 to EElizabethlizabeth SmithSmith ’04’04 to Justin Winn, of Memphis, Blake Adams, of Little TN, on February 27.

GRANBERRY-BARRICK Rock, AR, on April 18, 2009. EEmilymily SteenSteen ’08’08 to Brooks Lucie Murphy to JJohnohn Dampeer, of Birmingham,

BBurchfieldurchfield ’00,’00 of HUTCHISON-ADAMS AL, on June 19. Murfreesboro, TN, on March 13. BBrandirandi LyleLyle WardWard ’08’08 to

BBrettrett HyattHyatt ’08,’08 of Soso, on STEEN-DAMPEER MURPHY-BURCHFIELD June 12. MMeggieeggie SykesSykes ’’10,10 to B.J. Mckay, of Kilmichael, Ashley Robinson to BBrettrett CerdaCerda ’05,’05 of Yazoo on June 19.

City, on March 6. WARD-HYATT AAllegrallegra CopeCope ’’0808 to ZZachach MMaggieaggie WashingtonWashington ’07’07 to NNatalieatalie HopeHope KempKemp ’07’07 to Joshua Davis TTatumatum ’10,’10 of Cleveland, TTyleryler ChristmasChristmas (AAttended),ttended Duckworth, of Magee, on May 22. on March 18. of Shelby, on September 26, 2009. Elizabeth Montalto to WWillill KimbroughKimbrough ’00,’00 of COPE-TATUM

CHRISTMAS-WASHINGTON Bethpage, TN, on March 21, 2009. SSaraharah EElizabethlizabeth HerrickHerrick ’08’08 KKaylaayla LeighLeigh MacMillanMacMillan to RRobertobert WWesleyesley WWillifordilliford

’’0909 to BBrianrian ColemanColeman KIMBROUGH-MONTALTO ’’08,08 of Cleveland, on May (AAttended),ttended of Cleveland, 29. on November 21, 2009. MMaryary EElizabethlizabeth BBuckleyuckley

(SStudent)tudent to CChadhad HERRICK-WILLIFORD

MACMILLAN-COLEMAN LLangkawelangkawel (SStudent),tudent of Cleveland, on December SSherriherri LLynnynn SSherwoodherwood ’10’10 to NNathanathan AlanAlan KKatieatie CrowCrow ’03’03 to Gabe Massey, of Brandon, on 19, 2009. WWoodwardoodward (AAttended),ttended of Cleveland, on June 5.

June 19. BUCKLEY-LANGKAWEL

RRachelachel MarieMarie BrasfieldBrasfield ’’0909 to MMasonason SScottcott DeanDean BBrittanyrittany FlippoFlippo ’’0808 to DarrylDarryl MMcCrearycCreary ’’07,07 of ’’09,09 of Boyle, on March 27. Cleveland, in April 2009. AsAs closeclose as you can getget withoutwithout paying tuition.tuition. KKacyacy LynnLynn CollierCollier ’04’04 to WWilliamilliam PatrickPatrick DixonDixon LLauraaura KKateate KinnisonKinnison ’09’09 to ’’99,99 of Olive Branch, on March 16. JJakeake VanVan NamenNamen ’09,’09 of Cleveland, on June 26. AAnnanna FeasterFeaster ’08’08 to David Carroll, of Nashville, TN, FACEBOOK.COM/DELTASTATEUNIVERSITYFACEBOOK.COM/DELTASTATEUNIVERSITY on May 15. KINNISON-VAN NAMEN

SShaylahayla RRaniani PPratherrather ’’0101 to TM

FEASTER-CARROLL T. C. Rucker, of Ripley, on March 20. TWITTER.COM/DELTASTATETWITTER.COM/DELTASTATE EEmilymily GekidesGekides ’05’05 to Brian Grossman, of Jackson, on

June 4. RUCKER-PRATHER

MMarilynarilyn KKateate RileyRiley (AAttended)ttended to Joseph Heath YOUTUBE.COM/DSUCOMMARKYOUTUBE.COM/DSUCOMMARK GEKIDES-GROSSMAN Atkins, of Columbus, on April 24.

Fall 2010 • Delta State Magazine • 29  With the Classes

In Memoriam All dates are in 2010 unless otherwise noted.

GGregoryregory TT.. Bell,Bell AAttended,ttended of Cleveland, on JJenellenell A.A. HollandHolland ’74,’74 of Gulfport, on JJamesames D.D. RReynoldseynolds ’’53,53 of Olive Branch, TN, on May 11. February 23. March 1.

HHudeanudean BBurkhalter,urkhalter FFriend,riend of Rolling Fork, on MMarthaartha PP.. JanousJanous ’’47,47 of Oakridge, TN, on AAlycelyce WestWest RichardsonRichardson ’’52,52 of Cleveland, on March 19. March 15. June 23.

DDinniinni CClarklark ’’68,68 of Columbus, on May 27. IIrmarma E.E. JohnsonJohnson ’53,’53 of Vicksburg, on May 30. MMarthaartha RRobertsonobertson ’’46,46 of Albuquerque, NM, on March 9. GGaryary ““Joe”Joe” ClarkClark Sr.,Sr. AAttended,ttended of Shaw, on MMarionarion AA.. JohnsonJohnson ’36,’36 of Albuquerque, NM, February 17. on April 21. GGildailda EE.. SaundersSaunders ’67,’67 of Ocean Springs, on June 2. MMarinearine MM.. ColeCole ’63,’63 of McComb, on June 4. CCurtisurtis KKimbrellimbrell ’’51,51 of Clarksdale, on Feb 27. JJaneane WebbWebb ShepherdShepherd ’37,’37 of Sumner, on RRonnieonnie CrowsonCrowson ’68,’68 of Tupelo, on May 28. EElainelaine D.D. McCoyMcCoy ’57,’57 of Longview, TX, on January 4. April 20. JJohnohn CunninghamCunningham Jr.Jr. ’83,’83 of Clinton, on SSidneyidney GG.. ShurdenShurden ’64,’64 of Cleveland, on February 7. VVanan GGeorgeeorge MeekMeek Jr.,Jr. AAttended,ttended of Clarksdale, May 14. on May 12. RRobertobert L.L. DowDow ’73,’73 of Canton, on December PPaulaul L.L. SizemoreSizemore ’55,’55 of Cleveland, on May 2. 9, 2009. CClaralara MMiddleton,iddleton AAttended,ttended of Cleveland, on December 21, 2009. MMaryary SS.. TThomashomas ’41,’41 of Clarksdale, on May 31. OOlislis DD.. EEnglishnglish ’53,’53 of Jackson, on June 4. DDoyceoyce SS.. MitchellMitchell ’39,’39 of Madison, on April 16. EEvelynvelyn BB.. TurnerTurner ’33,’33 of Tutwiler, on May 23. OOvenevene K.K. GrimmGrimm ’39,’39 of Carrollton, GA, on March 14. VVashtiashti UUnderwoodnderwood MMuse,use AAttended,ttended of Jackson, AAlbertalberta C.C. Watts,Watts AAttended,ttended of Eudora, AR, on on July 9. March 2. BBennettennett DolfisDolfis HardinHardin ’’33,33 of Vicksburg, on October 30, 2009. BBillyilly E.E. Naron,Naron FFriend,riend of Cleveland, on WW.. L.L. WhittingtonWhittington ’65,’65 of Brandon, on April 23. March 13. LLucilleucille M.M. HardyHardy ’’52,52 of Cleveland, on October RRandolphandolph R.R. WilliamsWilliams ’46,’46 of Maplewood, NJ, 4, 2009. MMaryary AAnnnn HHeflineflin NNorrisorris ’’51,51 of College Station, on May 28. TX, on March 2. JJamesames R.R. HodgesHodges ’’47,47 of Gulfport, on March 1. RRobertobert A.A. WilkinsonWilkinson ’59,’59 of Ridgeland, on DDorothyorothy II.. NunneryNunnery ’43,’43 of Clinton, on April 21. OOscarscar HHolbrook,olbrook FFriend,riend of Cleveland, on January 9. January 12. WWilliamilliam T.T. WilsonWilson ’62,’62 of Cleveland, on EElinorlinor Pierce,Pierce AAttended,ttended of Greenwood, on February 10. January 30.

HHoraceorace McCoolMcCool 1929 – 2010

Horace McCool (’54), of Cleveland, passed away on March 23, 2010. Coach McCool was former Delta State Head Football coach, Athletic Director, and Director of Delta State Physical Plant. He is preceded in death by his wife Barbara Bole McCool. Survivors include two sons, Mike McCool of Fleming Island, FL, and Scott McCool of Houston, TX; a daughter, Memorie Naron of Cleveland; seven grandchildren, Paige Latorre, Mary Michael McCool, Anne Lowry McCool, Thomas McCool, Lane McCool, Khaki McCool, and David Naron; and one great grandchild, Elliott Latorre.

Memorials may be made to Delta State Foundation—Horace McCool Stadium Fund, Box 3141, Cleveland, MS 38733.

30 • Delta State Magazine • Fall 2010 MILES AWAY Where has the road taken you? Share your travels with us. Let us see where you’re reading the Delta State alumni magazine. E-mail your photos to [email protected].

AAway 1,2891 Miles Away 7,8477 MilesMilles Away Dr.D Rose Strahan (Chair/Professor Dr. Wilmer Nichols (’60), bungee Emeritus),E Dr. Wayne Lee (’57), and jumping in Queenstown, New Zealand. MaggieM Garrett (’59) at Yellowstone NationalN Park. 1,6391, Miles Away Dr.Dr Bucky Brooks (P(Professor Emeritus), Dr.D Maureen Brooks (P(Professor Emeritus), Dr. 4,6724 Miles Away HenryH Outlaw (’61) (Chair/ AmandaA Russell (’06) and PProfessor Emeritus), and KennethK Terry (student) in Dr.D Pat Crawford (’61) frontfr of the Notre Dame sailing off the Coast of CathedralC in Paris, France. Maine near Rockport.

Fall 2010 • Delta State Magazine • 31  Alumni Happenings

DSU Alumni group at the 2010 Atlanta’s Picnic in Billy Dorgan (’02), Pat Chambless (’69), Ella Ephraim and Sheila Patterson Urevbu (’96) at the Chastain Park. Lucas, and Dr. Aubry Lucas (President Emeritus) at 2010 Memphis Alumni Gathering. the southeast alumni event in Hattiesburg.

Kathleen Walker (’01), Lauren Lewis (’01), Patrick Senator Bob Dearing (’57), Bobby Pruitt (’51), Denece Rozzell (Friend), Dr. Wayne Lee (’57), Dixon (’99), and Hank Ludwig (’00) at the and Marion Cole (’52) at the 10th Annual “Ole” John Hamner (’59), and Dotsy Williamson (’57) Memphis Alumni Gathering. grad reunion in Louisville, at Lake Tiak-O’Khata. at the “Ole” grad reunion.

Earnest Hart (’77), Alice Hart, Gloria Goins Ron Selby (’91), Dr. Wayne Blansett (’73), and Linda Ross (’69) and the Phi Mu Sorority Girls (’75), and Jordan Goins (’73) enjoying the Mike Ainsworth (’94) at the 2010 Washington celebrating her years at Delta State at the 2010 Alumni Assocation B.B. King Preshow Reception. County Alumni Event. Bolivar County Jambalaya Jam.

Josh West (’05), Amy Trotter (’93), and Bud Kaye Buchanan (’83), Curtis Buchanan (’66), and George Bassi (’87), John Cox (’96), Deborah Horman (’05), at the 2010 Northeast Chapter Kim Dowdy (’03) at the 2010 Washington County Cox (staff), and Andy Mundy (’00) at the Alumni Gathering. Alumni Event. Assocation B.B. King Preshow Reception.

Tommy McKiernon (’68), Sidney Runnels (’73), Paul “Bubba” Mancini (’00), Keith Fulcher (’83), Todd Hairston (’02), Lacey Hairston (’02), Shelley Sallie Tomaszewski (’74), Sandra McKiernon Shea Skeen (’96), Will Bradham (’01), Brady Williams (’92), Keith Williams (’86), Al Tapper (’69), and Steven Tomaszewski (’74) at the Pate (’08), and Ann Marie Mayers Pate (’04) at (’86), and Libby Tapper (’88) at the 2010 Gulf 2010 Gulf Coast Alumni Gathering. the 2010 Bolivar County Jambalaya Jam. Coast Alumni Gathering.

32 • Delta State Magazine • Fall 2010 Last year, Career Services helped over 1,400 students at career training workshops. Ned Mitchell ’62, Laura Howarth ’09, Paul Mancini ’00, and Michael Lipford ’06 Mancini ’00, and Michael Lipford ’09, Paul Howarth ’62, Laura Ned Mitchell

PUSH YOUR CAREER FORWARD. Take advantage of the professional resources provided by Career Services and get your career moving down the road to success.

Have a position opening in your organization? Hire a Delta State Graduate! Post positions on the on-line Career Services job board. Email the information to [email protected].

Are you looking to change jobs and/or careers? Contact Career Services to learn about employment opportunities. We’ll also provide career coaching and help you jazz up your resumé.

FOR MORE INFORMATION, CONTACT: Christy Riddle Montesi, Director or Amy Korb, Student Relations Assistant 662.846.4646 • E: [email protected] • W: careerservices.deltastate.edu 1.800.GO.TO.DSU . www.deltastate.edu

Fall 2010 • Delta State MagMagazineainne • 3333 DSU Box 3104 1003 West Sunflower Road Cleveland, MS 38733 www.deltastate.edu

More than a FAIRWEATHER FAN PURCHASE YOUR DSU ALUMNI TAG TODAY CONTACT: [email protected] or call 662.846.4660