tech action: summer 2009
DESCRIPTION
Tech Action: Summer 2009 Arkansas Tech Quarterly Alumni MagazineTRANSCRIPT
Tech ActionS u m m e r 2 0 0 9
New dean Dr. Mary Gunter and the Arkansas Tech Graduate College are here to help you achieve your goals. See pages 4-5.
Director of Alumni Relations Angela DeWitt BondsCoordinator of Young Alumni Alison ParksCoordinator of Alumni Communications and Activities Kelly Thornton BostickAlumni Office Administrative Assistant Terry Holland-Finley
Tech Action is published quarterly by the Arkansas Tech Alumni Association, 1313 N. Arkansas Ave., Russellville, AR 72801. It is sent to alumni, parents, friends and faculty/staff of Arkansas Tech University. We welcome manuscripts and photographs from our readers. Please include a self-addressed, stamped envelope if you would like your originals returned. Parents, if your son or daughter attended Tech and is no longer living at this address, please notify our office of his or her new address. Address updates can be submitted to the Arkansas Tech Office of Alumni Services by calling (479) 968-0242 or by sending e-mail to [email protected].
Cover & Inside Photography Steve Newby E-mail address [email protected] site www.techties.atu.edu
Editorial Committee Angela DeWitt Bonds, Jayne Jones, Julie Nebben Morgan, Susie Nicholson, Sam StrasnerAsst. Director of New Media Carrie Harris PhillipsSports Information Director Ben Greenberg
Stan Graves ‘70 12/09
Alvin Lievsay ‘72 12/09
Stephanie Strack Mathis ‘94 12/09
Sharon Dixon Steele ‘74 12/09
Peggy Lawless Walter ‘80, ‘87, ‘06 12/09
Kellye Holley Cannon ‘80 12/10
President Claude Smith ‘76 President-Elect Howard Ritchie ‘70 Past President Tom Reynolds ‘70
Shirley Dodd ‘59 12/10
Randy Joe Hamilton ‘76 12/10
Mike King ‘74 12/10
Layton Lee ‘92 12/10
Jim Murphy ‘71 12/10
Donna Cotton Parker ‘73 12/10
Chad Weisler ‘92 12/10
Philip Alexander ‘89 12/11
Doug Brown ‘06 12/11
Jimmy Cunningham ‘75 12/11
Robert Ford ‘86 12/11
Dixie Gossett ‘70 & ‘74 12/11
Tommy Johnston ‘91 12/11
Raymond Molden ‘96 12/11
Cara Hammond Witherspoon ‘78 12/11
Brian Bass, Ozark Campus Rep.
Tech Action, Volume 45, No. 3. Arkansas Tech University Alumni Association, Alumni House, Russellville, AR 72801
Alumni Association Board of Directorstech
catch up with an old friend today
www.techties.atu.edu
Tech Action
Need a job? Need an employee? We can helpIn times like these, a person looking to advance his or
her career, seek out a new opportunity or get a job of any
sort needs all the friends he or she can find.
The Arkansas Tech Alumni Association is offering a
helping hand through its Web site, www.techties.atu.edu.
We have launched a new service intended to link Tech
alumni with potential employers and learn the skills they
need to get ahead in their careers. We hope it is another
way we can be of assistance to our loyal alumni and
friends.
Tech alumni can access the service by visiting
www.techties.atu.edu and clicking on the “Career Center”
link located on the left-hand side of the main page.
Once there, users will find a variety of options. Alumni
can create and update their profiles, post their résumés
and search job postings.
Of course, this service is not just about alumni seeking
a job. It is also about alumni seeking employees.
If you own a business or serve in the human resources
department at work, we encourage you to utilize the
TechTies Career Center as a resource to find talented and
prepared Tech alumni who are ready to make a difference
for your organization.
And even if you do not fall into either of those
categories — job seeker or employee seeker — you can
still play a vital role in the TechTies Career Center by
registering as a mentor. By doing so, alumni can offer their
expertise to younger Tech alums who need career advice.
Remember that if you have any trouble finding what
you are looking for on www.techties.atu.edu, we can
be reached by phone at (479) 968-0242 or by e-mail
to [email protected] and we will be happy to walk you
through the process. And as always, Norman Career
Services is another great employment-related service that
Tech provides to its students and alumni. Learn more
about what they have to offer at www.atu.edu/career.
We invite you to utilize these services provided by your
alma mater. Hopefully, we will see you at Homecoming
on Oct. 16-17 and you can share your good news about
a career opportunity or the new employee you found
through TechTies or Norman Career Services.
Enjoy the upcoming autumn months, and we look
forward to seeing you at Homecoming 2009!
Angela DeWitt Bonds ‘95
Director of Alumni Relations
2 Tech Action
Homecoming 2009
3Summer 2009
FRIDAY, OCTOBER 16
10:30 a.m.Homecoming Golf Classic (3-Person Scramble) Russellville Country Club 10:30 — Check-In Begins 11:00 — Lunch 11:45 — Official Welcome 12:00 — Shotgun Start
12 p.m.Ladies “Champagne Bingo” LuncheonLake Point Conference Center Dining Room
4:30 p.m.Dopson Teammates Dinner (Invitation Only)Chambers Cafeteria Private Dining Room
6:30 p.m.Hall of Distinction Reunion Dinner (Invitation Only)Chambers Cafeteria East Banquet Hall
8 p.m. to MidnightAlumni & Friends ReceptionRussellville Country Club
SATURDAY, OCTOBER 17
9 a.m.O’Neal Teammates BreakfastLake Point Conference Center Dining Room
9 a.m. to 2 p.m.Young Alumni Co-Ed Softball TournamentPleasant View Park
10 a.m. Alumni Gold Registration for Class of 1959Chambers Cafeteria East Dining Hall
11 a.m.Alumni Gold Luncheon for Class of 1959Chambers Cafeteria East Dining Hall
11 a.m.Alumni vs. Alumni Volleyball Match for Former SunsTucker Coliseum (Will move to Hull Building if raining)Tech Volleyball Alums Call (479) 964-0513 to sign up
2 p.m.Homecoming ParadeDowntown Russellville
3 p.m.Alumni BandWitherspoon Band Room
3 p.m. to 5:30 p.m. Homecoming TailgatePlaza Outside Thone Stadium • Live Music, Photo Booth, Inflatable Games, Tailgate Meal • Reunion Groups: Football, Volleyball, Boxing, Cross Country/Track, Golden Girls, Cheerleaders, Athena Troop, All Decades (1930s-2000s), Homecoming Royalty, College of Business
5:30 p.m.Pre-Game ActivitiesThone Stadium at Buerkle Field
6 p.m.Tech vs. West Georgia (Stay for Post-Game Fireworks!)Thone Stadium at Buerkle Field
Join us Oct. 16-17 for a Centennial Homecoming at
Arkansas Tech University. Come remember the good
times and make some new memories as we celebrate
our university’s first 100 years.
Below is a schedule of events for Homecoming
weekend. More information is available on the Web at
www.techties.atu.edu. Please call (479) 968-0242 or
send e-mail to [email protected] with any questions.
We’ll see you Oct. 16-17 for Homecoming 2009!
YOUNG ALUMNI SOFTBALL TOURNAMENT
One of the most exciting new events at Homecoming this year will be the first Young Alumni Softball Tournament.
This event is open to all graduates from the last 10 years and their spouses. Each team must have a minimum of 10 players — five male and five female — and no more than 13 players.
Games will be played at Pleasant View Park in Russellville beginning at 9 a.m. on Saturday, Oct. 17. A champion will be crowned by 2 p.m., leaving plenty of time to freshen up and head to campus for more fun.
The softball tournament is limited to the first eight teams, so call (479) 968-0242 today to sign up!
Chart a new course
for your future today
www.atu.edu/gradcollege
Cover Story
TAKE THE NEXT STEP
If there was something that you could do that would
increase your value to your current employer, make you
more attractive to potential employers and allow you to
earn an average of $10,000 more per year, would you be
interested?
The Arkansas Tech Graduate College is available to
provide professionals of all ages with a competitive edge
during tough economic conditions by helping them get
into one of the school’s graduate programs.
“Due to the current economic environment and
the fact that it is becoming increasingly important to
have a graduate degree for long-term success, Tech
is anticipating increased enrollment in our graduate
programs from both new graduates and from people
looking to change career direction,” said Dr. Robert
C. Brown, Tech president. “It is a wise decision in
either situation because the potential income gain is
substantial.”
Established in 1976, the Arkansas Tech Graduate
College offers master’s degrees in fields as varied
as education, fisheries and wildlife biology, nursing
administration and information technology.
Many courses are offered online, including the
complete college student personnel degree and the
majority of the emergency management and homeland
security degree. That kind of flexibility is ideal for working
professionals on the go.
All of this comes at one of the most affordable price
tags in the region. Average tuition for a full-time graduate
student is less than $1,700 per semester.
Up to 100 graduate assistantships are available
offering paid tuition in addition to a monthly stipend.
For students concerned about finding a job in
their chosen field during the current recession, these
assistantships are, in effect, not only providing an
opportunity to improve one’s marketability, but also
providing valuable and relevant work experience at the
same time.
Gunter Assumes Leadership of Graduate College
The Arkansas Tech Graduate College came under new
leadership on July 1 when Dr. Mary Gunter became dean.
Gunter succeeds Dr. Eldon Clary, a 42-year veteran of
the Tech faculty. Clary became dean of the Arkansas Tech
College of Education on July 1 (see page 19).
Gunter joined the Tech faculty in 1998. She has been
the head of the Tech Center for Leadership and Learning,
a department that offers three master level programs and
an educational specialist program, since 2002.
Now, she will focus her efforts on ensuring that
Arkansas Tech is delivering high-quality, relevant programs
to all of its graduate students.
“As we consider the future, I look forward to providing
the leadership to expand the offerings of graduate
programs through our various colleges on campus,” said
Gunter. “The expansion of graduate programs will be
based on high-quality offerings that will ultimately impact
the quality of life for our graduates as well as the quality
contributions our graduates will make in a global society.”
4 Tech Action
Tech Graduate College can show you the way
Cover Story
5Summer 2009
MASTER OF SCIENCE• College Student Personnel• Emergency Mgmt./Homeland Security• Fisheries and Wildlife Biology• Information Technology• Nursing Administration• Psychology
MASTER OF ENGINEERING• Engineering
MASTER OF ARTS• English — Options in Teaching English as Second Language (TESL) and Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages (TESOL)• Spanish• History• Multi-Media Journalism
MASTER OF EDUCATION• Elementary Education — Options in Elementary education, early
childhood education or special education
• Secondary Education — Options in English, Instructional Technology, Mathematics, Physical Education and Social Studies• Instructional Improvement• Educational Leadership• Teaching, Learning and Leadership• School Counseling and Leadership
MASTER OF SCIENCE IN EDUCATION• Gifted Education
MASTER OF LIBERAL ARTS• Liberal Arts — Options in Communication, Fine Arts and Social Science
EDUCATIONAL SPECIALIST • Educational Leadership
Arkansas Tech University is at the forefront of an
initiative to provide unprecedented computer network
bandwidth and reliability to college students in the
Natural State.
The Arkansas Research and Education Optical
Network (ARE-ON) is a new high-speed fiber based
optical communications network that will greatly
enhance the research and distance learning capabilities
of Arkansas Tech faculty members and students.
“Simply put, ARE-ON will allow Tech faculty and
students to share more information, more quickly,”
said Dr. Robert C. Brown, Tech president. “It will make
Tech more connected to the rest of the world than ever
before. It will allow us to expand our offerings in Web-
based courses. It will play a significant role in the future
of higher education in our state.”
ARE-ON will be active
on the Tech campus
beginning with the
2009-10 academic year.
Those responsible for
implementing the
network promise that
it will pay big dividends.
“This is basically a huge economic development
initiative for Arkansas,” said Mike Abbiatti, ARE-ON
executive director. “The high-tech capabilities and
potentials of the new system are much more than
simply a fast Internet connection. This network will
bring Arkansas to a new level in terms of research and
technology, giving us opportunities we’ve never seen
before.”
What the ARE-ON Network means to Tech grad students
Arkansas Tech Graduate College Degree Options
Alumni News
Twelve earn Alumni Association ScholarshipTwelve members of the Arkansas Tech freshman class of
2009 have received an Arkansas Tech Alumni Association Scholarship through the Arkansas Tech Foundation.
This year’s recipients are: Katie Casey of Lamar, Mindy
Cooper of Russellville, Devon Dodd of Russellville, Austin Foster of Danville, Emily Grant of Alma, Ben Hare of Russellville, Britney McKown of Russellville, Amanda Payne of Vilonia, Ali Rye of Conway, Sam Shelby of Paragould, Tory Thompson of Batesville and Ashley Wohaska of Russellville.
Katie Casey
A 2009 graduate of Lamar High School, Katie Casey considered a variety of factors before choosing Tech.
“When it came down to my college selection, I had to make sure that the college would meet my basic needs and assist me in accomplishing my future goals,” said Casey. “My reasons, in the end, for choosing Arkansas Tech included educational opportunities, campus environment, annual tuition cost and campus location. It’s the perfect place for me to start my new life on my own.”
Casey’s parents are Karen and William Casey of Lamar. Karen graduated from Tech in 1984.
Mindy Cooper
A person who describes Arkansas Tech as her “second home,” Mindy Cooper comes to Arkansas Tech after earning her diploma at Russellville High School with a 4.00 grade point average.
Cooper is the daughter of Beth and Hal Cooper of Russellville. Beth earned a master’s degree from Tech in 1983, while Hal has been Tech band director since 1979.
“I have been on and around the (Tech) campus since I was in diapers,” said Cooper. “I know the campus like the back of my hand, and that is a real comfort to an incoming freshman. It truly is my home away from home.”
Devon Dodd A decorated achiever in a variety of fields, Devon Dodd
is approaching his studies at Arkansas Tech with the same kind of serious determination that made him successful at Russellville High School.
“I believe success is maintained by a consistent balance
of responsibility, hard work, discipline and perseverance,” said Dodd. “Our goals do not come to our doors overnight, but are a product of the long hours, days, weeks and even years of effort we choose to dedicate to them.”
Both of Dodd’s parents — Rona and David Dodd — earned multiple degrees at Tech. Rona received a Bachelor of Science degree in agriculture in 1989 and a Bachelor of Science degree in nursing in 2004. David obtained a Bachelor of Science degree in computer science in 1987 and a Bachelor of Science degree in engineering in 1991.
Austin Foster Austin Foster appreciates the fact that Arkansas Tech
is close to the green grass of his home in Danville. He just wishes that maybe that grass wouldn’t grow quite so fast.
“I mow around eight lawns during the summer,” said
Foster. “Being able to go to college and also keep up my responsibilities of mowing, I need to be able to come home and mow. Going to Tech will allow me to do this.”
Foster, who also cited being close to his family as a
major consideration, is the son of Kim and Rocky Foster of Danville. Kim earned a master’s degree from Tech in 2007.
Emily Grant There probably wasn’t much doubt that Emily Grant
would end up as a student at Arkansas Tech — both of her parents and her older sister earned degrees there, and two of her cousins are current Tech students. But if there ever was an ounce of doubt, it was quickly wiped away.
“The faculty and current students assisted in my decisions concerning my future plans and were only too eager to help,” said Grant, who graduated from Alma High School with a 4.3 GPA. “I was able to meet with professors in the Art Department and was amazed at the facilities that I would be able to utilize. I was able to talk with them and discuss options for careers that my parents and I had never even considered.”
Her parents are Donna and Gregg Grant of Alma.
Gregg earned a Bachelor of Science in health and physical education from Tech in 1984. He returned to his alma mater and obtained a master’s degree in 2000 and an educational specialist degree in 2002. Donna completed a Bachelor of Science degree in computer science in 2003.
Ben Hare Arkansas Tech has long been noted for producing many
of the area’s top educational professionals. Ben Hare hopes to follow in that tradition.
“I have wanted to work in education since I first started school,” said Hare. “I come from a long line of teachers and they have inspired me to follow in their footsteps.”
6 Tech Action
Katie Casey
Mindy Cooper
Devon Dodd
Austin Foster
Emily Grant
Ben Hare
Alumni News
7Summer 2009
Jerrie and Chris Hare are his parents. Jerrie graduated from Tech in 1982.
Britney McKown Britney McKown knows that learning does not stop at
the classroom door, and that is one of the reasons she chose Arkansas Tech.
“I feel at Tech I can not only grow academically
but grow in my knowledge of other cultures,” said McKown. “A well-rounded education comes from not only academics but the relationships you form in college as a student living day-to-day on campus. I love the fact that Tech students are traditional and non-traditional, American, Chinese, Australian, Asian, African-American, etc.”
McKown is the daughter of Rhonda McKown. Rhonda
graduated from Tech in 1999 with an Associate of Science degree in medical assistantship.
Amanda Payne Amanda Payne has a list of reasons why Arkansas
Tech was the right place for her.
“Arkansas Tech University has been my number one choice of colleges since I can remember,” said Payne. “First, the environment at Arkansas Tech is very welcoming. Second, the location of Arkansas Tech could not be better. Third, the education program at Arkansas Tech is flawless. For all these reasons and more, I can’t wait to start in August.”
Payne’s parents are Kathy and Steve Payne of Vilonia. Kathy graduated from Arkansas Tech in 1986.
Ali Rye Ali Rye sees Arkansas Tech as a place where she
can stay connected to her past while carving out a little piece of the world for herself.
“You have the opportunity to broaden your horizons while never losing your roots,” said Rye of Tech. “It’s a comfort to me, being a first-year student, not to be stressed over the small things like trying to find a class on a huge campus, worrying about how to find my way around the town or finding a niche.”
Rye’s parents — Christina and Paul Rye — graduated from Arkansas Tech. Paul earned a Bachelor of Science degree in business administration and marketing in 1982, while Christina completed a Bachelor of Science degree in health and physical education in 1986.
Sam Shelby Paragould High School graduate Sam Shelby arrives
at Arkansas Tech with two aspirations — to earn a college degree and to carry on his family’s tradition of playing football for the Wonder Boys.
“My dad, Richard Shelby, and two of my uncles, Phillip Shelby and Roy McSpadden, all played football for the Wonder Boys,” said Shelby. “My greatest goal is to receive a college degree and represent by family both in the classroom and on the football field.”
Shelby’s parents — Vicki and Richard Shelby —
graduated from Tech in 1979. Richard obtained a Bachelor of Science degree in health and physical education, while Vicki earned a Bachelor of Science degree in elementary education.
Tory Thompson Tory Thompson’s activities at Batesville High School
— which were as varied as cheerleader, choir member, National Honor Society member, athletic trainer and official storm spotter for the National Weather Service — demonstrate that she is a person who enjoys variety.
“I wanted something and somewhere different,” said Thompson. “I didn’t know what I wanted, but I didn’t want to do what my parents did. I can’t tell you exactly what changed my mind. Perhaps it was a lot of small things, and perhaps Tech is just the right place for me.”
Shelly and Jeff Thompson are Thompson’s parents.
Shelly attended Tech during the 1984-85 school year, while Jeff earned a Bachelor of Science degree in business administration and marketing in 1988.
Ashley Wohaska Ashley Wohaska knew after she met with several
faculty members that Tech was a place where she could continue the success that allowed her to graduate from Russellville High School with a 4.0625 GPA.
“Their intellectual capacity for the subject material
and their demeanors convinced me that working with them would be an enjoyable and educational experience,” said Wohaska. “Even for the short time that we visited, I could sense that their humor would often show up in their teaching methods, which also helps make a better learning environment.”
Wohaska’s parents are Nancy Russell and David Russell. Nancy earned a Bachelor of Arts degree from Tech in 2007.
Britney McKown
Amanda Payne
Ali Rye
Sam Shelby
Tory Thompson
Ashley Wohaska
Alumni News
8 Tech Action
tech Tech Night with the Naturals
Arkansas Tech alumni and friends gathered at Arvest
Ballpark in Springdale on Saturday, June 13.
Approximately 75 Tech alumni and friends were on
hand to enjoy food, fun and a baseball game between the
Northwest Arkansas Naturals and the Arkansas Travelers.
For more information about future events, call the
Alumni Office at (479) 968-0242, send e-mail to
[email protected] or visit www.techties.atu.edu.
Rhonda Hatfield Lievsay and Alvin Lievsay
Keith Cooper, Allee Cooper, Diana Pace Cooper
Diana Pace Cooper, Shelly Bewley, Brandi Hooten Tripp, Matt Hall, Mark Tripp, Brian Bewley
Matthew Moss, Chris Moss
Dr. Jeff Ward Family
Janet Sampier, John SampierLanni Keathley
Angela DeWitt Bonds, Tisha Robbins
Alumni News
9Summer 2009
tech Tech Night with the Travelers
It was the same two teams, but a different venue and
a different collection of Tech alumni and friends when the
Arkansas Tech Alumni Association hosted an outing at
Dickey-Stephens Park in North Little Rock on Aug. 8.
As was the case in June, the Arkansas Travelers and
the Northwest Arkansas Naturals provided the evening’s
entertainment. Approximately 125 Tech alumni and
friends signed up for the night out at Dickey-Stephens
Park.
Jana Parker, Jessica Rutlege
Greg Hatfield, Gloria Hatfield, Sharon Trusty, Fritz Kronberger
Bob Hardin, David Rollans
Jill Cox, Cory Cox
Rachel Price Bullock, Daniel Bullock
Lori Callahan,
Rob Callahan,
Taylor Callahan
Molly Fleming, Kristen Vaughan
Tom Reynolds, Mike Croom
Meet your
future at Tech
www.future.atu.edu
Today’s Tech
New facility named Centenary HallThe new Arkansas Tech University
academic facility under construction at the
corner of Martin Luther King Jr. Drive and
Coliseum Drive has a name — Centenary Hall.
The action was taken by the Arkansas Tech
Board of Trustees during its regular monthly
meeting at the Ross Pendergraft Library and
Technology Center on June 18.
Dr. Robert C. Brown, Arkansas Tech
president, said that Centenary Hall is named
in honor of the fact that it will be completed
during the 100th year of Arkansas Tech
University.
Scheduled to open in January 2010, the
four-story, 60,000-square foot facility will be
the new home for the Arkansas Tech College
of Business and the Arkansas Tech Academic
Advising Center.
10 Tech Action
David Moseley, senior vice president for administration and
finance, reported that construction of Centenary Hall is back on
schedule after delays due to weather during the winter and early
spring months.
Gov. Beebe allocates $800K for TechGov. Mike Beebe made an
announcement in May that will result in
12,000 new square feet of educational
space for Arkansas Tech science students.
Gov. Beebe released $800,000 in
general improvement funds to the
Russellville campus for an expansion of
McEver Hall, which houses the Arkansas
Tech Departments of Physical Sciences
and Biological Sciences.
“On behalf of our 7,500 students,
my faculty colleagues and the Board of
Trustees, it is my privilege to express our most sincere
and profound gratitude to Gov. Beebe,” said Arkansas
Tech President Dr. Robert C. Brown. “We were sorely
disappointed that in the 2009 legislative session, Arkansas
Tech received only $200,000 in general improvement
funds. This was far less than any other four-year university,
and even less than all but two of the 22 two-year colleges.
“Gov. Beebe has corrected this great inequity to our
students,” continued Brown. “Gov. Beebe has always
been a friend to higher education, and he has helped the
students of Arkansas Tech many times
previously.”
McEver Hall was constructed in 1963. It
is named for Truman McEver, who served
on the Tech chemistry faculty from 1930-73
and was inducted into the Arkansas Tech
Hall of Distinction in 1968.
The facility was expanded in 1996 to
provide additional laboratory and office
space.
The new space in McEver Hall will
include more laboratories for use by Tech students in
fields such as chemistry, geology and biology.
“These funds will make a significant difference in
the educational experience for our students,” said
Brown. “Our state needs more graduates in the natural
and applied sciences in order to grow our economy.
This investment of general improvement funds will be
returned many times over by the graduates that we will
produce and the difference that they will make in our
communities.”
Today’s Tech
11Summer 2009
Harmon applies expertise for new buildingA decade ago, Major Gen. William E. Harmon (Ret.)
stepped forward to aid Arkansas Tech University in
implementing the technology necessary to make the
Ross Pendergraft Library and Technology Center one of
the top educational facilities in the region.
Now, as Arkansas Tech prepares to open another
landmark building — Centenary Hall — Harmon has
volunteered his expertise in cutting-edge technology
to guarantee that faculty and staff in the College of
Business and the Academic Advising Center will have
the best available tools at their disposal when the
60,000-square foot facility opens in January 2010.
“My job is to ask questions concerning the
installation of technology and to coordinate with
computer services to ensure that we are acquiring
technology that they can maintain and is within their
roadmap of standards for the university,” said Harmon,
a 1960 graduate of Arkansas Tech and a 1990 inductee
into the Arkansas Tech Hall of Distinction.
“My former position on the faculty in the College
of Business, as well as serving as the technology
coordinator for the Pendergraft Library when it was
built in 1998-99, helps me better understand the
requirements of all who will utilize the building as well
as recognize the need to coordinate in great detail with
those who will have to maintain it.”
Harmon, who is also currently serving alongside
his wife, Suzanne, as honorary co-chairpersons for
the Arkansas Tech Centennial Committee, was asked
by Tech President Dr. Robert C. Brown to oversee
technology implementation at Centenary Hall.
“Bill Harmon is one of the most knowledgeable and
capable people that Arkansas Tech University has ever
produced,” said Brown. “His service to our institution
is a priceless gift. Much like the work he did in the
Pendergraft Library, his efforts on the Centenary Hall
project will have a positive influence on the educational
mission of Arkansas Tech for many years to come.”
Harmon served on active duty in the U.S. Army from
1960-92. His military honors included the Distinguished
Service Medal, Legion of Merit, Bronze Star Medal with
two Oak Leaf Clusters, Meritorious Service Medal with
one Oak Leaf Cluster, Joint Service Commendation
Medal, Master Parachutist Badge, Ranger Tab and the
Army Staff Identification Medal. He was inducted into
the Military Intelligence Hall of Fame in June 2009.
One year after retiring from the military, Harmon
entered the private sector and was chief information
officer for Perot Systems in Dallas, Texas, from 1993-98.
Harmon’s service to Arkansas Tech has included that
of associate vice president for information technology
(1998-2000) and as the William M. Lemley Endowed
Chair of Business (2000-06).
“Arkansas Tech has wonderfully talented people
working to make the students that graduate from this
university as prepared for their future professional
challenges as is humanly possible,” said Harmon.
“Early exposure to leading technology in the classroom
is a key component to many of the challenges our
graduates will face early in their professional lives. I feel
very lucky to have been given the opportunity to once
again work with the staff and faculty at Arkansas Tech.”
Arkansas Tech campuses now tobacco freeArkansas Tech no longer permits the use of tobacco
on its campuses in Russellville and Ozark as of Aug. 1,
2009, following action by its Board of Trustees in May.
The board voted unanimously to adopt a tobacco-
free policy for Arkansas Tech.
The new policy went into effect one year earlier
than a state-mandated ban on smoking on Arkansas’
publicly-supported university and college campuses.
The 87th Arkansas General Assembly passed and
Gov. Mike Beebe signed Act 734 of 2009 in April. The
law, known as the Clean Air on Campus Act of 2009,
will make it illegal to smoke on all property owned
or operated by one of the state’s higher education
institutions as of Aug. 1, 2010.
Tech’s policy not only went into effect one year
earlier than the state law, it also goes further, prohibiting
the use of any smoking, dipping or chewing tobacco.
Learn More, Earn More
Could you or someone
you know benefit from
an Arkansas Tech-Ozark
Campus education?
Visit www.atu.edu/ozark
Today’s Tech
Krueger to retire after 50 years at TechDavid Krueger, who has been a faculty member at
Arkansas Tech for half of the university’s 100-year history,
has submitted a letter to the university indicating that he
will retire at the end of the 2009-10 academic year.
“Fifty years is a long time, and I have been very
fortunate to have enjoyed good health for so many years,”
wrote Krueger in his letter of retirement. “I want to retire
with the feeling that my effectiveness in the classroom is
still basically undiminished.”
Krueger has been voted professor of the year by Tech
students three times, including the 2008-09 academic year.
Along with Dr. Richard Cohoon, dean of the College of
Natural and Health Sciences, Krueger is one of the two
longest-serving faculty members in the 100-year history of
the university. They both came to Tech in 1960.
“One of my deepest regrets in retiring involves losing
contact with the students at our fine university,” wrote
Krueger in his letter of retirement. “No instructor could
ask to work with a better group of scholars. I also regret
leaving a department that is staffed by so many very well
qualified professors who work so well with each other.”
Visit www.arkansastechnews.com and search for
“David Krueger” to read more.
12 Tech Action
Veteran Tech staff members say goodbyeArkansas Tech lost 120 years of combined experience on its professional staff
when Peggy Hall of the Registrar’s Office and Wilma Labahn and Joyce McCain of
the Ross Pendergraft Library and Technology Center retired June 30.
All three ladies came to work at Tech in 1969. Together, they watched the
university enrollment grow from 2,532 students when they were first hired to its
current number of 7,498 students.
Hall (photographed, top left) served in the Student Accounts Office from
1969-81 and in the Registrar’s Office from 1981-2009. Rep. Nathan George
of Dardanelle presented her with a citation from the Arkansas House of
Representatives at her retirement reception on June 16.
McCain and Labahn (photographed, bottom left) are both graduates of
Arkansas Tech. They gave three decades of service in the Tomlinson Library and
saw the Pendergraft Library through its first 10 years.
The library staff hosted a retirement party for Labahn and McCain on June 25.
ABOVE: Mr. Krueger circa 2008.
TOP RIGHT: Mr. Krueger the
teacher, circa 1967.
BOTTOM RIGHT: Mr. Krueger
the tennis coach, circa 1966.
Today’s Tech
13Summer 2009
Bean, Norton, Woods take top faculty honorsArkansas Tech President Dr. Robert C. Brown presented
Dr. Linda Bean, Dr. Hanna Norton and Dr. Jeffrey Woods
with 2009 Faculty Awards of Excellence during spring
commencement ceremonies in May.
Bean received a Faculty Award of Excellence in the
service category.
An associate professor of business, Bean has been
a member of the Tech faculty since 2000. She serves as
advisor to the Arkansas Tech Students in Free Enterprise
organization, which won its second consecutive SIFE
regional title this spring and was named the 2008-09
Arkansas Tech student organization of the year.
Bean earned a Bachelor of Science degree from
Arkansas Tech in 1973. She received her master’s degree
from the University of Central Arkansas in 1986 and her
Ed.D. from Oklahoma State University in 1996.
Norton was presented with a Faculty Award of
Excellence in the teaching category.
A member of the Tech faculty since 2001, Norton is an
associate professor of journalism. She served as president
of the Tech Faculty Senate during the 2008-09 academic
year and is the advisor to the Public Relations Student
Society of America (PRSSA) chapter at Arkansas Tech.
Norton is an alumna of the University of Georgia. She
earned a bachelor’s degree (1994), a master’s degree
(1998) and a Ph.D. (2001) from the campus in Athens.
Woods earned a Faculty Award of Excellence in the
scholarship category.
Woods is an associate professor of history at Arkansas
Tech. He has been on the Tech faculty since 2000.
The founder and director of the Arkansas Digital
History Institute, Woods has authored two books:
“Richard Russell, Southern Nationalism, and American
Foreign Policy,” which was published in 2007, and “Black
Struggle, Red Scare: Segregation and Anticommunism in
the South, 1948-1968,” which was published in 2004.
Woods holds a bachelor’s degree from the University
of Kansas (1992), a master’s degree from the University of
Arkansas (1994) and a Ph.D. from Ohio University (2000).
Which faculty members shaped You?
Send your thoughts to
part of our centennial
celebration.
Linda Bean
Hanna Norton
Jeff Woods
Tech Centennial
14 Tech Action
WILL YOU SHARE YOUR TECH MEMORABILIA?
Call (479) 968-0332 or visit www.atu.edu/centennialto learn how you can share your Tech-related items and memories
during the Arkansas Tech Centennial Celebration
Tech Museum wins exhibit of the year
The Arkansas Tech Museum has received the 2008
Museum Exhibit of the Year award from the Arkansas
Museums Association.
The award-winning exhibit was “Sense of Place:
Reconstructing Community Through Oral History and
Archeology,” which was on display in 2008.
The Arkansas Tech Museum is open inside the
Techionery Tuesday-Thursday from 9 a.m.-4 p.m. The
museum is currently celebrating Arkansas Tech’s
100-year anniversary with exhibits telling the story of
Tech’s first century. Call (479) 964-0826 or visit
www.atu.edu/museum for more information.
Tech Centennial
15Summer 2009
tech Tech Timeline: 1950-1965Throughout the duration of the Arkansas Tech University centennial celebration, Tech Action will take a look back at some
of the events that have shaped the institution during its first 100 years. In this issue, we look at 1950 through 1965.
May 1950The first four-year college graduating class of the post-World War II era receives its degrees.
Spring 1950Arkansas Tech earns the AIC baseball title. The Wonder Boys would add six more AIC baseball championships (1964, 1976, 1981, 1985, 1988, 1992).
November 1950Critz Residence Hall is dedicated in honor of former President Hugh Critz.
March 1951The four-year college program at Arkansas Polytechnic College is accredited by the North Central Association of Colleges and Secondary Schools.
September 1952The Army Reserve Officers Training Corps (ROTC) makes its debut on the Tech campus.
March 1954Tech’s men’s basketball program advances to the semifinals of the NAIA National Tournament for the first time in school history. The Wonder Boys would make it back-to-back NAIA Final Four berths in 1955.
Fall 1954Arkansas Tech (8-1 overall, 6-1 conference) wins the AIC football title.
1955Bryan Hall (named for Professor Lela J. Bryan, teacher of home economics) and Tucker Hall (named for Coach John Tucker) are constructed.
Fall 1957The first African-American students to attend Tech enroll. Also, student enrollment tops 1,000 for the first time.
Winter 1958Arkansas Tech (20-5, 10-0 conference) wins the AIC men’s basketball title.
Fall 1958Tech (7-3 overall, 6-1 conference) is AIC football champ.
May 1959The W.O. Young Student Center is dedicated on Agri Day. It was named in honor of William O. Young, who served the university as an administrator from 1917-42.
Fall 1959DuLaney Residence Hall (named for Thomas DuLaney, teacher of history) is dedicated during Homecoming.
Winter 1960Arkansas Tech wins the first of three consecutive AIC men’s basketball titles. The Wonder Boys were 60-16 overall and 44-10 in the AIC during their championship seasons from 1959-60 through 1961-62.
October 1960Massie Residence Hall (named in honor of Professor Lillian Massie, teacher of English) is dedicated.
Fall 1960Arkansas Tech (10-1 overall, 8-0 conference) wins the AIC football title, celebrates its first-ever 10-win football season and is invited to the Great Southwest Bowl.
Fall 1961Tech adds another AIC football crown with an overall mark of 8-0-1 and a league record of 6-0-1.
1962McEver Hall (named for Professor Truman McEver, teacher of science), Roush Residence Hall (named for Librarian Myrtle Roush) and Brown Residence Hall (named for Coach Edgar O. Brown) are constructed.
1963George T. Hudgens becomes the first African-American graduate of Arkansas Tech.
1964Arkansas Tech University founds its Hall of Distinction as a way of honoring distinguished alumni and those who have given outstanding service to the university.
Fall 1964Arkansas Tech (9-1 overall, 7-0 conference) captures the AIC football championship.
Fall 1965Arkansas Tech tops 2,000 students for the first time.
1965Turner Residence Hall (named for Board of Trustees member James S. Turner) and Chambers Cafeteria (named for Board of Trustees members John Ed Chambers, John Ed Chambers II and John Ed Chambers III) are constructed. A new infirmary, which today serves as the home of the Tech Public Safety office, is also constructed.
Truman McEver
Chemistry Professor, 1930-73
Gene Witherspoon
Band Director, 1950-79
Sam Hindsman
Head Basketball Coach, 1947-66
Head Football Coach, 1954-58
Marvin “Shorty” Salmon
Head Football Coach, 1959-66
Development Corner
How a planned gift to Tech can benefit youThe start of a new academic year is always exciting.
Although the Tech campus is active throughout the
summer with classes, camps, fall registration and
orientation activities, there is a renewed energy when
students move into the residence halls in August and the
semester gets underway.
The primary focus on the Arkansas Tech campus
today is the same as it has been throughout Tech’s 100
years…our students. Our student-centered vision shapes
everything we do.
As a Tech alumnus or friend, you are an integral piece
of the puzzle in the university’s continued success. Make
a commitment right now to be involved with Arkansas
Tech: to be present and to make a present.
Gifts through the Tech Loyalty Fund, our annual giving
program, enhance the students’ experience by providing
essential funding for departmental support, student
projects, and scholarship assistance.
These outright gifts may be made in various ways:
check (made payable to the Arkansas Tech Foundation),
credit card, appreciated securities, bank draft, and online
giving at www.atu.edu/givetotech.
An additional way you can make a significant impact
for Tech students is through your estate plan. Through a
well-planned estate, you can achieve your charitable and
financial goals.
Many people believe that only the wealthy need to
consider estate planning, but that is not the case. A
person’s assets include more than money, stocks, and
bonds. Equity in your home, life insurance, deferred
employee benefits, and tangible possessions need to be
considered as well.
An old adage says that nothing in life is certain except
death and taxes. Taxes are a reality both in life and at
death. During life, the tax is a gift tax; at death, it is estate
tax.
Estate planning is the process of choosing the most
appropriate methods to efficiently transfer your assets to
others at the least cost to them and your estate. There are
techniques you can use to reduce the size of your estate
and reduce those taxes.
Charitable gifts made during your lifetime provide one
of the surest ways to reduce taxes. When the gift is made
today, income tax savings may result because you get a
charitable deduction when you itemize on your income
tax return. In addition, the gift reduces your future taxable
estate, so your estate pays less estate taxes.
Gifts made at a later date may also result in possible
income tax savings depending on the type of deferred
gift and future estate tax savings. Gift planning is about
finding ways to make charitable gifts from your estate
while enjoying financial benefits for yourself. Effective
methods for making a planned gift take many forms,
such as a bequest through your will, a revocable trust, a
unitrust, an annuity trust or a lead trust.
If you are retired, ages 60 to 75, a unitrust provides a
hedge against inflation. If you are more concerned about a
declining market, however, an annuity trust may be a better
choice for you.
For married couples, a unitrust or annuity trust that
makes payments throughout both your lifetimes may
make more sense. At all ages, a charitable bequest in your
will or revocable living trust ensures a valuable estate tax
deduction. Your attorney and/or tax advisor can help you
determine the most beneficial form of gift for you.
Contact Dana Moseley, director of gift planning, at
(479) 964-0532 or [email protected] to discuss ways to
achieve your charitable goals through a planned gift.
16 Tech Action
Jayne Jones
Vice President for Development
Dana Moseley
Director of Gift Planning
Have you seen the new and improved TechTies? Check it out today.
www.techties.atu.edu
Jayne Jones
Vice President for Development
Development Corner
New scholarship honors two Tech legends
17Summer 2009
Two longtime members
of the Arkansas Tech faculty
have been memorialized and
remembered through the
Denton-Wainright Endowed
Scholarship Fund.
The scholarship was
created through the
generosity of Cheryl L. Denton
of Hot Springs in memory
of Dr. John Wainright, who
served as professor, dean of
the Arkansas Tech College
of Education and director
of graduate studies at Tech
during a 29-year career from
1952-81, and his wife Joan
Wainright, who taught music at
Tech from 1955-82.
Like many other Tech students of that era, Denton’s
life was affected in a positive and meaningful way by
the Wainrights.
“I started taking piano lessons from Mrs. Wainright
at the age of 10 and continued all the way through
college,” said Denton. “I gained my self-esteem from
her as much as anyone else in life. Dr. John was my
choral director, and when he was dean of education,
placed me in my student teaching assignment. As
a result of the Wainrights’ mentorship, I followed a
career in education in public schools and at Westark
Community College, which is now the University of
Arkansas at Fort Smith.
“They were both a huge
part of my life and greatly
influenced me as well as
others,” continued Denton.
“Teachers rarely receive the
recognition for the positive
effects of their role in
students’ lives. I hope this
scholarship will serve as an
appropriate tribute to the
Wainrights.”
The scholarship, under
the direction of the Arkansas
Tech Foundation and its
student aid committee, will
be awarded on an annual
basis to a student with
demonstrated financial need
who is a junior or senior at
Arkansas Tech and enrolled in a full-time course load.
First preference will be given to a student who
is majoring in music education with an emphasis in
keyboard instrumental music. After that, in descending
order, preference will be given to students who are
majoring in music education with an emphasis in
keyboard vocal music, in music education with an
emphasis in vocal music education, in English education
and in general education. Richard Derrick Collier of
Jessieville was the first recipient of the scholarship.
For more information about private scholarships
through the Arkansas Tech University Foundation, call
(479) 968-0400 or visit www.atu.edu/givetotech.
Janet Beck Scholarship memorializes ‘99 gradChase Fresneda and Kaitlin Short, both of whom are 2009 graduates
of Sacred Heart High School in Morrilton, are this year’s recipients of the
Janet Beck Memorial Scholarship at Arkansas Tech University.
Fresneda (left) is from Morrilton, while Short (right) is a native of
Belleville. Also photographed is Merideth Beck, mother of the late Janet
Beck. The scholarship was established by the parents and friends of Janet
Beck, who passed away shortly after graduating from Arkansas Tech with a
management and marketing degree in 1999.
To learn more about contributing toward or applying for a private
scholarship through the Arkansas Tech Foundation, call (479) 968-0400.
ABOVE: Cheryl Denton
LEFT: Dr. John Wainright and
Joan Wainright
Alumni News
18 Tech Action
Nominate a deserving person for H of DTo be considered for the 2010 Hall of Distinction,
nominations must be made in writing and delivered or
mailed to the Arkansas Tech Alumni Office by Oct. 1,
2009.
The Hall of Distinction recognizes genuine
accomplishment by persons closely assocated with
the university, cultivates individuals for the purpose of
enhanced service and fund raising and enhances the
reputation of the university.
To date, 163 people have been inducted into the
Arkansas Tech Hall of Distinction.
Individuals may be nominated in any of five
categories: Distinguished Alumnus/Alumna; Distinguished
Service Award; Distinguished Young Alumnus/Alumna;
Distinguished Alumni Service; and Distinction in
Intercollegiate Athletics.
Col. Carl Franklin Baswell became the 100th Tech
graduate to be inducted under the Distinguished Alumnus
category in May 2009.
Please contact the Arkansas Tech Alumni Office at
(479) 968-0242 or [email protected] for an information
packet and nomination form.
Arkansas Tech University is currently accepting
nominations for the 2010 Arkansas Tech Alumni Board of
Directors.
The Alumni Board meets three to four times a year.
Members serve three-year terms. If you have an interest
in serving on the Alumni Board or know of someone who
is interested or who you believe would be a good board
member, please let the Alumni Office know.
Nominations will be accepted until Oct. 1, 2009.
Contact the Alumni Office by phone (479-968-0242),
e-mail ([email protected]) or traditional mail (Alumni
House, 1313 N. Arkansas Ave., Russellville, AR 72801) for
more information.
All submitted names will be forwarded to a nominating
committee of the Alumni Board. The nominating
committee will then select a slate of candidates, which will
be approved by the Alumni Board, to appear on the ballot.
Voting will take place in the fall issue of Tech Action.
Call for Alumni Board Nominations
Crowden interns for Rep. BoozmanArkansas Tech alumnus Joel Crowden already has
a four-year college education in the field of politics.
This summer, he received a one-month crash course in
applying that education on a very high-profile level.
Crowden, who graduated Summa Cum Laude from
Arkansas Tech with a Bachelor of Arts degree in history
and political science in May, was one of six individuals
who served as interns for U.S. Rep. John Boozman in
Washington, D.C., from July 7-Aug. 7.
“This experience has definitely changed my perspective
on politics and Washington,” said Crowden. “I am now
more aware of current political problems and the lengthy
process that is involved with crafting legislation. I have
also observed that compromise plays a key role in getting
things done. I also learned that that many people are very
interested in the legislative process and enjoy expressing
their opinions.”
A resident of London, Crowden graduated from the
Arkansas School for Mathematics, Science and the Arts in
Hot Springs in 2005 before enrolling at Arkansas Tech.
Crowden noted that among his biggest surprises was
the fast pace of life in Washington and the convenience
of the subway system that connects the U.S. Capitol with
the Capitol office buildings.
“I believe my experience as an intern will definitely
prepare me in whatever profession I choose to enter,”
said Crowden. “My internship provides me with valuable
government workplace experience and gives me insight
into the political process.”
Tech senior Danielle Adkins of Dover also interned for
Rep. Boozman from July 7-Aug. 7. To read more about
Adkins’ experience, visit www.arkansastechnews.com and
search for “Danielle Adkins.”
Today’s Tech
19Summer 2009
Tech names new deans in four collegesNew deans assumed leadership in four Arkansas Tech
University colleges over the summer months.
Dr. William Hoefler, who served as interim dean of
the Arkansas Tech College of Applied Sciences during
the 2008-09 academic year, moved into that role on a
permanent basis as of July 1, 2009.
Also on July 1, Dr. Eldon Clary became dean of the
Arkansas Tech College of Education and Dr. Mary Gunter
became dean of the Arkansas Tech Graduate College.
Clary was previously dean of the Graduate College,
while Gunter moves from her previous position as head
of the Arkansas Tech Center for Leadership and Learning.
The final change in leadership came in the College
of Arts and Humanities, where Dr. Thomas DeBlack has
agreed to serve as interim dean while Tech conducts a
nationwide search to fill that position.
Dr. John Watson, Arkansas Tech vice president
for academic affairs and professor of mathematics,
announced on June 9 that Dr. Glenn Sheets had
submitted his resignation as dean of the Arkansas Tech
College of Education, a post he had held since 2003.
Sheets, who holds the rank of professor of
education, will return to the classroom. Sheets has
been a member of the Arkansas Tech University faculty
since 1990. He previously served as registrar
from 2000-03.
Watson also announced that Dr. Georgena Duncan,
dean of the Arkansas Tech College of Arts and
Humanities since 1996, had submitted her resignation
as dean.
Duncan, a professor of history first appointed to the
Tech faculty in 1975, will return to the classroom. In
addition, she also accepted a special assignment with
the Office of the Vice President for Academic Affairs
in conjunction with the English as a Second Language
Academy at Tech.
“All of these changes in assignment involve senior
colleagues who have given outstanding service to
Arkansas Tech University over many, many years,” said
Tech President Dr. Robert C. Brown. “We express our
sincere gratitude to all of those involved, and we solicit
the cooperation and assistance of all of our faculty
colleagues during this time of transition in some of our
most prominent academic operations.”
Dr. Eldon Clary, Dean
Dr. Thomas DeBlack, Interim Dean
Dr. Mary Gunter, Dean
Dr. William Hoefler, Dean
Will you be our friend?
Search for
“Arkansas Tech
Alumni” on Facebook
and join our group
today!
Class Notes
20 Tech Action
Todd Arthur Rudisill (JOUR ’94) and Robyn Renee Sites
were married on May 10, 2009. Todd is an account
services manager in corporate communications at
Tyson Foods. They live in Springdale.
Jason Wallace (HEPE ‘00) and Loretta Wilson were
married on July 25, 2009. Jason has coached the
freshman girls’ basketball team at North Little Rock
High School to a 45-0 record the last two years.
Hannah Tipton Lane (HOSP ADMIN ’03) and Timothy
Wayne Garner were married on July 18, 2009. Hannah
works at Eldridge Supply Company in Augusta. They
live in McCrory.
Jon Matthew Hall (COMS ’04) and Kelly Nicole Edington
were married June 6, 2009. Matt is a senior business
analyst at Wal-Mart. They live in Northwest Arkansas.
Cristin Lee Napier (ECED ’04) and Jonathan Atha were
married on May 30, 2009. Cristin teaches for the Rogers
School District. They live in Fayetteville.
Stephen Clark Carroll (RPA ’05) and Mary Valerie Belden
were married on June 27, 2009. They live in Little Rock.
Jeremy Ragland (HIST ’05) and Laura Widner were
married on April 25, 2009. They live in Harrison.
Randy McClaren (MCEG ’06) and Jill Abernathy were
married on March 21, 2009. Randy works for Bekaert
Corp. in Van Buren.
Jessica LeAnn Sanders (HIM ’06) and Eric Christopher
Williams were married on May 16, 2009. Jessica is a
medical coder at St. Mary’s Regional Medical Center.
Aubrey Cammack (JOUR ’07) and Jeffrey Holt (HIST
’07) were married on June 20, 2009. They live in
Clarksville, Tenn.
Jonathan Bryan Querdibitty (MGMT/MKTG ’07) and
Molly Kimball Smith were married on May 30, 2009.
They live in Little Rock.
Magean Leann Warnock (SOC ’07) and Randy
McArthur Brents Jr. (RPA ’09) were married on March
21, 2009. Randy is employed by the U.S. Forest Service
and Magean works for the Arkansas Division of Children
and Family Services. They live in Russellville.
Marriages Nathaniel Gatewood (BIOL ’08) and Brenttany L.
Thompson (BIOL ’08) were married April 28, 2009. They
relocated to the Cayman Islands prior to the fall 2009
semester after Brenttany was accepted to St. Matthew’s
University Grand Cayman British West Indies School of
Veterinary Medicine.
Adrienne L. Gautier (HIST ’08) and Jonathan Woods
were married Feb. 28, 2009.
Nathan George (ECON ’08) and Samantha Chadha
were married on May 30, 2009.
Births
Larry Collins (COMS ’91) and his wife, Vera, a daughter,
Lydia Abigail Isabella, May 20, 2009. Lydia has a sister,
Sophie (6).
G. Bart Dickinson (HIST ’95) and Dr. Leslie Hall
Dickinson (BIOL ’98), a son, Graham Barnett, July 13,
2009.
Tommy Langston Parker (HEPE ’95) and his wife,
Laura, a son, Madden Tommy, April 6, 2009. Madden
has one brother, Langston Phillip (8).
Katharine Bear-Diemer Robinson (JOUR ’95) and
Paul Robinson (ALUM), a daughter, Hunter Elizabeth,
Dec. 2, 2008. Katharine is writing for the Arkansas Times
about dining opportunities in the Natural State on the
Eat Arkansas blog.
Dana Keys Sumter (ART ’95) and her husband, Chris,
a son, Lucas Neil, June 26, 2009. Lucas has a brother,
Noah (6).
Sarah Humphreys Copeland (ELED ’96) and her
husband, Kevin, a daughter, Laney Alise, Oct. 29,
2008. Sarah is a sixth grade math teacher at Simon
Intermediate School in Conway. She recently achieved
National Board Certified Teacher status.
Dr. Raymond Molden (BIOL ’96) and Kimberly Wade
Molden (REHAB SCI ’98), twin boys, Evan and Aidan,
July 23, 2009.
Bryan Rust (HEPE ’97) and Amy Hoyt Rust (MGMT/
MKTG ’97), a son, Luke Ryan, Feb. 23, 2009. Luke has a
sister, Madison (9), and a brother, Drew (7). They live in
Pottsville.
Class Notes
21Summer 2009
Chadwick Terry Foster (CRWR ’98) and Kristin Lynne
Jones, a son, Riley James, June 25, 2009. Riley has a
sister, Avery (5). They live in Russellville.
Miranda Wofford Hale (ELED ’00) and her husband,
David, a daughter, Jenna Kale, Sept. 19, 2008. Jenna has
one sister, Anna (4).
B.J. Bayer (ELEG ’01) and his wife, Kristy, a son, Brooks
Morley, April 28, 2009. B.J. is employed at Arkansas
Nuclear One, while Kristy is head volleyball coach at
Arkansas Tech.
Christopher Brockett (MGMT/MKTG ’01) and Susan
Wajszczuk Brockett (HIST ’01), a son, Sebastian DeWitt,
Dec. 23, 2008. Sebastian has a sister, Sydney (3).
John C. Carter (ECON ’02) and his wife, Erin, a
daughter, Ashley Nicole, Aug. 21, 2008.
Genevive Brown (NURS ’03) and James Brown, a son,
Chayse, March 13, 2009.
1950s
Joe Magness (ENG ’53) and Bonnie Morphis Magness
(HOME EC ’54) celebrated their 55th wedding
anniversary on June 13, 2009. They live in Benton.
Juanita Butler (EDU ’55) received the first Beta Nu
Butler Achievement Award from the Beta Nu Chapter
of the Delta Kappa Gamma Society International. The
award was established to honor a Delta Kappa Gamma
member who has given distinctive services in education
and to society. Juanita worked as an elementary teacher
for 34 years in Bergman, Pottsville, Flippin, Yellville and
Russellville.
Mike Roys (’56) and Janet Roys (ALUM) were honored
with a 50th wedding anniversary reception on June 7,
2009.
James W. Tucker (BUAD ’56) and Kay White Tucker
celebrated their 50th wedding anniversary on June 20,
2009. James is retired after 33 years in management
with Sun Oil Company. They live in Russellville.
Carolyn Hilliard Estelle (HOME EC ’57) and her
husband, John, celebrated their 50th wedding
anniversary with a reception on Aug. 2, 2009. They live
in Salem, Ore.
1960s
Dr. Phil Godwin (MUED ’64) retired from Belmont
University in Nashville, Tenn., in May and was named
professor emeritus. He taught music at Belmont for
36 years and focused in the areas of composition and
music theory.
Elizabeth Balkman House (MUS ’64) retired from
Augusta State University in Augusta, Ga., after 33 years
of service. She received the titles of dean emeritus of
the ASU College of Arts and Sciences and professor
emeritus of English.
Fred Tate (HEPE ’64) was honored as one of Shelter
Insurance’s highest achieving sales representatives
based on overall 2008 agency operations. Fred has
represented Shelter since 1972 and has earned the
company’s champion designation 31 times.
Sandra Petray Hillier (BUAD ’66) retired from Ozark
Opportunities Inc. as director of its RSVP program for
Boone County and Marion County.
Robert L. Roberts (’67) was honored as one of Shelter
Insurance’s highest achieving sales representatives
based on overall 2008 agency operations. Robert has
represented Shelter since 1973, and he has earned the
company’s champion designation 26 times.
1970s
Travis Beard (MUED ’70 & M.Ed. ’77) and Debbie
Beard (MUED ’76), long-time music teachers in the
Russellville School District, retired at the end of the
2008-09 academic year. They were presented with
Lifetime Achievement Awards and Travis was named
director emeritus of the Russellville High School Band
during the annual end-of-year concert in May. In
presenting their awards, RHS Band Director Dewayne
Dove (MUED ’87) estimated that the Beards taught
more than 8,000 students during their careers.
Larry Brandt (BUAD ’70) was elected to a three-year
term on the board of the Heartland Community Bankers
Association during the group’s annual meeting in
Colorado Springs, Colo., in June. Larry is chairman of
the board and CEO of First Federal Bank in Harrison.
Get Inside
Visit
arkansastechnews.com
for the latest news from
the Tech campus
Class Notes
22 Tech Action
Major Gen. William Wofford (MATH ’71) received the
Veteran Small Business Champion Award from the
Small Business Administration Arkansas District Office
in recognition of his work to create small business
opportunities for those who have served the United
States.
Bill Maxwell (MUED ’74) was named 2008-09 teacher
of the year for the Mountain Home School District. Bill
serves as the junior high band director.
Gary Stratton (HEPE ’75) retired at the end of the
2008-09 academic year after nine years as due process
coordinator for special services at Russellville High
School and a total of 36 years with the Russellville School
District.
Diane Cain Walters (HEPE ’75, M.Ed. PE ’79 & M. Ed
ELED ’92) accepted a position on the physical education
faculty at Arkansas Tech University. Previously, Diane
taught physical education at Crawford Elementary School
in Russellville for 34 years.
Gary Gunter (BUAD ’76) and Martha Walden Gunter
celebrated their 40th wedding anniversary on June 24,
2009. Gary is a classification specialist for the Fort Smith
Public School District. They live in Arkoma, Okla.
Miles Johnson (FISH/WLDLF BIOL ’79) received a
2009 U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Legend Award
in Washington, D.C. Miles is recreation and resource
manager for the Corps’ Russellville project office.
Lisa Clark Huelle (HIST/POL SCI ’81) received the
2009 Heloise Griffon Scholarship from the Arkansas
Association of Instructional Media during the group’s
annual conference on April 20. Lisa is enrolled in the
Master of Education in instructional technology program
at Arkansas Tech. Previously a middle level social studies
teacher for the Dardanelle School District, Lisa will serve
as library media specialist for Dardanelle Middle School
beginning this fall.
Joe Trusty (MUED ’81) led his Cabot High School
Marching Band on a trip to Washington, D.C., to appear in
the annual July 4th parade in the nation’s capital.
1980s
Jeff Eddleman (JOUR ’82) of Elkins High School was
selected to serve as head coach for the West baseball
team during the 2009 Arkansas High School Coaches
Association All-Star Week in Fayetteville.
Lynne Campbell Mitchell (MED ASST ’82) is the new
regional chief financial officer for Sisters of Mercy Health
System. She will oversee operations at St. Joseph’s Mercy
Health System in Hot Springs, St. Edward Mercy Health
System in Fort Smith and Mercy Health System in Rogers.
Jon Carroll (AGBU ’83) was appointed to the board of
directors for the Bank of Brinkley.
Jeananne Cooper Hawking (JOUR ’85), senior sales
manager for Crowne Plaza Hotel in Little Rock, was
elected president of the Sales and Marketing Executives
International board of officers and directors for the state
of Arkansas.
Lori Melton (ACCT ’86), a certified public accountant
at Shoptaw, Labahn & Co., graduated from Leadership
Russellville in May. The nine-month experience is a
Russellville Area Chamber of Commerce program designed
to identify, educate and motivate potential leaders to
become involved in the future of the community.
W. Kirk Turner (PRE-LAW ’86) is listed in the latest edition
of “Best Lawyers in America,” a referral guide that is
published on an annual basis. Kirk leads the labor and
employment law group for the Tulsa, Okla., law firm of
Newton, O’Connor, Turner & Ketchum.
Bill Hardgrave (COMS ’87) received the Ted Williams
Award from AIM Global in recognition of his contributions
to the development of the automatic identification and
mobility industry. Bill is only the third person to receive
the award. He is executive director of the Radio Frequency
Identification Research Center at the University of
Arkansas at Fayetteville.
Charlie Melton (’88) was selected to serve as an assistant
coach for the West softball team during the 2009 Arkansas
High School Coaches Association All-Star Week in
Fayetteville. Charlie is employed by the Scranton School
District.
Follow the
Wonder Boys
and the Golden Suns
www.athletics.atu.edu
Class Notes
23Summer 2009
Linda Jo Williams Pendergrass (M.Ed. GTED ’89)
retired from the Cedarville School District in December
2008 after serving for more than 24 years. Linda taught
journalism and oral communications, was the gifted and
talented coordinator for the school district and advised
student publications for 23 years. Linda is working part-
time for Heritage Studios in Van Buren.
1990s
Shawn Pierce (JOUR ’92 & M.Ed. ITED ’00) became
director for the Lonoke/Prairie County Regional Library
in June. Shawn was previously the technical services
librarian for the Arkansas Supreme Court Library for
eight years.
Mike Simmons (HEPE ’92) of Mountain View High
School was selected to serve as an assistant coach
for the West boys’ basketball team during the 2009
Arkansas High School Coaches Association All-Star
Week in Fayetteville.
Jed Bullock (HRM ’93), manager of the Best Western
Eureka Inn in Eureka Springs, received the 2009 State
Leader Award from the American Hotel and Lodging
Association.
Roy Hester (ELED ’93) was hired as the new
superintendent for the Lamar School District.
Ryan McKinnie (SPH ’93) was named senior corporate
instructor for the UPS management team in the
corporate office. Ryan has been with UPS for 10 years.
He lives in Nashville, Tenn., and has two children —
Savannah and Ryland.
David Bevis (HIST EDU ’95) completed a Spanish
immersion class at Camp Camby, Ind. David is an officer
with the Russellville Police Department.
Greg Black (BUAD ’95) was hired as vice president and
lending officer at Diamond Bank of Hot Springs’ Mount
Ida branch.
Clay McCammon (HEPE ’95) of Searcy High School was
selected to serve as head coach for the East baseball
team during the 2009 Arkansas High School Coaches
Association All-Star Week in Fayetteville.
Brad Shipman (SOC ’95) was named president of
Centennial Bank in Mountain View. He and his wife, Kay
Jones Shipman (ELED ’94), live in Mountain View with
their children, Brady and Kaley.
Daryl Fimple (HEPE ’97) was selected to serve as
an assistant coach for the East girls’ basketball team
during the 2009 Arkansas High School Coaches
Association All-Star Week in Fayetteville. Daryl is head
girls’ basketball coach at North Little Rock High School.
Doug Loughridge (HIST/POL SCI ’97) was selected to
serve as head coach for the West football team during
the 2009 Arkansas High School Coaches Association
All-Star Week in Fayetteville. Doug is head football
coach at Charleston High School.
Todd Meimerstorf (ECON ’97) graduated from the 74th
annual American Bankers Association Stonier National
Graduate School of Banking, which was held June 13-19
at the University of Pennsylvania. Todd is vice president
for commercial lending at Arvest Bank in Russellville.
Michael Shane Sapp (ENGR ’97) earned a Master
of Divinity degree from the Reformed Presbyterian
Theological Seminary in Monroeville, Penn., on May
22, 2009. Michael, his wife Kelly and their children —
Grover (6) and Clementine (3) — live in Broomfield,
Colo. Michael is pastor of Westminster Reformed
Presbyterian Church in Westminster, Colo.
Allison Smedley (RPA ’98), park ranger and natural
resource specialist for the U.S. Army Corps of
Engineers, was voted interpreter of the year for the
Southwest Corps of Engineers Division and she
received the Hiram M. Crittenden Award for Excellence.
Dustin Peters (HEPE ’99) was hired as head boys’
basketball coach at Gravette High School in May. He
coached in the Ozark School District for nine years.
Adam C. Robison (SPH ’99 & M.Ed EDLD ’07) was
hired as principal at Atkins High School.
Beau Thompson (HEPE ’99) of Farmington High School
was selected to serve as an assistant coach for the
West boys’ basketball team during the 2009 Arkansas
High School Coaches Association All-Star Week in
Fayetteville.
Do You Twitter?
Visit
www.twitter.com and
follow “ATUAlumni”
Class Notes
24 Tech Action
Chris Watson (HEPE ’99) accepted the position of assistant
principal and athletic director at Danville High School.
Shawn Gordon (MGMT/MKTG ’00) was appointed to the
Russellville Advertising and Promotion Commission.
Matt Dillman (RPA ’01) joined Pinnacle Country Club in
Rogers as an assistant golf professional.
Jeremy Goss (ACCT ’02) was promoted to manager at
BKD LLP in Little Rock.
Chris K. Davis (ECON ’04) was promoted to assistant
examiner for the Arkansas State Bank Department.
Rebecca Miriam King (BIOL ’04) earned a Doctor
of Optometry degree from the Southern College of
Optometry in Memphis, Tenn. She was also presented
with the VISTAKON Award of Excellence in contact lens
patient care, the Outstanding Clinician Award for overall
exemplary clinical performance and the Dr. David P.
Sloan Memorial Award for commitment of services to the
profession of optometry and the community at large.
Melissa Manatt (SPAN ’04) earned a Doctor of Pharmacy
degree from the University of Arkansas for Medical
Sciences College of Pharmacy in Little Rock on May 16.
Sarah Jamell McCoy (BIOL ’04) earned a Doctor of
Pharmacy degree from the University of Arkansas for
Medical Sciences College of Pharmacy on May 16.
Kristin Keaster McNulty (EAM ’04), owner of Bow-K’s
Flowers and More, graduated from Leadership Russellville
in May. The nine-month experience is a Russellville Area
Chamber of Commerce program designed to identify,
educate and motivate potential leaders to become
involved in the future of the community.
Deidre Wilbanks Luker (MGMT/MKTG ’05) graduated
with honors from the William H. Bowen School of Law at
the University of Arkansas at Little Rock. She works for
Bullock Law Firm in Russellville.
Ashley Erin Mason (BIOL ’05) graduated from the
University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences in Little
Rock on May 16 with a Doctor of Medicine degree.
She is completing her residency work at UAMS with a
specialization in obstetrics and gynecology.
2000s
Ike Ohanson (SPH ’06) helped the Snohomish County
Explosion reach the semifinal round of the 2009
International Basketball League playoffs. Ohanson ranked
24th in the IBL in scoring (18.8 points per game) and fifth
in the league in rebounding (11.3 per game) this season.
Kenneth Warden III (M.Ed. EDLD ’06) was promoted
to chief business and community outreach officer at
Arkansas Tech University-Ozark Campus.
Ryan Cutler (MGMT/MKTG ’07) was promoted to
assistant branch manager for Arvest Bank in Clarksville.
Breanne D. Davis (SPH ’07), assistant at Blackstone
Construction, graduated from Leadership Russellville in
May. Breanne was named the outstanding leader in this
year’s Leadership Russellville class.
Rochelle Gann (ACCT ’07) was hired as staff accountant
at BKD LLP’s Little Rock office.
D. Keith Reeves (MUED ’08) is the new choral director at
Ramey Junior High School in Fort Smith.
Jonathan Webster (SOC ’08) was hired as defensive backs
coach for the football program at Southwest Mississippi
Community College.
Brittany Brunson (JOUR ’09) was promoted to coordinator
of student recruitment at Arkansas Tech-Ozark Campus.
Molly Fleming (JOUR ’09) earned a second place award
for freelance writing from the Arkansas Press Association
in its 2009 awards competition.
Amanda Grappe (ECED ’09) was named to the 2008-
09 Gulf South Conference Top 10, a list that honors the
top student-athletes in the GSC based upon athletic
achievement, academic performance and community
service. Grappe was an All-America forward for the
Arkansas Tech Golden Suns and will serve as a graduate
assistant for the Tech women’s basketball program in
2009-10.
Earnest Taylor (ELEC ENGR ’09) joined the Conway
Corporation staff as an electric systems engineer intern.
Taylor Wallner (HIST ’09) won the Fayetteville Country
Club Stroke Play Championship in June. He shot 66-65 for
a 9-under par total of 131.
THE place for all your Arkansas
Tech Gear
www.atu.edu/bookstore
Obituaries
25Summer 2009
tech Friends We’ll MissIobra Eileen Shelton (HOME EC ‘37) died May 28,
2009. She was a retired school teacher. Survivors include
her son, Dorwin Lynn Shelton; daughters, Elizabeth Sue
Ober, Janice Sloan and Glenda Burns; and sister, Bernice
Thorp. Iobra lived in Harrison. She was 92.
Julia Ann “Judy” Buerkle Roberts (‘49) died Oct. 12,
2008. She was the daughter of John G. Buerkle, the
namesake for the playing surface at Tech’s football
stadium. Survivors include her husband, Bill Roberts;
daughters Carol Starrett and Nancy Flake; and son, Bill
Roberts Jr. Judy lived in Bartlesville, Okla. She was 78.
J.D. Horn (‘56) died June 21, 2009. A veteran of the
Korean War, J.D. owned Horn’s Used Cars in Russellville
for 36 years. Survivors include his wife of 54 years,
Leota Horn; daughter, Phyllis Stone; brothers, Doise
Horn and Donovan Horn; and sisters, Yvonne Housley,
Winona Waldo, Eula Buchanon, Lela Drewry and Lura
Judd. J.D. lived in Russellville. He was 81.
B. Wayne Keene (ENGL ‘64) died Feb. 23, 2009. He
taught in the University of Tennessee at Martin English
Department from 1966-2000 and was awarded the title
of professor emeritus. Survivors include his wife, Judy
Roberts Keene; stepson, Monte Belew; brother, Manuel
Keene; and sister, Deborah Keene. Wayne lived in
Martin, Tenn. He was 71.
Gary Walker (EDU ‘72) died July 18, 2009. He was a
math teacher for 17 years and principal for 18 years
at Hartford High School. Survivors include his wife,
Vickie; sons, Brad Walker and Mark Hester; daughters,
Lori Walker, Stephanie Maddox and Amanda Rowe; and
brother, Lary Walker. Gary lived in Midland. He was 63.
Michael Looney (PARKS/REC ‘74) died June 8, 2009.
He served as a park ranger and superintendent at Lake
Dardanelle State Park. He went on to teach at Rose
State College (Okla.) for 23 years. Survivors include
his wife of 20 years, Wanelle Wilson; mother, Mary Lou
Looney; daughters Robin Franke and Mary Ward; sisters,
Barbara Norman and Dorothy Rose; and brother, Bill
Looney. Michael lived in Midwest City, Okla. He was 61.
Freddy Keith Brown (HIST/POL SCI ‘81) died June 5,
2009. Survivors include his mother, Geneva Brown;
sons, Clinton Brown and Collin Brown; daughters,
Angela Chaffin and Kelsey Brown; and brother, Kenneth
Brown. Freddy lived in Morrilton. He was 55.
Nancy Kaye Brooks (HIST/POL SCI ‘87) died Sept. 25,
2008. She worked for the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers
and the U.S. Forest Service for 30 years, beginning as
a secretary and finishing as an attorney at the Office of
Counsel with the Corps of Engineers. Survivors include
her son, Joe Hurdle; and daughters, Tammy Wallman
and Kimberly Luningham. Nancy lived in Russellville.
She was 65.
Justin Mitchell (‘99) died July 1, 2009. He was appointed
to the Arkansas Board of Workforce Education and
Career Opportunities by Gov. Mike Beebe in 2008.
Survivors include his wife, Ari Stanage-Mitchell;
daughter, Elizabeth Ann “Libby” Mitchell; mother, Ann
Davis; stepfather, Freddie Davis; and brother, Blake
DeSalvo. Justin lived in Little Rock. He was 34.
Lucille Word Cobb (ALUM) died May 29, 2009. She
worked at Brewer Drug Store in Ola from 1941-95, first
as co-owner and later as bookkeeper for her son and
daughter-in-law. Survivors include her son, Maurice
Cobb. Lucille lived in Russellville. She was 93.
Carl Lueker (ALUM) died June 15, 2009. A veteran of
World War II, Carl earned a doctorate from the University
of California at Berkeley in 1959. He spent his life in
agriculture, including stints as a livestock specialist
for the University of Arkansas and as an employee at
Winrock Farms. Carl was active in Rotary International,
the Cattleman’s Association and the Farm Bureau.
Survivors include his wife of 49 years, Aileen Lueker;
sons, Bill Lueker and Jim Lueker; and daughter, Susan
Lueker. Carl lived in Buffalo, Mo. He was 85.
Kyle Edward Snead (ALUM) died July 12, 2009.
Survivors include his mother, Barbara Snead; father,
Lewis Snead; and brother, Ryan Snead. Kyle lived in Fort
Smith. He was 24.
Charles Edward Wilson (ALUM) died May 4, 2009.
A veteran of World War II, Charles was a retired small
business owner. Survivors include his daughter, Tish
Nisbet; and sister, LaDonne Campbell. Charles lived in
Little Rock. He was 83.
Lorene Jones Moore (FMR STAFF) died June 4, 2009.
Lorene was a former dorm mother at Arkansas Tech.
Survivors include her sons, Henry Vance Moore, Jerry
Dean Moore and Dr. Larry Joe Moore; and sister, Anita
Haulmark. Lorene lived in Russellville. She was 87.
Tech Athletics
Dawson hired as tech head baseball coachDave Dawson, who guided Kansas Wesleyan University
to back-to-back Kansas Collegiate Athletic Conference
regular season baseball championships in 2008 and 2009,
was named the 17th head baseball coach in Arkansas
Tech University history on June 17.
Steve Mullins, athletic director and head football
coach at Arkansas Tech, announced the hiring via a press
release from the Arkansas Tech Athletics Department.
“We are pleased to add Dave to our athletic family,”
said Mullins. “He has built a winning program at Kansas
Wesleyan and we know he can achieve the same success
here at Arkansas Tech.”
Dawson was head coach at Kansas Wesleyan from
2006-09. He inherited a program that was 14-35 in 2005,
but within two years Dawson had the Coyotes among the
KCAC elite. His record in four years at Kansas Wesleyan
was 115-94, including a school-record 40 victories in
2009. Dawson was 71-35 in his final two years at KWU. He
was voted KCAC coach of the year in 2008 and 2009.
“First off, I would like to thank everyone on the
committee, along with Coach Mullins and Dr. (Robert C.)
Brown for allowing me with this opportunity to serve as
the head baseball coach at Arkansas Tech University,” said
Dawson. “I am extremely excited to join a fine institution
and also get the chance to coach in the best NCAA
Division II baseball conference in the country.”
A native of West Plains, Mo., Dawson earned a
Bachelor of Arts degree in physical education from Ottawa
University (Kan.) in 1996. He was a three-time All-KCAC
selection during his four-year collegiate career as a
catcher for the Braves.
Dawson put in six years as a head coach at the high
school level, first at Higbee High School (Mo.) and then at
Piper High School (Kan.).
He returned to the collegiate level as an assistant
coach at the University of St. Mary in 2004-05 — earning
a Master of Arts in education from that institution in 2005
— before heading to Kansas Wesleyan in 2006.
The Coyotes were 17-33 in his first season at KWU,
but in year two their record improved to 27-26, Kansas
Wesleyan finished third in the KCAC and went on to win
the 2007 KCAC Tournament.
Then came a 31-18 record in 2008 and a 40-17 mark
in 2009 with back-to-back regular season conference
championships. Dawson’s 2009 Kansas Wesleyan team
captured the KCAC Tournament title, the Coyotes’ second
postseason league championship in three years, and
advanced to the NAIA Tournament.
Kansas Wesleyan closed the 2009 season on a tear,
winning 26 consecutive games from April 4 and through
its first two games of the NAIA Tournament. The Coyotes
ultimately fell just one win short of a trip to the NAIA
World Series, losing to Campbellsville University 11-0 on
May 14 and 4-0 on May 15.
“To be successful in baseball it starts with pitching and
defense and that is something I’m going to stress to our
current players and also when I’m out on the recruiting
trail,” said Dawson. “I’m going to work hard and bring a lot
of energy and enthusiasm to build a quality program.”
Son of Shirley and Bruce Dawson, Dawson and his
wife, Janene, have two children — Cole (7) and Blake (4).
26 Tech Action
Thursday, Aug. 27 at Northeastern State Tahlequah, Okla. 7 p.m.Saturday, Sept. 5 Incarnate Word Russellville, Ark. 6 p.m.Thursday, Sept. 10 *at West Alabama (GSC-TV Live) Livingston, Ala. 7 p.m.Saturday, Sept. 26 *Arkansas-Monticello (Family Day) Russellville, Ark. 6 p.m.Saturday, Oct. 3 *at North Alabama Florence, Ala. 6 p.m.Saturday, Oct. 10 *Southern Arkansas Russellville, Ark. 6 p.m.Saturday, Oct. 17 *West Georgia (Homecoming) Russellville, Ark. 6 p.m.Saturday, Oct. 24 *at Henderson State Arkadelphia, Ark. 3 p.m.Saturday, Oct. 31 *Delta State (Senior Day) Russellville, Ark. 6 p.m.Saturday, Nov. 7 *at Harding Searcy, Ark. 2 p.m.
2009 Arkansas Tech Football Schedule
*Denotes Gulf South Conference game | Times are Central and are subject to change. | Home games are played at Thone Stadium at Buerkle FieldAll games broadcast in the Russellville area on KWKK 100.9 FM and around the world at www.athletics.atu.edu
Joby Hills
• Running Back
• Dean’s List Member
Alumni News
27Summer 2009
Name_________________________________________________ Tech major and year ___________________________________
(include maiden name if applicable) Graduated or attended (circle one)
Spouse’s Name_______________________________________ Tech major and year ____________________________________
(include maiden name if applicable) Graduated or attended (circle one)
Mailing address________________________________________ City__________________________ State_____ Zip __________
Telephone____________________________________________ E-mail ________________________________________
Occupation: His________________________________________________ Hers __________________________________________
News: __________________________________________________________________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
I would like to make a donation to the Arkansas Tech Alumni Association Scholarship: $__________
I would like to make a donation in honor of __________________________________________________: $__________
I would like to make a donation in memory of _________________________________________________: $__________
Please make checks payable to the Arkansas Tech Foundation and write Alumni Scholarship in the memo field of the check.
Donations may be mailed to the Arkansas Tech Foundation, P.O. Box 8820, Russellville, AR 72801
let
us
hear
from
you
mail class notes to Tech Alumni Office, 1313 N. Arkansas Ave., Russellville, AR 72801 or e-mail to [email protected].
Tech tourists visit coasts in Europe, AmericaTwenty-six individuals joined the Arkansas Tech
Alumni and Friends Travel Group on adventures to
the Mediterranean region of Europe and the Pacific
Northwest of the United States during summer 2009.
Eight individuals represented Arkansas Tech on a
12-day excursion to the Italian Lakes and Greek Islands
May 29-June 9. The trip included a seven-day cruise on
the Mediterranean Sea.
July 20-27 found the Arkansas Tech Alumni and
Friends Travel Group in the Pacific Northwest and
California. Highlights of the trip included a visit to
Redwood National Park and Fisherman’s Wharf in San
Francisco. Eighteen people participated in what was the
group’s second trip of the summer.
There is one adventure remaining for the travel
group in 2009. Members will take a 10-day tour of
Scotland beginning Sept. 14. Participants will visit
Edinburgh, St. Andrews, Loch Ness, the Isle of Skye and
many other Scottish destinations.
The Arkansas Tech Alumni and Friends Travel Group
is planning three trips for 2010 — 10 days in Hawaii
beginning Feb. 4; 10 days in the imperial cities of
Europe (Prague, Vienna, Budapest) beginning June 10;
and six days in New England beginning Nov. 30.
For more information about the Arkansas Tech
Alumni and Friends Travel Group, contact Dana
Moseley, director of gift planning, at (479) 964-0532 or
Leave a lasting memory with Tech’s brick programArkansas Tech alumni and friends will have an
opportunity during Homecoming 2009 to be among the
first people to purchase an engraved brick that will be
placed on the new plaza area outside Thone Stadium.
Representatives of the Tech Development Office will
have a brick program booth on the plaza from
3-5:30 p.m. on Saturday, Oct. 17.
For just $100, alumni and friends can purchase a
4x8 brick that will provide those who love Tech with an
opportunity to leave a permanent legacy on campus.
Each brick may be personalized with up to three
lines of text and 15 characters per line.
To learn more, call Debra Fithen at (479) 968-0400.
Tech ActionArkansas Tech UniversityAlumni AssociationAlumni HouseRussellville, AR 72801
Arkansas Tech University Alumni Association
Volume 45 No. 3
HOMECOMING REGISTRATIONName___________________________________________________________ Class Year _____________
Spouse/Guest____________________________________________________ Class Year______________
Address _________________________________________________________________________ Apt. #_______
City________________________________________ State____________ Zip Code______________
PLEASE INDICATE NUMBER ATTENDING EACH EVENT BELOW (See page 3 for more information):
Friday, October 16
_____ Homecoming Classic Golf Tournament (3-Person Scramble) Russellville Country Club, $75 per person Name Player 1 __________________ Does this person have a cart? Y or N Name Player 2 __________________ Does this person have a cart? Y or N Name Player 3 __________________ Does this person have a cart? Y or N
_____ Ladies Champagne Bingo Luncheon Lake Point Conference Center, $15 per person
_____ All Alumni & Friends Reception Russellville Country Club, $10 per person
Saturday, October 17
_____ O’Neal Teammates Breakfast Lake Point Conference Center, $10 per person
_____ Homecoming Tailgate Buffet $10 adults and $8 for children 8 and under
_____ Football Game Tickets $8 adults, $5 children and senior citizens
Make checks payable to Arkansas Tech Foundation and mail to: Alumni Office, 1313 N. Arkansas Ave., Russellville, AR 72801
Call (479) 968-0242 or e-mail [email protected] for more information.Visit www.techties.atu.edu for the latest Homecoming news.
Daytime Phone __________________________________ E-Mail Address____________________________________________________________
HOTEL ROOM
BLOCKS
HAMPTON INN(479) 858-71992304 N. Arkansas Ave. $77 Single/King; $82 Double
LA QUINTA INN(479) 967-2299111 E. Harrell Dr. $71.10 Single/King; $75.60 DoubleReservation Deadline: Sept. 30
LAKE POINT CONFERENCE CTR.(479) 356-6244 (ask for Alison)61 Lake Point Ln.$65 Single/$75 Double
Please Put an ‘X’ by the reunions you plan on attending during the Homecoming Tailgate from 3-5:30 p.m. on Saturday, Oct. 17:
___ Football ___ Volleyball ___ Boxing ___ Cross Country/Track ___ Golden Girls ___ Cheerleaders ___ Athena Troop ___ Homecoming Royalty
___ College of Business ___ 1930s ___ 1940s ___ 1950s ___ 1960s ___ 1970s ___ 1980s ___ 1990s ___ 2000s