Issuu

2018

AEOLIAN

The Magazine of Georgia Southwestern State University for Alumni and Friends

Heather Simpson

Educational

Excellence

FROM THE PRESIDENT’s DESK |

ell into my second year as president of Georgia Southwestern State University, we are gaining momentum. Students are progressing in their majors more efficiently than ever before, state and privately-funded construction projects are becoming a reality rather than simply being on the horizon, and our branding development campaign is now complete. We are taking tomorrow by storm! Georgia Southwestern’s history is well established, storied, and you are the author. The strides we are making now are thanks to the reputation you helped build. In order for the story to continue and the momentum to endure, we need you to stay plugged in – now more than ever. Tell your friends about GSW, encourage your children and family members to apply for admission, respond to inquiries for feedback, and when the time comes, be willing to give back. This issue of the Aeolian is bigger than usual, largely because of how much activity has taken place over the last year. We hope you enjoy what you read and gain a sense of pride because of the good work from our student body and the great accomplishment from your GSW alumni family. If you have an idea for content in a future issue, please let us know. There is nothing we would rather do than share how you have taken your career by storm, taken your community by storm and taken tomorrow by storm!

Neal Weaver President

IT’S TIME TO SHOW YOUR CANES SPIRIT!

SHOP THE GSW Bookstore for all the latest Georgia Southwestern Alumni merchandise.

Visit gswbookstore.com or on campus inside the Marshall Student Center.

2018

AEOLIAN

The Aeolian is published by the Department of University Relations at Georgia Southwestern State University. The name Aeolian is derived from Aeolus, who was appointed by the mythological god Zeus to be the keeper of the winds – both to calm and to arouse them. He was the King of the Aeolian Islands. Continuing its mission begun in 1906, Georgia Southwestern State University serves traditional and non-traditional students across the state, the nation and the world.

Aeolian

800 Georgia Southwestern State University Dr. Americus, Georgia 31709 aeolian@gsw.edu www.gsw.edu/News President Neal Weaver, Ph.D. Director of Marketing and Communications Chelsea Collins Public Relations Assistant Sydney Scott ‘17 Alumni Affairs Specialist Angela Smith (as of Nov. 2018) GSW Foundation Executive Director Reda Rowell Annual Giving Kim Comer ’90, ’10 Editors Chelsea Collins Sydney Scott Contributing Authors Anita Theiss ’04, ‘06 Sunni Zemblowski ‘12 Chelsea Collins Sydney Scott Photo Credits David Parks Photography Sydney Scott Chelsea Collins Special Thanks Stephen Snyder ’04 ‘10 Karen Holloway ’78 (retired) Layout & Graphic Design Picante Creative Printer Bulldog Print + Design Cover image by Chelsea Collins: Heather (Burgess) Simpson, a GSW alumna from the School of Education, won the Presidential Award for Excellence in Mathematics and Science Teaching, the nation’s highest honor given by the government to a math/science teacher. See pg. 14 for full story.

IN THIS ISSUE New Branding & Logo 3 Academic Features 4 GSW Gets a Campus Facelift 6 Alumni in the News 10 Cover Story 14 Jaha Dukureh 20 Presidential Investiture Week 22

Athletics Features 24 Class Notes 26 Class of 1968 – 31 Where are they now? 2017 Outstanding 33 Alumni Awards Family Tradition 36 Alumni Scene 38

2017 Giving 42 Athletic Upgrades 45 Mix & Mingle 46 Travel Tours 47 1906 Society 48

ALUMNI PRESIDENT’s LETTER |

efore taking over as president of the GSW Alumni Association, I must admit I had a totally different perspective on what it meant to be an alum. Back in the 70’s when I attended GSW, students went to classes on campus, listened to lectures in classrooms and showed up to take their tests with their classmates. But as Bob Dylan wrote, “The times they are a-changing.” The internet has changed all that. Now you can take classes and graduate, all without ever setting foot on campus. Some may say that makes online students less of alumni than conventional, on-campus students. I would have to disagree. Here is what changed my perspective about our online alumni. Back in the spring when I was getting ready to speak at graduation, I met a lady, about 45 years old, who was about to graduate. She spoke with such excitement about how her family and her children were all there to watch her graduate. I could hear the pride in her voice as she explained that she was an online student, and this was her first time on campus. If it had not been for the opportunity to take classes online, as an older student, she would never have realized her dream of earning a degree Ricky Arnold, Class of ‘76 and becoming an alumnus of GSW. Next, I met Jaha Dukureh, another GSW online graduate. She was recently nominated for a 2018 Nobel Peace Prize, and spoke at the Griffin Bell Convocation as part of President Neal Weaver’s Investiture celebrations. In her speech, Jaha explained how her mission to end female genital mutilation in The Gambia all began. During the time they were filming her documentary in Africa, she was an online student at GSW working on her Master’s in Business. She explained how they would have to stop filming so she could take a test. She would sit in hallways of hotels late at night, just so she could get an internet connection to turn in assignments or email professors. She was just as engaged with her teachers and the educational process as conventional students, if not more. Jaha also shared it was the Excel classes and statistics courses she had taken at GSW that gave her the skills she needed to set up and run her own foundation. Whether online or on-campus, an education from Georgia Southwestern can make a difference. And you can help make a difference in the lives of future students by giving back to the school that has given you so much. The Alumni Association has worked hard over the last year, and we are excited we have been able to increase and expand the endowed scholarship program. We have given more scholarships than ever to deserving students! So, yes, “the times they are a-changing.” You can be a part of that change and make a difference for future alumni. By enabling others to attend GSW, whether online or on-campus, that’s the way that we can make a real difference.

Ricky Arnold, Class of ‘76

President GSW Alumni Association

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GSW BY THE NUMBERS

ONE OF THE BEST online colleges (SR Education Group)

1 BEST

online college for Bachelor’s in Human Resources (guidetoonlineschools.com)

2 BEST

online Master’s programs in Computer Science (gradsource.com)

7 MOST

affordable college in Georgia (College Affordability Guide)

9 BEST

online college in Georgia (OnlineColleges.com)

17:1

student-teacher ratio

60+

certified programs

$89 MILLION economic impact on region

250

scenic acres

GSW “Takes Tomorrow by Storm” with first comprehensive branding campaign or the first time in its history, Georgia Southwestern launched a comprehensive branding campaign – “Take Tomorrow by Storm” – complete with a fresh new logo. Capturing the power of the GSW brand story was no small task. In partnership with the ad agency Tailfin out of Atlanta, GSW’s branding development process gathered wide-ranging research which included feedback from students, faculty, staff, alumni and members of the community through focus groups, phone interviews and online surveys. In total, more than 1,300 members of the GSW community contributed, helping develop the University’s new brand story. We heard what makes us powerful, inspiring and uniquely attractive to people in our backyard and across the globe. Through the branding process, we uncovered several common threads and key story elements that detail what makes GSW unique. “I liked this process because it came from our people,” said GSW President Neal Weaver, Ph.D. “We talked to our students, faculty, staff, alumni and community members and they told us ‘this is who you are.’ From their feedback came our message – we are going to ‘Take Tomorrow by Storm.’ We are looking forward to the rollout of our new message, and we hope you see it in your area.” The research for the branding development process began in early 2018. During the summer, a handful of concepts were presented to GSW and tested with constituent groups. The brand launch timing was strategically selected to coincide with the Presidential Investiture Week festivities. To complement the new brand story, GSW’s new logo and design elements

are bold and contemporary, and they’re built to work seamlessly across a variety of digital and traditional applications. These elements work together to simplify and amplify the brand messages. Leading the process for GSW were Chelsea Collins, director of marketing and communications, and Stephen Snyder, special assistant to the president for advancement. “This is an exciting time for the GSW community, and we are thrilled to finally share it,” Collins stated. “I encourage everyone to help us spread our story. There are many ways to get involved and show pride for this institution work it into everyday conversations, attend our events, share our social media posts, wear the new merchandise.” “Developing a new mantra with a comprehensive approach was a big, necessary step for GSW,” said Snyder. “We believe the message – ‘Take Tomorrow by Storm’ – will energize our students, and we are confident they will be eager to share it with their friends. We also believe our alumni will wear it with pride.” The first phase of the brand launch is on campus and in the local community. In the weeks and months to come, GSW will release more robust and wideranging media outreach to deliver the new brand messaging with all target audiences. AEOLIAN MAGAZINE 2018 | 3

CAMPUS UPD College Of Nursing And Health Sciences

College of Arts and Sciences

LONG-TERM CARE MANAGEMENT

KENNEDY CENTER AMERICAN COLLEGE THEATER FESTIVAL

The newly reorganized College of Nursing and Health Sciences is offering a new Bachelor of Science in LongTerm Care Management (LTCM), the first program of its kind in the nation. Associate Dean Leisa Easom, Ph.D., explained that a better prepared workforce is needed to care for our nation’s aging and disabled populations. The LTCM degree, offered both online and the classroom, will prepare graduates to assist patients and families to connect with community resources, transition from hospital to home, and manage the care of residents in an institutional setting. As a four year interdisciplinary degree, students will take courses from a variety of disciplines – nursing, caregiving, psychology, sociology, and business. They will become knowledgeable in palliative care, hospice, gerontology, family issues, caregiving support, counseling, health promotion, business management, health funding, and cultural competency.

The Department of Theater, Communication and Media Arts hosted the Kennedy Center American College Theater Festival (KCACTF) Region IV’s 50th anniversary festival in February 2018. The festival brought over 1,000 students, faculty, guest artists and presenters from colleges and universities across the ten-state region to GSW’s campus. Department Chair and Professor Jeffrey Green noted festivals such as KCACTF heighten the visibility of GSW, its theater program and the Americus community across the multi-state southern region. The festival also gives students the opportunity to participate in an industry conference and compete in different areas. In all, over 60 GSW students participated in this year’s festival.

College Of Education

School of Computing and Mathematics

AUTISM EDUCATION ENDORSEMENT

MATHEMATICS TOURNAMENTS

The School of Education is offering a new post-Baccalaureate Autism Education Endorsement program for certified teachers. Dean and Associate Professor Rachel Abbott, Ph.D., noted that with the increase in the number of children diagnosed with autism or on the autism spectrum, it is essential for educators to have the skills and knowledge to meet the needs of children with autism spectrum disorder. The online program consists of three courses that focus on the identification of characteristics, classroom and behavioral strategies, and planning for instruction for individuals on the autism spectrum. Upon successful completion of the program, certified teachers will apply for the autism education endorsement add-on to their Georgia teaching certificate.

This spring, the School of Computing and Mathematics hosted its 44th Jay Cliett and Bill Kipp High School Mathematics Tournament (formerly the High School Mathematics Tournament). The tournament was the first named in honor of Professor Emeritus Bill Kipp, Ph.D., and the late Professor Emeritus Jay Cliett, Ph.D. Both Kipp and Cliett have been instrumental to the success of the tournament since its inception in 1974. This year’s event brought over 500 high school students from across the state to GSW’s campus. Held a month later, the Junior Mathematics Tournament had a large turnout as well, with over 2,500 student, parents and faculty from 59 schools attending.

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ATES School of Business Administration

JAHA DUKUREH Jaha Dukureh, 2018 Nobel Peace Prize nominee and GSW alumna, visited campus in October 2018 as the speaker for the annual Griffin Bell Convocation and Distinguished Lecture Series. Dukureh was nominated for the prestigious Nobel Peace Prize for her work towards ending female genital mutilation (FGM) and child marriage in her home country of The Gambia in West Africa and across the world. Dukureh earned her bachelor’s degree in business administration and management online at GSW in 2013. That same year, she founded the non-profit Safe Hands for Girls, which provides support for survivors of FGM and advocates to end FGM practices. She was then part of the movement that successfully banned FGM in The Gambia in 2015. During her time on campus, Dukureh met with students, faculty, staff, members of the community and fellow GSW alumni former President Jimmy Carter and former First Lady Rosalynn Carter.

MAULDIN & JENKINS CLASSROOM The School of Business Administration and the Georgia Southwestern Foundation recently unveiled the newly renovated Mauldin & Jenkins classroom in the Business, History and Political Science (BHP) Building. With support from Mauldin & Jenkins, an accounting firm based in Atlanta, BHP 205 was outfitted with state-of-the-art technology requested by the accounting faculty. The renovation also included new flooring, paint, ceiling and a Mauldin & Jenkins mural on one wall.

GSW secures $3.4 million in Georgia state budget for building renovation In May 2018, GSW announced the inclusion of $3.4 million in Georgia’s Fiscal Year 2019 (FY19) budget to fund the renovation of the Academic Center for Excellence (ACE), GSW’s primary advisement building. The legislative delegation that represents the region where GSW resides (Sen. Freddie Powell Sims, Sen. Greg Kirk, Rep. Bill McGowan and Rep. Ed Rynders) worked diligently to make sure this project was included in the final version of the FY19 budget. “More than 50 percent of GSW students are first generation college students,” noted President Weaver. “The renovation of the ACE Building, which includes accessibility improvements, will vastly enhance our ability to help students succeed academically. It also communicates to our students that we care about their future.” The scope of the ACE Building project will include modernizing the HVAC system, remodeling the interior to meet the current needs of students, and construction of two elevator shafts – one for the ACE Building and one for the adjacent English Building. These are currently the only two structures in use on campus that do not have upper floor handicap access.

AEOLIAN MAGAZINE 2018 | 5

CAMPUS UPDATES |

GSW GETS A CAMPUS FACELIFT

Outdoor Basketball Court

Major improvements have been made to Georgia Southwestern’s campus over the past year with numerous ongoing projects that both accelerate academic success and contribute to the overall student life experience.

Education Lobby An outdoor basketball court was installed in Fall 2018 to enhance the campus experience for students with funds provided by the Student Government Association. The first game played on the new court was C-A-N-E-S with GSW President Neal Weaver and a special selected group of students.

Cafeteria

The School of Education received new carpet and furniture in the downstairs lobby and upstairs lounging areas.

Biology Lab

The Science Building underwent a complete biology lab renovation, including state-of-the-art equipment, with funds from the GSW Foundation.

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The cafeteria received upgraded pendant lights, new seating with charging stations, a fresh paint job, tile flooring, and chilling stations to keep the food fresh longer. Additionally, a wall mural was installed reflecting the new campaign message, Take Tomorrow By Storm.

Jimmy Carter Etching

Mauldin & Jenkins Classroom

Former President Jimmy Carter’s signature etching was installed in GSW’s Presidential Plaza in 2018. The new etching, made at the 2017 Plaza dedication ceremony, mirrors the one Carter made in the wet cement of the new Wheatley Building driveway as a GSW student in 1942. The two etchings - made 75 years apart - now sit opposite each other across the Plaza.

An accounting classroom in the School of Business Administration was recently renovated thanks to a generous donation from Mauldin & Jenkins, an accounting firm based in Atlanta.

Soccer Field Lighting

New field lighting was installed at the GSW soccer field in early Fall 2018 to allow for night games and greater campus and community attendance.

Harold Isaacs Classroom

MSC Hallway

The hallway windows in the Marshall Student Center were updated with new screen tinting to reflect GSW’s new campaign message, Take Tomorrow By Storm.

Other projects include: •

New arena lights and a sound system inside the Storm Dome

•

Updated furniture in the Oaks I residence hall multipurpose rooms

A history classroom in the Department of History and Political Science was renovated in honor of Dr. Harold Isaacs, retired long-time history professor, with funds left to the University before his passing.

AEOLIAN MAGAZINE 2018 | 7

CAMPUS UPDATES |

GSW named

COMMUNITY PARTNER OF THE YEAR

by Sumter County Chamber of Commerce

(L-R) Sumter County Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors member Faith Pinnell, GSW President Neal Weaver, SGTC Special Assistant to the President Don Smith, Chamber Board of Directors Chair Rhett Simmons. Photo by Shane Peaster, South Georgia Technical College

t the 98th Annual Sumter County Chamber of Commerce Awards Celebration, GSW received the Community Partner of the Year award alongside South Georgia Technical College (SGTC). The Chamber highlighted GSW’s $89 million economic impact on the Sumter County region, the 2,300 alumni who reside and work in the community, and the educational programs on campus that enrich the community. GSW President Neal Weaver and SGTC Assistant to the President Don Smith accepted the award for their respective institutions. “We are honored to receive this award from the Chamber of Commerce and are thankful for their ongoing support,” said Weaver. “The partnership between the Americus community and GSW is critical to the university’s success.”

Smith and Boren brought on as new vice presidents GSW welcomed two new Vice Presidents on July 1, 2018. Suzanne

Smith, Ph. D., is the new Provost and Vice President for Academic Affairs (VPAA). Smith comes to GSW from Washington State University Vancouver (WSUV) where she was employed for over 20 years. As the new provost and VPAA, Smith is responsible for the instructional program of the university and the daily administration of academic affairs for both faculty and students. She serves as the chief academic officer for the university, reporting to GSW President Neal Weaver. Working closely with the president and an extensive group of campus colleagues, she guides strategic planning and policy development as well as promote campus-wide academic initiatives. Laura Boren, Ph. D., also joined GSW on July 1 as Vice President of the newly-formed Division of Student Engagement and Success (VPSES). Boren comes to GSW from Tarleton State University, part of the Texas A&M University System, located in Stephenville, Texas, where she served as vice president for Student Affairs. Previously, Boren served as vice president for Student Affairs at Northeastern State University in Tahlequah, OK. As the VPSES, Boren is responsible for providing innovative and strategic leadership, as well as, administrative direction for student engagement and retention priorities across institutional lines. Reporting to President Neal Weaver, she serves as the chief student affairs and retention officer at the institution.

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2017-2018 Faculty and Staff Awards FACULTY EMERITI

Dr. Catalina Casura receives plaque from GSW Alumni Association President Ricky Arnold.

Dr. Brian Adler, Vice President Emeritus Dr. Brian Heshizer, Professor Emeritus Dr. J. Thomas Wright, Professor Emeritus of Biology (Posthumously) FACULTY AND STAFF RECOGNITION FOR YEARS OF SERVICE: 5, 10 and 15 5 YEARS Shayne Allegood Robert Bennett Catalina Casaru Darcy Donaldson Mark Grimes Heather Kemp Michael Moir Michele Ragsdale Jayme Roseth-Penn Reda Rowell Sammy Stone 10 YEARS Kelly Britsky Genie Bryan Leisa Easom Kailash Ghimire Debbie Hobgood Chuck Huffman Cecilia Maldonado Keith Michlig Dongwen Qi Warren Russ Brian Smith Morris Smith Ru Story-Huffman Teresa Teasley Jamison Tyler John Wilson Keaton Wynn

15 YEARS Queen Brown April Dodson Elizabeth Gurnack Stephanie Harvey Brian Heshizer Chuck Wells

PROFESSOR OF THE YEAR Dr. Catalina Casaru, Assistant Professor of Exercise Science from the College of Nursing and Health Sciences, was named the 2018 Professor of the Year. Voted on by the students, Casura was recognized at the annual University Honors and Recognition Ceremony on April 16, 2018. FACULTY AND STAFF EXCELLENCE AWARDS

FACULTY AND STAFF RECOGNITION FOR YEARS OF SERVICE: 20, 25 and 40 20 YEARS – Plaque James Edmonds Karen Holloway Boris Peltsverger Bob Slenker Amy Wise 25 YEARS – Plaque Polly Conger Mary Cooper Alma Keita 40 YEARS – Plaque Deborah Standridge

2018 Staff Excellence in Advising Award: LaToya Stackhouse 2018 Staff Excellence in Service Award: Kina Davis 2018 Faculty Excellence in Scholarship Award: Dr. Carol Bishop 2018 Faculty Excellence in Advising Award: Dr. Ellen Cotter 2018 Faculty Excellence in Service Award: Dr. Stephanie Harvey 2018 Faculty Excellence and Commitment to Teaching Award: Dr. Judy Orton Grissett STUDENT GOVERNMENT ASSOCIATION AWARDS Oris Bryant Staff Member of the Year: Diane Trice Faculty Member of the Year: Ru Story-Huffman

Donor-Scholar Luncheon The Annual Donor-Scholar Luncheon was held on March 8, 2018 where current scholarship recipients joined their GSW donors. The luncheon featured student speakers and scholarship recipients Mitchell Holloway, a senior special education major and baseball player; Amelia Cornell, a senior marketing major; and Shayan Kalladanthyil, a senior nursing major.

AEOLIAN MAGAZINE 2018 | 9

alumni in the Alan Arnett, a former GSW standout basketball

player who graduated in 2014 with a bachelor’s degree in psychology from the College of Arts and Sciences, took his talents overseas in 2015 to play in a professional Slovakian basketball league. During the 2015-16 season, Arnett helped his team win the league title and earned Eurobasket.com’s All-Slovakian 1.Liga Player of the Year award. He also had a memorable 2017-18 season with the BC Yambol basketball team in Yambol, Bulgaria, winning the league’s scoring title and Most Valuable Player award. In October 2018, Arnett signed with BC Cherkaski Mavpy, a Ukrainian professional basketball club. (Source: Kokomo Tribune, Sept. 20, 2015, March 9, 2016, Oct. 10, 2017; realgm.com)

Heather Ashberry, a 2010 GSW graduate with a degree in art from the College of Arts and Sciences, recently started her own home decor and fashion accessory company, Beatrice Wormwood Ink, to add to her already full slate of professional projects and business ventures. Ambitious and multitalented, Ashberry is also a trained makeup artist for high-profile gigs like music videos, TV shows and fashion events. In addition, she works as a seamstress for Thomasville-based SouthLife Supply Co., which specializes in high-quality leather goods. (Source: Albany Herald, May 19, 2018)

K. Scott Collins, CPA, owner of Collins/Moody + Company PC of Athens, has been elected chair of The Georgia Society of Certified Public Accountants (GSCPA) Board of Directors for the 2018-19 fiscal year. Collins graduated from GSW in 1979 with a Bachelor of Science in accounting from the School of Business Administration. A 38-year member of GSCPA, Collins has served as president of the organization’s educational foundation and as a former chair of GSCPA’s Bylaws and Budget committees. He also has served on the board and as president and treasurer of the Sandy Creek Nature Center, and next year will serve as president of the Sons of the American Revolution. (Source: prurgent.com, Aug. 16, 2018; The Georgia Society of Certified Public Accountants)

1 0 | G SW. E D U

news Guy A. Daughtrey,

Andrew W. Pope, who graduated from GSW

who in 1998 earned a bachelor’s degree in business from the GSW School of Business Administration, has been appointed to the state board for the Southern Georgia Regional Commission, which helps develop, promote and provide comprehensive planning and development services that seek to make Georgia communities better places in which to live and work. An energy systems auditor for Georgia Power, Daughtrey has worked for Southern Company for more than 30 years, serves as chairman of the board of directors for AgGeorgia Farm Credit and sits on the board of directors for South Central Primary Care Center. He previously sat on the Cook County Planning and Zoning Board and the board of directors for Wiregrass Georgia Technical College.

in 1996 with a degree in political science and history from the College of Arts and Sciences, was appointed as solicitor general of Thomas County, Ga., in May 2018. The owner and managing attorney of Andrew W. Pope PC in Thomasville, Pope earned a law degree from the Cumberland School of Law at Samford University and previously served as solicitor general of Thomas County from 2006-2012. (Source: STL.News, May 10, 2018; Thomasville TimesEnterprise, May 19, 2018)

(Source: Middle Georgia CEO, July 30, 2018; Southern Georgia Regional Commission)

Michael Dykes, MBA, BSN, RN, has been named director of emergency services for Coliseum Health System. A graduate of GSW with an Associate of Science degree in nursing from the School of Nursing, Dykes has 18 years of experience in critical care and emergency nursing. He has been with Coliseum Health System for more than six years, serving most recently as director of the emergency department at Coliseum Northside Hospital. In addition to his nursing degree, he also earned a Bachelor of Science in nursing from Middle Georgia State University and a Master of Business Administration from Ohio Christian University. (Source: Middle Georgia CEO, July 23, 2018)

State Rep. Alan Powell, who earned a bachelor’s degree in political science from GSW College of Arts and Sciences in 1973, was recently appointed by Gov. Nathan Deal to the Board of Homeland Security, which advises the governor on a wide range of security-related issues. Representing the citizens of District 32, which includes Franklin, Hart and Madison counties, Powell currently serves as the chairman of public safety and homeland security. He also serves on the Appropriations Subcommittee on Public Safety, as well as the Governmental Affairs, Motor Vehicles, Regulated Industries, Rules and Small Business Development committees. (Source: Georgia House of Representatives Facebook page, Sept. 14, 2018)

AEOLIAN MAGAZINE 2018 | 11

ALUMNI IN THE NEWS |

Kanese Rachel,

Ryan Roney, who graduated from GSW in 2011

a social studies teacher at Lincoln Elementary Magnet School in Albany, Ga., was named 2018 Teacher of the Year by the Dougherty County School System (DCSS). Rachel graduated from GSW in 2008 with a master’s degree in early childhood education and a 2010 specialist degree in education from the School of Education, after earning her bachelor’s degree in early childhood education from Albany State University. As the DCSS awardee, Rachel will represent the district in the state’s Teacher of the Year competition.

with a Bachelor of Science degree in geology from the College of Arts and Sciences, was hired as curator for Tellus Science Museum in Cartersville, Ga., in early 2018. Overseeing the more than 12,000 items at the museum, which includes major exhibits in a number of scientific areas, Roney is also responsible for seeking out new material and guiding the future growth of the collection. In addition to his degree from GSW, he holds a Bachelor of Arts in Spanish from the University of West Georgia and a Master of Science in geology from the University of Tennessee, Knoxville (UTK). He is also a Ph.D. candidate at UTK.

(Source: Albany Herald, April 15, 2018)

(Source: The Daily Tribune News, Aug. 11, 2018)

Adam Ruh, who

Tomekia Reed, a 2004 GSW graduate who earned her bachelor’s degree in exercise science and wellness education from the School of Education, has been named head women’s basketball coach at Jackson State University in Jackson, Miss. A former standout GSW basketball player who was named the team’s most valuable player in 2003, Reed began her coaching career as assistant women’s basketball coach and recruiter at South Georgia Technical College. She later served as Jackson State’s women’s basketball recruiting coordinator, followed by assistant coaching stops at Southern Miss, Louisiana Tech, Louisiana-Lafayette and the University of New Orleans. Her most recent position was a successful three-year stint as women’s basketball coach at Hinds Community College, during which she led the team to the 2017 NJCAA Region 23 title game. (Source: Albany Herald, April 18, 2018)

1 2 | G SW. E D U

graduated from GSW cum laude in 2005 with a Bachelor of Science in marketing from the School of Business Administration, was selected as one of the resident inspectors at the Oconee nuclear power plant near Seneca, S.C. Ruh also holds a Bachelor of Science in mechanical engineering from Georgia Tech and a Master of Engineering degree from Old Dominion University. Since 2014, he has served as a Nuclear Regulatory Commission resident inspector at the Browns Ferry nuclear plant in Alabama. Before joining the agency, Ruh served as a U.S. Navy civilian engineer for seven years. (Source: NRC News, Office of Public Affairs, Region II, June 25, 2018)

| ALUMNI IN THE NEWS

ALBANY UNDER 40 2018 AWARDS

Three GSW graduates were recently recognized as finalists for the Albany Under 40 Awards, which were sponsored by the Albany Area Chamber of Commerce. Jodie Kretzer, who earned a bachelor’s in business administration in 2014 and a master’s in business administration in 2016 from the School of Business Administration, was nominated in the Technology category. Kanese Rachel, who graduated in 2008 with a master’s degree in early childhood education and a 2010 specialist degree in education from the School of Education, was nominated in the Youth & Education category. Joseph Wade, who earned his degree in marketing from the School of Business Administration in 2008, was nominated in the Manufacturing, Service Industries, Energy & Architecture category. Congratulations to all the nominees!

JODIE KRETZER

KANESE RACHEL

JOSEPH WADE JR.

ALBANY STATE UNIVERSITY

DOUGHERTY COUNTY SCHOOL SYSTEM

PFIZER

AEOLIAN MAGAZINE 2018 | 13

cover story |

Heather is pictured with Michael Kratsios, Deputy U.S. Chief Technology Officer, and Dr. France Cordova, Director of the National Science Foundation.

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Educational

Excellence BY ANITA THEISS

ne of Georgia Southwestern’s own was recently honored with the Presidential Award for Excellence in Mathematics and Science Teaching. Heather (Burgess) Simpson, a 2007 magna cum laude graduate of GSW’s School of Education, is currently a Kindergarten teacher at Hueytown Elementary in Hueytown, Alabama just outside of Birmingham. Simpson received the Presidential Award for Excellence in Mathematics and Science Teaching (also known as PAEMST) in June for her outstanding work in teaching mathematics to her students. As one of only 104 teachers nationwide to receive this award, Simpson received a certificate signed by the President of the United States and $10,000 from the National Science Foundation. Another perk of the award was a trip to Washington, D.C. to attend several recognized events and professional development opportunities. She referred to the award events as “breathtaking,” and she loved the time she got to spend at the Smithsonian National Portrait Gallery and the White House. Since she had not been to our nation’s capital since middle school, she was able to see it all with a new perspective. Another bonus of the trip was gaining the friendships of dozens of fellow educators from all over the country with whom she has remained in contact.

AEOLIAN MAGAZINE 2018 | 15

cover story |

Simpson says that her view of teaching mathematics has changed since she started teaching 11 years ago at Sumter County Primary School. “As a kindergarten teacher, I get to teach all subjects! When I began teaching, my favorite thing to teach was reading. However, as I have grown as an educator and learned more about STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math) education and the way children conceptualize numbers and develop number sense, I absolutely love to teach math! Math instruction is no longer about teaching procedures or memorizing facts... it’s about understanding numbers and their relationships to each other! We can teach children to think like a mathematician, to use strategies that make sense to them, to model with mathematics, and to think critically,” says Simpson. Though many would say Simpson is a natural in the classroom, she credits

1 6 | G SW. E D U

her time at GSW (as well as her time earning her Master’s degree in Early Childhood Education and Specialist degree in teacher leadership from the University of Alabama at Birmingham) for helping her earn such a prestigious award and gain recognition as being a leader in the education field. Referring to GSW’s School of Education as “family,” Simpson says that her time as a Hurricane gave her many opportunities to cultivate her leadership skills by working in Admissions, as a board member for the Orientation Team, and serving in various positions through the Baptist Student Union (now known as the Baptist Collegiate Ministries). When asked about her biggest takeaway from her education classes, she stated, “A specific quote I remember from class was that instead of teaching us to ‘make spaghetti,’ our teaching professors would help us ‘learn to cook!’ What the professor meant by that was they were teaching us how to be an effective educator, not just pick up a teacher’s manual. To be an effective educator you not only have to know the content you teach, but you also have to know your students (their strengths and struggles, their preferences, their circumstances that may serve as barriers, etc.). And just like a good chef tastes and seasons as they cook, good teachers are continuously assessing the needs of their students and tweaking their instruction to fit those needs.” As far as GSW staff, Simpson claims that the former Dean of the School of Education Dr. Lettie Watford left a lasting impression on her, in

Connect with your students. Make sure that when they leave for the day, they know without a doubt that you care for them.

spite of the fact that she never took a class under Dr. Watford. Simpson said Dr. Watford, “set the tone that we were a family with a substantial and significant mission. She impressed on us that we were about to embark on a career of immense importance. Though teaching can be challenging and exhausting at times, Dr. Watford’s kind words of encouragement and wisdom were always present!” While GSW equipped Simpson to lead in the classroom, she says she has wanted to be a teacher ever since she was a teenager when she taught swim lessons. (Simpson grew up swimming for the Americus Blue Tide and was a member of the Southland Academy swim team in high school.) Her love of teaching is evident to all who enter her classroom as they observe her interacting with her students, coming down to their level to sit on the floor with them and encouraging them. She is known for treating her students with respect and always modeling kindness. When asked what they love about Mrs. Simpson, her young students say “she’s nice, she gives me hugs, she reads stories to us, and she moves my clip up” which is Kindergarten-speak for “she models forgiveness and gives me second chances because she knows that sometimes we make mistakes.” Also present in Mrs. Simpson’s classroom are her strong classroom management style and her sacrificial nature; her students always come first. Former Hueytown Elementary School principal Angela Watkins has this to say, “Mrs. Simpson is a good listener, communicator and is extremely kind to all she encounters. On top of all of those characteristics she is extremely knowledgeAEOLIAN MAGAZINE 2018 | 17

cover story |

able in her content and what children need to succeed.” When asked what she enjoys about teaching, Simpson doesn’t hesitate to respond that one of her favorite things about working with her students is watching her students set goals and then helping them work toward achieving those goals. And Simpson’s contributions toward education don’t stop in the classroom. She leads professional development sessions at the school, district, and state levels. She works as a trainer for the Alabama Math, Science, and Technology Initiative, serves as the Grade Level Chairperson, and is a member of Hueytown Elementary School’s Lighthouse Team. As if all of that weren’t enough,

Photo credit: Leigh-Anne Millican

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Photo credit: Leigh-Anne Millican

When asked what they love about Mrs. Simpson, her young students say:

She’s nice, she gives me hugs, she reads stories to us, and she moves my clip up” which is Kindergarten-speak for “she models forgiveness and gives me second chances because she knows that sometimes we make mistakes.

winning the PAEMST has opened even more doors for her. Since receiving the award, she has been asked to present at a state-wide assessment and grading conference on standards-based assessment, and she was chosen to serve on a regional in-service board for the state of Alabama. Simpson knows the importance of staying grounded as a teacher. She says she always keeps perspective. She states, “If something doesn’t go as planned or a lesson crashes and burns today, I know that I can start over tomorrow.” And as many teachers do, she relies heavily on her fellow teachers who work as a team to plan and execute lessons. Simpson also owes a bit of her personal life to GSW as well, as she met her husband Micah Simpson there. A GSW accounting alum, Micah went on to attend Beeson Divinity School at Samford University which led to their move to Alabama after their marriage in 2008. Micah is a chaplain at Brother Bryan, a mission in downtown Birmingham, and is self-employed in glassblowing and fine woodworking. Heather and Micah have two young boys, Daniel, a kindergartener at Hueytown Elementary, and Nathan who is one year old. While Simpson’s time in the classroom has only just begun, she has some words of wisdom and encouragement for future educators: Buckle up! She says, “You have signed up for a profession that will challenge you physically, mentally,

and emotionally... but it’s worth it! Your work will have a lasting impact on this world. Connect with your students. Make sure that when they leave for the day, they know without a doubt that you care for them.” Years from now, when her trip to Washington, D.C. and her Presidential Award are just a memory, there is no doubt that Mrs. Simpson will have countless students who can say she made them feel smart, capable, and loved. And for Heather Simpson, that is the real award.

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Jaha Dukureh

FEATURE story |

2018 Nobel Peace Prize nominee and GSW alumna, speaks at annual lecture series on GSW’s campus

Photo credit: David Parks Photography

aha Dukureh, 2018 Nobel Peace Prize nominee and GSW alumna, delivered the annual Griffin Bell Convocation and Distinguished Lecture at GSW on Wednesday, October 3, 2018 during Presidential Investiture Week. Earlier this year, Dukureh was nominated for the prestigious Nobel Peace Prize for her work towards ending female genital mutilation (FGM) and child marriage in her home country of The Gambia in West Africa and across the world. Dukureh was herself a victim of FGM at just one week old. Her arranged marriage to an unknown older man at age 15 brought her to New York City. After two months, Dukureh was able to leave her husband and continue her education in the U.S., where she became a naturalized U.S. citizen in 2015. Dukureh earned her bachelor’s degree in business administration and management online at GSW in 2013. That same year, she founded the non-profit organization Safe Hands for Girls, which provides support for survivors of FGM and

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While on campus, Jaha met with fellow GSW alums former President Jimmy Carter and former First Lady Rosalynn Carter.

advocates for an end to FGM practices. She was then part of the movement that successfully banned FGM in The Gambia in 2015, a journey chronicled in the 2017 documentary “Jaha’s Promise.” “We are extremely honored to have Jaha on campus to share her experiences with activism and her thoughts on leadership,” said GSW President Neal Weaver in the introduction. During her lecture, Jaha told GSW students, “You are never too young to make a difference. If you see something wrong in this world, stand up for it. It’s our responsibility to make sure we don’t pass this along to the next generation. My biggest advice to you is to believe in yourself and use your voice.” Jaha went on to thank GSW for allowing her the opportunity to come and share her story, and America for giving her a place to call home. “Because of this country, I was able to get an education. This country allowed me to be brave and think for myself.” Following the Convocation, Jaha had a private meeting with fellow GSW alums, former President Jimmy Carter and former First Lady Rosalynn Carter. The Bell Lecture Series, which brings notable individuals and outstanding alumni to campus to share their experiences, is made possible through a gift from the late Griffin B. Bell, GSW alumnus and former U.S. attorney general. AEOLIAN MAGAZINE 2018 | 21

INVESTITURE PRESIDENTIAL INVESTITURE WEEK

October 1-5, 2018

Dr. Neal Weaver was inaugurated as GSW’s 11th President on October 5,

GAINING MOMENTUM

2018 in a formal investiture ceremony. An investiture formally marks the beginning of a president’s tenure, traditionally held during or at the conclusion of the president’s first PRESIDENTIAL INVESTITURE OF DR. NEAL WEAVER year in office. It was a special time for GSW to welcome a new era of leadership and celebrate as a community. The week leading up to Weaver’s ceremony was full of events that celebrated GSW and the community. The theme for the event was Gaining Momentum: Storming into a New Era. As GSW is powering through Momentum Year, the theme emphasized the hard work and dedication that is launching GSW into a new era of leadership and success. 1. Canned Food Drive: Investiture Week began with a canned food drive, where over 1,000 items were collected for the GSW campus food pantry and Harvest of Hope and spelled out G-S-W.

2. Dive-In Movie: Students gathered at Deriso Pool for the DiveIn Movie, complete with popcorn, movie theater snacks and glow-in-thedark floats. 3. Greek Service Project: Greek students came together to apply fresh blue coats of paint to benches around campus.

4. Jaha Dukureh: 2018 Nobel Peace Prize nominee and GSW alumna Jaha Dukureh visited campus as the speaker for GSW’s annual Griffin Bell Distinguished Lecture Series and Convocation. 5. Glow Canes: The “Glow Canes” Golf Cart Parade featured carts decorated by student organizations and departments, followed by a glow party at the GSW Lakehouse.

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6. Brand Reveal: GSW unveiled its new logo and branding campaign, Take Tomorrow by Storm, on the Marshall Student Center patio.

WEEK 7

7. Pre-Concert Reception: Special guests, including Dr. Weaver’s parents (left) and other friends and family, gathered for a reception before the Chamber Concert. 8. Chamber Concert: The GSW Department of Music hosted performances by faculty and friends as a part of the 2018 Chamber Concert Series. 9. SurgeFest: SurgeFest Music festival brought the GSW community out for a night of fun and music featuring food trucks, yard games and a fantastic show from Unbreakable Bloodline and CLoud9 Vibes.

10. Weaver Family: Dr. Weaver’s sons, Blake, Brett and Austin, were in town for the festivities. 11. Investiture Ceremony: Dr. Neal Weaver was officially inaugurated by University System of Georgia (USG) Chancellor Steve Wrigley. 12. Luncheon on the Lawn: Following the ceremony, Investiture guests were invited to a luncheon on the front lawn featuring some of Dr. Weaver’s favorite foods and music.

13. First Friday: GSW’s mascot, Surge, enjoyed exploring Downtown Americus during the GSWsponsored First Friday festivities. 14. Roller Skating: GSW sponsored a glow-inthe-dark roller skating rink during First Friday in Downtown Americus.

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at h l e t i c s GSW finishes third nationally in Community Service

he GSW Department of Athletics finished third among NCAA DII schools nationwide for the Team Works/Community Service Competition in the last standings of the 2017-18 academic year released by the NCAA. Every GSW team completed more than 100 volunteer hours with a 95 percent participation rate from athletes across the department. Athletes volunteered at a number of community organizations, including Magnolia Manor, Habitat for Humanity, Salvation Army, Southland Academy, Furlow Charter School and Head Start at Sumter County Schools. In all, more than 3,722 hours were served by Hurricane athletes in 2017-18.

Norrman earns awards at both division and conference levels

SW sophomore golfer Vincent Norrman has been recognized for excellence both on and off the course this year. Norrman was named First Team All-Conference and a semifinalist for the NCAA Division II Jack Nicklaus National Player of the Year Award. A native of Stockholm, Sweden, Norrman broke the GSW 18-hole scoring record of 65 previously shared by Craig Gibson and Michael Harris with a Round 1 score of 64 (-8) at the Hurricane Invitational. He followed that up by breaking the 36hole scoring record of 136 the next day that was previously held by Adam McKenny, shooting a two-round score of 134 (-10).

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Polly named Peach Belt Conference ScholarAthlete of the Year

SW men’s soccer standout Silvio Polly was named the 2017-18 Peach Belt Conference Male Scholar-Athlete of the Year at the league’s annual awards dinner. The Scholar-Athlete award is the highest individual honor given by the PBC to a student-athlete during the year. A native of Rio De Janeiro, Brazil, Polly graduated from GSW in Spring 2018 with a degree in Exercise Science and Wellness and a 3.90 GPA. Named the GSW Male Scholar-Athlete of the Year, he also received the Dr. Richard Litwhiler Award for Exercise Science and Wellness. A three-time PBC Presidential Honor Roll member, including twice as a Gold Scholar, he was also named to the GSW President’s List and was a member of the GSW Honors Society. Polly becomes the third Hurricane to be named the PBC Male Scholar-Athlete of the Year and the second in a row, joining Nick Ward who won in 2017.

School-record 32 make All-Academic teams in 2017-18

SW tied a school record with 32 studentathletes named to Peach Belt Conference All-Academic teams during the 2017-18 school year. The Peach Belt All-Academic teams are part of a season-long program recognizing the outstanding accomplishments of Peach Belt student-athletes in the classroom as well as on the field. Men’s and women’s soccer, along with baseball, led the way with six honorees each. The mark of 32 ties GSW’s tally from 2015-16. A total of 15 first-timers made this year’s list.

Tierce tabbed First Team All-Conference

Josh McDonald to lead GSW Baseball

SW Softball player Hayley Tierce has been named First Team All-Conference as a utility player by a vote of the league’s coaches announced at the tournament banquet in May 2018. Tierce, a junior from Warner Robins, Ga., is the all-time home run leader for the Lady Canes and leads the Peach Belt with 14 in the season. Tierce started all 51 games and leads GSW with a .323 batting average to go along with 47 runs batted in. Tierce hit three grand slam home runs this past spring. She tallied five games with four runs batted in while posting three RBIs in five different games for the Lady Canes.

osh McDonald is returning to where his collegiate baseball career began as the Hurricanes Head Baseball Coach. McDonald returns to GSW from Georgia Southern University, where he served as Assistant Coach working primarily with the catchers and hitters, coached first base and helped coordinate the Eagle baseball camps. Georgia Southern finished with 30 or more wins in six of the seven seasons McDonald was on staff and 270 victories overall. McDonald, originally from Fitzgerald, Ga., played at GSW from 2001-06 and earned a degree in Health and Physical Education. He was a four-year letterman for the Hurricanes, playing first base and was a three-time All-Academic selection. He also helped lead the Hurricanes to two regional appearances in 2005 and 2006.

“Refreshed” Surge unveiled at September soccer game

SW’s mascot Surge unveiled a new look at the September 5th men’s soccer season opener. Surge is sporting a new hairdo, goatee and a friendlier face. After the big reveal, he handed out new Surge frisbees, bags and shirts to kids on the sidelines.

Under the Lights

he GSW men’s soccer team ushered in a new era on September 5th as they played the firstever home night match in program history. The new field lights were installed in late August 2018, and the night match made for a much more accessible game time for the community. GSW men’s soccer emerged victorious with a 2-0 win over Brewton-Parker College. The festivities also included tailgating, yard games, food provided by Grub Club, a ribbon cutting with the Sumter County Chamber of Commerce, the unveiling of a “refreshed” Surge and a huge fireworks show to close out the night.

AEOLIAN MAGAZINE 2018 | 25

| CLASS NOTES | 1950s 1950 Jim Tanquary is retired and resides at The Woodlands at Furman Retirement Facility. 1959 Sandra Griffin Wardell moved to Utah in 2014 to be near her daughter, who is GM of City Creek Center in Salt Lake.

1960s 1965 Bruce Garey is retired from the Marine Corps Logistics Base and lives in Albany, Ga. 1968 Addison “Sonny” Freeman will be celebrating 50 years of marriage to Georgiann Murphy Freeman on December 27, 2018. To celebrate, they took an eight-day trip to Paris in August. Roscoe Googe is married to Pam Krohne Googe, and they have four children and seven grandchildren. Roscoe spent his career (1968-2010) as a high school coach in cross country, track and girls basketball. His teams won seven state championships and four second place trophies. He was a 2006 inductee into the Atlanta Track Club Hall of Fame and was inducted into the Georgia High School Coaches Association Hall Of Fame in 2010.

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Tom Upton worked as an IRS revenue agent for 31 years and retired in 2014 as an Auditor with the Tennessee Department of Revenue.

1970s 1970 Ed Cooper is the author of The Okinawa We Lost and Vietnam by the Light of the Moon. He is currently co-writing another book with a medical doctor who was born and spent his early years in Afghanistan. Jane Peel Sibler is retired and living in Louisville, Ky. She enjoys golf, gardening, Art & Environment for church, bible study and photography. 1971 Jane Scott Finney retired from teaching at the end of the 2016-2017 school year from Saint George’s Independent School, where she had taught since 1982. She was named the 2017 recipient of the Connie Owen Order of the Rose Award, which honors spouses of Pi Kappa Phi brothers who have themselves exemplified sustained involvement and shown an uncommon dedication to the fraternity. 1972 Darla Patterson Stahl, her husband, Terry, and son, Brian, reside in Centerville, Ga., where she is a retirement planner. She is also an avid golfer.

SUBMITTED THROUGH JUNE 2018

Joseph Mulligan and his wife, Elizabeth, reside in Savannah, Ga. They have been married since 1971 and are the proud parents of two daughters and four grandchildren (2 boys and 2 girls). Joseph is retired from U.S. Bank N.A. and also from the Army National Guard.

He and Carol have a new grandson, Barron Denham, their first grandchild. Needless to say, Mike says he and Carol are very happy!

1973

1976

Malcom McRainey currently resides in Smyrna, Ga., where he was in industrial sales. Henrietta Rabon Drew married John Addison Drew on March 25, 1973. They were married for 38 years. John also graduated from GSW in 1972 with a B.S. in Social Science and from Valdosta State in 1976 with a Master’s degree in Sociology/Criminal Justice. 1974 Ed Joseph Holmes served as the 2018 Grand Marshal of the St. Patrick’s Day parade in Augusta, Ga. Bill Weldon currently resides in Meigs, Ga. and is a general contractor for Allstate Construction, Inc. His company built GSW’s Rosalynn Carter Health and Human Sciences Complex. Michael Denham and his wife, Carol, moved to Dawsonville, Ga. after he had worked at The Denham Agency, Inc. in Americus for 37 years. He is back at work as a mortgage loan officer with Denham Mortgage, Inc. in Alpharetta, where he works with his son Andrew.

1975 Lonnie Wise resides in Plains, Ga. He is Payroll Manager at Georgia Power Company.

Paul Ristow resides in Donalsonville, Ga. and has a grown daughter. He is retired from the State of Georgia. Angelia Winge Coleman has been an instructional supervisor at Georgia Southern University (formerly Armstrong State University) since 2008. 1977 Diane Dale Dempsey has been married to Ron Dempsey since 1983. She has two daughters, Amanda and Lauren. She is the school counselor at Mandarin High School in Jacksonville, Fl. Al Bonagura, has been involved with youth programs in football, baseball and softball since retiring from IBM working at a Logistics Company, GEODIS INC. He has raised many funds for these programs in the past 35 years. He enjoys family time and grandchildren. He loved his time in the south playing baseball with some of the finest men around and remembers many great times at GSW.

| CLASS NOTES

1979 Tom Giddens and his wife, Carol, also an alum, reside in Miramar Beach, Fl. and Kennesaw, Ga. Tom is retired from AFLAC, where he was director of sales.

1980s 1980 Jane Hodges is a lecturer for the Department of Psychological Sciences at Augusta University. 1981 Steve Smith is co-owner of Graphic Guys of Georgia, a promotional products company started in 2014, in Warner Robins. In 2014, Steve retired after 32 years of teaching in the Taylor County School System in Butler, Ga.. Ralph Goethe retired from a 35-year career in retail management. Currently, he is serving as a church youth minister and as the CEO of two Boys & Girls Clubs in Toombs County, Ga. 1982 Mary Harden resides in Martinez, Ga. and is director of home health at the University Hospital at Augusta University. After graduating from GSW, she obtained a B.S.N. from Liberty University, a B.S. in health care management from Southern Illinois and a Master’s degree in management from Southern Wesleyan University. 1984 Lisa Williams, R.N., M.S.N., CPAN, has been named surgical services/critical care educator at Women

& Infants Hospital in Providence, R.I., effective March 2018. Lynn Walker has retired from teaching middle grades after 30 years. She recently returned from two weeks in Israel and Jordan. Lynn enjoys spending time with four grandchildren, and she substitute teaches when not traveling. Raelene Werth is currently working at a cardiac rehab facility in Lebanon, Mo. 1987 Valerie Roberts, received her B.S. in psychology, her master’s in special education in 1990, her specialist’s degree in 1997 and her doctorate in 2007. Dr. Roberts is superintendent of Stewart County Schools. Denise Bearden is English Department Chair at Statesboro High School in Statesboro, Ga. She works with the Curriculum Development Team of Bulloch County Schools and is a member of the GaDOE/GaPSC Teacher Leadership Taskforce. Lisa Holloway is retired from teaching special education after over 30 years. She currently works part-time for Middle Flint Behavioral Healthcare with adults with disabilities. James Dennard is campus administrator at Gwinnett Medical Center in Lawrenceville, Ga. In March, he was installed at the American College of Healthcare Executives as Regent for the State of Georgia. He looks forward to working with Georgia Healthcare Leaders in

assisting them in their professional journey of connecting, learning, succeeding, advancing and leading. 1989 Ayesha Lakes has been married since 1999 and has a 13-year-old son and a chocolate lab named Jazz. She and her family reside in Stone Mountain, Ga., where she runs her own photography business called PhoArtgraphy, LLC.

and a member of Raman Lodge No. 136 (Prince Hall Affiliate). Moses has been married to Laverne Greene-James for 20 years, and they currently reside in Donalsonville, Ga. They have three sons, RaShawn, Moses III and Dillon. 1994

1990s

Lori Griggs resides in Villa Rica, Ga., where she is office manager for Berkel and Company. She is also the creative director and part owner of Memory Fortress.

1990

1995

Ginger Rollins is employed as a senior accountant with E.T.C. Schools, Inc. in Blackshear, Ga.

David Wicker resides in Brunswick, Ga. and is a captain/EMT with the Glynn County Fire Department.

1991

Patrick Mugridge is the band director at Central High School in Helena, Ark.

William Kobs resides in Albany, Ga. He is a retired social studies teacher for grades 6-12 and special education K-12. 1992 Terri Battle resides in Americus, Ga. and is employed as an athletics assistant at South Georgia Technical College. Moses James is a member of the Georgia Prison Wardens Association, the chairman of the Seminole County High School Council and has served as chairman/vice-chairman for Seminole County Elementary School. Moses has a Master’s degree in public safety administration from the Columbus State University Command College, is a graduate of the UGA Carl Vinson Institute for Correctional Leadership Institute (CLI)

1996 Chris Hicks and his family reside in Charlotte, N.C. Chris recently took a position with the Sigma Chi International Fraternity as a regional chapter support coordinator for North Carolina, South Carolina, Tennessee and Kentucky. He assists each chapter in these states with education programming and leadership development. 1997 Allison Kidd is married to Patrick Cross, and they have a young son. They live in Chattanooga, Tn. After graduating, she worked for TSYS for 11 years, then fell into branch banking while living in Eufaula, Al. Her husband was transferred to Chattanooga, and she is now

AEOLIAN MAGAZINE 2018 | 27

CLASS NOTES |

vice president/business development officer for Atlantic Capital Bank. She specializes in small business lending, deposits and personal loans and lines of credit. 1998 Andrea Thompson resides in Kathleen, Ga. and is a family nurse practitioner. Crystal Gaines is a claims examiner residing in Duluth, Ga. Vikram Natarajan joined SPH Analytics as senior vice president of Development & IT. Previously, Natarajan held leadership roles in in tele-health, clinical research and other related healthcare companies. Stephanie Whigham Bennett resides in Americus, Ga., where she is Probate Court Judge for Sumter County. Her husband of 20 years, Blake Bennett, also graduated from GSW in 1996 and is president of First State Bank in Americus. They have an 11-year-old son, Perry, who Stephanie says “has benefitted for many years from summer camps offered by the University.” Rama Srinivasan resides in Aldie, Va. She teaches physics at Loudoun County Public Schools in Ashburn, Va. Darek Wright resides in Statesboro, Ga., where he is inventory control manager at Hugo Boss.

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1999 Scott Arnett is an associate professor of exercise science at Western Kentucky University. Brannon Parks works as a school psychologist at Chattahoochee-Flint RESA and served as 2017 President of the Georgia Association of School Psychologists.

2000s 2000 Eric Holland is principal at Rome High School in Rome, Ga. Arthur Clark retired from GSW in 2015 with nearly 40 years of service. He started off as the grounds superintendent and retired as the assistant director of Physical Plant, landscape development and design, director of environmental health and safety and risk management. Since his retirement, Arthur works part time at a local funeral home in Leesburg. He is very involved with the Leesburg United Methodist Church. 2001 Jenise Searcy Watts resides in Forsyth, Ga., where she is a kindergarten teacher employed by the Monroe County Board of Education. 2001 Kristy Stone is a teacher and academic coach at Tift County’s Omega Elementary School. Kristy was chosen as Teacher of the Year in Turner County in 2005 and again in 2018 at Omega Elementary

School in Tifton, Ga. Kristy resides in Tifton with her husband, Chad. Lori Grant is a foot and ankle surgeon residing in Longwood, Fl. 2002 Robert Thompson lives in Marietta, Ga. and is employed by VMware as senior technical instructor. He helped release the brand new VMware Certified Professional Digital Workspace certification along with his co-workers, while sponsoring a related student capstone project during the Spring 2018 semester at Kennesaw State University. 2003 Michael Jenkins resides in Leesburg, Ga. and is employed by U.S. Screen Printing and Signs. Rosa Davis resides in Cuthbert, Ga. and is director of Student Affairs at the Albany Technical College-Randolph County Learning Center. 2004 Natalie Williams left GSW with degrees in psychology and nursing and continued on to Troy University, where she earned a Master’s of Science in Nursing with a concentration as a family nurse practitioner in 2007. In May 2017, she graduated from Brandman University in Irvine, Ca. with a Doctorate of Nursing Practice, along with an additional Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner Certification. Her dissertation won an award for being the most innovative in her graduating class. Natalie gave

birth to a son, Nicholas, in 2003 before graduating from GSW and raised him as a single mother. She credits GSW for giving her a solid foundation that has enabled her to grow as a person as well as a professional registered nurse. Panupat Chavananikul studied at GSW in 2004 as a member of the Georgia Rotary Student Program, continued on to law school at Indiana University, Bloomington and Cornell Law School. He came back to the States and worked at the Royal Thai Embassy in Washington, D.C., just a few blocks away from the White House and Capitol Hill. Laurel Myers welcomed baby Max Boston on January 23, 2018. Max joins big sisters Chloe and Allison. 2005 Brad Clark resides in Leesburg, Ga. and is the owner of U.S. Screen Printing and Signs. Deitra Wright is a physical therapist. She graduated from Utica College, N.Y. in May 2018 with a Doctor of Physical Therapy. Judy Orton Grissett is an associate professor of psychology at GSW. She also serves as internship coordinator for the Department of Psychology and Sociology, as well as campus champion for Affordable Learning Georgia. She is married to Robert Ashley Grissett (‘11).

| CLASS NOTES

2006 Leonas Kontvainis is the European sales director for Remacro Machinery & Technology (Wujiang) Co., Ltd. based in Suzhou, China. He is also general manager and shareholder of GFC (Global Furniture Components), UAB based in Siauliai, Lithuania, and he runs a consulting company named MB Mekana based in Vilnius, Lithuania. Leonas resides in Vilnius, Lithuania. Elijah Brantley resides in Nashville, Tn. with his wife and daughter. Elijah is a regional training supervisor at Sprint. Stephen Moreno is a loan officer with BrandMortgage and recently opened a new BrandMortgage location in Americus, where he hired two GSW alumni, Lance Childers and Josh Tondee, as loan officers. All three are graduates from the GSW School of Business Administration. 2007 Tamra Brown is a corporate event and media coordinator at Valco Melton. Gloria Askew resides in Hamilton, Ga. where she is lead high school teacher at Edgewood Student Services Center in the Muscogee County School District. She was named Teacher of the Year for 2017-2018 for AIM at Edgewood Student Services Center. 2008 Brenda O’Steen currently resides in Blackshear, Ga. and is vice president

of clinical operations at Memorial Satilla Health in Waycross, Ga. Remmecya Lavant has been selected for promotion to the rank of technical sergeant in the Air Force. She is currently serving as standardization and evaluation non-commissioned officer in charge with the 71st Security Forces Squadron at Vance Air Force Base in Oklahoma. 2009 John Wright resides in Smyrna, Ga. where he is a Cloud Solutions Architect with Slalom Consulting.

2010s 2010 Caleb Powell resides in Fitzgerald, Ga. and is a teacher at Ben Hill County Elementary School. Kari Holloway is an author who has over 10 publications, including novels, anthologies, a magazine and a nonfiction book on how to use Microsoft Word. Sean Howe has been selected as assistant director of a coaching academy for soccer. Sean played soccer while attending GSW, and he also served as assistant soccer coach from 2011-2012. 2013 Jephry Milloy is a freelance videographer and locations assistant involved with the production of short films in Georgia. Tony Miller has recently taken a new position as director of student conduct

and deputy Title IX coordinator at the University of Montevallo in Montevallo, Al. after having served as coordinator of student conduct and community standards at Southern Methodist University in Dallas, Tx. Logan Collins resides in Americus, Ga. and is an accountant at Perry Brothers Oil Company. He is married to Chelsea Collins, Director of Marketing and Communications at GSW. They have an 8-year-old daughter, Kynslee, and a two-year-old son, Keller. Will McKenzie is a financial advisor with Edward Jones in Saint Simons Island, Ga. Todd Davis is a coach at Southwest Georgia Academy. Brittney Burns resides in Canton, Ga. with her husband and two children, ages 10 and 13. She is employed at McKesson Corporation as a corporate account manager. She enjoys spending time with family and friends, crossfitting and vacationing. 2014 Beau Barrett is a CPA with the firm McNair, McLemore and Middlebrooks in Macon, Ga. Jodie Kretzer, his wife, Katie, and their 1 1/2-yearold son, Kase, reside in Fitzgerald, Ga. Jodie is employed at Albany State University in dual roles as director of technical services and interim director of project management. He is in his final semester at Middle Georgia State University for his second

Master’s degree in Information Technology. He was recently selected for Leadership Albany’s 2019 class. Courtney Matthews loves teaching 1st grade at her dream job at Schley County Elementary in Ellaville, Ga. She also loves spending time with her husband, Logan, and their 2-year-old son, Mack. Brandon Vann joined the staff of Southwest Georgia Farm Credit as a Relationship Manager. Rebekah Adair graduated from the University of West Georgia with a master’s degree in psychology in April 2016. Presently, she works as a paralegal helping veterans get compensation for injuries they obtained in service. Rebekah was recently accepted into the legal psychology Ph.D. program at the University of Texas at El Paso (UTEP). She moved to El Paso, Tx. in August 2018. 2015 Stephanie Dunbar Hudson resides in Greenwood, Sc. and is the IT director at Erkskine College and Theological Seminary. Rachel McElroy currently resides in Lawrenceville, Ga. where she is a middle school health teacher at Duluth Middle School in the Gwinnett County Public Schools. 2016 Kara Hawkins resides in Americus, Ga. and is marketing director for Chick-fil-A in Cordele, Ga.

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CLASS NOTES |

Tim Coley is now employed as a logistics manager with the Department of Defense. Jake Revell and his wife, Haley Strange Revell, married in 2017 and have a one-monthold daughter. Jake is an insurance representative with Country Financial in Americus, Ga. and Haley is a Family Nurse Practitioner at Crisp Regional Urology in Cordele, Ga.

2017 Zachery Ward, his wife and their son, Cannon, reside in Cordele, Ga. Zachery is a 3rd grade teacher at Worth County Elementary School. Zachery’s goal as a teacher is to make learning fun and meaningful for his students. Laurie Tison plans to pursue an occupational therapy doctorate degree. Shirley Harpe is working as a vaccine coordinator at Albany Area Primary Healthcare and enjoys spending time with family, traveling and doing medical mission trips.

Kristina Davis recently graduated with a degree in sociology and works as a child care counselor. Clefira McComas is a kindergarten teacher at Cox Elementary in Moultrie, Ga. Crystal West resides in Dacula, Ga., where she is employed as an academic advisor at the University of North Georgia.

2018 Allison Stewart resides in Meansville, Ga. and is an executive assistant at Innovative Senior Solutions in Americus, Ga. Tristian Wiggins resides in Americus, Ga. and is employed at Flint Ag and Turf as an office administrator.

Tyler Pennington is employed by GSW as an out-of-state admissions counselor.

IN MEMORIAM Ashley Childress, 2016 Americus, GA

James Purks Americus, GA

Robert Dillard, ’57 Buena Vista, GA

Callie (Fletcher) Satterfield, ’39 Americus, GA

Jeanette (Strange) Knowlton, ’40 Americus, GA

Robert E. Lee Watson, ’72 Jacksonville, FL

Carlton McAlvin Hoschton, GA Carolyn Barbree, ’85 Albany, GA Elizabeth Anne Turner, ‘87 Rome, GA Frances (Cherry) Bishop, ’53 Albany, GA Glynn Mathis, ’51 Americus, GA Hoyt Smallwood, ’70 Jacksonville, FL

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John Bruce Colston, ’77 Americus, GA John McDuffie, ’64 Tuscaloosa, AL Joseph Edwards, ’69 Plains, GA Miriam (Rossman) Branan, ‘76 Savannah, GA Plez Hardin, ’93 Americus, GA

Samuel Thames, ’79 Jacksonville, FL Victoria (Ondo) Burnfin, ’15 Watkinsville, GA

Elliott Cole Varnum of Americus August 17, 1996 - June 2, 2018

Cole was a senior psychology major, seeking a minor in Spanish. He was very active on the GSW campus as a member of the Orientation Team, a volunteer with students from the GSW English Language Institute, a member of the Baptist Collegiate Ministries (BCM), and he had recently participated in GSW’s first Undergraduate Research Symposium. Cole lived with joy, was friendly to everyone and enjoyed making others laugh.

Class of 1968 50th anniversary of the first class to graduate

from Georgia Southwestern State University with four-year degrees.

Brenda Shipp I currently live in Murray, Ky., home of Murray State University. We’ve lived here since 1979, when my husband, Andy, took the position of plant engineer at Vanderbilt Chemical Co. After graduation from GSW in 1968, I started teaching business education at LaGrange High School in my hometown of LaGrange, Ga. I graduated from LHS, so teaching there was very special for me. After three years in LaGrange, we moved to Opelika, Ala., so my husband could complete his degree in chemical engineering at Auburn University. While in Opelika, I taught for a year at Glenwood Academy in Phenix City, after which I stayed home to raise our daughter. I have been married to my husband for 50 years! We have one beautiful daughter, Staci Shipp Koenig. She and her husband, Steve, have two beautiful children: Caroline, 14, and Carter, 12. They are our world, and we’re fortunate that they live here in Murray as well! The most memorable adventure we have been on was a trip to Europe.

George Woodall My wife, Patty—who taught in the nursing program at GSW for twelve years—and I reside in Lee County, Ga. I am an attorney and have been in private practice in Albany since 1974. Patty was the program director for Albany Community Hospice until her retirement in 2013.

Georgiann and Sonny Freeman My wife, Georgiann, and I currently live at Sun City Peachtree, an outstanding over-55 active adult community in Griffin, Ga. The year I graduated from GSW, 1968, was a busy year, during which I was drafted into the Army and married my current bride of nearly 50 years. We have one daughter, Melanie, who passed away in 1999. After Army training, I was sent to Korea for the next 13 months. When I returned, I began working for Citizens & Southern National Bank, and then took a position as a business assistant to a multimillion-dollar real estate owner/developer. I then had the opportunity to move to Florida to work for the U.S. government. I stayed there until 2005, when I retired as a regional manager for the National Marine Fisheries Service, Financial Services Division, NOAA, U.S. Dept. of Commerce. We moved to Sun City Peachtree in 2008. Our most memorable trips since retirement include our trip to Israel and Jordan, our river cruise down the Danube, and visiting the Christmas Markets in Germany and Austria. We have an upcoming trip to Paris to celebrate 50 years of marriage.

Ron Wheelis After graduating from GSW in 1968, I earned my master’s degree in educational leadership from Valdosta State University in Valdosta, Ga. My professional ca-

reer included positions as a teacher/ coach for Lowndes County Schools in Valdosta and Macon County Schools in Oglethorpe, Ga.; assistant principal of Fernandina Beach High School in Fernandina Beach, Fla.; principal of Dunnellon High School in Dunnellon, Fla.; principal of Fort McCoy School in Fort McCoy, Fla.; a position in district management development/school improvement for Marion County Schools in Ocala, Fla.; and consultant for school improvement and reform for the International Center for Leadership in Education. My wife, Sonja, and I have two children and five grandchildren.

Roscoe Googe After receiving my degree from GSW, I earned a master’s degree in education and a degree as an education specialist from the University of West Georgia. Following my studies, I enjoyed a 40-year teaching and coaching career in Georgia public schools. I was inducted into the Track and Field Coaches Hall of Fame in 2006, the Georgia Coaches Hall of Fame in 2010, and the Marietta Athletic Hall of Fame, and I received 32 coach of the year awards from the Atlanta Track Club and the Georgia High School Association. The GHSA also recognized me with a plaque for 40 years of officiating high school basketball. My teams won seven state championships and four second-place finishes. I also strived to be a pioneer in the development of girls’ sports— specifically cross-country and track and field—and my team won two state championships in cross-country. In terms of personal competition, I am a masters track and field

AEOLIAN MAGAZINE 2018 | 31

CLASS OF 1968 |

champion in the 70-74 age group in shot put, discus, hammer and weight. This year I won three events in Mississippi, three in Georgia, and three more at the Georgia Games. It has been an exceptional year for a man who has not competed in more than 50 years. I currently live in Marietta, Ga., with my wife, Pam Shearer Googe. We have three sons, one daughter and seven grandchildren. The most interesting trip we have taken was to the British Isles. Needless to say, I have had a great life.

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Tom Upton

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After my years at GSW, I worked as a revenue agent for the Internal Revenue Service from 1968-1999, and then as a tax auditor for the Tennessee Department of Revenue from 2000-2014. I also earned my CPA certificate in 1975. I currently live with my wife, Christine Stinchcomb Upton, in Stone Mountain, Ga. We have a daughter, son, stepdaughter, grandson and two stepgrandsons. The most interesting place we have visited was Israel in 2013.

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3 2 | G SW. E D U

2017 Outstanding ALUMNI AWARDS Georgia Southwestern honored alumni from each college/school on campus, inducted one former athlete into the GSW Athletics Hall of Fame, and recognized the Leewynn Finklea Alumni Award at the 2nd Annual Outstanding Alumni Awards Banquet on October 20, 2017. The Outstanding Alumni Awards were developed to recognize the distinguished personal accomplishments and professional achievements of Georgia Southwestern Alumni. The Leewynn Finklea Alumni Award recognizes outstanding alumni who have demonstrated exceptional service to the Alumni Association and the University. It is named in honor of the first Alumni Director, Leewyn J. Finklea.

The 2017 GSW Outstanding Alumni Award recipients were: •

Jeff Benton, ’92 and ‘96 School of Business Administration

•

Calvin Rhodes, ’90 School of Computing and Mathematics

•

Allen Fort, ’75 and ‘78 School of Education

•

Greg Slappey, M.D., ’88 College of Arts and Sciences

•

Judy Tingley, D.N.P., ’97 School of Nursing

•

J.P. Griffin, ’14 GSW Athletics Hall of Fame

The 2017 Leewynn Finklea Award recipient was: •

Liz Harpe Ruf, ‘76

Jeff Benton With more than 20 years of experience in the lighting industry, Benton is the vice president of operations for Eaton’s residential and wiring devices division, a $1 billion dollar operation. Immediately prior, Benton was the president of ALP Lighting Components for two years. A U.S. Army veteran, Benton earned a Bachelor and Master of Business Administration from Georgia Southwestern after being in service three years. A member of the Kappa Sigma Fraternity while at GSW, Benton received the 25-year Volunteer Service Award at the Kappa Sigma Grand Conclave in Las Vegas, Nevada in July 2017. He is currently the president of the Kappa Sigma Fraternity Alumni Council.

AEOLIAN MAGAZINE 2018 | 33

OUTSTANDING ALUMNI AWARDS |

Calvin Rhodes Rhodes is the chief information officer (CIO) for the state of Georgia and serves as the executive director of the Georgia Technology Authority (GTA). He entered state government in January 2011 from Paladin Investments, where he served as founder and managing partner. Prior to that, he worked with Fulton Paper Company for 27 years. “Computerworld” magazine named Rhodes a 2016 Premier 100 Technology Leader, and Government Technology selected him as one of the nation’s Top 25 Doers, Dreamers and Drivers of 2016. Rhodes is a graduate of Darton College and he holds a Bachelor of Science in computer information systems from GSW. He earned a Master of Business Administration from the University of Phoenix.

Allen Fort Fort is the superintendent for Taliaferro County Schools in Crawfordville, Ga. Prior to that, he was a consultant for the Southern Regional Education Board (Georgia, South Carolina, North Carolina and Alabama). He also served as superintendent of Quitman County Schools and as a school improvement specialist for the Georgia Department of Education. He ran for state superintendent of schools in 2014. Fort’s career and experience in Georgia K-12 spans more than 40 years as a teacher and administrator dating back to when he graduated with a Bachelor of Science in Education from GSW in 1975. His work in the classroom earned him “Teacher of the Year” honors three different times. Fort also holds a master’s degree from GSW and Valdosta State University and an education specialist degree from the University of Georgia.

J.P. Griffin Griffin is currently a PGA Professional at the Capital City Club in Atlanta, and he serves as the vice president of the PGA of Georgia’s Assistant’s Division. Griffin’s success while a member of the GSW golf team has firmly placed him as the latest inductee into the GSW Athletics Hall of Fame. Griffin was a three-time Peach Belt Conference Golfer of the Week and a two-time All Conference selection. He was a member of the All Region team; he was third team All American; he placed second at the 2012 NCAA Division II Southeast Regional; and he finished ninth overall at the 2012 NCAA Division II National Championship Tournament. Griffin served as an assistant coach for the golf team prior to graduating with a degree in human resource management in 2014.

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| OUTSTANDING ALUMNI AWARDS

Greg Slappey, M.D. Slappey has been on staff at the Carrollton Orthopaedic Clinic as an orthopaedic surgeon since 1998, specializing in sports medicine. He received a Bachelor of Science in biology from GSW where he played football (three-time All American), baseball (two-time All American) and was a member of the Sigma Chi Fraternity. Inducted in the GSW Athletics Hall of Fame in 1995, Slappey earned an M.D. at the Medical College of Georgia. A member of the American Orthopaedic Society for Sports Medicine, Slappey serves as the team physician for the University of West Georgia.

Judy Tingley, DNP Tingley is the vice president and chief executive officer for Erlanger Health System’s Heart and Lung Institute in Chattanooga, Tenn. Additionally, Tingley serves as an assistant clinical professor of nursing for the Columbia University School of Nursing’s Doctor of Nursing Practice program. Prior to joining Erlanger, Tingley was the chief operating officer of Columbia Heartsource. Tingley earned a Bachelor of Science in Nursing from GSW, a Master of Public Health from the Mailman School of Public Health at Columbia University in New York, N.Y., and a Doctor of Nursing Practice from Case Western Reserve University in Cleveland, Ohio. Tingley has 20 years of experience in healthcare, including clinical experience in cardiac surgery intensive care, transplant intensive care, and the cardiac catheterization laboratory.

Liz Harpe Ruf Ruf is an active member of the Alumni Association Board of Directors since joining in 2014, serving on the scholarship, awards and nominations committees. A faithful attendee and active board member, she views her role as an opportunity to better the board and advance the goals of the Alumni Association and the University. As a GSW Zeta, she keeps in touch with her sisters and communicates alumni activities to the organization such as organizing and hosting a Golden Isles alumni gathering in St. Simons. She recently created an endowed scholarship in honor of her mother, Ms. Betty Pryor Harpe, in commemoration with Ms. Harpe’s 50 year graduation from the Georgia Southwestern Teacher Education Program. Liz also serves her home community as a Court Appointed Special Advocate for children in foster care, as a tourism volunteer, and as a member of Sharp Memorial United Methodist Church Choir.

AEOLIAN MAGAZINE 2018 | 35

F a m i ly T r a d i t i o n s t o r y |

The Chosen Path of a

Caregiving

family Following the Path of Our Mother

BY Sunni Zemblowski

ost people fear that they will grow up to become their parents. However, this was, and is, not the case for Derrick and Mitchell Easom. For them, following the path of their mother, the path of a nurse, has always been a dream and aspiration. And the path their mother, Dr. Leisa Easom, has taken is one of great caring, ambition, and hope. Over the past four decades, Leisa Easom has devoted her life to nursing, caring for others, and educating future caregivers. Leisa earned her Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) and her Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) from Valdosta State University before going to the Medical College of Georgia for her PhD. After spending eight years working for a hospital, Leisa pursued her interest in becoming an educator. When she moved to Americus with her husband in the late 1980s, she applied for a teaching position in the School of Nursing at Georgia Southwestern. Since that time, Leisa has occupied a variety of roles, including her eight years as the executive director of the Rosalynn Carter Institute for Caregiving (RCI) and her most recent appointment as the associate dean of the College of Nursing and Health Sciences at GSW and the lead developer of a new four-year degree, the Bachelor of Science in Long-Term Care Management (LTCM). Leisa’s work as a caregiver and educator followed her home, where it left a lasting impression on her children. Leisa reflected on how they may have been impacted by her occupation: “They have always had a ‘nurse’ in

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Sharing the same career with my mother and brother has made our bond even stronger. — Derrick

Dr. Leisa Easom had the privilege of awarding two of her children, Derrick and Mitch, their diplomas at the 2018 Spring Commencement Ceremony.

the home and I have always tried to explain what was happening whenever they were ill ... Perhaps a good role model? Hard to say.” However, it is not hard to say according to her daughter, Derrick: “Growing up, I always saw my role model, my mom, as a nurse. Naturally, I wanted to be just like her when I grew up, so I decided at a very early age that I wanted to be a nurse.”

And, making that dream a reality, Derrick attended her mother’s alma mater, Valdosta State University, for two years before transferring to GSW, where she earned her BSN in 2015. She recently returned to GSW and completed the Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP) program this past May. Now, Derrick works at Aesthetic Specialty Centre - Plastic Surgery and Dermatology as a cosmetic and

aesthetic nurse practitioner. Mitchell, Derrick’s younger brother, also graduated this May alongside his sister, earning his BSN. Mitchell has started his career in nursing working at Phoebe Sumter Medical Center in the intensive care unit. “Sharing the same career with my mother and brother has made our bond even stronger,” says Derrick. Having a mother who was also an educator has had an impact on Leisa’s children as well. Derrick reflects back to her school work at GSW: “My mom definitely was able to help me with my studies in nursing school. [She] is so patient and truly loves to teach so she was always willing to help.” Leisa, who has inspired and impacted so many future and current caregivers, hopes that she has influenced Derrick and Mitchell in a lasting way: “I hope that I inspired them to care for others, that care requires that one has the knowledge and critical thinking skills to provide the best for the care recipient.” Based on the evidence, this hope has been fulfilled. For Derrick, the influence of her mother and of nursing goes much further than one generation: “I would love to see the cycle of nursing continue through the family legacy.” AEOLIAN MAGAZINE 2018 | 37

ALUMNI sCENE 2017 Outstanding Alumni Dinner

For the second year, GSW recognized outstanding graduates from each of the five colleges and schools, and inducted a new member into the Athletics Hall of Fame.

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Greeks Go Irish GSW Greek Alumni traveled near and far to see old friends again for the ‘Greeks Go Irish’ event on St. Patrick’s Day in March 2018.

AEOLIAN MAGAZINE 2018 | 39

ALUMNI SCENE |

Greeks Go Irish

Commencement Speech GSW alumnus Rick Whaley, President and CEO of Citizen’s Bank of Americus, delivered the keynote address at the Spring 2018 Commencement ceremony.

Crazy 8’s Reunion The GSW Alumni Association hosted the “Crazy 8’s Reunion” in Feb. 2018 for GSW alumni and friends with special recognition for alumni with class years ending in “8.”

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Homecoming Fun Run A 1 mile fun run/walk and 5K was hosted by the Alumni Association during Homecoming Week in Feb. 2018.

AEOLIAN MAGAZINE 2018 | 41

2017 GIVING H President’s Circle ($1,000.00 + ) AT&T Foundation- Georgia Accelerated Physical Therapy Sam & Margaret Adams Allen, Mooney & Barnes Aramark John and Alice Argo Ricky and Jane Arnold Augusta Warren Fund Andrew Austin Richard & Abby Baringer Bell Family Foundation Jeff & Amy Benton Paul & Eshonda Blue Bob Woodruff Foundation Bill & Shay Bradshaw Bristol-Myers Squibb Foundation Jimmie & Joyce Buchanan Jimmy & Rosalynn Carter Center For Educational Adventure Chambliss, Sheppard, Roland & Associates Charles L. Mix Memorial Fund Tony & Lou Chase Kelly P. Church Citizens Bank Of Americus Clinic Drug Store Coca-Cola Bottling Company Consolidated Bud & Anne Cofer Courtesy Chrysler Cousins Catering Timothy D. Cranford Charles R. Crisp CSC ServiceWorks Joe Daniel Arthur & Sandra Daniel Michael Denney George & Susan Dieckmann Draw Products Jim & Freddie Dudley Elisabeth Elder EMC Engineering Services Emory University Enterprise Holdings Foundation First State Bank of Americus Margaret Fite Walt & Mary Foegelle Tamlin Fortner Frances Wood Wilson Foundation GA Healthcare Educ. & Research Found. Georgia Power Foundation Harold & Sandra Gillis

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Bill & Ann Harris Dan & Ann Helms Howard & Sharon Hendley Thomas E. Holman Paul Hunter Carol Huser Hyekyung Harold Isaacs Estate Jim & Judy Rylander Foundation Randy & Nancy Jones Jr. Service League of Americus GSW Kappa Sigma Alumni Fund Jin-Sung Kim Billy & Sandra King Larry & Jane Comer Foundation Mike & Jodie Leeder Lynn Greenleaf Brown Fund Danny & Kathy MacQuirter Magnolia Manor Mary O. Marshall Martin McDonald State Farm Masimo Foundation Mattie Marshall Foundation Wallace & Kitty Mays Marty and Paula McDonald Kara McMickle MetroPower Sam Miller Danny & Sallie Minick Rebecca Moores Doug & Yolanda Moses Jerry & Marjorie Newman Newton & Vivian Allen Foundation OK Beauty & Fashion Peach State Depression Glass Club Georgia & Anne Peagler Jimmy & Marianne Peel Boris & Svetlana Peltsverger Will & Brook Peterson Lee & Faith Pinnell JoAnn Pope Kerri K. Post Michael E. Pruett Randy Roderick & Associates Raymond James Charitable Trust Joseph W. Reid Glenn Robins Rotary Club of Americus Kelly & Reda Rowell Roy L. Parker Family Foundation Joe & Liz Ruf Randal & Karen Sanders Jonathan & Megan Scott Howard & Diane Sheppard Linda Shingler Jimmy & Diana Skipper

Charles & Eugenia Smith Herschel & Pam Smith Steven & Brandi Snell South GA Tech. College Found. Patricia Starck State Farm Companies Foundation Steven-Kaye II John Stovall Subers Charitable Unitrust Synovus Financial Corporation Jim Tanquary TCI Powder Coatings Russell & Andrea Thomas Thomas & Irene Kirbo Foundation William & Mildred Tietjen Alf & Marianne Tuggle Ty & Carla Turner USG Foundation Thomas & Maria Updike Tom & Lynn Weiland Wells Fargo Foundation Michael & Janet Weston Wes & Jean Wheeler Liz Wilson Windsor Hotel Ryan & Mandy Young

H Southwestern Society ($500.00 -$999 ) Rachel Abbott AEGON Transamerica Foundation Ervin & Debra Anderson Ben & Michelle Andrews Arrow Exterminators David Bales Greg and Katherine Barnetson William H. Bieler Bill & Jan Bird Carol C. Bishop James H. Blanchard Al & Pam Bonagura Thomas Bornemann Alan & Michele Campbell Ron L. Chaffin Chattahoochee Turf Products Ann Cofer Colleen & Sam Nunn Family Foundation Culpepper Development Denham, Edwards & Foshee Insurance Lauren DiPaula Will & Mary Elizabeth Easterlin Darrell Ford

Gatewood, Skipper & Rambo, P.C. Georgia Power Company Barbara Grogan Royce & Melinda Hackett John & Gaye Hayes William & Diane Heys Clint & Lisa Holloway Ronald B. Hubbard Ron & Donna Hudson Phillip D. Jennings Heiko Kallenbach Stephen & Barbara Kieran Cody & Sharon King Bill & Glenda Kipp Walter & Annie Lanter Martha S. Maddox Sara S. McLain Jem & Cathie Morris Ronnie & Mary Nix Clyde & Sharon Owens Robert & Kristi Patrick Charles & Colleen Patterson Jack L. Perry PharmaCentra Phoebe Sumter Medical Center Precision Automotive Stephen & Cathy D. Purser R & S Sports David Reed Richard & Lucia Ross Joseph & Jane Sellers Southern Land & Realty Studio 8 Design Tape Specialists of Georgia The Scott Law Foundation Molly T. Thomas Torbert Electric Lettie J. Watford Hugh & Elaine Watts Nelson & Paula Williams

H Tower Club ($250.00 -$499 ) James & Deborah Abbott Abercrombie Landscaping Adkins Rental Holdings After Hours Care of Americus Americus Veterinary Hospital Lynn Bailey Bales Financial Group Reagan & Taylor Barksdale Greg Barnetson

| 2017 GIVING

Reid Baynard James & Vicki Birdsong James & Mary Bishop Kendall & Connie Blanchard Barry & Tammi Blount Robert & Kathleen Bolton Tom Bower John & Shirley Bretch Ricky & Denise Burgess Cal Duke & Associates Publishing Calhoun Landscaping Dewey W. Cannon Century 21 Americus Realty Chandler-Morgan Eyeworks Christ Chapel Church Charles & Kim Christmas Bob C. Clark Ronald & Suzann Culpepper D D Gahman Bryan P. Davis Loy J. Day Cam & Kelsie Deiter Michael & Carol Denham Gordon & Jessica Duff Cal & Patty Duke Sarah C. Duncan L Eugene Dunmon EE Retirement Management Elberton Animal Hospital Steven & Luann Engstrom Karen Evans Farmers Seed & Feed FireLine Flint River Fuel Center Greg Fricchione Gardiner W. Garrard Gatewood’s Flowers Robert J. Gilbert Ginger Starlin Agency Ron E. Graham Claude Greene David & Kay Dee Green Mark & Pam Grimes John & Gisele Gunderman Buddy & Cherilyn Guth Boyd & Renee Hagerson Tommy & Jan Harrell Home Depot Charles & Maria Hough Houston Orthopedic Surgery Scott & Ramona Hunt Sam & Reba Hunter Michael Greene, PC Bobby & Sherri Jenkins David C. Jenkins

Emil & Christine Jensen John P. Spann, Inc. Eric Johnson Wally Joiner Kinnebrew Company Kiwanis Club of Americus Brad & Mary LaFevers Tracy & Lisa Law LCH Realty Company Leonard’s Farmer Market Nicole J. Levering Don & Miriam Lollar Marguerite Rodgers Interior Design Danny & Terry Maxwell Bryan & Carmen McLain Nancy A. Neylans Parker’s Heating & Air Conditioning Pat’s Place Paul Steinwachs MD Tami J. Peavy-Owen Pediatric Partners of Columbus Michael & Dephne Perkins Betty Pope Frank & Lynda Lee Purvis Vivian Ragsdale Rick Davis Automotive John A. Roberts William & Susan Robinson Rush & Rush, CPAS, PC Mileidys Sanchez Alex & Mandy Saratsiotis SB&T Brennon & Luanne Sewell Thomas & Ruth Shemwell Sherwin Williams Foundation Shiver Lumber Company Don & Jane Sibler Donald & Rhonda Slocumb Justin & Jennifer Smith Rucker Smith Stephen & Leah Snyder South GA State College Found. Pat & Judy Spann James & Tracy Spinks Christopher Spivey Steve & Jeannie Stanfield Sam & Sue Stephens Doug Stinson Sunbelt Ford of Americus David & Julie Suppes Milton & Beverly Sutherlin Christine L. Taylor Mark & Francie Taylor The Staffing People The William Bailey Agency

James H. Timberlake George & Shay Torbert Ray & Donja Tripp Brandon & Lauren Vann Jody & Judy Wade Eddie & Betty Anne Ward Sandra A. Wardell John & Barbara Watford James L. Watkins Webb Investment Services Welden Enterprises Jimmy & Morgan Whaley Rick & Ginny Whaley Jason A. Wicker Philip J. Wise Russell & Valerie Wynn Alex & Alla Yemelyanov

H Century Club ($100-$249) 2131 N. American St. Assoc. John & Kimberly Adkins Scott Adkins John & Julianne Alderman Tristam & Janell Aldridge Charita Allen ALP Lighting Components Gayle Alston American Telecom. Co. Ameris Bank Tom Andre Steve Austin Auto Cosmetic Specialist B B Realty Investments LLC Gail Barksdale David & Carolyn Barlow Pamela Barnett John Bates Laura Bauer Connie Baughman George & Barbara Bell Ben Collinger Insurance Agency Robert Bennett Marvin and Mildred Benson Alan & Marcia Bone Hary Bottka Nicholas Bottka William & Willene Bourn Stephen Boyd Jim and Sonja Bradley Darcy Bragg Douglas Brand Brewer Servicing and Contracting Carolyn Brewster Brickyard Plantation

Ronald & Sandra Brinkley Kelly Britsky Dorothea Britt Jim Britt Neil & Karen Brown Curtis & Paula Bryant Hugh & Barbara Bryant Richard Burgess Hoyt Ray and Glynis Burrow Charles and Jo Bush Clay Caldwell George Capo Burt Carter George & Carol Casion Cataula Towers LLC Catholic Church of St. Gabriel Chief Manufacturing William & Janet Childs Jennifer Christie Arthur & Belinda Clark Arthur and Hazel Clark Jamie Collins Kimberly Comer Cookman Enterprises, Inc. Larry Cooley Jarrod & Melissa Crum Josh Curtin David Curto Jesse Davis Frank and Sharyn Davis Matt Dennis Sebastian Dixon DLI Mechanical Rita Doll Mike & Lisa Donalson Dorado Design & Construction Dorcas A. Grodner Inc. Larry & Cathy Doyle Walt & Hellen Driggers Arnold and Mara Durham Michelle Dykes Early Bloomers Garden Club Madeline Earnest Easterlin Pecan Co. Family Tradition Steakhouse Bill and Jane Finney James & Kimberly Fletcher Janis Fliens Allen and Lisa Fort Donald and Judy Gallops Earl and Barbara Gammage Bonnie Gary Jeffrey & Selina Gaston Schley and Karen Gatewood Geiger E.D.M., Inc.

AEOLIAN MAGAZINE 2018 | 43

2017 GIVING |

Tom & Carol Giddens John and Rebecca Gladden Erika Gonzalez Roscoe & Pam Googe Grebel Pecans Nursery Jeffrey Green J.P. and Leah Griffin Rachel Griggs Chadwick & Mei-Chuang Gugg Joe Hall Lemond & Teketa Hall Reagan Hall Richard Hall Barbara Harberger Courtney Harmon Willie Harper Anthony Harris Dalton & Misty Harris Bill Harris Jr Harrod Tree Services Stephanie Harvey Bo & Jan Hatfield Richard and Connie Haugabook Ronald & Gail Heath Carolyn Henderson Jim and Nancy Herron Elizabeth Hewitt Frank Hines Dreena Hoffman Katie Hoffman Tyler Hogan Jill Hohnecker Michael Holdren Eric & Melissa Holland Karen Holloway Ed Holmes Horizontal Solutions Don & Elaine Horsley Ray & Diane Hough Deanna Hubbard Robert & Catherine Hubbard Kevin Huet Patricia Hutto Innovative Senior Solution J & K Global Graphics Barbara Jabaley Anne Jacobs Jeff Hinson Paint Michael & Michelle Jensen Joe Hall Used Cars Douglas Johnson Larry & Earlene Johnson Tara Johnson David and Susan Johnson Johnstone Supply

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Charles Jones Keri Jones Paul & Phillip Jones Baek Joo K & K Trucking Jeff Keefe Randolph & Vivian Keefe Mamadou and Alma Keita Linda Kesselring Patty Kicklighter David Kipp Glenn Kirbo John & Carol Kolata John E Kolata Bill & Meda Krenson Nancy Kropf Elizabeth Kuipers Richard & Kristie Lacell Michael Lance Carol Langford Wayne Langford Tony Langley Brenda Lee Mike Lewis Carl Little Gail Long Randolph & Gloria Long Robert & Diane Long Frank and Robin Lowrey Walker & Saralyn Lundy Jimmy Lunsford William Lynn Bernice Lyster Donald & Mita Mackey Jack & Christine Madray Cecilia Maldonado Thomas & Pam Marrott David & Lisa Martin Kelly & Therese McCoy James & Elizabeth McDonel Thomas & Ashley McKenna Michele McKie Robert and Barbara McLendon Wanda Meerman James & Dianne Messer Mobley Greenhouse Alexis Montgomery Melissa Montgomery Stephen Moore Jack & Morgan Morgan Beth Morris Michael Moses Jim and Victoria Moyd Erin Myers Myron Jones Farms

Jimmy & Debra Nelson Gerald & Jane O’Buckley O’Buckley & Steed Associates Mark Pace Sandy Page Cheri Paradise Horrace & Terri Park Ignatius & Bonita Passantino Karla Pearlstein Samuel Peavy Phil Pendergrass Charles Pennington Peoples South Bank Larry Perry Jim & Melissa Posey Thomas Poudrier Barrett Powell Michael Powell Gerald & Carolyn Powers RDR Sparky and Allene Reeves Riccardi & Riccardi, DMD Rick Davis, Inc. Patsy Roberts Mary Rodgers Rooster’s Cafe Jayme Roseth-Penn Vickie Ross Nancy Ruscitti Linda Ryder Sandra’s Beauty Shop Kay Sassi Rodney and Sheila Saunders Andrea Schaab Mark Schilling R. W. Scruggs A. H. Sells Sells Plant Company Doyle Shaw Michael & Roseann Shea Sonny & Mary Lynn Shealy Jeffrey Sherry Leslie Shipley Claire Simmerson Bonnie Simmons Willard and Sue Sisson Helen Slaughter Bob & Jennifer Slenker David & Milessa Smith Rene & Angela Smith Sheila Smith Raymond and Rebecca Smith Dan Snavely Donald & Catherine Southall Southern Smiles

Sparks Advisors and Consultants Jimmy Spinks Debbie Standridge Carolyn Stark Lawson Stewart William and Cathy Stewart Franklin & Jeanne Stottlemyer Strands for Hair Buddy Strickland Robby & Susan Stripling Jane Sullivan Synergy Sports Academy D & C Sypes Phillip Szmedra Keith and Teresa Teasley Manoj Thapa The Hooks Agency Sarah Timberlake Triad Mechanical Company Joseph & Judy Tripp Dave & Kathleen Tucker Ryan Tucker Andrea Tyler Bobbie Tyler Tystanic Custom Paint & Body U. S. Screen Printing & Signs Michelle Underwood Tom and Christine Upton Olivia Urbina Benny and Merle Wade Jane Walsh Qian Wang Timothy & Donna Weeks Henrietta Weimer Paula Wells Teresa Whitaker David and Betsy Whitaker Mark Wicks John & Bertha Wilks Alton Wilson Jason Wisenbaker Keaton Wynn Zunbai Products LLC

| FUTURE PROJECTS

ATHLETICS UPGRADES $1.5 million combined project Baseball/Softball Indoor Practice Facility and Lightning Safe Space • GSW Baseball and Softball will stand above their competitors • First facility of its kind within the Peach Belt Conference • Safe space for GSW Soccer teams during lightning storms Ground-breaking ceremony on March 2, 2019

Baseball press box & concession stand • Press box • Concession stand • Bathroom facilities • Storage Next phase of project based on funding

Benefits of both projects • Positive enrollment impact: will serve to keep GSW on targeted 3-4% annual growth • Competitive impact: to stay on par with rival conference schools • Community impact: to offer a better viewing experience for GSW fans • Functional impact: to allow athletes to practice during inclement weather and the Sports Information staff to work baseball games away from the elements

AEOLIAN MAGAZINE 2018 | 45

M I X WITH & theMPresident INGLE GSW alumni had the opportunity to meet new GSW President Neal Weaver at a series of Mix and Mingle events in Americus, Albany, Cordele, and Thomasville.

Albany

Americus

Cordele

Thomasville

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TRAVEL TOURS 2019

Discover Switzerland, Austria & Bavaria October 10 – 19, 2019

Canyon Country Featuring Arizona & Utah August 2 – 9, 2019 Journey through spectacular mountain scenery and picturesque cities as you experience the enchanting Alpine cultures of Switzerland, Austria, and Bavaria. Spend four nights each in the UNESCO World Heritage city of Bern and the charming Alpine city of Innsbruck. Walk the halls of the 13th century Château de Chillon, a princely residence on the shores of Lake Geneva. A journey through Canyon Country brings you into a colorful world of stunning southwestern vistas and the unique topography of three national parks: Zion, Bryce and the Grand Canyon. Take time to shop in Sedona’s marketplace and travel through Kaibab National Forest. Spend a night at the South Rim of the magnificent Grand Canyon. Luxuriate at the Lake Powell Resort for two nights. Personalize your Arizona travel by choosing to either take in the stark beauty of Monument Valley on a narrated ride or take a cruise through the canyons for a different perspective on the spectacular scenery. End in

Ride the legendary GoldenPass Panoramic Train from Montreux to the Alpine ski resort, Gstaad. Explore Lucerne, the “Swiss Paradise on the Lake.” Visit Mozart’s birthplace and the Mirabell Gardens, featured in the “Sound of Music,” during your time in Salzburg. See the fairy-tale castle, Neuschwanstein. Visit Oberammergau, a picture-perfect traditional German Alpine village. Sample traditional regional cuisine, including cheese fondue, at some of the oldest and most famous restaurants in Europe.

Deposit due date is April 4, 2019.

the neon-lit spectacle of Las Vegas. Deposit due date is January 26, 2019.

For more information on Travel Tours, contact: Angela Smith, Alumni Affairs Specialist, 229-928-1373. Angela.Smith@gsw.edu

AEOLIAN MAGAZINE 2018 | 47

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SOCIETY ESTEEMED ($15,000+) Newton Allen Ricky and Jane Arnold Gregory and Karen Austin Susan Beger William Belford Brenda Browning Jimmy and Rosalynn Carter Daphne Chambless Henry Crisp Charles Crisp Mike and Carol Denham Gatewood and Cindy Dudley Mary Foegelle Sandra Gillis Kay Dee Green Thomas Holman Sam and Reba Hunter Billy King Glynn Mathis Larry Moore Jerry Newman Robert and Jennifer Parks Norman Race Randall Roderick Elizabeth Ruf Jimmy and Diana Skipper Calvin and Ginger Starlin Sam Stephens Jim Tanquary Andrea Thomas William Tietjen William Weldon Michael Weston Rick and Ginny Whaley Wes and Jean Wheeler

EMINENT ($10,000-$14,999)

Barry Blount James Buchanan Lou Chase Arthur Clark Rick and Mary Kathryn Davis James Dudley Earl and Barbara Gammage Rhett Giddings

4 8 | G SW. E D U

Alumni who have contributed $1,000 or more, cumulatively, to GSW

John and Gaye Hayes Howard Hendley Cody and Sharon King Mary Marshall Marty and Paula McDonald Stick Miller Doug and Yolanda Moses C. Fred Overby Eliza Parker William Peterson Benny Phillips Charles Sheffield Gregory Slappey Patricia Starck Ty and Carla Turner Lettie Watford

ENHANCED ($5,000-$9,999) Sam Adams Ervin Anderson Walter Bailey Bill and Sharon Bradshaw Clyde and Dell Bridges Timothy Cranford Sandra Daniel Royce Hackett Greg and Deborah Hawver Dan Helms Hulme Kinnebrew Gordon MacQuirter Mark Pace James and Marianne Peel Jerry Perkins Jack Perry George Pritchard Kimberly Reid Randal Sanders George Sessions S. Scott Sheffield Deborah Standridge Molly Thomas Dan and Mary Torbert Wes and Kay Wicker James Yawn Ryan Young John Zolkowski

FOUNDING ($1,000 - $4,999) James Akins Herbert Allen Sharon Anderson William and Tina Anderson William Anderson Ben and Michelle Andrews Lynn Ansley H. Stephen Austin Raymond Baggarly Ray and Janis Baldwin David Bales Ichabod Balkcom Katherine Barnetson Alma Beckham Timothy Bellury Marvin Benson Randy Benson Carol Bentley Jeff and Amy Benton William Bieler Louise Blanks Eshonda Blue Robert Bolton Al Bonagura John Bretch George Brown Lucas Budny Ricky and Denise Burgess Hoyt Ray Burrow Robert Busby Charles Byrd Everett Byrd Carlos Camp Marilyn Campbell Joel Carter Ron Chaffin William Chappell Gaynor Cheokas Russ Childers Sue Childers Charles Clark Marilyn Clements Janice Cliett Gary Clinkscales Jo Collins Reginald Comer Donald Compton

Patricia Cook Joseph Cook Gloria Coppinger Michael Cotter Gladys Crabb Joshua Curtin Larry Davis Sharyn Davis Gregory Davis Jane Dean Cam and Kelsie Deiter James Dembowski Merle Dennard George Dieckmann James Dodds Jaclyn Donovan Melba Downs Michael Doyle Hellen Driggers Cal and Patty Duke Bobbie Duncan James Dupree John Durham Joseph Eason Ben Easterlin Ellen Elder George Ellis Robert Evans Charles Faulk Bill and Jane Finney James Milton Fletcher Sharon Forshey Allen Fort Ronald Fountain Claude Frazier Karen Gatewood Marion Goodman Eddie Gordon Mike and Kathy Greene Jesse Griffin John Gunderman Buddy and Cherilyn Guth Lemond Hall William Hargrove Evolyn Harrington Deborah Haynes Michelle Haywood William Heys Len Hicks Mary Hill

Virginia Hinton Judith Hodnett Emory Holloway Karen Holloway Lisa Holloway Ed Holmes Ronald Hudson David Jenkins Jean Johnson W. Frank Joiner Wally Joiner Jeffrey Joiner Ruth Jones Richard Jones Freida Jones Robert Jones Melvin Kinslow Rance Kirkland Dawn Knapp Mildred Lapeza Tracy Law Joel Lightner Sammy Long Tyler Lorig James Lunsford Alan Mackey Richard Maddox Theodore Maloof Martha McBurney

Sharon McFarland Barbara McLendon Patricia Mescher Carolyn Miller Daniel Minick W. Harold Moon Allen Mountjoy Nimmish Muljibhai Johnny Muljibhai Deborah Mullis J. Frank Myers Cecil Myers Roger Myers Ronnie Nix James Norton Clyde Owens Paula Paquette Emory and Lynde Parker Gary Peacock Tom Perdue John Peterman Sheila Phillips Irvin Pinnell Barbara Pope Robert Poupard Robert Powell Howard Rainey Sparky and Allene Reeves Joseph Reid

James Reid Candy Riccardi John Rockhill Donald Roland Richard Ross Tucker Rush Ronald Scott Jonathan Scott Joseph Sellers Brennon Sewell Arvind Shah Howard Sheppard Jane Sibler Bonnie Simmons Sue Sisson Rhonda Slocumb Sybil Smith Steven Snell Stephen and Leah Snyder Donnie Spence James Stafford Stephen Stanfield Charles Strickland Cecil Strickland Neil Suggs Helen Summey R. Larry Sumner Milton Sutherlin Miranda Thomas

Mark and Tina Todd Donja Tripp Robert Tucker Kathleen Tucker Alf and Marianne Tuggle Ray Turner Norma Turton Marcus Tyler Joseph Upton Lori Urbani Benny Wade Daniel Wall Eddie and Betty Anne Ward Sandra Wardell Charles Warren Tonya Watson Hugh Watts Walter Weaver Darrell Weldon Thomas Wheeler David and Betsy Whitaker Betty Whittier Thomas and Jerrie Wichman Reba Wiggins Michael Williamson Alton Wilson Susan Woods Russell Wynn Gwen Yakots

GSW Alumni Association Lifetime Membership One full payment of $1,000 (individual) or $1,250 ( jointly) Clyde and Dell Bridges

Karen Dillard Holloway

Liz Ruf

Everett Lewis Byrd

Billy King

Ken Stafford

Bill Chappell

Jimmy Lunsford

Larry Sumner

Cam and Kelsie Deiter

Mary Marshall

Samuel Thames (deceased 8/6/2017)

Bill and Jane Finney

Larry Moore

Dave and Kathleen Tucker

Mary Wysochansky Foegelle

Jerry Newman

Alf and Marianne Tuggle

Len Hicks, III

Jimmy and Marianne Peel

Joseph Upton

Chris Hicks

Jeryl Pinnell, Jr.

AEOLIAN MAGAZINE 2018 | 49

Aeolian Magazine Georgia Southwestern State University 800 GSW State University Dr. Americus, GA 31709 gsw.edu

Upcoming Events

C O N TAC T U S Letters to the editor and other submissions are encouraged.

Homecoming Week Monday, February 27 – Friday, March 1

Aeolian Magazine

2018 Outstanding Alumni Awards Dinner Friday, March 1

800 Georgia Southwestern State University Dr. Americus, GA 31709 aeolian@gsw.edu

Alumni 5K and 1-Mile Fun Run Saturday, March 2

Groundbreaking Ceremony for Baseball/Softball Indoor Practice Facility Saturday, March 2

Class notes and alumni updates may be sent to the Office of Alumni Affairs.

Office of Alumni Affairs 800 Georgia Southwestern State University Dr.

Pi Kappa Phi 50th Anniversary

Americus, GA 31709 alumni@gsw.edu

Friday, May 17 – Saturday, May 18

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The Aeolian magazine is published for Alumni and Friends of Georgia Southwestern State University by the Department of University Relations. Georgia Southwestern is a member of the University System of Georgia and an Affirmative Action/Equal Opportunity institution.