S P R I N G 2 0 21
Northwestern State University Magazine
Although
Messages Dear Alumni,
Dr. Chris Maggio 1985, 1991 President Northwestern State University
We certainly began 2021 in memorable fashion with snow days delaying the start of the Spring 2021 semester and a Mardi Gras ice storm that affected just about everyone in the region. As always, our students, faculty and staff showed patience and fortitude amid unexpected circumstances. Our sincerest thanks go to the dedicated personnel who worked behind the scenes on campus to coordinate housing, dining, academic and technology accommodations for students without power and water for days. It’s one more example of the resilience of the NSU family. You may have heard that the university is planning for a more “normal” fall semester with a return to more face-to-face classes and the rescheduling of student activities and other events that were cancelled, postponed or suspended due to the COVID-19 pandemic. The university will continue to follow health and safety protocols, but our hope is that we will be able to host our traditional Demon Days welcome back activities, alumni gatherings, athletic contests and Homecoming festivities that we missed so badly last year. I hope that you and yours are well and healthy. I hope that the events of the past year have helped to put into perspective the things that truly matter to all of us: staying strong in difficult times, supporting one another and maintaining a sense of optimism that we will get through this and better days are ahead. And I fervently hope to see you on campus soon. Thank you for all you do in support of Northwestern State University.
Dear Alumni: While things may never be exactly the same as they were before COVID, it appears that good things are on the horizon. Our Athletic Department jammed several fall sports into the spring schedule and the University Programming Council hosted Homecoming in March. It was wonderful to see our studentathletes in action and our student body supporting them. Dr. Drake Owens 2004, 2005 Assistant Vice President of External Affairs for University Advancement
As you read this, we are preparing for Spring 2021 commencement, a series of six ceremonies May 5-7 that have been carefully planned to adhere to health guidelines while celebrating a class of graduates whose college experience has been a bit of a roller coaster. Our hats are off to Spring 2021 graduates and their loved ones. It was quite a ride. For many of our students, the past year will have been a watershed moment in their lives. It’s been a difficult time for individual families and for our NSU family. While isolation, loss and worry affected us all, now we can turn our focus on what we learned during past year, lessons of empathy, compassion and concern not just for the well-being of our friends and family, but those we come into contact with in public places. We hope that the upcoming summer, the 2021-22 school year and our next holidays will be better and that we can gather to celebrate all the things that were postponed. Thank you for all you do to support Northwestern State University.
Alumni Columns Official Publication of Northwestern State University Natchitoches, Louisiana Organized in 1884 A member of CASE Volume XXXI Number 1 SPRING 2021 The Alumni Columns (USPS 015480) is published by Northwestern State University, Natchitoches, Louisiana, 71497-0002 Periodicals Postage Paid at Natchitoches, La., and at additional mailing offices. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to the Alumni Columns, Northwestern State University, Natchitoches, La. 71497-0002. Alumni Office Phone: 318-357-4414 and 888-799-6486 FAX: 318-357-4225 • E-mail: owensd@nsula.edu NSU ALUMNI OFFICERS
President................... Patricia Hrapmann, New Orleans, 1973, 1978 1st Vice President..................................... Leah Sherman Middlebrook, Dallas, 1986, 2016 2nd Vice President........................................... Dr. Nikki Ceaser-Small, Arlington, Texas, 2007 Secretary.............................................Trey Hill, Baton Rouge, 1985 Treasurer...............................J. Scott Repp, McKinney, Texas, 1989 Past President.............................Monty Chicola, Alexandria, 1979
EX OFFICIO MEMBERS
NSU President...................................Dr. Chris Maggio, 1985, 1991 Vice President for External Affairs..................... Jerry Pierce, 1961 Assistant Vice President of External Affairs for University Advancement................. Drake Owens, 2004, 2005
BOARD OF DIRECTORS
Dr. P. Cade Brumley...........................................New Orleans, 2002 Steven Celestine.................................................... Shreveport, 1989 Tommy Chester..................................................Natchitoches, 1969 Caron Chester Coleman....................................Natchitoches, 2000 Shade Dufrene................................................. Baton Rouge, 1999, 2003 Allen Evans............................................................. Shreveport, 1989 John Evans...........................................................Natchitoches, 1992 LaTasha Gray-Grant....................................Mansfield, Texas, 2007 Emilyn Horton...............................Natchitoches, 1987, 1993, 2001 Emilie King.............................................................Shreveport, 2017 Matt Koury................................................................. Leesville, 1995 Jeremy LaCombe...................................................New Roads, 1999 Lane Luckie............................................................Tyler, Texas, 2008 Kim Martin.........................................................Lake Charles, 1988 Dr. Lisa Landry Mathews..................................... Shreveport, 1992 Virginia Monceret.................................................New Roads, 2001 Mandi Mueller ...................................................New Orleans, 2009 Michael Prudhomme................................................. Natchez, 1984 Joe Robertson...........................................................DeQuincy, 1990 Mark Spikes............................................... League City, Texas, 1991 Joseph B. Stamey.................................................Natchitoches, 1983 Crystal Hemphill Stewart....................... Natchitoches, 1997, 2003 Toni Stroud..........................................................Natchitoches, 1989 Glenn Talbert......................................................... Shreveport, 1964 Taylor Townsend................................................Natchitoches, 1986 Jim Villard.............................................................. Alexandria, 1983
EMERITUS BOARD MEMBERS Jerry Brungart.................................. Natchitoches, 1969, 1971 Leonard Endris.................................................. Leesville, 1974 Dr. Hayward Hargrove............... Black Mountain, N.C., 1964 Gail Jones....................................................Natchez 1981, 1998 STUDENT REPRESENTATIVE
Nicholas Hopkins............................... Bossier City, SGA President Publisher............................................Dr. Drake Owens, 2004, 2005 Editor...........................................Leah Pilcher Jackson, 1994, 2011 Contributors.....................................................................David West Jason Pugh Matthew Vines, 2016 Photography............................................... Chris Reich, 2007, 2009 Josh McDaniel Design/Layout........................................Daphne Hines, 1982, 1984
Northwestern State University is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges to award associate, baccalaureate, master’s, specialist’s, and doctorate degrees. Contact the Commission on Colleges at 1866 Southern Lane, Decatur, Georgia 30033-4097 or call 404-679-4500 for questions about the accreditation of Northwestern State University. Northwestern State University does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, gender, religion, sexual orientation, national origin, disability, genetic information, age, pregnancy or parenting status, and veteran or retirement status in its programs and activities and provides equal access to the Boy Scouts and other designated youth groups. The following individuals have been designated to handle inquiries regarding non-discrimination policies (i.e., Title IX): Employees/Potential Employees – Veronica M. Biscoe, EEO Officer (318-357-6359) and Students – Frances Conine, Dean of Students (318-357-5285). For Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) concerns, contact the Disability Support Director, Randi Washington, at 318-357-5460. Additionally, Northwestern complies with the Jeanne Clery Disclosure of Campus Security Policy & Campus Crime Statistics Act. Information about NSU’s campus security and crime statistics can be found at https://www.nsula.edu/ universityaffairs/police/. Full disclosure statement: http://universityplanning.nsula.edu/ notice-of-non-discrimination.
NSU News Postponed 2020 Homecoming celebrated with spring festivities On the cover: NSU’s 2020 Homecoming Honor Court participated in a week of festivities March 15-20 as the university hosted a celebration postponed from last fall. Below the Honor Court is pictured with Natchitoches Mayor Ronnie Williams for Paint the Town Purple. From left are Destiney Williams, Nick Hopkins, Kyler Burns, Sarah Sargent, Katie Briggs, Homecoming King Matt Nelson, Peyton Harville, Mayor Williams, Katie Kennedy, Homecoming Queen Tori Spraggins, Madeline Hensley, Ryann Bizette, Alphonse Engram, Mary Scott Pourciau, Sheridan Duet and Nick Parham.
Visit Natchitoches
Upcoming Events
APRIL 16
NSU Steel Band Concert on the Riverbank
APRIL 24-JULY 13 (SATURDAYS)
Farmers Market (www.readysetgonatchitoches.com)
APRIL 27
Natchitoches-Northwestern Symphony Orchestra Concert
MAY 7-8
Sale on the Trail (www.facebook.com/SaleontheTrail )
MAY 21-22
Natchitoches Jazz/R&B Festival (www.natchjazzfest.com)
JUNE 24-26
Louisiana Sports Hall of Fame Induction festivities (www.lasportshall.com) This public document was published at a total cost of $20,941.14. 52,949 copies of this public document were published in this first printing at a cost of $20,941.14. The total cost of all printings of this document, including reprints is $20,941.14. This document was published by Northwestern State University Office of University Advancement and printed by Cenveo Worldwide Limited, 200 First Stamford Place, Stamford, CT 06902 to foster and promote the mutually beneficial relationship between Northwestern State University and its alumni, supporters and community partners. This material was printed in accordance with standards for printing by state agencies established pursuant to R.S. 43.31. Printing of this material was purchased in accordance with the provisions of Title 43 of the Louisiana Revised Statues. 1
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Alumni News Prize-winning poet Clemonce Heard continues rising in literary circles Rising poet and visual artist Clemonce Heard was recently awarded the Anhinga Robert Dana Prize in Poetry, a competition that began in 1983 that opens opportunities for tours and readings. His work will be featured in Green Mountain Review and Rattle later this spring. Heard was born and raised in New Orleans. He attended Northwestern State University from 2006-2012, graduating with a bachelor’s degree in graphic communications and minor in culinary arts. Heard and fellow student Brandi White cofounded Brainy Acts Poetry Society (BAPS) in April 2010. In his six year at NSU, Heard also rowed starboard on the crew team and cooked at Shoprite, Chili’s and The Mariner’s. “Much of my inspiration comes from investigating some gap, absurdity or slippage in history, where there’s room to reimagine power in favor of the marginalized,” he said. Heard’s writing practice is based in movement and urgency, both of which he believes can be stimuli in anyone’s creative process, be it dance, a time constraint, etc. As a student, Heard took a summer poetry class with NSU Professor of English Emeritus and former Louisiana Poet Laureate Dr. Julie Kane, who Clemonce Heard became an advocate for BAPS, eventually becoming the organization’s advisor and ultimately Heard’s mentor. He also received thoughtful investment from art professors Leslie Gruesbeck, Brooks Defee, Clyde Downs and Larrie King and Connie Jones, coordinator of the hospitality management and tourism program. Heard earned an MFA in creative writing from Oklahoma State University. His work has appeared in Obsidian, Ruminate, & World Literature Today, among others, and is forthcoming in Iron Horse Literary Review, Southern Indiana Review & Poetry. Heard was a finalist for both TMR’s 2018 Editors’ Prize and the Missouri Review’s 2019 Jeffrey E. Smith Editors’ Prize. Heard was awarded an honorable mention in the 2017 Gwendolyn Brooks Centennial Poetry Prize, a runner-up for the 2018 Tennessee Williams Literary Festival Poetry Award, second place in the 2018 Janet B. McCabe Poetry Prize, first place in the 2018 Connecticut Poetry Award Contest.
Smith named CEO of FedEx Ground John Smith was named as the president-elect of FedEx Ground on March 1 and will take over the role of President and CEO on June 1. Smith most recently served as president and chief executive officer of FedEx Freight, a position he held for nearly three years before becoming John Smith President and CEO at FedEx Ground. He also serves on the Strategic Management Committee of FedEx Corporation, which sets the direction for the FedEx enterprise. FedEx Corporation employs more than 450,000 team members worldwide and uses nearly 700 airplanes and 189,000 motorized vehicles to deliver 15 million shipments every day in more than 220 countries. Smith has more than 30 years of experience in the
transportation industry and joined FedEx in 2000. Smith serves on the boards of the Arkansas Trucking Association and the American Transportation Research Institute and was named treasurer of the board for the American Trucking Associations in 2019. Smith graduated from NSU in 1985 with a degree in geology. He was a four-year starter on the Demon football team as an offensive tackle. He was a two-time All-Louisiana selection and a pre-season All-Gulf Star Conference choice. He was the winner of the Demon Award given to the outstanding offensive lineman. He is a 2020 member of the Long Purple Line, NSU’s alumni hall of distinction that will be recognized during this year’s Homecoming festivities. Smith and his wife Julie met in high school. They have two children, Erin and Tanner, and are proud grandparents of two grandchildren, Josie and Macy. In his spare time, John enjoys watching sports and visiting his family in Texas. John and Julie currently live in Memphis but will be moving to Pittsburgh soon for his new position with Ground.
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Alumni News Brig. Gen. Kuilan is first female commander of 95th Training Division we’ve got the first woman vice president, so the world is out there for them to take.” Kuilan, a native of Arkansas, received her initial commission for Active Army after completing Officer Candidate School in January 1989. While on active duty, she served in various positions with the 5th Infantry Brig. Gen. Susie S. Kuilan Division from 1989 thru 1991 at Fort Polk. Upon completion of active duty, Kuilan, joined the Army Reserve where she served in various positions, ranging from a personnel adjutant, officer-in-charge of a Site Support Team, operations officer, executive officer, battalion commander, brigade deputy commander and brigade commander. In 2005, Kuilan deployed to Iraq in support of “Operation Iraqi Freedom” where she served as the LOGCAP Support Officer for Task Force 134 Detainee Operations, Camp Bucca, Iraq. In her civilian life, Kuilan is an associate dean of Strategic Security and Protection Management at Henley-Putnam School of Strategic Security of National American University and resides in Gravette, Arkansas, with her husband Joe Bryant. Together they have three adult children who live nearby and five four-legged “children” that rule their household.
Brig. Gen. Susie S. Kuilan made history in January when she became the first woman to command the “Iron Man” division at Fort Sill’s 95th Training Division, a U.S. Army reserve unit. Fort Sill is in Lawton, Oklahoma. Kuilan earned a master’s in English from NSU in 2000, formerly taught in the Department of English, Foreign Languages and Cultural Studies and is a member of the department’s advisory council. During a change of command ceremony at Fort Sill, Maj. Gen. Andrew Juknelis, commanding general 108th Training Command (IET) turned the reigns of the training division over to Kuilan, making her the first woman to hold the position since the unit’s inception prior to World War II. “I think it’s pretty incredible,” Kuilan said. “This is a home division for me. I started out in this division as a captain and was a major and for a very short time. So, to come home and then to know that I’m the first female General of what was traditionally an infantry division, I think, is phenomenal. But I still get to be Ironman Six.” For Kuilan, this command is just another rung in the ladder during a career spanning 31 years. She said she’s never seen her gender as a hinderance, nor did she let it get in the way of what she wanted to accomplish as both a soldier and civilian. She encouraged all young women to set goals and strive to accomplish them. “You can be Iron Man 6 one day,” she said. “I’ve never let my gender get in the way and I’ve never necessarily been in a position where I was the first, either. When I first pinned on my general star, I think I was one of 22 female generals in the Army Reserve. So, I’ve never been first until now and that is exciting. But it means that any girl out there can be anything they want to be. We’ve had what first women astronauts,
Koss named TANA president-elect Brad Koss (1993), a Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist, was recently named the 2020-21 president-elect of the Tennessee Association of Nurse Anesthetists. Koss, who is the CRNA Manager of Education at Vanderbilt University Medical Center in Nashville, Tennessee, will take office as the TANA president in October 2021. Koss is a native of Many and resident of Franklin, Tennessee. CRNAs are highly educated, advanced practice registered nurses who safely deliver anesthesia care to patients of all ages and in every type of healthcare setting where anesthesia is required for surgery, labor and delivery, trauma stabilization and pain management. Across the United States, CRNAs administer more than 49 million anesthetics to patients each year. As anesthesia and airway experts, during the ongoing pandemic CRNAs on the front lines are managing Covid-19 ICUs and providing one-to-one care to critically ill patients. Brad Koss, DNAP, CRNA, APN Last August, Koss took on the role of CRNA Manager of Education at Vanderbilt, but 20 years ago he was utilizing his Bachelor of Science in Computer Information Systems from NSU as a manager of an IT Helpdesk team and data center. After nearly a decade in IT, Koss knew he wanted to pursue a different career path. Taking a sharp detour, he began his nursing education at Belmont University in Nashville, then went on to earn both his Master of Science in Nurse Anesthesia (2009) and Doctor of Nurse Anesthesia Practice degree (2020) from the Middle Tennessee School of Anesthesia (MTSA) in Madison, Tennessee.
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Alumni News Brian and Robin McCoy forged different paths on road to success Northwestern State alumni Brian and Robin Samson McCoy met as student leaders at NSU, but their individual paths to success were very different. The couple visited with students in NSU’s Presidential Leadership Program earlier this year to discuss the importance of engagement, networking and forming relationships in college that are beneficial personally and professionally well beyond graduation. Brian, who earned a bachelor’s degree in business administration in 2002, is president of Cold Chain Solutions at Sigma Supply of North America, the company that designed the custom packaging for the COVID-19 vaccine for distribution in Louisiana. Sigma Supply specializes in packaging solutions, equipment sales, technical support and shipping for more than 100,000 items. Brian played a key role in bringing together several components of the package design, working with partners around the clock to contribute to the vaccine’s swiftest possible delivery to citizens of Louisiana. Robin who graduated from the Louisiana Scholars’ College in 2002 and from the University of Mississippi School of Law in 2005, is a federal attorney on the staff of Judge Elizabeth Foote, U.S. District judge for the western district of Louisiana. She manages Foote’s staff of junior lawyers, does research and develops briefs and is the point person in Judge Foote’s office. Days after representing Sigma Supply in speaking to CNBC about the precision packaging that is crucial to keeping the vaccine at -80 degrees F, Brian spoke to students about
Robin and Brian McCoy Robin, the academic of the couple, was president of Phi Mu and served on Scholars’ Forum Council, a student-led governing body. Brian, a Shreveport native, was president of Kappa Alpha. A first-generation college student, he did everything he could to be involved on campus. The two met while attending a summer leadership program. Even though their paths have been very different, both said that engagement and cultivating connections provided advantages in their careers. Brian had a college manager job at Stine Lumber and began his career in car sales. His success as a salesman was noted by a customer who owned a janitorial supply company and hired him to do outside sales. He joined the team at Sigma Supply in 2015. The couple married in August 2005, days before Hurricane Katrina devastated the Gulf Coast where Robin had expected to start a job in New Orleans. They have lived in Shreveport ever since with their three children, ages 9, 7 and 3. The two shared with students their experience in leadership, community service and how their time at NSU shaped their future.
“Building, maintaining and keeping relationships I formed at NSU have helped me in my career.” – Brian McCoy his career and the role Sigma Supply played in vaccine distribution. Brian coordinated efforts with Morris and Dickson, a Shreveport-based pharmaceutical distribution company, and designers who developed the packaging for the vaccines released by Pfizer and Moderna. He worked with several different vendors that specialize in foam, tape, cooling bricks and other components to quickly develop the packaging and put it into distribution. In her 16 years as a federal attorney, Robin has prosecuted cases involving murder, guns, embezzlement, corruption and more, holding court via Zoom during the COVID pandemic. She discussed the importance of building a resume and how the college experience can illustrate that an individual is positively engaged, works well with others and can be a contributor. Being involved is also a great confidence-builder, she said, having arrived at NSU from Covington not knowing many people. “I got involved with extracurricular activities to make friends, which was a launching point in learning to be a leader,” she said. “It forced me out of my comfort zone. I learned from being involved that the number one thing it gave me is confidence, a huge help going into life. Having confidence and learning to speak up is something I learned here.”
“I learned to use diplomatic skills to demand my voice to be heard and skills that encourage collaboration at NSU.” – Robin McCoy “Building, maintaining and keeping relationships I formed at NSU have helped me in my career,” said Brian, who described himself as motivated and competitive. Robin said skills she learned in leadership roles helped her be taken seriously as a young female. “I learned to use diplomatic skills to demand my voice to be heard,” she said. “I learned that and skills that encourage collaboration at NSU.”
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Alumni News History professor lends expertise to asylum seekers Autumn Quezada-Grant is one graduate who recently took part in the ongoing oral history project conducted by the NSU Alumni Association, stating that her years at NSU were not only memorable but impactful. Inspired by her studies in the history department and their emphasis on indigenous peoples, she earned her graduate degree in history in 2002 and went on to earn a Ph.D. in Latin American history at Ole Miss in 2010. Today she is a history professor at Roger Williams University in Bristol, Rhode Island, where she teaches Latin American studies, gender and sexuality studies. In addition to teaching, she serves as an expert witness for asylum seekers from the U.S. southern border and works with attorneys all across the United States and Canada to help ground clients’ stories in facts connected to the countries from which they come. She writes declaration reports on the country conditions and testifies in court on behalf of asylum seekers and has worked with over 130 cases from Mexico, El Salvador, Nicaragua, Guatemala and Peru. “We work on cases that deal with Withholding of Removal, Asylum and the Convention Against Torture helping refugees and asylum seekers from Latin America to stay in the United States,” she said. Quezada-Grant said her time at NSU were
some of her favorite years. She was drawn to NSU’s graduate program because she could also earn a certificate in cultural resource management. “In a way, NSU provided a foundation for work that I went on to do in ways that I could never imagine. My love of history, social justice and culture was Autumn Quezada-Grant born at NSU and today I teach history and do social justice work helping many asylum seekers coming in at our southern border. I could never have imagined that I would have taken all that I learned and encountered at NSU could become a niche type of work that is so very important today to peoples who are fleeing violence and frightening situations.”
Stiefvater, Louisiana National Guard’s top enlisted leader, retires Command Sgt. Maj. Robert “Joey” Stiefvater retired and relinquished responsibility of the Louisiana National Guard as the senior enlisted leader to Command Sgt. Maj. Clifford Ockman, Jr. during an official ceremony at the Camp Beauregard post theater in Pineville, Dec. 6. “Sergeant Major Stiefvater, thank you Robert “Joey” Stiefvater for your leadership, support and sacrifices for 36 plus years,” said Brig. Gen. D. Keith Waddell, adjutant general of the LANG. “You have done a remarkable job in every unit you have served and your mentorship and leadership to many soldiers and airmen will endure for many years to come.” Stiefvater, a resident of Pineville and a 2010 graduate of Northwestern State University, has served as the senior enlisted advisor to the army and the senior enlisted leader of the entire LANG for the past 7 years. From the years 20002013, he served as battalion command sergeant major for the 1st Battalion, 244th Aviation Regiment; 1st Battalion, 141st Field Artillery; and 3rd Battalion, 156th Infantry Regiment. Stiefvater also served as command sergeant major for the 139th Regional Support Group and 225th Engineer Brigade. Before assuming responsibility as the LAARNG SEA,
Stiefvater mobilized in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom from 2004-2005 and supported many state of emergency operations including Hurricanes Katrina, Rita, Gustav, Ike and Isaac. He also served as Task Force Command Sergeant Major during Deepwater Horizon Oil Spill and Operation River Guardian. Some of Stiefvater’s awards and decorations include the Bronze Star, Meritorious Service Medal with 4 Oak Leaf Cluster, Army Commendation Medal with 3 Oak Leaf Cluster, Army Achievement Medal with 4 Oak Leaf Cluster, Good Conduct Medal, Reserve Components Achievement Medal with 4 Oak Leaf Cluster, National Defense Service Medal with 1 Bronze Service Star, Iraq Campaign Medal with 3 Bronze Service Stars, Global War on Terrorism Medal, Armed Forces Service Medal, Humanitarian Service Medal with 1 Oak Leaf Cluster, Armed Forces Reserve Medal with Silver Hour Glass and “M” Device, Noncommissioned Officer Professional Development Ribbon with Numeral 4, Army Service Ribbon, Oversees Ribbon, Multinational Force and Observers Medal, Combat Infantry Badge, Expert Infantry Badge, Basic Parachutists Badge, Honorable Order of Saint Barbara and the Bronze Order of the De Fleury Medal. Stiefvater resides in Pineville with his wife, the former Teresa Malone. He is also father to three children, Corey, Christin and Emma.
“Thank you for your leadership, support and sacrifices for 36 plus years.” – Brig. Gen. D. Keith Waddell,
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Alumni News
Spotlights Timothy Locklear, RN, was named director of Emergency Services at Beauregard Health System in DeRidder, effective Dec. 14, 2020. Locklear has served as a charge and triage nurse and has been involved in direct patient care in the Emergency Department at Beauregard Health System since 2018. He has worked as a mentor and preceptor for new nurses Timothy Locklear and most recently served as the point person for the Meditech implementation for the Emergency Department. With a decade of nursing and patient care experience, Locklear completed his Bachelor of Science in Nursing from NSU this past fall. “I am very excited for the opportunity to further my nursing career and will strive to provide our community with the exceptional emergency care it deserves,” Locklear said.
Thomas has signed a 12-month contract, which will provide continuity while the Board of Regents conducts its search for a permanent president. Chief of Staff Danita Rose also will remain a key decision-maker, along with Thomas, a news release stated. Thomas brings more than 20 years of experience in higher education to the role, including instructional and leadership positions in academic advising, campus recreation, educational partnerships, enrollment management, recruitment and student organizations. At OCCC since July 2018, Thomas previously served at Blinn College, Angelina College, College of the Mainland and Northwestern State University. He holds an Associate of Arts in Music from Northeast Texas Community College and another from Trinity Valley Community College, bachelor’s and master’s degrees from Northwestern State University, a Graduate Certificate in Academic Advising from Kansas State University, and a doctorate in education from Grambling State University. “It’s an honor to lead this community,” Thomas said. “We made a lot of positive changes in 2020, despite many significant challenges. I believe OCCC is entering a new era sure to be filled with excitement, new focus and positive change.”
Penny McCollough (2008) accepted the position of Inpatient Services Director at Beauregard Health System in DeRidder, effective December 14, 2020. With over a decade of experience as a Medical/Surgical Registered Nurse (RN), McCollough has served as a team leader for Inpatient Services at Beauregard Health System since 2011. McCollough began working at Beauregard Penny McCollough Health System in 2004 in the Health Information Management (HIM) Department, while she pursued her Associate of Science in Nursing from Northwestern State. “I am appreciative for the opportunity to further my nursing career as the Director of Inpatient Services, and I look forward to continuing to serve our community and surrounding areas,” McCollough said.
DeSoto Parish Schools Superintendent Clay Corley was recognized in January as the Superintendent of the Year for Region VII in Louisiana. Other parishes included in the region beside DeSoto include Bienville, Bossier, Caddo, Claiborne, Natchitoches, Red River, Sabine and Webster. Gwile Paul Freeman presented a plaque at the Clay Corley received a plaque DPSB’s meeting. from Dr. Gwile Paul Freeman. Corley earned a bachelor’s degree in Health and Physical Education at NSU in 1994 and a master’s in Educational Leadership in 2005. He began his career in the Vernon Parish school system in 1995 and moved to Many High School where he was a teacher and coach for six years before returning to his home at Florien High School where he was a teacher, coach and assistant principal before moving to the district office, first as supervisor, then director of student services and interim superintendent. He was hired as superintendent of DeSoto Parish schools in May 2018. The School Board in the fall of 2019 extended his contract through July 1, 2023. Corley’s wife, the former Bridget Martinez, also earned a degree at NSU in 1995.
Oklahoma City Community College has named Jeremy L. Thomas (1997) as its interim president. Thomas assumed the role on Jan. 2 and will continue his roles as provost and vice president of Student Affairs.
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Alumni News
Ireland Sports Hall of Fame Inductee
Hernando County, Florida, Teacher of the Year selection committee announced that Mason Lewis is 2021 District Teacher of the Year. Lewis teaches digital information technology at D.S. Parrott Middle School in Brooksville, Florida, and has been with Hernando Schools since 2006. Lewis is a thirdMason Lewis generation teacher on both sides of his family. A Florida native, he earned a bachelor’s degree in elementary education at the University of Central Florida and a master’s in educational technology at NSU in 2009. After teaching third grade one year, he moved to D.S. Parrott 15 years ago where he has taught 7th and 8th grade science before his current position as career and technical education instructor. Lewis played a role in developing and leading Parrott’s information and communication technologies program that offers 10 digital certificates in subjects that include gaming, web design and cybersecurity and an industry certification in social media strategy.
Former Northwestern State sports publicist and longtime Louisiana Sports Hall of Fame chairman Doug Ireland one of three journalists selected for the 2021 Distinguished Service Award in Sports Journalism from the Louisiana Sports Writers Association. The trio will be inducted in the Louisiana Sports Hall of Fame in June. Ireland has been the chairman of the Hall of Fame, a volunteer role, since April 1990, just over a year after he left the Alexandria Town Talk sports staff to become sports information director at Northwestern. He spearheaded efforts leading to construction and opening of the Louisiana Sports Hall of Fame and Northwest Louisiana History Museum in Natchitoches in 2013. Ireland wrapped up over 30 years as the Demons’ innovative SID in 2019. The DSA honor, to be made official this summer in Natchitoches, means they will be among an elite 12-person Class of 2021 being inducted in the Louisiana Sports Hall of Fame. The trio was selected from a 26-person pool of outstanding nominees for the state’s top sports journalism honor. The Distinguished Service Award in Sports Journalism recipients are chosen by the 40-member Louisiana Sports Hall of Fame selection committee based on nominees’ professional accomplishments in local, state, regional and even national arenas, with leadership in the LSWA a contributing factor and three decades of work in the profession as a requirement.
The Greater Vernon Chamber of Commerce board of directors voted to retain its chairman, Logan O. Morris, as Chamber CEO. Morris previously held the position informally and without compensation for nearly a year after the medically necessary retirement of long-time Executive Director Anne Causey. He will continue in a dual a capacity as chairman of the board until COVID restrictions are lifted and the Chamber’s annual election and meeting can be held. Morris, 36, is a native of Leesville and graduated from Leesville High School in 2002. He earned a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration from Northwestern State in 2006. Morris’ previous involvement with the Chamber is extensive, currently serving in his third, non-consecutive term on the board. He has chaired the Economic Development Committee since 2015. A fourth-generation insurance agent and realtor with Morris Insurance Agency and Morris Team Realty, Morris also represents the fourth generation of his family on the Chamber’s board of directors. Morris Insurance Agency and Mayor O. E. Morris were charter members and a director of the Chamber in 1943. His previous accomplishments and leadership roles include serving as past president of the Greater Fort Polk Area Realtors in 2012, the Leesville Lions Club in 2012, the Vernon Arts Council 2010-2016, District Governor of Lions Clubs International in 2015 and the president of Louisiana Realtors in 2019. In 2019, he was inducted into the Northwestern State University College of Business & Technology Hall of Fame. Currently, he serves as treasurer of the Leesville Lions Club and third vice president of the Louisiana Lions Camp where he also chairs the Finance Committee. He is currently in his second term on the Advisory Board for the NSU College of Business & Technology. Morris was elected in 2020 to serve as the Region 10 regional vice president of the National Association of Realtors in 2022, representing the approximately 146,000 realtors of Louisiana and Texas. He serves as parliamentarian for the New Orleans Metropolitan Association of Realtors. He is married to Dr. Jeremy Draper who maintains medical practices in Leesville as well as Memphis and Jackson, Tennessee.
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Alumni News Antoon Golf tournament will include pre-party and ladies’ brunch The Johnny Antoon Memorial Golf Tournament, sponsored by the NSU Foundation, has been set for Saturday, June 5 at Northwestern Hills Golf Course. Proceeds will benefit the Johnny Antoon Scholarship, established to honor the Natchitoches businessman and long-time NSU supporter. The festivities will begin with a pre-party, set for 7 p.m. Friday, June 4 at Antoon’s. Tickets are a minimum $10 donation to the Antoon Scholarship. Check-in for the tournament will begin at 8 a.m. Saturday with a shotgun start at 8:30 a.m. Mulligans can be purchased for $10 at check-in. Prizes will be based on the number of teams. There will be at least one gimmick hole, closest to the hole and longest drive prizes. The golf entry fee is $100, which provides one golfer with a cart, lunch and refreshments and one ticket to the pre-party. Tee signs can be purchased for $50. A golf sponsorship of $400 includes a tee sign, entry for four golfers with cart, lunch and refreshments for four golfers and four tickets to the pre-party. Sponsorships must be received by May 28 to guarantee a golf cart. In conjunction, the Antoon’s Wild Women’s Pokeno Brunch will take place at 10 a.m. at Dazzle Dance Studio (formerly The Student Body). Tickets are $30 which includes brunch, bottomless mimosas and Bloody Marys, one ticket to the pre-party and pokeno. Tickets are available at: https://antoongolf2021.eventbrite.com. For more information or for a registration form, contact Erin Dupree, associate director of Development at (318) 357-5699 or brossette@nsula.edu.
Terry Edwards Memorial Scholarship A scholarship has been established in memory of Terry Edwards that will benefit a student pursuing a career in industrial technology or counseling who maintains a 2.5 grade point average. A native of Coushatta, Edwards earned a degree at Northwestern State in 1965 and moved to Baton Rouge where he worked as the assistant commissioner of elections of Louisiana, later becoming a real estate appraiser. Edwards was a parishioner of St. Patrick Catholic Church, where he was a member of the Knights of Columbus Council 8601, a minister of the Eucharist and participated in prison ministry. He was also a Knight of the Equestrian Order of the Holy Sepulchre. He passed away Aug. 7, 2020. His wife of 48 years, Judy Gowland Edwards (1966), created the scholarship. Friends who wish to contribute to the scholarship can do so by visiting www.northwesternstatealumni.com or contacting Jill Bankston, CFRE, at bankstonj@nsula.edu or call (318) 357-4241.
Order yours today! 50th Anniversary
“In Good Taste” 2nd Edition of Cookbook
Makes a great gift!
The cookbook is available for purchase online at http://www.northwesternstatealumni.com/ingoodtaste/ at a cost of $25 with a $3 shipping and handling fee. Proceeds will support scholarships for students.
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Alumni News – Rescheduled – Long Purple Line, Greek Centennial will take place in October Northwestern State will host several events that were postponed earlier this year in conjunction with Homecoming 2021 festivities.
100 for 100 will be open through June 30. Chapter meetings will be held Saturday morning, Oct. 23 and a Greek tailgate will take place before the football game. A worship service will take place Sunday morning, Oct. 24. The location will be announced as it is determined. Information and tickets are available at https://greekcentennial2021.eventbrite.com.
The Long Purple Line luncheon and induction ceremony for the class of 2020 will take place Friday, Oct. 22. This year’s inductees are state official Sujuan Boutte of Prairieville, businessman Harvey F. Marcus Sr. of Monroe, Louisiana State University Head Football Coach Ed Orgeron of Baton Rouge, NSU Vice President for External Affairs Jerry Pierce, Fed Ex executive John A. Smith of Memphis, Tennessee, and former NSU faculty member Thomas Whitehead of Natchitoches. The Long Purple Line induction will begin with a reception at 10:30 a.m. for former inductees into the Long Purple Line followed by a noon luncheon and induction ceremony at the Natchitoches Events Center. Check-in for the lunch will begin at 11:30 a.m. Tickets are $25 and can be purchased at https://longpurpleline2021.eventbrite.com. Individuals who purchased tickets for the previous ceremony and are not able to attend the new date can contact Danielle Cobb at cobbd@nsula.edu or call (318) 3575513 to receive a refund.
The N-Club Hall of Fame induction program for the Class of 2020 will take place beginning at 10 a.m. Saturday, Oct. 23 in Magale Recital Hall. Admission is free. The honorees are Terrence McGee, Stephanie Sowell, Tony Taylor, Robert Daniel, La’Terrica “Cooda” Dobin, Jordan Robison, Regina Roe, Linette Stuart, Randy Moore and Bob Kairis. Terry Alario Sr., Terry Alario Jr. will receive the N-Club’s Distinguished Services Award. Coach Al Miller is the first recipient of the N-Club Pioneer Award. Golden Jubilee Celebration for the classes of 1970 and 1971 will be held the weekend of December 17-18, 2021. Save the date postcards will be going out in April to all graduates from both classes. You can stay up to date with information regarding the weekend by visiting http://www.northwesternstatealumni.com/golden-jubilee/.
The Greek Centennial originally scheduled for April will also be held Homecoming weekend. A Greek Centennial gathering will be held Friday, Oct. 22 and will include recognition of the “100 for 100” recipients. Nominations for
Dates for Flavor of Louisiana will be announced as details are finalized. Up-to-date information will be posted at www.nsula. edu, at www.northwesternstatealumni.com and on the university’s social media channels as it becomes available.
Oral history project collecting NSU memories
Stay up-to-date with Alumni news by scanning this QR code with your cell phone camera.
Response to NSU’s ongoing oral history project has been very positive, according to Associate Director of Alumni Affairs Danielle Cobb, who reported nearly 3,000 responses from alumni and more 2,140 stories collected just weeks after the launch. The engagement campaign is intended to compile an oral history archive that will unite alumni across generations, professions, geography and life experiences. “This project not only will help clean up data of our constituents and alumni, but it allows the alumni of Northwestern State University to share memories and highlights of their time at NSU,” Cobb said. “Many of us have fond memories of attending events, having a favorite professor and forming lifelong friendships while at NSU. This project will allow us to all be taken back in time and share those lasting memories with others.” Publishing Concepts (PCI) will be contacting alumni by mail, phone and email asking alumni to participate and update their information. The year-long project will be compiled into a book available in February 2022. The company is currently taking order reservations through Aug. 6. Alumni can also submit two photos along with their information. Cobb said about 1,000 alumni responded to update and/or add home and email addresses and home and cell phone numbers. Donations and memberships are on an increase as well with 146 new memberships totaling nearly $10,000. “We hope that alumni will share their life experiences and the meaningful experiences they had at Northwestern State,” Cobb said. More information is available at northwesternstatealumni.com/pci-project or by contacting Cobb at cobbd@nsula.edu.
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Campus News
The Stage at Iberville Green will be known as the Seven Oaks Stage in honor of the first seven Black students to attend NSU.
Campus facilities will be renamed to honor alumni contributions Northwestern State University is naming three campus facilities in honor of individuals who played important roles in the institution’s development and history. The Board of Supervisors for the University of Louisiana System approved the naming of the facilities. The stage on the Iberville Green will be named the Seven Oaks Stage in honor of the first seven Black students to attend Northwestern State, Steve Jackson, June Cofield, Doris Ann Roque-Robinson, Hyams J. Baptiste, James Johnson, Johnnye Britton-Paige and Pearl Jones-Burton. A meeting space on the first floor of the Friedman Student Union will recognize the late Dean of Women Lucile Mertz Hendrick. The Academic Success Center in Watson Library will be named for former State Sen. Gerald Long and his wife, the late Rose Long. Dedication programs for each facility will be held later this year. The Seven Oaks Stage is on the Lucile M. Hendrick, site of the former Sabine Hall. Plans pictured in 1963 were developed over five years with input and support from several student organizations. The venue is open to recognized student organizations as well as departments and is designed for concerts and a variety of campus events. Hendrick was assistant dean of women at Northwestern from 1959 until 1963 and was dean of women from 1963 until her retirement in 1974. A 1929 graduate of Louisiana State Normal, Hendrick was a charter member of Sigma Sigma Sigma Sorority and remained active until her death. During her tenure as a college administrator, she was named Outstanding Dean of Women for Louisiana. In 1998, she was named to Northwestern’s Long Purple Line, the highest honor bestowed on a Northwestern alumnus.
She was awarded citations from several NSU student organizations, including the SGA, Purple Jackets and Panhellenic Council, who created the Lucile Mertz Hendrick Panhellenic Foundation Scholarship in her honor. Sigma Sigma Sigma Sorority also created the Lucile Mertz Hendrick Outstanding Alumna Award in her honor. Gerald and Rose Long celebrated his Northwestern State Golden Jubilee and their golden wedding anniversary with a $600,000 gift to the NSU Foundation that supports the Academic Success Center along with scholarships and professorships. Gerald Long served three terms as state senator for District 31, which included all of Sabine and Red River parishes, a majority of Natchitoches Parish and parts of Grant, Winn and Rapides parishes. He was Senate president pro tempore in his final term. Gerald Long was elected to the State Senate in 2007 and re-elected without opposition in 2011 and 2015. He was named Man of the Year by the Professional Business Women of Natchitoches in 2005, Legislator of the Year by Rural Hospital Association in 2008 and awarded the Tourism Louey Award in 2012. Rose Long touched many lives through her civic involvement, through leading Bible studies and engagement with child and family resource centers throughout Louisiana. The Longs mentored many middle school, high school and college students and coaches through Fellowship of Christian Athletes. She chaired the Louisiana Rose and Gerald Long Legends committee for Louisiana Public Broadcasting, and was recognized as the Public Broadcasting System’s Grassroots Advocacy National Volunteer of the Year. La. Gov. John Bel Edwards and First Lady Donna Edwards renamed the rose garden at the governor’s mansion in memory of Mrs. Long.
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Campus News
Students, faculty and staff gathered for a rededication of The Pantry at NSU, which is open to all NSU and BPCC@NSU students.
Packing The Pantry - Students help students with food insecurity Students volunteers hosted a rededication of the NSU Food Pantry March 18 as one activity that took place during spring Homecoming week. Student groups dropped off donations for the Demon Drive service project, toured the renovated facility, restocked shelves and learned about services provided. The Pantry was established as a group project by social work students in 2015 to address food insecurity on campus. “Today, our mission is the same as it was then: to combat food insecurity by providing temporary emergency assistance in the form of healthy, culturally appropriate non-perishable food items to students in need,” said Jessica Mullican of DeRidder. She along with Sheridan Duet of Thibodaux are student coordinators of The Pantry. The Pantry serves all NSU and BPCC@NSU students free of charge. The Pantry has been a vital resource, especially through events of the last year when students were financially affected by COVID-19, multiple hurricanes, the recent winter storm and other unexpected expenses, according to Reatha Cox, director of Student Affairs. During university breaks and other closures, prepackaged bags were placed for collection outside The Pantry, which is located on the south side of Trisler Power Plant on NSU’s Central Avenue.
The Pantry recently underwent a floor to ceiling facelift, partially funded by a grant of unused travel funds from the Student Government Association. Students from the President’s Leadership Program and Alpha Lambda Delta First Year Honor Society worked with other groups and individuals to coordinate improvements that include facility rehab, branding, communication and supplies. The Pantry is set up like a small convenience store with a friendly staff of volunteers who participate in training on the importance of courtesy and confidentiality. Many university and community groups such University Programing Council, Housing and Residential Life, Greek organizations, clubs, businesses and individuals from the Natchitoches community have donated items to stock The Pantry with non-perishable food items, toiletries, personal care items, cleaning supplies, kitchen tools, cutlery, sanitizer and other household necessities. Earlier this year, The Pantry received a $10,000 boost of support from
Northwestern graduate Mike Knotts, a 1986 NSU graduates. Knotts is a long-time supporter of Northwestern, having served as NSU Foundation board member and committee chair. For many years, he hosted NSU’s Bossier Parish recruiting receptions for incoming students and their parents. He is a member of the NSU Columns Fund and a contributor to the Mack & Jonell Knotts Annual Scholarship and other special projects for the NSU Foundation. Knotts’ son, Nick, a first year NSU student, is a volunteer at The Pantry. “Mr. Knotts took a tour of the pantry on one of his recent visits to campus and was moved by what our students are doing for their fellow students,” Cox said. Monetary donations for The Pantry are accepted through the NSU Foundation. Donors can visit www. northwesternstatealumni.com and support the NSU Food Pantry in the Make A Gift section and specifying the NSU Food Pantry. NSU alum Mike Knotts presented a $10,000 donation to NSU Food Pantry student volunteers. From left are Director of Student Affairs Reatha Cox, Andrell Green, Sheridan Duet, NSU President Dr. Chris Maggio, Nick Knotts, Mike Knotts and Jessica Mullican.
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Athletic News
NSU received a $100,000 donation toward the Sports Performance Center. Pictures from left to right is NSU Director of Athletics Greg Burke, Deputy Director of Athletics Dr. Haley Taitano, Frannie Odom, Ken Odom and NSU President Dr. Chris Maggio.
Northwestern State Athletics receives two significant gifts toward development of Sports Performance Center Northwestern State secured two significant gifts toward its Sports Performance Center project, Director of Athletics Greg Burke announced Monday. Ken and Frannie Odom made a $100,000 donation to the Demons Unlimited Foundation dedicated to the 11,600 square foot strength and conditioning annex to the NSU Athletic Fieldhouse. “This gift from Ken and Frannie Odom exemplifies their continuing generosity and support for the university,” said NSU President Dr. Chris Maggio. “The contribution from the Odoms will have a meaningful positive impact on Northwestern for years to come. “We are deeply grateful to them for this major gift and their long-standing dedication to NSU.” NSU also received another $100,000 gift within the past week from a donor who wished to remain anonymous. The Demons Unlimited Foundation is the private fundraising arm of NSU Athletics which generates funding for facility improvement, athletics scholarships, salary stipends and other measures to ensure maximum competitiveness for each of NSU’s 14 Division I teams. “NSU Athletics is appreciative of the generous contributions from Ken and Frannie, as well as the anonymous donor, which reflect growing momentum for the Sports Performance Center project,” said Burke, who indicated additional announcements regarding support for the project were on the horizon. “The Odom’s support of the Demons Unlimited Foundation annual fund in recent years has impacted all 14 of NSU’s teams in the same way that the Sports Performance Center project will be a ‘game changer’ for each of those sports.”
The sprawling strength and conditioning facility, which will be constructed on the back end of the Athletic Fieldhouse, will include a new weight room with space for more than 100 student-athletes, a 25-foot artificial turf pad, a new nutrition center, student-athlete lounge area and offices for the strength staff. The second phase of the project will convert the current weight room into a high-tech rehabilitation center along with other sports medicine upgrades. The third phase will be the renovation of the current “Eugene Christmas Training Room.” Ken Odom, a 1972 NSU graduate, is a Sarepta native and the retired CEO of Aeropres, a Specialty Chemical and Gas Processing Company based in Shreveport. Several members of the Odom family, including Ken’s son, Kevin, hold degrees from NSU. “NSU has been such a large part of my family’s life from education to sports that giving back just feels like the right thing to do. Frannie and I are hoping that our contribution will inspire others to follow suit and help make this important project a reality in the near future,” Odom said.
Contributions can be made directly to the Sports Performance Center project by visiting https://app.mobilecause.com/vf/Victorious.
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Athletic News Orgeron named Homecoming’s Demon Great of the Game Former Northwestern State defensive end Ed Orgeron returned to campus for the March 20 Homecoming football game against McNeese and offered post-game words of encouragement to the team. Orgeron, who was honored as the Demon Great of the Game, wore a McNeese jacket in support of his son Cody, the starting quarterback for the Cowboys. With the COVID-19 pandemic pushing NSU’s football season to the spring, Orgeron was able to return to his alma mater because his LSU Tigers played a fall football season. Orgeron led the Tigers to the 2019 national championship with an undefeated record. Later this year, he will be inducted into NSU’s Long Purple Line, the alumni hall of distinction.
A rendering of the Sports Performance Center, which will be added on to the Athletics Fieldhouse.
Sports Performance Center
continued from previous page
PHASE 1: - new weight room with space for more than 100 student-athletes - 25-foot artificial turf pad - new nutrition center - student-athlete lounge area - offices for the strength staff
PHASE 2: - convert the current weight room into a hightech rehabilitation center along with other sports medicine upgrades PHASE 3: - renovation of the current “Eugene Christmas Training Room
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Athletic News
Rew-Hoover and Heath named co-chairs of Demons4Equality When Northwestern State’s Demons4Equality task force was formed last June, there was discussion about having at least one student-athlete alumnus on board to help guide the nascent group. As it turns out, it was a job – or an honor – for a pair of former NSU student-athletes. Trecey Rew-Hoover, the 2011 NCAA Outdoor discus national champion, and current Kansas City Royals outfielder Nick Heath have been named honorary co-chairs of the Demons4Equality task force, a 12-member group of student-athletes formed in June with the aim of raising awareness around minority issues and expanding voices across the athletic department. “Engaging Trecey and Nick with the Demons4Equality group is a way to connect the past with the present, and future, of the NSU athletic program. Their experience as NSU student-athletes will provide insight which will inspire and guide today’s student-athletes to be bold and to pave the way for those who will follow them,” said NSU Director of Athletics Greg Burke. Burke noted the Demons4Equality task force made strides in the fall which included establishing goals and objectives for the 2020-21 year and added that, “the timing is now right to connect two former student-athletes who had decorated careers at NSU but more importantly, have been difference makers in their personal and professional lives, with this group. It is exciting to have them on board.” The group interacts regularly with NSU Vice President of Diversity and Inclusion Dr. Michael T. Snowden, who arrived at NSU in August and has worked with faculty, staff and students to implement programs and increase awareness as it relates to inclusion and diversity. Heath has been one of the most visible and vocal
members of the Royals organization when it comes to the fight for equality and social justice. A three-year letterman at Northwestern State from 2014-16, Heath left campus as the program’s single-season stolen base leader and third in career stolen bases. He made his major league debut July 30, 2020, becoming the first position player from Northwestern State to play in the major leagues. “For a while, it had me beaming,” Heath said of receiving the call from Burke to co-chair the group. “That was a really cool phone call to get. I was really excited. It had me fired up to participate and to do what I can do to help. I’m excited to get it going and see if we can make some headway, make some change with people I went to school with.” In addition to her national championship, Rew-Hoover competed in two U.S. Olympic Trials (2010, 2016) and left as the school record-holder in the shot put (57-0.25) and discus (192-4). She currently coaches the throwers at Heritage High School in Frisco, Texas, and sees her involvement with the group as another way to reach out to the younger generation. “I am so excited to help NSU students find and use their voices,” Rew-Hoover said. “What’s happening in the world is happening to student-athletes away from campus and on campus, whether we realize it or not. Athletes need a space within their NSU world to be able to voice their concerns without fear of consequence. As someone who is currently doing the same work in my professional career, I am honored to be a part of this with these athletes.” The addition of Heath and Rew-Hoover to the task force should prove mutually beneficial for them and the 12 current NSU student-athletes. continued on next page
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Athletic News Track and cross country scholarship named in memory of Mark Fox While Mark Fox’s time at Northwestern State may have been brief, the impact he had on the NSU athletic program, and especially the cross country and track and field teams he covered, will endure. Fox, who began his graduate assistantship with the NSU Sports Information Department in August of 2019, died this past April after a lengthy illness. In recognition of his contributions to NSU Athletics, Mark’s parents, Denise and Mike, have established the “Mark Fox Track and Field/Cross Country Scholarship” through the NSU’s Demons Unlimited Foundation. “While bittersweet, it is heartwarming and appropriate that Denise and Mike are creating this endowed scholarship that will create a permanent connection between Mark’s name and an athletic program which, in a short period of time, became a part of his life,” said NSU Director of Athletics Greg Burke. “Mark embraced the track and field and cross country programs with passion and energy, which I know meant a lot to the student-athletes and coaches. We are grateful to the Fox family for their generous support and continue to hold them, and Mark’s memory, in our thoughts and prayers.” Fox wrote about the Demons and Lady Demons cross country teams in his first semester of graduate school while pursuing a master’s degree in sports administration. Because NSU did not host a cross country meet during the 2019 season, Fox took his photography skills on the road and took pictures at meets near and far during the 2019 season. “Mark threw himself into the sports “Mark threw himself information profession with great energy, into the sports and the dedication with which he pursued information profession his craft was admirable,” said Jason Pugh, with great energy, and assistant athletics director for media relations. “Mark volunteered to make trips to out-ofthe dedication with state cross country meets to improve the which he pursued his coverage of that program, and he developed with those runners. craft was admirable.” a kinship “It’s appropriate that his name be associated with that program as a testament – Jason Pugh to the care he gave to his coverage as well Assistant Athletic Director - Media Relations as the bonds he formed with those studentathletes in such a short time.” Fox, an animal lover, arranged a service project with the cross country team to volunteer at the Natchitoches Humane Society, where Fox was an active member. Mark’s father Michael said his son was extremely excited to start down the athletics career path.
Mark Fox “Mark got to know many of the student-athletes and merged his love of dogs into his NSU work by organizing dog walks/runs with the athletes,” Michael Fox said. “It was a definitely a hit with both the runners and the dogs. “His energy and passion helped hundreds of dogs and cats find forever homes, and we are sure that he is now being licked and snuggled by countless dogs and cats as he too has crossed over the Rescue Rainbow Bridge.” Donations to the “Mark Fox Track and Field/Cross Country Scholarship” can be made by visiting nsudemons. com/unlimited, navigating to the donation portion of the website and adding “Mark Fox” to the special instructions field.
Demons4Equality continued from previous page “I feel like, at the end of the day, anybody can make progress for a group of people,” said junior softball infielder and task force co-chair Cayla Jones. “Mrs. Trecey and Nick have been monumental in setting the standard for African-American athletes. Nick has been speaking a lot for the Royals on equality. Us or younger African-American athletes seeing them makes us realize we can do it too. Everyone thinks things are so out of reach, but when you see someone who looks like you standing up for what they are doing, it makes it more attainable.” Although the group is in its infancy, Heath and Rew-Hoover both see much larger things ahead for it. “I want to make it something people want to be part of, not only at NSU,” Heath said. “I want it to make a difference across the Southland Conference. I want them to understand the power we have when we step up and use our voices. When you get enough people together for a common cause, you can really make a splash.” Added Rew-Hoover, “My biggest hope for this group of athletes is for them to have a platform to be heard about regarding their experiences at NSU. I hope this group will make people more aware of others’ realities and be proactive when necessary.”
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In Memory 1950 – Curtis Leo Foshee, April 21. 2021, Valdese, North Carolina
1964 – Linda Gail Berry, Jan. 16, 2021, Minden
1950 – Warren Edwin Kimbrell, Aug. 2, 2020, Spring, Texas
1964 – Dorothy Mae “Janie” Jones Scruggs, March 6, 2021, Shreveport
1951 – Rev. Hyland D. Packard, Feb. 5, 2021, Natchitoches 1951 – Roy Lee Connell, Jan. 27, 2021, Pasadena, Texas 1953 – Patsy Aliece (Henry) Kirby, Jan. 14, 2021, Sherman, Texas 1954 – Joe Barkate, Feb. 20, 2019, Lancaster, California 1954 – Alice Phelps Williams, April 8, 2020, Lake Charles 1954 – Katherine Elliott Hoglan, Oct. 15, 2020, Niceville, Florida 1955 – Woodrow Frederick “Freddie” Whitford, May 7, 2020, Baton Rouge 1956 – Van Cook McGraw, Jan. 21, 2021, West Monroe
1965 – Van Thomas Barker, Dec. 26, 2020, Natchitoches 1965 – Bennett Ellis Pratt, Jan. 6 2021, Natchitoches 1965 – William Russell Stephens, Feb. 2021, Coushatta 1965 – Charlie Sasser, Dec. 13, 2020, Seguin, Texas 1967 – Grover C. Johnson, Sept. 5, 2020, Pineville 1968 – Jerry Clyde Kemp, Dec. 25, 2020, Fleming Island, Florida 1968 – Bettie Kay Purvis Gimbert, Jan. 7, 2021, Lake of the Pines, Texas
1991– Debbie Moore (former faculty and Director of Student Services, Nursing Education Center), March 22, 2021, Shreveport 1997, 2008 – Tiffanie Cain Wells, Jan. 16, 2021, Many 2001 – Rodney P. Hooper, Jan. 16, 2021, Natchitoches 2007 – Dana Desselle, Jan. 9, 2021, Cottonport Jonathan C. Harris, Dec. 16, 2020, Bossier City Albert Sydney Farr, Dec. 15, 2020, Bunkie Terry Bass Stelly, Dec. 26, 2020, Moss Bluff J.W. Stine, Dec. 23, 2020, Sulphur Loyd Larry Bryant, Dec. 18, 2020, Verda Benny Wayne Long, July 17, 2020, Winnfield
1956 – Ted Simon, Dec. 22, 2020, Kaplan
1970 – Mary Katherine Peacock Campbell, Feb. 25, 2021, Hamilton, Alabama
1957 – James “Red” McNew, Oct. 20, 2020, Ferriday
1971 – Ronald Glenn Bonner, Dec. 13, 2020, Lufkin, Texas
1957, 1962 – F. Allen Horton, Dec. 15, 2020, Natchitoches
1971 – Lonnie Earl Bramlett, Dec. 18, 2020, Winnfield
1957 – Dorothy Janis Johnson Akins, Oct. 29, 2020, Oberlin
1973 – Charles “the Rev.” Ward, Feb. 24. 2021, Alexandria
1957 – John Davis Schmitt, Jan. 4, 2021, Greenville, South Carolina
1974, 1980 – Stuart Bird, Jan. 21, 2021, Bullard, Texas
Magdalynn Dewett, March 1, 2021, Jena
1958 – Elmer Wyatt Akins, Feb. 28, 1981, Oberlin
1974 – Lee Leonard Wood Jr., Jan. 6, 2021, Burkburnett, Texas
1958 – Andrew Buron White Jr., March 6, 2021, Winnfield
Philip Kidd, Assistant Professor and Director of Technical Theatre, Feb. 16, 2021
1975 – Gary Cecil Jones, Jan. 2, 2021, Georgetown
1961 – Willie Louis Jenkins, Jan. 25, 2021, Denton, Texas
1979 – Lt. Col Roger L. Briggs, Dec. 12, 2019, Leesville
1962 – Vic Stelly, Dec. 26, 2020, Moss Bluff
1981 – James Bryan “Jim” Akin, Feb. 26, 2021, Natchitoches
1962 – Judith Ann Beggs, Nov. 6, 2020, Denver, Colorado
1983 – Tina Beaham Shirley, Jan. 6, 2021, Natchitoches
1963 – Charles Edward Bundrick, Jan. 4, 2021, Natchitoches
1987 – Marsha Stevens Bernard Kirkland, Feb. 1, 2021, Provencal
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Dr. Bill Bryant (Professor Emeritus, Department of Fine and Graphic Art), Jan. 18, 2021, Natchitoches Ella Rose Voelkel, Jan. 4, 2021, Natchitoches Evelyn Lyette Roark Armour, Feb. 17, 2021, Decatur, Texas Linda Spears Sebren, March 2, 2021, Noble
Dr. Arthur Silsby Allen, former Professor of Natural Sciences, March 4, 2021, Brewer, Maine Admiral Ronald J. Hays, Honorary Doctor of Humane Letters (1998), Jan. 11, 2021, Honolulu, Hawaii
Looking Back 2005-06 Potpourri’s profile the hottest trends for college students: Music
* Every single released from Mariah Carey’s multiplatinum disc “The Emancipation of Mimi” * Every single released from Kelly Clarkson’s “Breakaway” * “Lose Control” by Miss Elliott featuring Ciara and Fat Man Scoop * “Hollaback Girl” by Gwen Stefani * “Photograph” by Nickelback * “My Humps” by Black Eyed Peas * “Golddigger” by Kanye West * “Run It” by Chris Brown
Facebook The latest craze among students that started this year was Facebook. Students found themselves asking “What is Facebook?” one day and were glued to their computer screens the next. Many students spent hours networking with fellow classmates as well as finding old friends from grade school and high school while on Facebook.
Razrs Cell phones continue to be the craze among students, especially flip phones. But the hottest cellular phone to own during 2006 was the Motorola Razr. This slim gadget came with a thick price tag, but all for good reason as it is equipped with a built-in camera and other neat features.
Guess Who Potpourri 1981 featured “Inside View” for new students. Student leaders served as counselors for Inside View. Can you name them?
iPods Personal CD players and Walkmans are a thing of the past as iPods become the latest items to own for students to listen to their favorite music. The portable gadgets are able to store up to several hours’ worth of music and are convenient and small enough to exercise with or even listen to while in class, such as junior Mary Smith does.
The Winter Alumni Columns featured this photo... Miss Potpourri 1961 and her court were Doris Richards, Most Involved in Student Politics; Johanna Hulls, Most Studious; Mary Blanche Postell, Most Appropriately Dressed; Barbara Shaver, Most Ambitious; Miss Potpourri Dorothy Wallen; Janis Evans, Best Personality; Judy Wright, Most Congenial, and Kathleen Gallaspy, Most Talented.
Send answers to jacksonl@nsula.edu and include your city of residence and year of graduation.
Those who guessed correctly are as follows: Virginia Head Crawford (1964), St. Francisville Katherine Berry Brewton (1964) Waterproof Doris Richard Roberts (1962), Grayson
Support your college or department of choice by using the ENCLOSED ENVELOPE or go ONLINE at NorthwesternStateAlumni.com.
The NSU Foundation invites you to support the school or department that gave you your start. Whether you are a graduate of the College of Nursing and Allied Health, College of Education and Human Development, College of Business and Technology, College of Arts and Sciences or the Louisiana Scholars’ College, support for your program or department helps fund academic programming, professional development, technology and innovation.
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Northwestern State University Alumni Columns Natchitoches, LA 71497-0002
6th Annual
Johnny Antoon MEMORIAL SCHOLARSHIP
Golf Tournament and Pre-Party Schedule of Events FRIDAY-JUNE 4 7:00 pm – Pre-Party (Antoon’s) SATURDAY-JUNE 5 8:00 am – Golf Tournament Check-in (Northwestern Hills) 8:30 am – Shot Gun Start (Northwestern Hills) 10:00 am – Antoon’s Wild Women’s Pokeno Brunch (Dazzle Dance Studio -Old Student Body) 1:00 pm – Golf Lunch Contact Erin Dupree, NSU Foundation, 318-357-5699 or brossette@nsula.edu