SENTINELSENTINEL RUST COLLEGERUST COLLEGE

VOL. 74 NO. 11—WINTER 2013

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TABLE OF CONTENTS

3 Rust College Celebrates 146 Years

6 Alumni Clubs’ News

8 2012-2013 North Mississippi UNCF

Campaign

10 Rust College Represented at

International Conference

11 Bearcat News

Tanya K. Kirk; Noah J. Moore

12 Students March to the Polls

13 147th Commencement Activities

14 Class Notes

Rust College Student Leaders attend the 2012

UNCF Masked Ball in Jackson, Mississippi

Rust College, as one of two UNCF-member institutions in Mississippi, was represented at the 2012 Masked Ball held in Jackson, Mississippi. The annual gala was held at the Jackson Convention Complex on October 26, 2012. Mrs. Margie Green (second from right) won 2nd place in the Masked Ball Stroll-Off.

Left to Right: Ms. Danielle Caradine, 2012-13

National Pre-Alumni Council President; Ms. Shakaree M. Hale, Miss

Rust College 2012-13; Dr. Ishmell H. Edwards, Vice President for

College Relations; Ms. Jo Ann Scott, Director of Development/Alumni

Development; Mrs. Margie Green, Asst. Director of Alumni

Development; Mr. Chase Carr, SGA President 2012-13.

Mrs. Margie Green,

MIC’ 74—2nd place

winner in Masked Ball

Stroll-Off

A Message to Alumni:

I am deeply humbled to be serving in the capacity of Director of Development and Alumni Development. I look upon this honor as a great challenge and obligation to YOU, our faithful Rust College and Mississippi Industrial College graduates. I look for-ward to continuing Rust College’s rich tradition of reaching out and lending a hand. Thank you from the bottom of my heart for your continuous prayers, financial contributions, and the work that you do around the world to support Rust College. I thank the administration for the opportunity to be of service to you and to work hand in hand on behalf of our beloved alma ma-ter. Our office is always open for suggestions regarding how we, together, can continue the legacy of Rust College in her quest of continued excellence. Please feel free to contact me at 662-252-8000 ext. 4013 or ext. 4913. By Their Fruits Ye Shall Know Them,

Jo Ann Scott, MA Class of 1987 Director of Development &

/Alumni Development

On the Cover: Rust College band members Dant’e Gipson

and Breanna Bowens get ready to lead the

Blue Blazing Marching Band in the Founders’

Day Parade, November 10, 2012. 2

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RUST COLLEGE CELEBRATES 146 YEARS

Class of 1962 Celebrates 50th Anniversary

The Bearcats of Rust College and the Tigers of Mississippi Industrial College came together to celebrate 146 years of Rust College and the 107th Commemoration of the Founding of Mississippi Industrial College, November 4-11, 2012.

The annual bell-ringing ceremony, Sunday November 4, began the Founders’ week activities at Asbury United Methodist Church. The ceremony was held at 9:30 a.m., before worship service, to pay homage to the founders of Rust College and to cele-brate the institution’s 146 years of existence. Led by Rust College President and First Lady, Drs. David L. and Gemma Beckley, faculty and staff members, students, and church members rang the bell at Asbury U.M. Church 146 times to commemorate each year of Rust College’s service to the community.

The Golden and Silver Anniversary classes of Rust College and Mississippi Industrial College – Classes of 1962 and 1987 – were honored during the Alumni and Friends Awards Banquet on Friday evening, November 9. Each class member was pre-sented a commemorative diploma recognizing their particular class. Awards were also presented to donors who have given finan-cial gifts to the College during the academic year.

The crowning of Miss Rust College 2012-2013 took place following the banquet during the Coronation and Ball, Friday evening. Miss Shakaree Hale, a native of Crenshaw, Mississippi, took her throne amidst family, friends and peers. Shakaree is a Biology major who stays very active on campus in various clubs and organizations. As Miss Rust College, she serves on the Student Government Association; she is also a member of Alpha Kappa Mu National Honor Society, the E.A. Smith Honor Society, Pre-Alumni Council, Math and Science Club and the Theta Upsilon Chapter of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated.

The annual Founders’ Day Parade, a Rust College and Holly Springs tradition, was a joy for all! Bands, cheer and dance teams, local and regional churches, schools and organizations strutted their stuff around the Holly Springs Square. The DeSoto County Rust Club took first prize in the community category for their beautiful float. The excitement continued at the Concert of Bands where bands and dance/cheer teams burned up the floor with great music and thrilling routines.

The Bearcats and Lady Bearcats battled it out on the hardwood during the Homecoming basketball game Saturday night, playing the Magicians and Lady Magicians of LeMoyne-Owen College (Memphis, Tennessee). To finish an exhilarating week, the 146th Founders’ Convocation and the commemoration of the founding of Mississippi Industrial College was held Sunday morning, featuring Dr. Lorenzo L. Esters, class of 1998, as keynote speaker.

FOUNDERS’ 2012—CELEBRATING 146 YEARS

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Class of 1987 Celebrates 25th Anniversary

Trustees Mrs. Pearlene D. Carter and Dr.

Mary Nell Mosley

A.J. Thurman plays “Taps” at the gravesite

of Rev. A.C. McDonald, Rust College

Founder.

Gravesite memorial service honoring our founders

Rev. A.C. McDonald and Rev. Moses Adams. Class of 2004 alumnae

Melanee Nyan with husband

Malick.

Rust College Royal Court

Coronation escorts “Putting on the Royal Ritz”

Hundreds of students, alumni and guests at the tail-

gate and stroll-off

Senior Lady Bearcat

Marion “Nikki” Lee

L-R: Ms. Jo Ann Scott, Director of

Alumni Development; Ms. Shakaree

Hale, Miss Rust College; and Ms.

Tonya Scott, Miss Rust College

1994-95

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FOUNDERS’ 2012—CELEBRATING 146 YEARS

Blue & White Award: $250.00—$499.99 Bronze Award: $500.00—$999.99

Silver Award: $1,000.00—$2,499.99 Golden Award: $2,500.00—$4,999.00

Diamond Award:

$5,000.00—$9,999.99 Platinum Award:

$10,000.00 and above

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RUST COLLEGE ALUMNI CLUBS DOING BIG THINGS

W H Y N O T I N C L U D E R U S T I N Y O U R E S T A T E P L A N N I N G ? For more information, contact the Office of the Vice President for College Relations, 662-252-8000 ext. 4014

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DeSoto County-Area Rustites Establish Alumni Club Alumni of Rust College living in the DeSoto County area recently established the DeSoto/Metro Rust College Alumni Club. Any alumni in that area are encouraged to join. The Desoto/Metro Rust College Alumni meets every third Sunday, 3:00 p.m. at the Olive Branch Library, 6619 Hwy 305 North, Olive Branch, Mississippi. If you are interested in becoming a member please contact Pat Brady at 662-544-2606 or be present at the monthly meeting.

DeSoto County alums attended a book signing for Dr. Leroy Frazier in Hernando, Mississippi on October 21 for his book, Journey Into My Soul: Converting Thoughts and Words Into Things and Advancements (Operating in the Infinite Soul). Dr. Frazier’s book is available at www.xlibrispublishing.co.uk.

Pictured from left: Renea Byrd, ‘94; Pat Baker Brady, ‘85,

Mary Walker-Curry, ‘84. Front: Kimberlan Chance-Crawford,

Joyce Bradley, ‘83, Marie Wiseman, ‘83. Second from right:

Sheila Bruce, ‘87. Back row: Jay McMiller, ‘93, Mike Smith,

‘77. Not pictured: Cassandra Evans, ‘84, Davida Ward, ‘86,

Jo Ann Scott, ‘87, Matilda Wiseman, ‘71, Aretha Wiseman,

‘87, Dr. Leslie McLemore, ‘64, Minnie Parker Blackmon, ‘94,

Fraddia Jackson, ’04, and Jimmy Clemons.

DeSoto/Metro Rust Club Takes

First Place in Founders’ Parade

On float: Michael Smith, Patricia Baker Brady (with

her head turned), Joyce Bradley, Gail James, and

Marie Wiseman. (Photo credit: The South Reporter)

First Regional Conference and Celebrity Gala of Excellence

“Historically Black Colleges and Universities:

The Role(s) of Alumni in the 21st Century”

HONORING ALL RUST COLLEGE ALUMNI CLUBS Featuring the World Renowned Rust College A’Cappella Choir

April 5-7, 2013, Sheraton Gateway Hotel Atlanta Airport 1900 Sullivan Road, Atlanta, Georgia 30337

770-997-1100 *All weekend activities are fundraisers*

The 2012The 2012--2013 Rust College 2013 Rust College

A’Cappella ChoirA’Cappella Choir

Atlanta and Columbus, GA Rust Alumni Clubs Present Regional Conference

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Members of the Rust College Alumni Club in Jackson, Mississippi (and surrounding areas) attended the Annual Potentate & Commandress Scholarship Ball in Jackson on December 1, 2012. Jackson Rust Club president Rodney Williams accepted a check for Rust College in the amount of $1,000 from the Rissah Temple No. 130 and Rissah Court No. 80. Rust College was one of five Mississippi colleges and universities who were scholarship recipients for 2012.

Rodney Williams, president of the Jackson Rust Alumni Club,

accepts a $1,000 check from the members of Rissah Temple

No. 130 and Rissah Court No. 80.

CALLING THE CLASSES OF 1963 & 1988CALLING THE CLASSES OF 1963 & 1988CALLING THE CLASSES OF 1963 & 1988 Graduates of the Rust College and Mississippi Industrial College

class of 1963, and the Rust College class of 1988 will be awarded

Golden and Silver Diplomas during the 147th Founders’

Celebration, November 8-10, 2013. Graduates of these classes are

asked to please call or mail in your current address, and also

contact your classmates and ask them to do the same. Thank you!

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TIME IS DRAWING NEAR FOR THE 11TH REUNION OF REUNIONS~JULY 12-14, 2013

11th REUNION OF REUNIONS REGISTRATION FORM

Name:_________________________________________________ Graduation Year:_____ Rust_____ M.I._____ Address:_______________________________________________ City:________________________ State: ___ Zip________ Phone numbers: (home)_____________________ (work) _______________________ (cell) ___________________________ Email address:_____________________________________________ Are you a married Rust/MI couple? Yes_____ No_____ Please register me for the following package(s):___ (Campus housing included in pkgs #1, #2, and #3. Prices are listed for individual costs only.) Please check each optional activity you wish to participate in & additional information on that activity will be forwarded to you: Optional activities: Golf ______ Choir ________ Tennis _______ To help make the event as enjoyable as possible, we would like to assist you with your travel to Holly Springs. Please check your mode of transportation: Bus_______ Train_______ Airplane_________ Will you need transportation from one of the above? Yes_______ No_______ Date and time of arrival: ________________________________________ Name of Airline: ____________ Flight #:___________ Name of Bus Station __________________________ (Memphis station only) Memphis Train Station:______________________ PKG 1: $165.00—2 nights (Fri & Sat), 1 breakfast, 1 lunch, Picnic, Gulf Coast Seafood Party, Reunion Party, Brunch—beginning Friday lunch PKG 2: $ 95.00—1 night (Friday) 1 breakfast, Gulf Coast Seafood Party, Picnic PKG 3: $105.00—1 night (Saturday) Picnic, Reunion Party, brunch PKG 4: $130.00—Housed OFF CAMPUS—1 breakfast, 1 lunch, Gulf Coast Seafood Party, Reunion Party, brunch, beginning Friday lunch PKG 5: $ 80.00—Housed OFF CAMPUS—1 breakfast, 1 lunch, Gulf Coast Seafood Party, Picnic, arriving Friday and leaving Saturday PKG 6: $ 95.00—Housed OFF CAMPUS—Picnic, Reunion Party, brunch PKG 7: $110.00—Housed OFF CAMPUS—Gulf Coast Seafood Party, Picnic, Reunion Party, brunch PKG 8: $ 85.00—Non-alumni guests/spouses—Housed OFF CAMPUS—Gulf Coast Seafood Party, Picnic, Reunion Party, brunch (Pkg must be purchased with an alumni package)

Individual ticket prices:

Breakfast $8.00 Gulf Coast Seafood Party (Friday) $40.00 Reunion Party (Saturday) $35.00 Picnic $20.00 Brunch $15.00 Bearcat/Tiger River Night $25.00 (More information to come)

Provide the registration information and mail this form with your payment to:

Rust College Office of Alumni Development 150 Rust Avenue, Holly Springs, Mississippi 38635

Jackson/Hinds Rust Alumni Club President Accepts Contribution

Special Honors 147th Founders’ Weekend

Recognizing all graduates who majored in theatre &

drama and/or participated in the Rust College

Theatre Guild.

If you, or someone you know studied theatre while at

Rust College, please contact the Office of Alumni

Development, 662-252-8000, ext. 4913

UNITED NEGRO COLLEGE FUND CAMPAIGN

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Holly Springs/Marshall County UNCF Welcomes Dr. Kenneth T. Whalum

for 23rd Annual UNCF Banquet at Rust College

Rust College was the setting of the 23rd Annual Holly Springs/Marshall County UNCF Banquet held Thursday evening, February 21st. The near-capacity crowd who attended the event was treated to wonderful music by the Rust College Male Ensemble, moving testimony and a rousing keynote address. Greetings were brought forth by Mayor Andre’ DeBerry, and Mr. Sam McClatchy, UNCF committee member. Dr. Kenneth T. Whalum, pastor of The New Olivet Baptist Church in Memphis, Tennessee, delivered an inspiring speech, based on the event’s theme of “Getting Students To and Through College”. He urged the audience to get involved in the lives of young adults who are trying to gain an education.

“What can we do to get young people to and through college? We must pour ourselves into the lives of some young person,” he said. “Those of you in the midst of your journey at Rust College, be encouraged. You won’t get through unless you keep on moving…make up your mind right now to finish college so when you finish, you can help someone else and give back to those people who helped you.”

The audience was also treated to a stirring testimony by Ms. Tanya Kelly Kirk, a UNCF scholar-ship recipient who will graduate from Rust College in April. Tanya returned to Rust College to earn her degree after leaving the school in 1990. She credits UNCF with helping her to pay for her final year of school.

“It really didn’t matter what year I finished, just that I finished. I realize I needed the second half of my life to be completed. It’s not what people think of me, it’s about what God and what I think of myself. Now I believe my call-ing is to be an advocate and a spokesperson for education. A mind is a terrible thing to waste if you choose not to grow.”

Tokens of appreciation were presented to Dr. Whalum by Dr. David L. Beckley and the Student Government Association of Rust College, for his par-ticipation in the event. Special tokens were also given to Mr. Lawrence Autry and Dr. Arvern Moore, longtime supporters of UNCF and Rust College; and Mrs. Carolyn Tyson and Mr. Bobby Bonds, longtime members of the UNCF committee. The ladies of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. presented a check for $15,000 to Rust College and the UNCF, which helped the campaign to reach its goal of raising $60,000.

Dr. Kenneth T. Whalum, Jr., pastor of The

New Olivet Baptist Church, Memphis, TN.

The ladies of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc, presented a

$15,000 contribution to Rust College and the UNCF.

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Rustite Serves at Keynote Speaker for

Golden Triangle UNCF Banquet

The Golden Triangle UNCF Committee hosted their annual banquet to support the UNCF on Friday evening, January 18, 2013 at 6:30 p.m. The annual fundraiser was held on the campus of Mississippi University of Women in Columbus, Mississippi.

The keynote speaker for the event was Dr.

Curressia McFarland Brown, M.Ed., J.D.

Dr. Brown, a native of Meridian, Missis-

sippi, graduated from Rust College in 1988, and furthered

her education by earning degrees from the University of

Mississippi School of Education and the University of Mis-

sissippi School of Law in Oxford.

The committee members reported $13,967 raised to

support UNCF.

Tupelo/Lee County UNCF Contribution

President of Rust College Dr. David L. Beckley graciously ac-cepted a check on January 14, 2013, from Mr. Clarence Smith, chairperson of the Tupelo/Lee County UNCF Committee. The Tupelo/Lee County UNCF committee held its annual UNCF banquet in November 2012 and from that campaign, the committee was able to contribute $8,500 to benefit Rust College students. Members of the Tupelo/Lee County UNCF Committee include: Mr. James Agnew, Ms. Ora Baldwin, Mr. Walter G. Bates, Mr. Charles Bouldin, Mrs. Cornelia Covington, Mrs. Nettie Y. Davis, Attorney James Ford, Rev. Jeffrey Gladney, Ms. Minnie Leeper, Ms. Wanda K. Gray, Rev. Robert J. Jamison, Ms. Mary Monroe, Ms. Florine Nails, and Mrs. Gladys Ruff.

Dr. Curressia

McFarland-

Brown

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UNITED NEGRO COLLEGE FUND CAMPAIGN

Senior Represents Rust College at Annual UNCF “An Evening of Stars” Event

as National Pre-Alumni Council President Danielle Caradine, senior Biology major, who hails from East Saint Louis, Illinois, had the opportunity to attend the taping of the annual UNCF fundraiser, “An Evening of Stars” in Los Angeles, California. “An Evening of Stars” aired on BET on January 27, 2013. Danielle received this opportunity as a result of her election as National Pre-Alumni Council president during the National UNCF Conference held in February 2012. As president, Danielle represents all Pre-Alumni Councils of the 38 UNCF-member institutions around the country.

Danielle participates in several campus activities and organizations including the Rust College Pre-Alumni Council of which she held the office of President during the 2011-2012 academic year. Her above-average grade point average made her eligible to be inducted into the Alpha Kappa Mu National Honor Society, and the Earnest A. Smith Honors Society of Rust College. She also works as an Orientation Workshop Leader, helping new students transition into college life after high school.

Danielle is a young woman who sees her future brightly. As a biology major, she plans to graduate in 2013, and then pursue a Master’s degree in Business Administration with a concentration in healthcare.

“I love leadership and administrative roles, and being a biology major, I think the healthcare field is where I could really fit in and do great work,” she says.

She says she is also motivated by the United Negro College Fund and her involvement in the national fundraising campaign.

“Working with UNCF has been exciting! Being elected national president has really opened my eyes and I’ve been able to do things and go places I’ve never dreamed of going. It has also allowed me to see what levels of leadership I can obtain and how I am able to handle the challenges of a leadership position,” she said. “This experience has really made me under-stand the mission of UNCF and how important it is to support an organization that really believes in students and what they can achieve.”

Danielle Caradine

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Pre-Alumni Council at 2013 UNCF Conference

The Rust College Pre-Alumni Council traveled to Atlanta, Georgia for the annual National UNCF Conference, February 13-16. Rust College had the honor of hosting the National Pre-Alumni President, Ms. Danielle Caradine, who has worked with the UNCF organization throughout the year.

(Above) Pre-Alumni Council members and their advisors

pose for a photo with Dr. Beckley before departing for

Atlanta. (At right) Miss UNCF Rust College, Andrea D.

Cooper, with Dr. Beckley.

Picture above front to back: Ms. Danielle Caradine,

Ms. Jo Ann Scott (advisor), Mrs. Margie Green

(advisor), Ms. Andrea Cooper—Miss UNCF Rust

College, Ms. Shumanek Jackson, Ms. Portia Ellis, Ms.

Shakaree Hale—Miss Rust College 2012-13, Ms.

Angel Wallace, and Mr. Cleotha Taylor. Photo taken

by Mr. Chase Carr, SGA President.

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RUST COLLEGE REPRESENTED INTERNATIONALLY

First Lady Serves as Keynote Speaker at International Conference

Rust College First Lady and Chair of the Social Work Department, Dr. Gemma Beckley, was one of four keynote speakers at the International Conference on Social Protection: Perspectives and Policies in India in December 2012.

The conference was held at Marian College Kuttikkanam. Dr. V.T. Samuel and Ms Debra Butler, faculty members of the Social Work Department of Rust College were also participants. Dr. Samuel was one of the chairpersons and Ms. Butler presented a paper, “Social Protection of Persons with Mental Illness”.

“It was through Dr. Samuel that Rust College established a connection with Marian College,” said Dr. Beckley.

This connection has proven strong as three Rust College social work students completed 200 of the 500-hour required Field Practicum course and seminar in the State of Kerala, India, along with Master’s-level Social Work students from Marian College.

Eight countries, including the United States, were represented. This International Conference was developed and presented through Marian College and included sponsors both financially and through presentations from the United Nations Educational, Scientific, and Cultural Organization (UNESCO).

Social protection, as defined by the United Nations Research Institute For Social Development, is concerned with prevent-ing, managing, and overcoming situations that adversely affect people’s well being. Social protection consists of policies and pro-grams designed to reduce poverty and vulnerability by promoting efficient labor markets, diminishing people's exposure to risks, and enhancing their capacity to manage economic and social risks, such as unemployment, exclusion, sickness, disability and old age.

“The United States has a strong program of Social Security, and through the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, social services and the needs of the society are addressed,” said Dr. Beckley. “Similarly, many of the needs of developing countries are addressed but more syncally through social protection programs. Additionally, the status of social security in Developing Countries is somewhat limited based on the potential for a guaranteed workforce with stable incomes large enough to provide for benefits.

Dr. Beckley compared this experience to her travels in 2005, where she spoke during the first international conference.

“In the first International Conference at Marian College in which I attended, and in which Dr. Samuel was the Organiz-ing Chairperson, the theme was ‘Perspectives on Family

Empowerment’. Many of the issues addressed in that conference have continued, but as is the situation in the United States, they continue to be a struggle. For example, an issue of the 2005 conference was Empowerment of Women and Family: Myth and Reality. As we continue to struggle in the U.S. with vio-lence against women and their empowerment, the recent incident in New Delhi of a gang rape of a young woman who was a medical student, was a sad reminder of the women’s lack of power in India. Policies are legislated but the enforcement of laws reflects the culture’s evolution in attention to women’s rights.”

Dr. Beckley’s abstract on social protection will be published later this year. Ms. Butler’s abstract was published by Marian College, and was recognized during the conference. Presentations and papers will be presented a through UNESCO International Publication. The Conference Proceedings becomes the fourth Ministerial Meeting of the UNESCO Forum of Ministers in Charge of Social Development from South Asia.

Dr. Gemma Beckley accepts a token of appreciation for her

participation in the 2012 International Conference on Social

Protection in India.

Dr. V.T. Samuel, Rust

College professor of Social

Work speaks at Marian

College, where he previously

served as Dean of the Social

Work Program.

Ms. Debra Butler with students of Marian College.

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Student Returns to Rust College to Earn Degree

It is difficult to return to college after “life” starts to intervene: work, children, and other factors can lead one astray from completing their education. One Bearcat, Ms. Tanya Kelly Kirk, has taken a big step in finishing her undergraduate degree. After a 22-year hiatus, she returned to Rust College for the 2012-2013 academic year to finish her credits for graduation.

“I never finished school and I always felt something was missing,” said Tanya when asked what made her decide to return to Rust.

Tanya left Rust College in 1990; she had a few classes she needed to retake and had intended to return in the spring of 1991. However, she says she began working and gave birth to her daughter, which put her school plans on hold.

“It was God doing His thing,” she said. “Every time I got comfortable with working, something would happen to change things. It was God’s intent for me to get my de-gree.” She says after the last time she was laid off, she discussed with her mother the possibility of returning to Rust. After speaking with her mother and her three best friends, who are also former Rust College students, she picked up the phone and made the call.

“I spoke with Clarence Smith (Registrar), who then spoke with Dr. Yeh (Chair, Div. of Science and Mathematics) about earning my credits for graduation.” She says she also spoke to Dorothy Donnell, Director of Residence Life, who said she would do whatever she could to ensure Tanya would be able to live on campus.

Tanya says she was extremely nervous about returning to Rust.

“I had a lot of fear because I’m 44 years-old and I was worried about what people would think and say.” It was a fear she could put to rest; she says on the day she moved into Wiff Hall, four young ladies helped her move and enlisted the assistance of others.

“I refuse to go home [to Dallas, Texas],” said Tanya. “I didn’t have any regrets about anything I was leaving behind.”

Tanya was only 13 credits from receiving her Bachelor of Science in Chemistry when she left Rust. She has confirmed she will graduate in April 2013 and would like to attend graduate school. She says this is her first time living on her own; her daughter is currently attending Grambling State University in Louisiana.

Tanya Kelly Kirk

Chemistry major

Tanya, as a freshman in

1987.

BEARCAT NEWS

Moore Places 2nd in Ford Black College Quiz

Rust College junior Noah Moore had the opportunity to compete in the 7th Annual Ford Black College Quiz held November 2-4 in Atlanta, Georgia. Moore placed second out of 12 competitors from 12 different black colleges and universities from around the country. The Black College Quiz was held at Spelman College, sponsored by Central City Productions.

Noah was also part of the winning Rust College team that competed in the 2012 Southern Conference on African American Studies, Inc. (SCAASI) National Quiz Bowl held in Houston, Texas in February. He assisted the 2013 Quiz Bowl team who recently returned from Tallahas-see, Florida, where they placed second in the 2013 SCAASI Quiz Bowl.

Noah Moore, Junior

Political Science

Excited to march to the polls!

Panelists Noah Moore, Nekyra Shaw and Christopher

Green act as moderators after the first presidential

debate October 13.

Students, faculty and staff gathered Wednesday,

October 13 to watch the first presidential debate.

Dr. Alisea McLeod,

Debate-Watch coordinator.

Marching up Memphis Street to the voting

polls.

Rust College Students March to the Polls for Presidential Election Students Keep Long-Standing Tradition Alive

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The day for the 2012 Presidential election was filled with excitement as Rust College students, along with faculty and staff members, marched to the polls to cast their vote. “I want to commend our students on the magnificent display of civic engagement, political awareness, dedication and discipline they demonstrated while participating in the 2012 Presidential election Tuesday,” said Dr. A. J. Stovall, Chair of the Division of Social Sciences. “It was impressive to see more than 500 students march to the polls and stand in line for five hours to cast their vote. I am sure that I speak for the entire faculty when I say we are proud of you.” Student organizations on campus began their election efforts during the first module of the semester by hosting voter registration drives in order to make sure students were registered in time to vote on election day. Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity and the Rust College A’Cappella Choir were both instrumental groups who helped register students.

Students were also able to watch and discuss the first presidential debate with their peers acting as panelists to answer questions and discuss the topics that were presented during the debate. Dr. Alisea McLeod helped lead the charge in making sure students were informed of all topics concerning the election.

“Congratulations and thanks to the leaders of [Rust College], to the NAACP, and to more than 500

students who exercised their right to vote in this presidential election. You are truly living in the spirit

of Rust College.” - Dr. David L. Beckley

Markeshea Dunn and Andrea Cooper cast their

votes.

Did you know, in 1975, Rust graduate Leroy Frazier, ‘74, won a federal law-suit titled Frazier v. the State of Mississippi? The lawsuit addressed voter registration discrimination practices against college students who wanted to register and vote in the city where they were attending school. As a result, any college student is now permitted to register and vote in the city where they live while attending any college or uni-versity. The ruling changed the re-sults of elections in small college towns throughout the country.

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147TH COMMENCEMENT ACTIVITIES, APRIL 27-28, 2013

UMC Mississippi Conference Bishop James E. Swanson to Serve as Commencement Speaker

Rust College will welcome Bishop James E. Swanson, Sr. of the Mississippi Conference of the United Methodist Church (UMC) as speaker for the 147th Commencement Convocation, Sunday, April 28, 2013. Commencement will begin promptly at 2:00 p.m. in the McMillan Multi-Purpose Center.

Bishop Swanson is a native of Houston, Texas. He is a graduate of Southern Bible College in Houston, with a Bachelor of Science in Christian Ministries and from C.H. Mason Seminary, ITC in Atlanta, Georgia, with the Master of Divinity degree.

Bishop Swanson is an ordained elder of the South Georgia Conference where he served the States-boro Circuit from 1981-1984 and the Palen/Mt. Zion Charge from 1984-1987. James served St. Mary’s Road Church in Columbus, GA, as senior pastor for 14 years, starting in June 1987. The average worship attendance grew from 12 to more than 550. Also during this appointment he be-came the co-chair of the Mayor’s Task Force on Gang Activity, served as the Chair of the Board of Commissioners of the Housing Authority of Columbus, the founding chair of the Board of Directors of the South Columbus Community Health Center and led the St. Mary’s Road Congregation in the construction of a $2.5 million facility. In 2001, he has appointed the District Superintendent of the Savannah District.

He was elected as a Bishop in the United Methodist Church in July of 2004 and assigned to the Knoxville Episcopal area. He was assigned as the Resident Bishop of the Mississippi Area as of September 1, 2012. Bishop Swanson is currently serving as the President of the General Commission on United Methodist Men and is a member of the Connectional Table of the United Methodist Church.

2013 Commencement Activities Schedule

Saturday, April 27

6:00 p.m.

Senior Consecration

Morehouse Auditorium, Doxey Alumni Fine Arts-Communication Center

President’s Reception

Immediately following Senior Consecration President’s Residence (Rust at Airliewood)

Sunday, April 28

8:00 a.m.

Senior/Alumni Breakfast

Shaw Cafeteria Rep. Kelvin Buck, speaker

Tree Planting

Immediately following Senior/Alumni Breakfast

Class of 2013 Photo Session

11:30 a.m.

L.M. McCoy Administration Building

147th Commencement Convocation

2:00 p.m.

McMillan Multi-Purpose Center Bishop James Swanson, speaker

Mississippi State Representative Buck to Speak

for Senior/Alumni Breakfast

Among the activities surrounding the 147th Commencement Convocation will be the annual Senior/Alumni Breakfast, scheduled for 8:00 a.m. Sunday, April 28. Rep. Kelvin Buck (D-MS), ‘97, will do the honors of serving as keynote speaker for the breakfast. Buck has served as representative for Mississippi since 2004. Prior to his election to the State House of Representa-tives, he served six years as Alderman for the City of Holly Springs. He is a former Marine, having served 12 years, and in the private sector, worked as Director of Broadcast Operations for RC-TV 2 at Rust College and Coordinating News Director for ABC 24 News in Memphis, Tennessee. Buck received his Bachelor of Arts in Mass Communications from Rust College in 1997 and will com-plete a Master’s Degree in Public Policy and Administration in May 2013.

Bishop James E. Swanson, Sr.

Rep. Kelvin Buck

Dr. Betty Ruth Baptist Jones, ‘73, M.D., Ph.D., President of the Atlanta Rust College Alumni Club, recently received the Healthcare Award of the Year from Southside Medical Center, Inc. The award was presented at a Community Awards Ceremony honoring “Great Achievers”, held at the Hyatt Regency Hotel in downtown Atlanta. Dr. Baptist Jones was honored for her outstanding administra-tive and support services for Southside Medical Center’s Clinical and Non-clinical areas throughout the Atlanta metropolitan areas. In an interview, Dr. Baptist Jones stated, “I am proud and grateful to have been provided an opportunity through a full four-year college scholarship to attend and graduate from one of the best undergraduate institutions in this country, Rust College, located in Holly Springs, Mississippi.”

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CLASS NOTES

W H Y N O T I N C L U D E R U S T I N Y O U R E S T A T E P L A N N I N G ? For more information, contact the Office of the Vice President for College Relations, 662-252-8000 ext. 4014

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Cindricka Arrington, ‘00, was featured on the cover of Divine Magazine (Fall/Winter Issue 2012) as one of the “35 People Who Inspire”. Ms. Arrington is a former Miss Rust College (1999-2000), who majored in Computer Sci-ence. She currently works as an IT Program Manager and adjunct professor. She says her definition of an inspirational person is “one who motivates you to do more than the status quo and drives you to fulfill your destiny despite di-vine interruptions.” Ms. Arrington’s full interview can be found at www.divinemagazineonline.com.

Braque Talley, ‘11, former SGA President, began a new position with Alabama A & M University Graduate School as Coordinator of Recruitment and Marketing. Mr. Talley is responsible for traveling to universities, colleges and businesses to interact with de-partment chairs, directors, faculty and staff to maintain recruitment. He also supervises a

support staff and represents the university at recruitment activi-ties. He assists with planning and implementing annual direct recruitment and marketing strategies and is responsible for pro-jects and reports, including evaluation of the effectiveness of their marketing strategies.

Frank Bluntson, MIC, ’60, announced his candidacy for mayor of Jackson, Mississippi —“Working Together We Can Build a Better Jackson”. Mr. Bluntson served as a Jackson city councilman for eight years; including three years as president. He is a former educator and education administrator who has

taught elementary school, served as a youth court counselor, and Director of the Hinds County Youth Detention Center. He served as an adjunct professor of Criminal Justice at Jackson State University from 1974-1995. The Jackson primary election is May 7, with the general election set for June 4.

Cannis V. Haynes, ‘55, president of the De-troit Alumni Rust Club, was nominated for the 2012 Priority Health Senior Impact Award which honors volunteers age 63 and older who give to their communities. She received a Certificate of Appreciation as a token of gratitude for her energy and commitment in serving her community.

Kelvin O. Buck, ‘97, announced his candidacy for mayor of Holly Springs, Mississippi. He has served in the Mississippi Legislature since 2004. Buck, a native of Tupelo, Mississippi, has served as Chair of the Universities and Colleges Committee, and sat on other committees as well.

“I understand government and I understand the private business sector. I understand how important it is for government and business to work together to bring jobs and other quality of life improvements to our community,” Buck told The South Reporter in his candidacy announcement.

LaKendric Williams, ’10, traveled to Washington, D.C. in January for the annual meeting of the Transportation Research Board. LaKendric is earning his Master’s Degree from Claflin University in Orangeburg, South Carolina and is a recipient of the Dwight D. Eisenhower Transportation Fellowship. The Eisenhower Transportation Fellowship Program awards fellowships to students pursuing degrees in transportation-related disciplines.

Denise Bankhead Williams, ‘91, received a Master’s Degree in Early Childhood Education from Grand Canyon University in February 2013.

Alonzo J. Nero, ‘52, was honored as “Man of the Year” by the Chicago Southern District of the United Methodist Men. The luncheon and award presentation took place June 18, 2012 at the Ramada Inn. Family, friends and church members were in attendance, including fellow Rustites Mrs. Zellner Barry, Mrs. Delores McJunkins, and Mrs. Mary Alice Lovely. Mr. Nero is a former president of the Rust College International Alumni Association.

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CLASS NOTES

Mark Young, ‘99, was named Director of the Hinds County Emergency Operations Center. Mr. Young is responsible for the planning and coordination of all county emergencies. He organizes training programs, drills, tests, emergency plans and warning systems. Mr. Young began his new position in October 2012.

The Home Depot “Retool Your School Project” VOTE EVERYDAY TO SUPPORT RUST! This year, The Home Depot is doing even more to increase the number of grants offered to HBCUs by creating an

additional Tier II Grant award in the amount of $10,000, for a total of 12 Tier II Grants. The Tier II Grant is in addition to the

$50,000 Tier I Grant and the $25,000 Campus Pride Grant.

Major Project

Rust College proposes to upgrade the present baseball field with a dugout, grading and sodding and erecting a new fence. Minor Project

Rust College intends to install wrought iron fencing on the east side of campus to improve safety and appearance of the women's dormitories.

Campus Pride

The Campus Pride Grant will go to the school with the most votes and social media activity. Follow @RYS_2013 on Twitter and tweet Rust College photos and events using the hashtag #RustCollegeRYS2013 to earn points toward Rust College’s

social media activity.

To Vote: http://www.retoolyourschool.com: Click “Vote For Your School”

Scroll through to find Rust College, click and VOTE! VOTING ENDS APRIL 15, 2013

FACULTY NOTES

Dr. Alisea McLeod, assistant professor of English, serves on the organizing committee of the 2013 National Underground Railroad Conference, sponsored by the National Network to Freedom. The National Network to Freedom is a project of the National Park Service. The conference will take place June 19

through June 22 in Little Rock, Arkansas. Along with Rust pro-fessors Dr. Marco Robinson and Dr. Sharron Sarthou, she will sit on a panel and present a paper titled "They Were Sharp Bargain-ers: Camps, Cotton, and Guns." This paper looks at the agency of African Americans during the war, in particular, their involve-ment in cotton production, their arming, and their work in the camps.

Dr. Margaret Delashmit, Chair of the Division of Humanities, published her book, Thief, about a young girl named Claire who discovers a mystery in the town of Holly Springs, and sets out to solve it with her new friend, Ralphie. Claire and Ralphie

make the acquaintance of vicious dogs, a shotgun-waving crazy lady, and an angry sheriff as they make their way through the enigmatic town.

Dr. Marco Robinson, assistant professor of History, was selected to participate in the 2013 UNCF/Mellon Faculty Seminar, which will be held in Brazil in July 2013. Dr. Robinson will join other professors and faculty from various colleges and universities. The theme for the seminar is “Afro-

Aesthetics in Brazil... and Beyond: Exploring Transnational Blackness and Beauty”.

In Memory…

Timothy Ellis, ‘87; June 21, 2012; Los Alamos, NM

Mrs. Addie M. Adams, attended 1946-1947; November 2, 2012; Tupelo, MS

Josie L. Sims Freeman, MIC, ‘77; November 14, 2012, Holly Springs, MS

Mrs. Mary Louise Fields Gibson, ‘58; November 18, 2012, Okolona, MS

Corey A. Miller, ‘02; November 23, 2012, Louisville, MS

Keosha Marshall, attended 2006-2011; December 14, 2012, Chicago, IL

Mrs. Earlie Bell, ’56; December 22, 2012; Verona, MS

Michael A. Moore, attended 1978-1980; December 20, 2012; Aberdeen, MS

Luella Maxwell-Wilson, MIC ‘74; December, 26, 2013; Tunica, MS

Mr. Palmer Foster, ‘49; January 7, 2013; Tupelo, MS

Mrs. Annie Bell Miller Stith, ‘54; January 15, 2013; Shannon, MS. Mrs. Stith lived 100 years.

Dr. Jennie Ruth Crump Calbert, ‘38; January, 16, 2013, Meridian, MS. Dr. Calbert served as Trustee Emeritus for Rust College.

Mrs. Mary Alma Chess King, ‘37; January 20, 2013, Greenville, MS

Ms. Gladys Gordon Mondy, ‘53; February 18, 2013, Duck Hill, MS

Mr. Calvin “Sugar” Blossom, ‘76; March 4, 2013, Salt Lake City, UT

Mrs. Roxie Anna Benson Wooten ’59; March 9, 2013, Milwaukee, WI

Mrs. Olegan Dunlap Allen, March 16, 2013; Destin, FL

Mrs. Dorothy Jackson McCoy, ‘67; March 18, 2013, Dekalb; MS

Mr. Bamba Ceesay, ‘97; March 20, 2013; Seattle, WA

Dr. Willie B. Kelley, MIC ‘55; March 20, 2013; Memphis, TN

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THE RUST COLLEGE SENTINEL The Rust College Sentinel is published quarterly by Rust College, Holly Springs, Mississippi 38635 POSTMASTER: Please send address changes to: Rust College, 150 Rust Avenue, Holly Springs, Mississippi 38635 Published four times a year in Holly Springs, Mississippi 38635 Mailed to alumni and friends Dr. David L. Beckley, ‘67, President Dr. Ishmell H. Edwards, ‘71, Vice President for College Relations Mrs. Margie Green, MIC ‘74, Assistant Director of Alumni Development Ms. Jo Ann Scott, ‘87, Director of Development/Alumni Development Rev. Fredrick H. Brown, ‘62, Rust College International Alumni Association President Dr. Jessie Edwards, ‘75, MIC Alumni Association President Ms. Adrienne Phillips, Public Relations Specialist

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