tougaloo college news: winter/spring 2010

Winter/Spring 2010

Art Colony 2009

Founders’ Week 2009

Commencement 2009

Honor Roll of Donors

Trustees Emeriti

Beverly W. Hogan ’73President

Karen C. Wilson, MBA, CFREVice President for Institutional

Advancement

Danny Lee JonesDirector of External Relations

Editor

Editorial Advisory BoardDoris Griffith Bridgeman

Sylvia L. Clark Candice Love Jackson, Ph.D.

O. W. Johnson, Ed.D.Gladys Jones

Sanette Langston Smith

Contributing WritersMetric Dockins ’74Melody Fisher ’oo

Gladys JonesGeorge M. Patterson ’03

Eric PilcherGloria McCray Watson ’84

Jehrod Williams ’11

Staff WritersPatricia JohnsonDanny Lee JonesEleanor P. Jones

Kindalin Sanders MosesSanette Langston Smith

PhotographersAnne Burke

Jay Johnson PhotographyDanny Lee Jones

Bruce O’HaraEric Pilcher

Charles C. Smith

What’s your news? Received an award, promotion, special rec-ognition? Had a new baby? We are always eager to receive your information for the Tougaloo College News. Just mail to:

Danny Lee Jones,Editor, Tougaloo College News, Office of Institutional Advancement, 500 West County Line Road, Tougaloo, MS 39174. You may phone at 601-977-7870 or fax to 601-977-4492 or email to [email protected]. We do reserve the right to edit submissions and refuse to print any material deemed inappropriate. As news is published only twice per year, and in the order in which it is received, it may not appear im-mediately.

On the cover: Chairman of the Board of Trustees, LeRoy G. Walker, Jr., during Founders’ Week ConvocationPhoto: Bruce O’Hara, 2009

Reuben V. Anderson, Esq.’64The Honorable William Clay D. John HeymanRobert W. JonesTheodore C. Jones, DDS, MST ’62

Joseph A. Pichler, Ph.D.Frederic L. Pryor, Ph.D.Aaron Shirley, M.D. ’55

Edgar E. Smith, Ph.D.’55Congressman Bennie G. Thompson ’68

Tophas Anderson III ’71Edward O. Blackmon, Esq. ’71 Isaac K. Byrd, Jr., Esq. ’73 Carrie Lapsky Davis ’68 Cullen L. DuBose ’56 Howard Glenn, DMD ’72 Edmond E. Hughes ’85Roy Irons, D.D.S. ’72

G. Curtis Jones, Jr., J.D.Jerry Nickens ’69

Issac Perkins, M.D. ’77Bernard Slaughter, Sr.

Dennis C. Sweet III, Esq.’77Joffre T. Whisenton, Ph.D. ’55

Alphonso Willis, MD ’73

Tougaloo College Board of Trustees

LeRoy G. Walker, Jr. Chairman

Wesley F. Prater, M.D., P.A. ’69Vice Chairman

Mavis L. Parkman James ’71Treasurer

Col. (Ret.) Doris Browne, M.D.,.M.P.H. ’64Secretary

1

Founders’ Week 2009 .......................................14

Art Colony 2009 ................................................28

Commencement 2009 ......................................38

Table of Contents

Departments

FACULTY/STAFF/ADMINISTRATION ....................................................................4

CAMPUS LIFE ................................................................................................................. 13 ALUMNI NEWS ............................................................................................................ 46

ALUMNI IN THE SPOTLIGHT ........................................................................ 50 ALUMNI MILESTONES ...................................................................................... 52 ALUMNI PASSINGS ............................................................................................. 56

Photo Editorials

Tougaloo College News | Winter/Spring 2010

President’s Message

BEVERLY W. HOGAN

Dear Alumni and Friends:

Another academic year is about to be completed. Commencement is on the nearby horizon. We are looking forward to releasing another group of prepared eagles who will change the world. Though this is still indeed a time of tremendous challenge for our nation and Tougaloo College, we are thankful for our progress. We have managed to be innovative and experience growth during the economic downturn as we also instituted retrenchment measures. When you visit the campus, you will witness a lot of action - the turning of dirt and various moving vehicles and other equipment at work. How exciting! It sounds like a great symphony to us. While the physical transformation of our campus is evident, there are even more exciting happenings with the achievements of our students and faculty and success in other areas of the College such as an increase in enrollment and significant funding opportunities.

Construction is well underway across the campus. The Wilder Mansion, constructed in the early 1860s, is undergoing historic restoration and plans are to have this magnificent edifice open and in use again in about twelve months. The construction of the new Bennie G. Thompson Academic Center is well underway and the ribbon cutting ceremony is planned for this fall. Following commencement, we will break ground

for the new student union and old Brownlee Hall will be razed. Upgrades to other campus facilities such as the Library, Holmes Hall, Galloway Hall and dormitories are also in progress. And the first phase of the long awaited widening of County Line Road is complete. This project is important for the College because it makes for improved traffic flow and opens the College’s property for more development opportunities. Tougaloo College is receiving a long overdue face lift and we are simply excited about our progress.

Yet, the success of our students remains our highest priority. They are the reason that Tougaloo College stands today committed to the principles upon which it was founded almost 141 years ago. We are committed to building on our rich legacy to prepare our students to advance boldly into this twenty-first century learning environment. We realize that while we can achieve success in building new facilities, landscaping our campus, developing our land and any myriad of other important cosmetic advances, if we fail to educate and timely graduate outstanding citizens, we fail in our mission and vision. This reality drives and reinforces our goals and priorities. All efforts at Tougaloo are synergistically structured to enable us to realize our noble purpose.

Throughout this issue of the magazine, you will see our students in action – interacting with faculty, engaged in study abroad programs, serving our communities as Bonner Leaders, celebrating their academic achievements and participating in research and internship programs across the globe. You will also read about the accomplishments of our faculty, our visiting professors and scholars, our collaborative work with other institutions, the German Ambassador’s visit to our campus and the Rainbow Garden’s (our community garden) selection as the Best of Jackson. Tougaloo College’s trademarks of academic excellence and social responsibility continue to illuminate our vision.

3

Tougaloo College, like many other institutions of higher education, is facing the demands of a world with new and quickly changing student demographics, an increasingly global environment, and shrinking funding and accountability constraints. To advance excellence and remain relevant, we understand that we must employ strategies that are more market-oriented and student-centered, along with sound business management and accountability practices as we also preserve our academic mission, focus and values. Today, Tougaloo is rapidly becoming an institution that is unconstrained by time and place; one that operates in both a local and global context, constantly measures its progress and renews its commitment to the students, community and economic opportunities of the state, nation and the world.

We are instituting new initiatives that magnify

student success, enhance the learning experience, broaden student engagement, promote faculty scholarship and research and link to a global world, while building a quality physical environment within which they can truly flourish. Thank you for sharing our vision and for joining us as we work to achieve our goals. You are strategic partners with the College in advancing the ideals that drive our mission.

Sincerely,

Beverly W. HoganPresident

The Rise of the Bennie G.Thompson Academic Center

Above: The Mansion exterior nears completion; below: Architect’s renderings of two views of the Tougaloo Commons; left: Bennie G. Thompson building goes from dirt (top) to beginning to take shape


T Trustee Bernard Slaughter, Sr. is an icon of the funeral service industry in Chicago, Illinois. He has made a difference through his service to others. As a 1948 graduate of Worsham College of Mortuary Science (and upon receiving a certificate from Roosevelt University of Business Administration), he has been helping families with their funeral needs for over 60 years.

Founder and CEO of Slaughter and Son Funeral Directors, Ltd. Located in Chicago, Illinois, Mr. Slaughter is the father of two adult children. Both children are licensed funeral directors and embalmers. Benita Faye (CFSP, Executive Secretary, Pre-Need Counselor and Treasurer) and Benard, Jr., (Vice-President and Technical Practictioner) are active in the family business. He was married to the late Georgia Parker Slaughter, who was dedicated and committed to her family and their business until her death.

In addition to his business interests, he is involved with many professional, educational and religious organizations and activities. As a member of the Illinois Selected Morticians Association, Inc., Mr. Slaughter has served as Past President and Board Chairman. Mr. Slaughter is licensed by the states of Illinois and Mississippi. He is also a lifetime member of the National Funeral Directors and Morticians, Inc, in which he received an award. As a member of the N.F.D.M.A., he served as Chairman of the Bylaws and Credentials Committee, under several presidents and he was a former Governor of District IV for the states of Ohio, Michigan, Indiana, Illinois and Wisconsin.

As Governor, he implemented educational seminars and workshops and award banquets. As a lifetime member of NAACP, Mr. Slaughter is a drum major. Forever the humanitarian, he initiated a scholarship at Tougaloo College in honor of his late wife Georgia Parker Slaughter. He is also a member of the Mississippi State Board of Funeral Service.

Mr. Slaughter is a member of Epsilon Nu Delta Mortuary Fraternity, Inc., and a member of the Cook County Home Owners Association. He received an award for being a faithful member of Canaan Baptist Church of Christ for 50 years, where he serves as Chairman of the Trustee Board. He has been a member of the Board of Trustees at Tougaloo College since February, 1998. Mr. Slaughter was recently honored by the Illinois Funeral Directors Association for his 40 years of membership, and has also received the prestigious National Funeral Directors Association Lifetime Membership Certificate.

A role model in his service to humanity, we congratulate him for his years of service to his business and his community. His love and devotion for the funeral service industry, translates into respect through service to others.

Spotlight on

Trustee Bernard Slaughter, Sr.

5

{faculty | staff | administration notes}

President Beverly W. Hogan Named to Obama’s Board of Advisors on HBCUs

by Eleanor P. Jones

Beverly Wade Hogan, President of Tougaloo College since 2002, the first woman and 13th President to lead Tougaloo College has been appointed to the President’s Board of Advisors on Historically Black Colleges and Universities. The Board of Advisors, created in 1981 by Executive Order, is tasked with advising the President and the Secretary of Education on methods, programs, and strategies to strength-en HBCUs. President Obama signed a new Executive Order on February 26 to re-establish the White House Initiative on Historically Black Colleges and Universities and the President’s Board of Advisors. According to the White House, the action signals the Administration’s com-mitment to assure increased access to federally-sponsored programs and opportunities for the nation’s Historically Black Colleges and Universi-ties. It will also contribute to the Administration’s efforts to increase the number and percentage of college-trained Americans by the year 2020. President Obama said, “I am pleased to announce the ap-pointments of these talented, diverse and accomplished in-dividuals to the Board of Ad-visors on Historically Black Colleges and Universities, all of whom have shown a deep commitment to the mission of these institutions, which are as relevant and necessary to our society today as they were when first established.”

Hogan is often described as a visionary, an “outside the box” thinker, and disci-plined, compassionate, firm, fair, analytical and spiritual leader. Under her leadership, new degree programs in mass communications, hotel and hospitality management, and religious studies have been added. A new Honors Pro-gram and three centers have been established—the Center for Undergraduate Research,


the Center for Continuing Education and Profes-sional Studies, and the Center for Civic Engage-ment and Social Responsibility as well as an Office of International Affairs. The College has also been designated as a Center of Excellence in Transpor-tation Security by the U. S. Department of Homeland Security. Signifi-cant technological improvements have been made, including campus wide connectivity and wireless hot spots. The construction of a new academic center is underway along with other major renova-tions of existing structures.

Prior to becoming President, Hogan served as the College’s Interim President, Vice President for Institutional Advancement, Founding Director of the Owens Health and Wellness Center, and Executive Assistant to the President. An effective and committed leader, she served as the Com-missioner for the Mississippi Workers’ Compen-sation Commission, the Executive Director of the Governor’s Office of Federal State Programs and the Executive Director of the Mental Health Association in Hinds County and the state of Mississippi, respectively. She has been an ad-junct instructor in leadership and public policy at Jackson State University and a frequent guest lecturer at the University of Mississippi and Mis-sissippi State University. Additionally she has been involved with employment and educational training programs in Denmark, Sweden and West Germany in affiliation with the German Marshall Fund. She has been a scholar with the Kettering Foundation where her research focus was Higher Education and Civic Responsibility, a participant and presenter in the Oxford Roundtable at Oxford University in Oxford, England and a participant in leadership seminars at Harvard University.

A native Mississippian, Hogan earned her Bach-elor of Arts degree in Psychology from Tougaloo College and Masters in Public Policy and Admin-istration from Jackson State University. She has done additional studies at the University of South-ern Mississippi and University of Georgia. She is engaged in further doctoral studies in human development and organizational leadership at Fielding Graduate University. She holds Honorary Doctorates in Humanities from Wiley College and Rust College and has earned numerous certificates in leadership development, organizational man-agement and administrative law.

Hogan has received extensive recognition for her trailblazing contributions. She has authored and published works on topics such as “The Disso-nance Analysis of the Viet Nam War,” “Compa-rable Worth—the Challenging Issue of Pay Eq-uity,” Jobs and Economic Growth,” “Public Policy Implications of AIDS in the Workplace,” “Higher Education and Civic Responsibility” and “Gender and Race” as a chapter in a textbook, Leadership and Service, published in 2008.

Active in an array of professional and civic organi-zations, Hogan serves on various boards, includ-ing Bancorp South, Sanderson Farms, the Greater Jackson Chamber Partnership, the University Club, Entergy Mississippi, Foundation for the Mid South, The Rural School and Community Trust,

William Winter Institute for Racial Reconciliation and RAND’s Gulf States Policy Initiative. She is also a member of the national board of directors for the United Negro College Fund, the National Association for Equal Opportunity in Higher Education, the Leadership Alliance, Council of Independent Colleges, the National Association for Independent Colleges, Jackson Medical Mall Foundation, National Institute of Health National Heart, Lung and Blood Advisory Council, Na-tional Issues Forum Institute. Hogan is a founding member and former president of the Central Mis-sissippi Chapter, National Coalition of 100 Black Women, and a member of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority and the Links. She is Chair of the Council for Higher Education/United Church of Christ.

President Hogan is one of eleven appointed to the

President Hogan in the community: At the 2008 ribbon cut-ting for the new Tougaloo Community Post Office, with from left: Greg Gamble (District Manager/United States Postal Service), Loretta Lang (Postmaster/Tougaloo), and H.T. Drake ’ 51 (Representative from the Civic League)

7

President’s Board of Advisors. Other appointees are: William Harvey, Appointee for Chairperson, served as President of Hampton University in 1978. Lawrence S. Bacow, Appointee for Mem-ber, has served as President of Tuft University since 2001. Evelynn M. Hammonds, Appointee for Member, is Dean of Harvard College and the Barbara Gutmann Rosenkrantz Professor of the History of Science and of African and African American Studies at Harvard University. Edward Lewis, Appointee for Member, is the Co-Founder of Essence Magazine and Chairman and Pub-lisher Emeritus of Essence Communications, Inc. Ronald Mason, Jr., Appointee for Member, has served as President of Jackson State University in Jackson, Mississippi, since 2000. Valerie Mosley,

Appointee for Member, is a Senior Vice President, Partner, and Portfolio Manager for Wellington Management Company, LLP. Willie Pearson, Jr., Appointee for Member, is a Professor of Sociology at the Georgia Institute of Technology’s School of History, Technology and Society. Beverly Daniel Tatum, Appointee for Member, became the ninth President of Spelman College in 2002. Kenneth Tolson, Appointee for Member, is the Executive Senior Vice President and Chief Operating Of-ficer and Innovation Transformation Officer for the Emerging Technology Consortium, a division of TBED21. And David Wilson, Appointee for Member, was recently named President of Morgan State University.


Ashton Named Tougaloo’s 2009-2010 Humanities Teacher

of the YearReverend Dr. Loye Ashton, Chair of the ICOHM department and director of the Religious Studies program, was named Tougaloo College’s Humanities Teacher of the Year for 2009-2010 by the Mississippi Humanities Council. In late October, Dr. Ashton delivered a presentation to the campus community and members of the MHC on “Spiritual Reform and Democracy in the Muslim World: An Analysis of the Gülen Movement in Contemporary Turkey.” The Movement is a transnational civic society movement, inspired by the teachings of Turkish Islamic theologian Fethullah Gülen. The powerpoint presentation provided a very enlightening background to this reconciliatory movement that is interesting, though still largely unfamiliar in this country.

Ashton is also at work on two book-length projects: Faithful Uncertainty: Introducing Contemporary Theology, as part of the Westminster History of Christian Thought Series (Westminster John Knox Press) and a current manuscript project about the sources of the opposition to the Gülen/Hismet inteerfaith peace movement in Turkey. Dr. Ashton is married to the Rev. Rwth S. Ashton, an Ordained Elder in the United Methodist Church, who is currently serving

as chaplain of Millsaps College. They have a five-year-old son, Loye Michael Peng Cheng Ashton, whom they adopted in 2007.

rrMark your calendars

for the tenth anniversary celebration

of the monumental Jackson Heart Study

September 21-25, 2010www.tougaloo.edu

for more info


A Few Minutes with Professor Erica Haskell

by Jehrod Williams ’11

In late September, junior English major, Jehrod Williams sat down for a chat with visiting Profes-sor Erica Haskell. Haskell is a doctoral candidate at Brown University and is visiting Tougaloo this semester via the Tougaloo-Brown Partnership. JW: Professor Haskell, tell me what brought you to Tougaloo and what has your experience been like thus far.Haskell: Wow. I’ve had a really great experience. I think I decided to come to Tougaloo for multiple reasons. First, I’m really interested in getting more teaching experience. I taught at Wheaton College just last semester, the spring semester. I taught a class on the politics of music and I just really enjoy teaching much more than I thought I would. As you know, at research institutions like Brown University, the focus is mostly on one’s research, on one’s scholarship, on publication, so I didn’t get a lot of time to teach. At a small, liberal arts college like Tougaloo, there is more of a mix of research and instruction, allowing me a real opportunity to teach. I saw this opportunity at Tougaloo and I wondered what it would be like to teach here. I wanted to have more connections with students who are minorities in other settings. I’m really interested in the politics, the political history, especially with Civil Rights at Tougaloo and the connection between that and music. And, then, I also have a personal connection to Missis-sippi: my longtime partner is from Mississippi, so his family is here.

JW: So what are your first impressions of Tougaloo?Haskell: Well, having only been here for about a month, I can say that the students are wonderfully open and expressive. It’s kind of hard for me to talk about the whole institution; I have one class with about 30 students, so I can talk about them. I believe I have a better rapport with these students than I have had with any of my other students at other institutions. They’re very expressive; they have lots of questions, really share themselves with me. It’s a wonderful experience, a wonderful place to teach music and I’m really enjoying it.

JW: I know your area of specialization is ethno-musicology. Could you briefly explain the disci-pline?Haskell: Well, there are many different definitions of ethnomusicology. Some people say that it’s the study of music in society, music as culture. Other say it’s the anthropology of music because many of our methods are borrowed from anthropology. My mentor, Jeff Titon at Brown, says that it’s the study of people making music, so I like that defini-tion. For me, studying ethnomusicology has meant research in Bosnia-Herzegovina. I spent three years consecutively living in Sarajevo and doing dissertation research.

JW: When you say you borrow your methods from anthropology, could you elaborate a bit?Haskell: I did a lot of interviews (like the one we’re doing now), attended a lot of concerts, gather-ing information. I did what’s called ethnographic research, participant observation. My topic arose from the situation in Bosnia, the post-war situ-ation in which international organizations are spending money on culture and using culture, and music specifically, as a tool to solve post-war prob-lems, humanitarian issues, political issues, gender issues. International organizations use music as a way of gathering people together, especially those who have ethnic differences and religious differ-ences. My dissertation is kind of a critique of that process and it also, I hope, will impact how these kinds of projects are done in other post-war situa-

9

tions like Iraq or Afghanistan. JW: How do you feel that music affects our culture? Haskell: Wow, that’s a huge question! And very difficult to answer briefly... I think that there is a kind of reciprocal relationship between Ameri-can culture, actually any culture, and its music. I think that many talk about music as being a reflection of a society. For example, on a political level, people who feel that they are experienc-ing oppression or that they need to fight against something, may turn to music. I think music somehow expresses public sentiment or indi-vidual sentiment. And I believe that that relation-ship goes both ways: music influences change. Musicians can often spur revolution; they can spur movements through what they create. And that music develops a life of its own. There is something very special about singing together, something very special about experiencing the aesthetic level of music. It is a way of communi-cating both verbally and non-verbally and that is music’s power.

JW: It has been a pleasure chatting with you, Professor Haskell. Thank you very much for your time and what you have brought to Tougaloo College. Take care and best of luck in your future work, Professor Haskell.

About The Brown University – Tougaloo College Partnership (BTP)This partnership was formalized in 1964 during the Civil Rights era. It is designed to enrich both the Brown University and Tougaloo College cam-puses through student and faculty academic and cultural exchanges, collaborative research ven-tures, and administrative level engagements. The Brown-Tougaloo faculty fellows program offers graduate students from Brown the opportunity to teach courses in their academic fields at Tougaloo and become immersed in faculty life.

Relevant website: Brown University - Tougaloo College Partnership http://www.brown.edu/Ad-ministration/Brown_Tougaloo

.r r r

Dr. Andrea Montgomery, Dean of Humanities, was elected to serve on the Southern Conference on African America Studies Program Committee (Houston, Texas)

Professor Johnnie M. Maberry-Gilbert (De-partment of Visual and Performing Arts) has three paintings included in an exhibition in New York for the National Alliances of Artists at HBCUs.

Professor Eric Stringfellow (Chair, Depart-ment of Mass Communication) hosts a TV show, Direct Line with Eric Stringfellow that airs live on Tuesday at 7 p.m. on Comcast Channel 14 (the Jackson State University TV network). The show’s guests have included Lt. Gov. Phil Bryant, Mayor Harvey Johnson, State Superintendent of Educa-tion Tom Burnham, Rep. Bennie Thompson and Rep. Gregg Harper. The show also re-airs on Sun-days at 5:30 p.m.

Dr. Bettye Sue Hennington (Biology Depart-ment) developed three Biomedical Research Facil-ity Infrastructure Renovation proposals, totaling $24.9M to be used to renovate Kincheloe Hall and to construct a new building.

Dr. Jinghe Mao (Biology Department) secured

funding for 12 new microscopes from HBCU-UP, two from the RIMI grant and six from the College.

Dr. Meherum Laiju (Psychology Department) received a Fulbright Summer Research Award to participate in a seminar in Mexico, Summer 2010.

Dr. Stephen Rozman (Political Science Depart-ment) received a $285,000 grant award from the Department of Education for the Center for Civic Engagement and Social Responsibility (CCESR).

Dr. James Stewart, Dean of Social Sciences, was recently named to the local Board of the Sal-vation Army.

Dr. George Armstrong (Chair of the Chemis-try Department) is collaborating with Dr. Joseph Dvorak at the Brooklyn National Laboratory on “Synthesis and Characterization of Nanocompos-ites Polyrethane Particle Sizes.”

Dr. Shaila Khan (Chair, Psychology Depart-ment) received a Bonner Grant for her community service project, “Health and Age Disorder and Children’s Behavioral Problem Disorder in Hinds Behavioral Health Service and Whitfield Mental Hospital.

o B R I E F Sp



Ten Questions with James Ruchala(Visiting Faculty Fellow in Music

from Brown University)r

r

r

TCN: First of all, tell me a bit about yourself, where you were born, educated, etc.Ruchala: I was born in NYC and grew up mostly on Long Island. I attended public school, was an undergrad at NYU, an English major, and had always been an amateur musician but had never studied seriously. After college, I had a number of different jobs, which included working on a website as an editor. So, I was an editor on a website, as a part of the internet explosion that was supposed to make us all millionaires. As you may have guessed, it didn’t work out quite that way for me and when I lost my job on the internet, I started looking around at things that I would really want to do. And, like many people, I decided to go back to school, to grad school, so I studied music at Hunter College in NYC, then I went to grad school at Brown University

TCN: So did you get another Bachelor’s?Ruchala: I didn’t; I did most all the course work for a bachelor’s, but I didn’t quite get all the pieces.

TCN: At Brown, your discipline was ethnomusicology, and then within that discipline, you had a specialty in American Folk Music.? Ruchala: Yes.

TCN: Can you tell me a bit about that? What exactly do you consider ethnomusicology to be and how does folk music fit into that?Ruchala: Ethnomusicology has many definitions, but a lot of us like the term “the study of people making music,” which is a phrase developed by my thesis advisor, Jeff Titon, so I like it. When we say people making music, what we mean is that all music is made by people, we make it by singing or playing an instrument but we also make music by the way we talk about it, by our ideas about it. So something like the sound of a bird, some people consider that to be music and some don’t. And different individuals and different cultures have different ideas about that, so that’s one way we make music, to make something music by considering it such.

The project of Ethnomusicologists is to study

music outside the realm of what university musicologists have studied, which was mostly white, dead, German-speaking people from Vienna over a 300-year period. So ethnomusicologists started out by saying, “well, what about Chinese music and Indonesian music and African music, and popular and folk music?” and obviously, that’s kind of our project. I study American Folk Music, with a particular emphasis on old-time banjo and fiddle music and traditional dancing from North Carolina and Appalachia.

TCN: How has folk music evolved in America from its earliest days to the present?Ruchala: Well, one thing that makes American folk music different from that in other parts of the world is the encounters between different ethnic populations. So you could see that there was something that we could call American folk music on the continent as soon as there were people here who called themselves Americans. And you could take it back earlier to the First Nations, the Native Americans. But what really is distinctive about it is the combination of influences: Native Americans, Euro-Americans and Afro-Americans, especially those three groups. So even something that seems as if it is distinctly of one of those groups, it has borrowed from the other cultures. So, for example, here in Mississippi, we associate the tradition of the Delta blues with the Afro-Americans and yet they are playing guitars, which came mostly from Europe (Spain) around the turn of the last century. They also had some influence from Hawaii with the slide guitar. On the other hand, in something that we think of as purely white, Appalachian music, like bluegrass, they’re playing the banjo, which comes from African Americans—they are recreating instruments that they would normally have in Africa with materials that they have on hand. So that is the most important, sort of, thru-line in American folk music is this mixing and musicians crossing boundaries that other people would not, or could not, cross socially in any other way. That’s one of the wonderful things about music: the way that it creates a dialog and exchange between people who would otherwise not have that opportunity.

11

r


r

r

TCN: Is folk music regional – southern, northeastern – or simply ethnic, as you’ve described here?Ruchala: Well, that is certainly one way to consider folk music. It’s kind of a big, amorphous category but generally it is associated with population. And it could be a regional music such as Delta blues or Tejano music from Texas, or it could be occupational, like coal-mining songs or prison work songs, but generally it is something that has a smaller sphere of influence than, say, popular music.

TCN: So it’s more ethnicity?Ruchala: Well, it gets complicated because sometimes it is regional, sometimes it is ethnicity and sometimes they kind of overlap to confound and amplify one another.

TCN: Well, then, how do the popular folk musicians like Bob Dylan, Joan Baez, and Peter Paul and Mary, for example, fit into the overall structure of folk music?Ruchala: Yes, that’s interesting. That is a version of folk music that in many people’s minds stands for all of folk music. How that came to be was that in the late 50s and early 60s, there was a folk song revival and Pete Seeger was a big part of that and it had political implications – labor organization and social justice and civil rights – these things that are still with us in many ways. These songs were seen as an expression of the common people and to sing them was to express your solidarity with them. That was kind of the roots of the folk song revival. Pete Seeger and Joan Baez were both a very big part of that. Bob Dylan also started out in that vein, but evolved into more of a creative artist and poet and began to write more personal songs. Then, that more creative, poetic Dylan tangent began to stand in folks minds as folk music, the artist who writes and sings his own songs, probably with an acoustic guitar became folk music in some people’s minds and still is. It is really only a small piece of it.

For the most part, social justice is not a common theme in folk music with lyrics. Folk music, in general, is not about that. It’s about life, the great themes – love, loss, fighting, working, dying, tragedy, food, farming and seafaring – there is very little about social justice. You can interpret some of the other stuff as being about social justice and certainly some people who did those

songs were concerned with that, but your typical folk musician, that was not why they were singing. That really was more a part of the late 50s early 60s movement that was sort of an overlay over the tradition. That music of the movement was more like an intervention into folk music. They were largely people who were not “of the folk,” they were educated, urban people and there were things about the folk music that they wanted to encourage and changes that they wanted to encourage and folk music was a means of achieving that. So, yes, it was kind of an anomaly, but one that sort of changed everything and even obscured what the real picture is.

TCN: Tell us about the class you are teaching…Ruchala: Actually, I’m teaching two classes: one is introduction to music, a standard music appreciation course for non-musicians and I try to bring in some elements of ethnomusicology to that. but it’s largely about Western classical music. The folk music class is one I designed myself and we start off by talking about the various definitions and ways of approaching folk music. And then I take it kind of by group or style of music: a few weeks on Anglo-American Appalachian music, a few weeks on African American traditions, like spirituals, gospel, blues (I spent a lot of time on blues, mostly because I like blues a lot), and then the smaller ethnic populations like Mexican-


r

r

r

r

r

WoodWorth Chapel Coasters

Coasters, featuring a beautiful image of historic Woodworth Chapel, are now available for purchase in the Office of Institutional Advancement.

Phone 601-977-7871 for more information.

Single: $10; Set of 4: $32 (plus tax/shipping)

Woodworth Chapel, 1901Architectural Style: Queen Anne A rare style for regional religious buildings, this structure is noted for rich acoustics and a masterfully designed interior furnished with a 1902 Murray Harris pipe organ. Numerous civic, spiritual, and educational leaders have spoken from this building's pulpit. As a symbolic home of Mississippi's Civil Rights Movement, it has hosted Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., Fannie Lou Hamer, Medgar Evers, and Robert Kennedy, among many others. The building continues to serve the College as it’s chapel and ceremonial gathering place. It is named for the Rev. Frank G. Woodworth, Tougaloo College President (1887-1912).

Front Cover Inside Cover

and Zydeco), Native Americans, so there’s a lot of listening to music in that class. I lecture some but we listen a lot and sing some songs ourselves and that’s kind of how it goes.

TCN:It’s an advanced class?Ruchala: Well, none of the students in the class are music majors, though some of them do have some level of musical experience, but they are not music majors. I had originally designed the course to be for music majors, but once I got a feel of the class and the level of the students I had, then I changed some of the assignments. One of the main projects for that class is a field work assignment, where students work in teams documenting a music culture. So one team is doing the Tougaloo College Concert Choir, so they go to their concerts and talk to various members of the group about their music.

TCN: How did you come to choose Tougaloo?Ruchala: As a grad student at Brown, the Brown-Tougaloo partnership has not, as a program, been that well publicized, but I found out about it from one of my colleagues from grad school who was here last semester, Erika Haskell. She told me about it and asked if I might be interested in coming for the spring (she had been here during the fall). That’s how I found out about it. I came to visit last semester and here I am! I think, now, that there are people at both Brown and Tougaloo who are interested in doing more with the program.

TCN: Has it turned out to be a good choice for you?

Ruchala: Yes, for me, I was very glad to come here, to get some more teaching experience and design my own course, work at a school that is very different from Brown and serves a very different population and it’s been a very good experience for me. For a long time, I’ve been interested in the music of Mississippi but have never had an opportunity to spend much time here. So I’m glad to have had that chance.

TCN: What has been the biggest surprise for you in terms of Tougaloo?Ruchala: I guess it’s the lack of funding here. That said, everyone that I’ve met in the music department, and other departments for that matter, but especially the music department, they are all very dedicated to teaching here in spite of some of the difficulties and all are really committed to the school and to the students they work with. And all of the students, for the most part, are very engaged with the work, especially the students in my folk music class, who have really taken an interest in it and their appreciation has been very refreshing and encouraging and I’ve enjoyed working with them.

TCN: So what’s next for James Ruchala?Ruchala: Well I’m almost done with my dissertation and after that hopefully I can find a teaching position somewhere in the United States.

TCN: So you want to continue teaching? Ruchala: Yes, I’d like to teach at a college or university; someplace like Tougaloo would suit me just fine.

13

Coming to the TableIn January 2010, Tougaloo College hosted representatives from the Coming to the Table (CTTT) program on campus. Coming to the Table is a program founded by descendants of people who were enslaved and who were slaveholders, in partnership with the Center for Justice and Peacebuilding at Eastern Menonite University (EMU). CTTT seeks to acknowledge, understand and heal the persistent wounds of the U.S. institution of race-based slavery and its aftermath. They strive for racial reconciliation and a more unified, just and truthful society. The program is committed to achieving that goal through research, relationship building, information sharing, community projects and training. CTTT is non-partisan, multi-faith, multi-cultural and multi-generational.

The group was here for several days hosting closed sessions with their participants. Then, on Saturday, the 28th of January, they held a public forum in Holmes Hall, allowing attendees to get an “inside” view of what the program was all about. The president of Eastern Menonite University, Dr. Loren E. Swartzendruber, traveled down for the event that was attended by about 50 people. There

was a lively exchange of stories, by participants and visitors alike, in Holmes Hall Auditorium before the group moved to Woodworth Chapel for a more spiritual session.

One attendee wrote on the project blog (www.comingtothetable.org) of the event at Tougaloo:

Attending the Coming to the Table event at Tougaloo College opened my eyes to the power of storytelling. It enabled me to empathize with those who suffered the terrible injustice of racial bigotry and discrimination. We came from different backgrounds and races, but through the course of the day we became one race. We became brothers and sisters united with a vision for a world where all of God’s children can live together in love and harmony. I left the meeting with a strange new optimism for the future. I believe racial reconciliation and healing are possible. It all begins with this question: ‘How can I make it happen?’

This article was excerpted, in part, from the Fall/Winter 2009 issue of Peacebuilding, the magazine of the Center for Justice and Peacebuilding at Eastern Menonite University, The participant quote was pulled from the CTTT blog at www.comingtothetable.org.

Coming to the Table invites you to:

Creating New Legacies Inspired by the DreamJoin descendants of people who were enslaved and of slaveholders who are facing the legacies of slavery

LEARN how America’s legacies of slavery continue to influence us HEAR stories of healing, friendship and family CONNECT with others who want to move our families,

our communities and our nation forward SHARE in the process of creating new legacies through

history, healing, connection and action

Saturday, January 30, 20101 - 4 p.m.Holmes Hall AuditoriumTougaloo College

500 West County Line RoadTougaloo, MS 39174

This event is FREE and open to the public. To ensure seating, register in advance.For registration or directions visit: www.comingtothetable.org or call (877) 540-2888

Special thanks to Tougaloo College for hosting this event and to The Fetzer Institute and the W. K. Kellogg Foundation for their financial support.

a program of the Center for Justice and Peacebuilding at Eastern Mennonite University

Coming to the Table is a non-partisan, multi-faith, multi-cultural, multi-generational program.

“ I have a dream that one day the sons of former slaves and the sons of former slave owners will be

able to sit down together at the table of brotherhood…” Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.

All photos courtesy of Jane Feldman and Jefferson’s Children

{campus life}

Tougaloo College News | Winter/Spring 2010Tougaloo College News Spring/Summer 2008

15

Campus Life

15

Founders’Week2009

{campus life}


Student Government

Officer Installation2009

by Whitney McDowell

The 2009-2010 Student Government Association (S.G.A.) geared up for an exhilarating year, seeking to provide students with opportunities for intellectual, spiritual, political, and personal growth. We were fortunate to have a dedicated team of leaders who vigorously addressed student concerns and worked hard to enhance the quality of student life. Our mantra for the year was “Get on the Ship,” a testament to our desire to serve and represent the interests of our students as well as the community. Get on the ship underscored our key goals of mentorship, partnership, leadership, entrepreneurship, citizenship, fellowship, and scholarship.

As was the case in years past, one of our primary goals this year was to boost student morale by enlivening the campus community with fun, refreshing, and innovative activities. To this end, we made a concerted effort to revitalize the student union. Each Wednesday night, the S.G.A./S.A.C. hosted Campus Game Night, where students convened in the student union to play games, listen to music, and relax after a long day of classes. Also, the S.G.A. commissioned Mr. and Miss Tougaloo College to chair the newly founded “School Spirit Committee.” Its sole purpose was to elicit student participation and foster a sense of school spirit and pride for Tougaloo athletics.

Over the course of the year, there were events that stood out amongst the activities at Tougaloo. In the month of November, the Student Government Association along with the Student Activities Council conducted the following: a Resumé Building Workshop, a Who “Runs

the Yard” Challenge Bowl, a Political Awareness Event with Councilman Chokwe Lumumba, a Man-Up Conference, a My Fair Lady Conference, a game night, a karaoke night entitled “So You Think You Can Sing?” and a movie night. Also, clubs and organizations, under the supervision of the Student Activities Council Chairperson, collected over 500 canned good items that went to the Jackson, Mississippi Stewpot. In addition to donating canned goods, the annual Spirit of Christmas Dinner, on December 5, 2009, transpired on the campus. The Spirit of Christmas Dinner occurs during the first week of December, and a family with needs from the community is selected. Clubs, organizations, faculty, staff, and students get involved in the gift giving process to change the holidays for a deserving family.

On January 18, 2010, Martin Luther King, Jr.’s birthday, over fifty students, faculty, and President Hogan engaged in the community by dedicating an afternoon to Habitat for Humanity. This effort was broadcast on WLBT, and shed light on the positive contributions that Tougaloo College is providing to the community. In the month of January, the Student Government Association along with the Student Activities Council conducted the following: Back to School Mix and Mingle, I Care Clean Up Program, What’s Up Wednesday- Tougaloo’s Best Dance Crew Part 1, Community Service- Theme: Game Day, Project Unity: Starting Fresh (Mix and Mingle), What’s Up Wednesday- Tougaloo’s Best Dance Crew Part 2, Game Night (Spades Competition), Back to School Party, and another My Fair Lady/Man Up Conference event.

Finally, from January 3- 9, 2010, I had an opportunity to represent Tougaloo College

17

in Washington, D.C. with students from across this nation. The seminar was entitled Congress and the Obama Presidency; in which students meet Congressmen, Senators, Admiral Mike Mullen, and some even met President Obama. I loved every minute of my experience, and I learned as much as anyone could in one week about politics, the future of the nation, and healthcare. Plus, ten student leaders had an opportunity to attend Rust College from January 15-16, 2010 to gain an insight into the African/African American culture, and they had a chance to hear from controversial speaker Reverend Jeremiah Wright.

On Monday, February 1, 2010, an African dance company made its debut at the college providing students with cultural dance and kicked off the Black History month celebration. The S.G.A. also actively works with the Office of Chaplain to ensure that Religious Emphasis Week (February 7th-14th) activities are spiritually uplifting. We engaged students to write plays, connect to the community through song and praise, as well as conduct conversations/presentations with speakers in the religious society.

On February 2, 2010 the S.G.A. hosted a student leader luncheon with Joe Rogers, former Lieutenant Governor of Colorado and a representative of the Dream Alive Program, and also invited Mr. Rogers to be the keynote speaker for the Student Government Association annual Black History Month Convocation at 10:00 a.m. in the historic Woodworth Chapel.

Our goal was to provide a broad spectrum of activities that were representative of the diverse make-up of our student body, while remaining true to our mission of representing the interests, rights and concerns of students.

This year’s Executive Body (2009-2010) includes: Whitney McDowell (President), Ivy C. Archie,(Vice-President), Marquita R. Watkins (Judiciary Chair), Teressa Fulgham (Miss Tougaloo College) and Charles “L.J.” Molden, Jr. (Mr. Tougaloo College).

Class Officers and the Board of Secretaries are as follows:

Senior Class OfficersPresident – LeMia JenkinsVice-President – Amber ClarkRepresentative – Bianca CatheyMiss Senior – Jasmine Washington

Junior Class OfficersPresident – Jehrod WilliamsVice-President – Xiomara BellRepresentative- Toni CrinerMiss Junior – Carensa Czar

Sophomore Class OfficersPresident – JeMarcus WelchVice President – Xavier AmosRepresentative – Marnise WebbMiss Sophomore – Carmen Burton

Freshman Class OfficersPresident – Elizabeth JonesVice President – LeBroderick WoodsRepresentative – Morgan WilsonMiss Sophomore – Destiny Kyles7

Board of SecretariesSecretary of Academic Affairs – Marcus JohnsonSecretary of Student Affairs – Ashley CarpenterSecretary of Facilities Management – Chantal GatsonSecretary of Fiscal Affairs – JaLeasa WaldenSecretary of Civic Affairs – Shondell StinsonGeneral Secretary – Janae’ RobertsParliamentarian – Obie McNairChief of Staff – Courtney Dunn

{campus life}

19

Campus LifeCoronation2009{campus life}


2009-10 Mr. and Miss UNCF Selected atAnnual Pageant

By Kindalin Sanders Moses

Mr. Lucas Watson II, and Miss Tiffanie Stevenson were crowned Mr. & Miss UNCF on Friday, November 19, 2009 in Holmes Hall Auditorium. The theme for the pageant was “Broadway” and FOX 40 News Reporter Dustin Barnes served as the master of ceremony. The United Negro College Fund (UNCF) Pageant is one of the most prestigious pageants on Tougaloo’s campus and is hosted by the Pre-Alumni Council (PAC) under the supervision of the Office of Alumni Affairs, Doris Bridgeman and Dexter J. Robinson. The PAC was created to encourage student participation of alumni activities on College and University campuses prior to and after graduation. The purpose of the National UNCF PAC is to stimulate an interest and the participation of students enrolled at UNCF Colleges and Universities in various activities on UNCF campuses and to foster fellowships between member colleges and universities. Miss LeMia Jenkins the reigning 2009 Miss UNCF gave her farewell speech before crowning 2010 Mr. & Miss UNCF. “This Pageant is extremely important to me, as the next Miss UNCF will not

only be my successor but represent Tougaloo College and the UNCF, two organizations very near and dear to my heart,” said Jenkins. Mr. & Miss UNCF will serve as liaisons for the students of the College by representing the campus at the National UNCF Conference which was held in February 2010 in New Orleans, Louisiana, and by helping to acquire revenue for scholarships for students. The pageant consisted of three phases of competition: Presentation, Ad Sales and Interview, Artistic Expression (Talent), Evening Wear (Presence and Poise), and On-Stage Question and Answer. Each provided the auditor, judges and attendees an opportunity to learn as much as possible about each contestant’s sense of confidence and presence, articulation skills, personality and composure. The pageant had highly qualified contestants with an array of talent from dancing, recitation of an original poem and a cappella rendition of the Kierra “Kiki” Sheard tune “Praise Him Now.” This year’s participants were Faith Jackson, of Moss Point, Mississippi; Tiffanie Stevenson, of Jackson, Mississippi; Alexis Thomas, of Jackson, Mississippi; Indeya Womack, of Utica, Mississippi; and Lucas Watson II, of Jackson, Mississippi.

From left: Mr. UNCF 2009-10, Lucas Watson II, Miss UNCF 2008-2009, LeMia Jenkins, and Miss UNCF 2009-10, Tiffanie Stevenson; Right: Mr. & Miss UNCF 2009-10, Mr. Watson & Miss Stevenson

2121

Philip Shirley, APR, President & CEO of Godwin Group, is a nationally-recognized manager in the areas of branding, long-term planning, marketing consultation, advertising and public relations. Philip joined Godwin in 1989 and was appointed president in 1995 and chief operating officer in 2007.

Philip’s clients have included national brands like Waste Management, Hughes Aircraft, Russell Athletic, Georgia-Pacific, Louisville Slugger and Chevron. He has led brand development initiatives for St. Joe, Trinity Hospital in Birmingham, Irby Electric and Mississippi Power Company.

In addition to his professional accomplishments in the fields of advertising and public relations, Philip is a published author, with two books under his belt. His first novel, Oh, Don’t You Cry for Me, was published by Jefferson Press in 2008 and he co-authored SweetSpot: 125 Years of Baseball and the Louisville Slugger, covering the history and business practices of the Louisville Slugger brand. It was published in 2009 by Triumph Books, an imprint of Random House.

Philip spoke about transformational leadership and the difference that such a leader can make in the organization. He drew comparisons to the family leadership of Louisville Sluggers and how they came back from a tremendous slump

with the introduction of metal bats to regain their number one position in the marketplace.

At the conclusion of his address, the Office of Institutional Advancement proceeded to recognize community and College voluteerism and philanthropy over the past year. Dr. Demetria C. Howard-White was recognized as Faculty Philanthropist of the Year, while Doris Bridgeman was the staff Philanthropist of the Year. Patricia A. Rucker of Entergy Mississippi, Inc. and Michael Walker of AT&T were honored as Volunteers of the Year. The Volunteer Leadership Award was presented to Spence Dye of Spence Dye Consultants, Inc. and the Jackson Convention and Visitors Bureau received the Volunteer Alliance Award.

President Beverly W. Hogan (left) presents Mr. Shirley with a few Tougaloo College souvenirs.

President and CEO of Godwin Group Delivers OIA Convocation Address

{campus life}

Rear: (L to R) Patrick Colton Young, Joy Walker, Raven Douglas, Ashlea Brandon, Danny Mason Jr, Shani Butler, Larekia Brown, Jordan Glover, Curtis Haynes, Jalessa Seals

Front row (L to R) Kessler Hibbler, Maya May, Kasey Autman, Elizabeth Jones, Shanna Whitt (deceased), Andrea Haynes, Ahmed Abderahman, Nneamaka Ezekwe (seated) President Beverly W. Hogan

2009-2010 Presidential Scholars

23

Clockwise from top left: Luncheon speaker, David Watkins discusses plans for downtown waterway; Chairman’s Award recipient, John Rosenthall with Chariman of the Tougaloo College Board of Trustees, LeRoy G. Walker, Jr. and President Beverly W. Hogan; Leadership Award recipients, John Heyman, left, and Mayo Flynt (AT&T), right with President Hogan; Mayor of the City of Jackson, The Honorable Harvey Johnson, Jr. brings greetings; Trustee Isaac Byrd and friend check out the student art exhibit; Trustees of the College engage in a serious conversation over lunch

{campus life}

23


2009 UNCF Mayors' Masked Ball

4

October 30, 2009 | Jackson Marriott

5

6 4

25

2009 UNCF Mayors' Masked Ballbenefiting Tougaloo and Rust Colleges

1

3

2

6

2

3

This page: 1) The Honorable Harvey Johnson, Jr., Mayor of the City of Jackson; 2) M.A.S.K.E.D. Award recipient, Jackson Public Schools, was represented by Michael Thomas, Jackson Public School District Deputy Superintendent of Operations (second from left); with Tougaloo College President Beverly W. Hogan (left), Mayor Johnson (second from right) and Dr. Ishmell Edwards, Vice President, Rust College (right); 3) the incredible Ray, Goodman & Brown; 4) the Parade of Masks; 5) Event Co-Chairs, from left, Maggie Terry Harper and Sharolyn Smith; 6) Emcees, from left, WLBT-TV3 anchorwoman, Maggie Wade Dixon and Mississippi Link contributing writer and local personality, Othor Cain

Corporate sponsors and patrons included Entergy Mississippi, Inc., Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc.–Beta Delta Omega Chapter, Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc.–Jackson Alumnae Chapter, Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc.–Jackson Alumnae Chapter, Pennsylvania Life Insurance – Mid South Region, United Supreme Council Southern Jurisdiction, P.H.A., Anderson & Anderson Associates, Bancorp South, BankPlus, Central Mississippi Chapter, National Coalition of 100 Black Women Chapter, The Jackson Advocate, The Links, Incorporated – Jackson Chapter, LTM Enterprises, Rissah Court #80, P.H.A., Rissah Temple # 130, P.H.A., Sanderson Farms, Tougaloo College National Alumni Association, Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Inc. – Alpha Delta Zeta Chapter, Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc. – Rho Lambda Omega Chapter, BeBop Record Shops, Cellular Connection, Construction Image Printing, LLC, Dependable Source Corporation of Mississippi, Eliza Pillars Register Nurses, IMS Engineers,

Jackson Iron and Metal Company, Mahaffey’s Quality Printing, Inc., Piccadilly Restaurants, Security Storage, Southern Farm Bureau Life Insurance Company, Dr. William Truly, Mayor, City of Canton, James William, ’89 and Loretta Jackson-Williams, ’87.

{campus life}

4


r

The Tougaloo-Rainbow Sustainable Garden was recently named a finalist in the Jackson Free Press’ annual “Best of Jackson” awards competi-tion. The garden, now in its third year of opera-tion, provides high-quality organic food for the Tougaloo College community, as well as for the Rainbow Natural Grocery cooperative.

The garden demonstrates community, civic en-gagement, as well as organic, sustainable agricul-ture. It is intended to be a place of beauty, joy and sharing, with the outdoor, hands-on classroom inspiring additional sustainable community proj-ects.

The garden, which is currently located behind Kincheloe Hall, will soon be moved to another campus location and expanded, as a result of EQIP funding received from the U.S.D.A. Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS).

Tougaloo-Rainbow Organic Garden Finalist in Jackson Free Press “Best of Jackson” Competition

Children decorate the stepping stones at the garden entrance (above and left); workers gather each weekend to plant, tend and/or harvest the produce

s

27

Jackson Chapter of The Links, Inc.

Completes Pledges to JSU and Tougaloo

The Jackson chapter of The Links, Inc., presented the final installment of $10,000 each toward endowed scholarship funds at Jackson State University and Tougaloo College at their 50th Anniversary Banquet on November 22nd at the Jackson Hilton Hotel on County Line Road. The group surpassed its initial plan in 2001 to present $20,000 to both institutions.

“We are excited and proud to have exceeded our original goal toward these endowed scholarships and to present individual gifts of $35,000 to Jack-son State University and Tougaloo College,” said Ann W. Calhoun, chapter president.

The scholarships aim to provide tuition assistance and improve financial opportunities for students at historically black colleges and universities.

“On the eve of celebrating our 50th anniversary as a chapter of The Links, Inc., it gives us great pleasure to present these endowments to Jackson State University and Tougaloo College,” Calhoun

continued. “This contribution epitomizes our organization’s purpose of supporting and pro-moting educational, cultural and civic endeav-ors in the Jackson metropolitan area.”

As both a member of the Jackson chapter of The Links and president of Tougaloo College, Beverly Hogan said she was proud to be a part of such an important gift.

“Since 1959, the Jackson chapter has been in-strumental in the efforts to enhance the health and vitality of our communities,” said Hogan. “One example is these endowed scholarships that have been established to help more stu-dents to realize greater access to and success in their pursuits of a quality college educa-tion.”

Jackson State University President Ronald Mason Jr. said the gifts are timely for the in-stitutions and the students they serve. “Right now our institutions are trying to find ways to ensure that our students get the best educa-tion possible. They deserve nothing less than that,” Mason said. “The Links, and their con-tributions will go a long way toward helping students reach their goals.”

The latest contribution is another chapter in the group’s long history of supporting educa-tion. The organization is particularly proud of its 25-year sponsorship of Isable Elementary School ,in Jackson, as the school’s “Links to Success.” The partnership has resulted in national and regional accolades. Another Is-able Elementary program, “Links to Healthy STARS,” provides a comprehensive approach to addressing childhood obesity and healthy behaviors and led to the chapter’s participa-tion in a national initiative to reverse the childhood obesity epidemic.

Pictured in the photo above are (left to right): Mary F. Currie, Southern Area Director, The Links, Inc.; Mavis P. James, Vice President, Jackson Chapter of The Links, Inc.; Dr. Ronald Mason, President, Jackson State University; Karen C. Wilson, CFRE, Vice President for Institutional Advancement, Tougaloo College; Ann B. Calhoun, President, Jackson Chapter of The Links, Inc.; and Dr. Gwendolyn B. Lee, National President, The Links, Incorporated.

{campus life}

29

Campus Life

2009

{campus life}


Tougaloo College Opera Workshop Ensemble

Presents Fourth Production

Since its reintroduction to the curriculum in 2007, the Opera Workshop Ensemble (Mus 201 and 202/Opera Workshop) has presented three productions to the public In its first year, the Ensemble offered a historical overview of the contributions of African Americans to American culture through musical theatre. Selections were presented from “Show

presented with an entertainment that recreates a “19th Century Soirée.” Costumed in fashions

Cheleen Sugar (left) and Ronald Hicks perform the duet, “All I Ask of You,” from “The Phantom of the Opera.

Boat,” “The Music Man,” “Oklahoma,” and “The Phantom of the Opera.” Its second production featured operatic scenes, encompassing arias, duets and ensemble from the operatic masterpieces “La Traviata” and “Le Nozze di Figaro.”

The first performance of this season (their second) witnessed the production of Gian Carlo Menotti’s “Amahl and the Night Visitors.”” The audience for this performance was drawn from as far away as Tennessee and Texas. In April 2009, the Ensemble presented their fourth production (second of this season),, “A Musical Soirée within the Free Black Community of the 19th Century: A Fantasy.”

The setting for the production, which was fully costumed, was entertainment after a sumptuous meal at the home of socialite sisters. Guests have retired to the music room where they are

that hearken back to the time just prior to the Civil War, the social interactions among the guests must be governed by the social standards and morés guiding the middle class members of the Free Black society in early America and the types of musical entertainments that they might have enjoyed. Music was drawn from “The Tales of Hoffmann,” “The Phantom of the Opera,” “Cinderella,” “State Fair,” “The Marriage of Figaro,” “Scipio,” and “Dido and Aeneas.”

The Opera Workshop is led by Dr. Gerald Walker, assistant professor of Music, who serves as the organization’s artistic director and conductor. He and the current members of the Opera Ensemble look forward to continuing Tougaloo College’s proud legacy of presenting music of the highest caliber to the public, as well as to advancing the country’s mission of continuing full inclusion in society through the arts. It is the intention of the music department to continue to expand the opera workshop program, making it a vital part of the music curriculum, much as it was during the late 70s and early 80s. Mr. Jessie Primer III is chair of the music department and Dr. Andrea Montgomery is dean for the humanities. For more information about the Tougaloo College Opera Workshop Ensemble, or if you would like to contribute resources–time, materials or money–you may contact Dr. Walker at 601-977-7773.

Bretteney Beverly (left) and Victoria Wilson (right) perform the evening’s first duet.

31

Bonner Program Built on Service

by George Patterson Muhammad Ali said, “Service to others is the rent you pay for your room here on earth.” That quote is the mantra for the Tougaloo College Bonner Leaders Program. The mission of the Bonner Scholars and Bonner Leaders Programs is to transform the lives of students and members, the life of their campuses, their local communities, and the world through service and leadership.

The Bonner Program is designed to heighten the overall education students and members receive by asking them to engage in ongoing service work and helping them develop the experience, skills, knowledge and values necessary to make that work meaningful and lasting.

In 1997, the Bonner Foundation began an effort to expand its original model of service-based scholarships, initially created as part of the Bonner Scholars Program in 1990. Today, the Foundation works with more than 50 institutions nation wide, operating chapters of the Bonner Leader Program. Campuses in the Bonner Leader Program have each designed innovative models that use federal work-study funds, AmeriCorps Education Awards, and institutional support to create scholarship stipends for students involved in community service.

At Tougaloo College, a core group of 25 students, comprised of freshmen and sophomores, work on issues such as improving educational opportunities and fighting hunger through community programs that focus on literacy issues, mentoring, exercise/physical fitness and nutrition/anti-hunger initiatives.

Tougaloo College Bonner Leaders are currently serving with the following community partners:

• Boys and Girls Club of Mississippi • Silver Sneakers Program • 21st Century Community Learning Center • Upward Bound • Children’s Defense Fund • Jackson Heart Study

sss

{campus life}

German Ambassador Visits Tougaloo

In January, Dr. Klaus Scharioth, a German diplomat, currently Germany’s ambassador to the United States, made a brief stop at Tougaloo College. The visit was arranged by long-time friend of the College, E.B. “Bud” Robinson, who is honorary consul for the Federal Republic of Germany.

Sharioth became ambassador of Germany to the United States on March 13, 2006. He joined the Foreign Service in 1976, previously served as state secretary of the Federal Foreign Office (2002-06), political director and head of the Political Directorate-General (1999-2002), head of the International Security and North America Directorate (1998-99), head of the Office of the Foreign Minister (1998), head of the Defense and Security Policy Division at the Federal Foreign Office (1996-97), and chef de cabinet to the NATO secretary-general in Brussels (1993-96). Ambassador Scharioth holds a master’s of arts degree, a law degree and a doctorate from the Fletcher School of Diplomacy. He is married with three children.

The Ambassador’s talk focused primarily on the importance of energy security and it’s importance to the global economy. In addition to faculty, staff and students at Tougaloo, the lecture was attended by a history class from St. Andrews School here in Jackson.

Ambassador Scharioth with President Hogan and a few mementos of Tougaloo College


Humanities Festival 2009

Tougaloo College News /Winter 2009

33

International Interlude

33

{campus life}


Clockwise from top left: Provost Turay welcomes the guests; Inez (left) and Dr. Edgar Smith congratulate Dean Alfredlene Armstrong; audience members Carolyn Evans and Dr. James C. Coleman, applaud; students from the music department provide operatic entertain-ment; Professor Jessie Primer III delivers his own kind of excitement; Provost Turay with Dr. Charles Holmes

Tougaloo College News Spring/Summer 2008

35

Retention is Everybody’s Business

by Gloria McCray Watson

Student Academic Success Center (SASC)

What is the SASC office and what do they do? If you ask a student, you will get one answer. If you ask a faculty member, you may get another. If you ask a staff member or alumnus, you may get still another answer. This is because the Center is a lot of different things to the many members of the campus community. Some students view us as the office that helps when they are in trouble and need a solution…a perception that we would like for all students to have. Some faculty members view us as the office that handles academic alerts and works with them to assist their advisees and moni-tor the progress of students in the courses they teach. Yes, we are viewed in many ways, perhaps, because we provide a myriad of services. We are located in the former social science building. We want to take this opportunity to acquaint the cam-pus community with our office and the services that we provide.

The Student Academic Success Center is a great starting point both for new and returning stu-dents. The Center assists “students in transition,” so that they do not fall through the cracks. It’s services reinforce the college’s systems by iden-tifying those students who are having difficulty in making the transition necessary to attain good academic standing. The Center uses a holistic approach, which provides assistance, regardless of the need, to promote persistence and retention of all students ensuring graduation. The Center provides all students with information about ad-mission procedures, registration steps and cam-pus resources to meet their specific needs. The Center provides brochures and flyers describing programs, courses and student services available at Tougaloo College. Whatever the concern may be—financial, academic, social, or simply first-year anxiety—we have the answers. The SASC promotes student success through information, assistance and encouragement.

Our services menu is designed to help eliminate “campus run-around.” “Campus run-around” only

creates frustration for those seeking answers and produces dissatisfaction. We at Tougaloo value time. It should not be necessary to go from office to office to resolve an issue, obtain a form, secure a signature, or to receive assistance or directions concerning College policies and/or procedures. Students may pick up a variety of common admin-

istrative forms such as major declaration/change of major, course withdrawal, school withdrawal, trial schedules, drop and add, etc. The most recent service added is assessment services. We now administer the English Writing Proficiency Exami-nation. Students can sign-up on line or in person and obtain scores.

Another part of our function is student advis-ing, which comprises a large portion of our work. We advise all students regardless of academic status. We are here to help students who may experience an academic difficulty and to help suc-cessful students to maintain their success. Our goal is to arm students with knowledge, which will allow them to take responsibility for the quality of their education.

The really big part of our job is student reten-tion. The Center is the catalyst that engages the campus community so that everyone understands their role in student retention, realizes that ‘Re-tention is Everybody’s Business’ and, hopefully,

inspires everyone to take action. The Center is responsible for collecting and reporting retention data for internal or external use and for research, providing technical guidance and assistance, and coordinating and monitoring the progress of the college’s retention efforts. The SASC’s webpages are utilized to inform the campus about retention

{campus life}

We want to take this oppor-tunity to acquaint the cam-pus community with our office and the services that we provide.

Our services menu is de-signed to help eliminate “campus run-around.”


matters in an effort to: diminish misinformation, increase the accuracy of information and ensure that we all work from a common body of knowl-edge. It is important that we use correct retention terminology to ensure that reports and informa-tion are uniform and consistent, so that we have a clear understanding of the information that we collect and present. In addition, we produce se-mester retention reports and conduct “win-back” initiatives in order to facilitate the re-enrollment of students who have left Tougaloo College. The Center is also the home of the “Destination: Graduation Mentoring Program” for 1st and 2nd year students. This program is a campus wide mentoring initiative for these students consisting of faculty, staff, and alumni, who work in mentor/mentee pairs.

Academic placement and assessment is the most recent component added to our existing service menu. We now administer the English Writing

Proficiency Examination. Students can sign-up on line or in person and obtain scores. We are here to provide whatever help is necessary to ensure that students graduate. We also pro-vide standardized testing, graduate school testing and offer free practice tests through a collabora-tion with the Kaplan Learning Center.

We enthusiastically advocate the use of “best prac-tices” in retention and vigorously promote a “data-driven” culture here at Tougaloo College. It’s not what you may think; it’s not what I may think, but what the data and research show. The SASC provides data analyses to address retention issues throughout the campus community and conducts student retention and satisfaction surveys. Find-ings are published for use in decision making.

The Center is the catalyst that engages the campus commu-nity so that everyone under-stands their role in student re-tention, realizes that ‘Retention is Everybody’s Business’ and, hopefully, inspires everyone to take action.

The Center is the home of the “Destination Gradu-ation Mentoring Pro-gram” for 1st and 2nd year students...a campus-wide mentoring program for these students, consisting of faculty, staff and alumni who work in mentor/men-tee pairs.

37

{campus life}

Tougaloo to Launch Online Initiative with

Education Online Services Corporation (EOServe Corp.)

Dr. Benjamin Chavis, president, Education Online Services Corporation and Dr. Beverly W. Hogan, president, Tougaloo College are working as partners in the development of an online degree program.

Education Online Services Corporation enables colleges and universities to maximize online higher education. EOServe Corp. is assisting Tougaloo College with the development and implementation of a comprehensive online degree program which will be supported by recruitment, enrollment, retention, and graduation coaching services.

According to the most recent survey conducted by The Sloan Consortium and The Babson Survey Research Group, approximately one-third of higher education institutions account for 75% of all online enrollments and that future growth is expected to come from these and similar institutions as they adopt and implement new programs and grow existing ones. Education Online Services Corporation is committed to reaching out to these institutions such as Tougaloo College, to offer assistance with the technology platform and services needed to establish a successful online degree program.

“We are excited that Dr. Hogan and her academic team at Tougaloo College have made a firm commitment to bring Tougaloo into the 21st century by developing comprehensive online degree programs. By offering a hybrid model of both campus and online-based degree programs, it will allow this historic institution rich in tradition, the ability to extend its mission beyond its geographical boundaries,” stated Ezell Brown, CEO & chairman of EOServe Corp., “Tougaloo was visionary when it was founded in 1869 and this decision reinforces the fact that they remain visionary today and we are honored that Dr. Hogan and her team chose Education Online Services Corporation as their online education service provider.” added Chairman Brown.

President Hogan said, “Tougaloo College wants to remain competitive and viable in today’s climate of higher education and understands that to do so, the college must diversify its offerings and the pathways of opportunities for students to receive a college education. Online education is a strategic initiative that the College plans to more broadly incorporate with the assistance of EOServe Corp. We approach online education with the same intentional commitment to produce ethical, thoughtful leaders who are prepared to meet the challenges of informed citizenship through the support of competent, caring and engaged faculty and staff. We expect all of our students to bear the markings of a Tougaloo education. We are looking forward to furthering our partnership with Education Online Services Corporation. This company understands and appreciates our rich legacy of academic excellence and social responsibility and the quality of graduates the College produces.”

“Tougaloo College is one of the most prestigious colleges in America and throughout the world. Education Online Services Corporation is very pleased to establish this relationship with this historical institution and support its global efforts to recruit, enroll and graduate students online,” explained Dr. Benjamin Chavis, President of EOServe Corp. “As a result of this educational partnership, President Beverly W. Hogan is leading Tougaloo College forward to new vistas of academic achievement and innovation,” emphasized President Chavis.

About Education Online Services Corporation www.educationonlineservices.com

Education Online Services Corp (EOServe Corp) was founded by a select team of Academic and Marketing Executives which recognized the opportunity to help the under-served market of historical black colleges and universities develop full-service online curriculum programs and increase enrollments for students and communities while also emphasizing retention and student support functions. Based in Coral Springs, Fl, the company offers a complete suite of custom solutions designed to develop, implement, and manage online curriculum platforms for colleges and universities.

t t t


Clockwise from left: Commencement speaker, Harry Belafonte; Jarvis McInnis, 2008-2009 SGA President, addresses his fellow graduates; activists and brothers from “the old days,” from top left, Dr. Edwin King, Dr. Robert Smith ’55, honorary degree recipient, Jimmy Travis and Belafonte; one proud family; Julius Fleming brings the student address; honorary degree recipient James Loewen and honorary degree recipient Merri Dee

39

Commencement2009

{campus life}


The Golden Class

41

Campus LifeSummer Commencement 2009

Summer commencement speaker, Vicksburg mayor, Paul E. Winfield; inset: a happy summer graduate receives her degree from (right to left) College chaplain Dr. Larry Johnson, registrar Ms. Carolyn Evans, dean of the Social Science division, Dr. James Stewart/ and provost and vice president for academic Affairs, Dr. Abdul Turay

{campus life}


2010 MLK Prayer Breakfast

January 18, 2010

43

Clockwise from top: Two presidents (Tougaloo College President Beverly Hogan, second from left and Millsaps College Acting President Howard McMillan, third from left); fiddler and visiting Tougaloo music professor, James Ruchala (Brown University Faculty Fellow); from left, Tougaloo College vice president for institutional advancement Karen C. Wilson and Millsaps College chaplain, Rev. Rwth Ashton; Tougaloo College,s visiting Fulbright Scholars, Minhui Kim (Korea/Korean) and Khadija Ghaphari (Morocco/Arabic) and from left, Tougaloo College Student Government Association president, Whitney McDowell and Millsaps College Student Body president, Stephen Passman

{campus life}


The Tougaloo College Athletics Department has been on the move for the 2009-2010 academic year. With the new addition of volleyball to the number of sports it offers, the athletic department has certainly started to make a name for itself at the College and in the surrounding communities. In an effort to match Tougaloo College’s hallmarks of academic excellence and civic engagement, the athletics department strives to produce some of the best and brightest student-athletes any school has to offer. This year, the athletics department has one of its own, Mr. Tommie Mabry, captain of the men’s basketball team, running for Mr. Tougaloo College and a former women’s basketball player, LaTeia Taylor running for Miss Tougaloo College. This alone shows that the department has some of Tougaloo finest students.

Boasting some of the College’s finest and brightest students, the department also produces some of the best athletes around. With the men’s

basketball team finishing the season ranked in the Top 25 Poll and making their way to a third national tournament in four year and the women’s basketball team finishing the season with a winning record and its best record in over seven years, the department has really changed the face of Tougaloo College Athletics. The Men’s Basketball team finished with a 22-9 overall record

and a conference record of 12-6. The Bulldogs were the Gulf Coast Athletic Conference Regular Season Runner-ups and made it to the semifinals of the conference tournament before being put out by Belhaven University. The Bulldogs also finished the season ranked #25 in the NAIA Men’s Division I Coaches Top 25 Poll. The Bulldogs were ranked each week except for two and climbed as high as #15 in the poll.

Mario Luckett, a junior forward from Vicksburg, MS was named GCAC Player of Week twice for his performances on the court and was also named to the GCAC All-Conference team. Sylvester Collins, a sophomore center from Madison, MS was also named to the GCAC All-Conference team and named NAIA All-American Honorable Mention for his efforts this season. Collins finished the season leading the nation in blocks per game. The Bulldogs have three seniors leaving: Kevin Horton, Keith Fisher and Walter Howard.

The Women’s Basketball team finished with a 16-15 overall record and a conference record of 11-7. This is the Lady Bulldogs first winning record and their best record in over seven years. The Lady Bulldogs made it to the semifinals of the conference tournament before being put out by

by Eric Pilcher

45

Xavier University. Victoria Jones, a sophomore forward from Saginaw, MI was named GCAC Player of Week and was named to the GCAC All-Conference team for her efforts this season in leading the Lady Bulldogs to success. Jones currently holds the conference record for most rebounds in a single game at 27. Damara Bolton, a junior guard from Beaumont, MS was also named to the GCAC All-Conference team for her efforts this season. The Lady Bulldogs will be losing their three seniors: Jessica Coleman, Shalenia Wilcher, and Kim Kern.

The Baseball team has made a great turn around this season. Although they are currently only

2-28, 1-18 GCAC, the team is looking much better than last season. Also, the team won its first conference game since joining the conference three seasons ago against Loyola University. The Bulldogs have also defeated Division I SWAC Mississippi Valley State University this season. William Walker, a sophomore from Jackson, MS received this season’s first GCAC Player of the Week nod for his efforts in the opening games of

the season. This is also the first time a Tougaloo player has received this honor. The Bulldogs are hoping to continue their success and make a name for themselves in the conference and the baseball world.

The Men’s and Women’s Tennis teams have gotten underway with their seasons. While the men’s team is struggling to keep enough players to compete, the women’s team has won 2 games this season and hopes to continue their success. Although the men are struggling with players, they are still competing and representing Tougaloo College very well this season. Hopefully, the department can find those student-athletes who are able to compete and win games for the tennis program.

The department also offers men’s golf, men’s and

women’s cross country, and the new addition, volleyball. With all the success of the athletics department, it has definitely made Tougaloo College proud.

Beware of the Tougaloo Bulldogs because they are on the prowl....

{campus life}


Hall of

47

Athletics

Fame

{alumni news}

Clockwise from right: video presentation at the banquet; performance by Dr. Bobby G. Cooper ’61 (choir director) and some of his students from Hinds Community College; the 2009 inductees (from left to right: Attorney George F. West, Jr. ’62 (Government and Law); Trustee Edmond E. Hughes ’85 (Business); Dr. Allie Louise Almore-Randle ’51 (Religion); Dr. Jerry W. Ward ’64 (Education); and Dr. Donnie Evans ’82, (Medicine); and Tougaloo College National Alumni Association (TCNAA) President, Dr. Tophas Anderson ’71


w i t h u sWe are taking the Tougaloo College News online with our next issue. If you choose to

receive a paper copy of the magazine, please complete the form below and return to

Tougaloo College, Office of Institutional Advancement, Editor/TCN, 500 West County Line

Road, Tougaloo, MS 39174. Or make your choice online at www.tougaloo.edu/magazine

opt out. If we do not hear from you either by mail or online, we will assume that you

prefer NOT to receive the magazine by mail.

In the online version, nothing will download to your computer unless you request it.

You will be able to peruse the issue entirely online, using the live links in the Table of

Contents to lead you directly to stories or photo essays that are of interest to you.

I prefer to continue receiving the Tougaloo College News via mail. Please continue to

send my issues to :

Name:

Address: Address:

City: State: Zip:

Email Address:

Phone Number:

Go Green

49

Farish Street Heritage Festival Honors Three Tougalooians

byPatricia Johnson

The first annual Farish Street Heritage “Hall of Fame” Gala was held at The Roberts Walthall Hotel in downtown Jackson, Mississippi. The highlight of the gala was the induction ceremony, which included several outstanding alumni of Tougaloo College. The Farish Street District was one of the most flourishing communities in the State of Mississippi during the ’50s and ’60s. During those turbulent years, the work of physicians such as, Dr. Albert Britton ’43, Dr. A.H. McCoy ’27 and entrepreneur Thelma L. Sanders, ’46 greatly influenced the economic condition of African Americans nationwide. Their contributions and sacrifices remain part of the rich cultural legacy of the historic Farish Street District and Mississippi.

President Beverly Hogan attended the program and commended each for the role he or she played in shaping the history of African Americans in the State. She commented that civic engagement and social responsibility have been integral parts of the mission of Tougaloo College since its inception in 1869 and that she was honored to be a part of this special recognition of these trailblazers. Afterwards, she presented the Tougaloo alumni with a resolution from the College.

Dr. Britton,’43, Dr. McCoy’27 and Mrs. Sanders’ 46 were inducted in the categories of Medicine and Business, respectively. On hand to receive the awards were Dr. Britton; Dr. Rosalind McCoy Sibley, daughter of Dr. McCoy and Bo Brown, brother to Thelma Sanders.

Four Tougaloo College sophomores and a graduate of the College were honored guests at the Gulf Coast Tougaloo Alumni Chap-ter’s annual Christmas party, held in the Gulfport home of Dr. and Mrs. Roy Irons on December 20, 2009. The honorees were from left, Attorney Meta Cooper, who had recently passed the Mississippi State Bar; Whitney Caples, Daniel Chapman, Deron Simpson and Lori Brown. At right is Brown’s mother, Yolanda Brown

{alumni news}

Left to right: Bo Brown, Dr. Rosalind McCoy Sibley, President Hogan, Jess Brown, Jr. (whose mother attended Tougaloo) and Dr. Britton; Below: President Hogan with Dr. Britton

Left: Dr. Rosalind McCoy Sibley (daughter of Dr. McCoy) with President Hogan


Tougalooian Named Dean for Minority Affairsat Alpert Med School Emma Simmons, MD, MPH ’87 was named assistant dean for minority medical affairs at the Alpert Medical School at Brown University. Dr. Simmons earned her MD (’91) andher MPH (’04) degrees from Brown.

According to a Brown University publication, Simmons is, essentially filling a position formerly held by Alicia Monroe, who served as associate dean of diversity for the Med School before taking a position at the University of Southern Florida College of Medicine last May. Simmons has called Monroe one of her mentors.

Simmons is focusing her efforts on promoting a diverse student body at the medical school. She intends to increase mentorship between students and to work closely with underrepresented medical students to encourage their successs.

Simmons has spent much of her career working to correct health disparities among minority populations, and has been recognized for her achievements in areas including AIDS prevention, minority faculty development and for her own teaching expertise.

Dr. Simmons served as assitant professor of family medicine at Memorial Hospital of Rhode Island and has been a research fellow of the National Cancer Institute (Brown University, Department

of Community Health). She has conducted many research projects including a recent one that strives “to enhance the ability of the residency program to prepare physicians for practice in the 21st century by incresing recruitment of minority/under-represented groups to the residency.”

Tougalooian Named Dean of the College of Social Work at UKJames P. “Ike” Adams Jr. has been named dean of the University of Kentucky College of Social Work at the University of Kentucky. Adams, who was previously dean of the School of Social Work at the University of Alabama, will began the UK deanship in July 2009.

In addition to his work at the University of Alabama, Adams has also served on the board of the Alabama Poverty Project and as a research associate for the Kettering Foundation.

Adams holds a bachelor’s degree in sociology from Tougaloo College , a master’s degree in social work research from State University of New York at Stony Brook, and a doctorate in social work policy, planning and administration from University of Minnesota. His areas of expertise include adolescent pregnancy prevention, aging, black family structure and functioning, deliberative politics and public leadership, leadership and management in higher education, and managing diversity, to name a few. His research has been published in numerous publications, including the American Journal of Rural Health, the Journal of Applied Gerontology, the Journal of Social Work Education and the Journal of Black Studies.

Adams has previously served the boards of the National Issues Forums Institute and the Council on Social Work Education, as well as several other regional and state boards in Alabama.

51

Larkin Wins Media AwardIngrid R. Larkin ’95 of Chicago, art director for Ebony magazine, received The National Association of Black Journalists’ 2008 Salute to Excellence National Media Award. The focus of the NABJ annual awards is to recognize “exemplary coverage of the African and African-American experience by the nation’s print and electronic media.”

Larkin and one of her co-workers took the award for page design (best cover) in the magazine – art and design category for magazines with more than one million in circulation. The award was presented in late July.

Ingrid is the daughter of Versie and Willie Larkin III of Monroe, IL. At Tougaloo, she earned a bachelor’s of fine art degree in art and, in 1996, she graduated with honors from the Art Institute of Atlanta with a degree in advertising design. She also attended the Portfolio Center

Miller Promoted to ChiefWillie J. Miller ’73, a 30-year veteran of the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department, was promoted to the rank of Chief by Sheriff Lee Baca and is overseeing the operations of the Detective Division.

Chief Miller’s career with the Sheriff’s Department began in 1978. After graduating from the Training Academy as a Deputy Sheriff, she held numerous assignments in the department. In 1987, Miller was promoted to Sergeant and to Lieutenant in 1991. Her ascendancy continued in 2000 when she was promoted to Captain. Miller

made Commander in 2002, overseeing Century, Compton, Marina Del Rey, West Hollywood, Carson, Lennox and Lomita Stations. She also oversaw the Transit Services, Community College, Community Oriented Policing Services (COPS), Operations Safe Streets Bureaus and the Community Law Enforcement Partnership Program.

Chief Miller was recently selected by Los Angeles County Board of Supervisor Yvonne Burke, as the Second District Woman of the Year recipient for the 2008 Annual Commission on Women Awards. Chief Miller is a member of the National Organization of Black Law Enforcement Executives and the Board of Elders at Park Hills Community Church. She received her Bachelor of Arts in English degree from Tougaloo College and her Master’s of Science in Journalism degree from the University of Illinois. She resides in Ladera Heights. Her son, Brandon Kyle, is a graduate of Howard University and currently works in education. In her spare time, Chief Miller enjoys traveling, attending plays and listening to jazz.

Green Nominated for Emmy® Award

Ray Green ’02 received a nomination at the 2008 Emmy® Awards. The Emmys are handed out each year for excellence in television broadcasting. Ray received his nomination in the category of Outstanding Achievement in Art Direction/Set Decoration/Scene Design for “Between the Lions,” a PBS

{alumni news}


Lawyer Chapman ’57 celebrated his fifttieth year as an educator. Assistant Superintendent for the Cherry Hill School District in Cherry Hill, NJ, Chapman received his master of science in Education degree from the University of Arizona and his Ed.D. from Temple University.

David Miller ’72 was re-elected (unopposed) President of the UNCF’s National Alumni Association. You all can congratulate David at [email protected]. He will need our continued support in this position over the next two years.

Patricia Cole ’78 received the following two awards at the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association and the National Student

Speech-Language Hearing Association’s Annual Convention that was held in Chicago November 20-23, 2008. The 2008 Honors of the National Student Speech Language Hearing Association (NSSLHA) is the highest award bestowed by the Association. It is presented to those individuals who, through their work with students, have made significant contributions to both the Association and to the discipline of human communication sciences and disorders. The 2008 CICSD Editor’s Award was awarded to Wilhelmina Wright-Harp, PhD, CCC-SLP and Patricia Cole, PhD, CCC-SLP for their article “A Mentoring Model for Enhancing Success in Graduate Education.”. This award is presented annually by the NSSLHA Editorial Consultants to the author(s) of the best article published in Contemporary Issues in Communication Science

show that is co-produced by Mississippi Public Broadcasting.

Green was an art major here at Tougaloo and has been working at Mississippi Public Broadcasting since then, designing and constructing sets for “Between the Lions.” When Professor Bruce O’Hara, who taught Ray while he was in school, was told of the nomination, he commented, “I always knew Ray was talented, so this is just comfirmation for everyone else.”

Ray is a resident of Jackson, where he still works for MPB.

Howard Bartee, Jr. ’93 Awarded Ed.D. Degree

Howard Bartee, Jr. completed the Ed.D. in Sports Management degree from the United States Sports Academy in August 2008. He is married to Kimberly Bartee and they are parents of a 3-

year-old son, Howard Bartee, III. He currently lives in Canton, GA and works at Kaplan Higher Education Corporation (Alpharetta, GA) as a Compliance Specialist.

He holds the M.S.A. in Information Resource Management (Central Michigan University-1999) and a B.A. in Political Science/Accounting degree (Tougaloo College-1993). His parents are Mr. and Mrs. Howard (Dorothy Kimbrough) Bartee, Sr. of Shubuta, MS. His mom is a member of the Tougaloo Class of 1963 and his sister, RoSusan D. Bartee, Ph.D, is a member of the Tougaloo College Class of 1997. Bartee’s dissertation is entitled, “The Role of Internal and External Factors Upon the College Choice for Male and Female Collegiate Student Athletes.” It has been submitted for publication on Proquest at www.proquest.umi.com. Dr. Bartee’s website is www.collegechoiceconsultingresearch4you.com.

’57

’72

’78

53

and Disorders (CICSD).

Keenan Grenell ’81 was appointed vice president and dean of diversity at Colgate University in September 2008. Prior to his appointment at Colgate, Grenell spent three years at Marquette University and before that, twelve years at Auburn University.

Betty Lavern Spann Wilson ’89 earned her Education Specialist in Education Leadership degree from Mississippi College in May 2008.

Dr. Brian E. Anderson ’93 was recently elected as Board Member to the Mississippi Chapter of the National Association of Social Workers. In this position, Dr. Anderson works closely with other Board members in chapter policy development, recruitment and retention initiatives, chapter conferences, and other various projects implemented within the Chapter. Currently, he is employed at Mississippi College as the Social Work Program Director.

Derrick Johnson ’93, president of the Mississippi State Conference of NAACP Branches, was elected to the NAACP national board of directors by the association’s board members. Johnson was also appointed by the chief Justice of the Mississippi Supreme Court as a Commissioner to the Mississippi Access to Justice Commission.

Victor Deshon Hubbard ’94 earned his Education Specialist in Education Leadership degree from Mississippi College in May 2008.

Doressia L. Hutton ’97 has joined the Chicago law firm, Winston & Strawn LLP, in the firm’s litigation department. Hutton was formerly with Mayer Brown.

Sanette Langston-Smith ’98 earned her Master of Science in Management degree from Belhaven College in May 2007, and is pursuing her Ph.D. degree in Organization and Management with a specialization in General Business at Capella University.

Tiffaney S. Parkman ’98 of Evansville IN completed her Ph.D. in Human Development at Virginia Tech in Blacksburg, VA in May, 2009.

Lakisha A. Crigler, M.D. ’99 has joined the staff

of the Women’s Clinic at Northwest Mississippi Medical Center in Clarksdale, MS (Obstetrics and Gynecology). Dr. Crigler completed her bachelor of science degree in biology and pre-med at Tougaloo, doctor of medicine degree and her OB/GYN residency at Meharry Medical College in Nashville .

Shelia Denise Bonner ’99 earned her Master of Education in English Education degree from Mississippi College in May 2008.

Shalondia Johnson Washington ’99 earned her Master of Education in Education Leadership degree from Mississippi College in May 2008.

Kia Stokes ’00 published her novella, Unbound, in 2008. In 2009, her work was included in the Christian anthology Bended Knee. She was an Economics major at Tougaloo and also holds an M.B.A. degree from Jackson State University. For more info, visit her website at www.kiastokes.com.

Chazeman S. Jackson ‘01 was recently selected as a Christine Mirzayan Science and Technology Policy Fellow hosted by the National Academy of Sciences. The National Academies is a non-governmental institution established by Congress to advise the nation on issues of science, technology, engineering and medicine. As a policy fellow, Chazeman will work with the Board on Public Health in the Institute of Medicine. Specifically, she is assigned to serve with the Roundtable on Health Disparities.

Carlyle C. White ’01, an associate in the Memphis office of Butler Snow, was named one of Memphis’ Most Influential Black Attorneys in the April/May 2009 edition of Memphis Minority Business Magazine. White, a member of the firm’s Labor and Employment Group, focuses his practice in the areas of employment litigation and traditional labor law. A 2001 graduate of Tougaloo College and 2008 cum laude graduate of the University of Arkansas School of Law, White is active in local bar associations, the National Bar Association and Phi Delta Phi, an international legal fraternity.

Colibri N. Jenkins ‘02 was recently selected as the Jeanne Spurlock M.D. Congressional Fellow of the American Psychiatric Association. The Jeanne Spurlock Congressional Fellowship provides general psychiatry and child psychiatry residents an opportunity to work in a congressional office or

{alumni news}

’81

’89

’93

’94

’97

’98

’99

’00

’01

’02


committee, on federal health policy, particularly policy related to child and minority issues. Colibri will help develop legislative proposals, track and analyze legislative initiatives, brief U.S. Congressmen or Congresswomen and staff, and interact with constituents. Urseline Hawkins ’03 was awarded the doctor of medicine degree from the University of Mississippi Medical School in May 2008.

Rashida Tashanda Bell ’05 earned her M.S. in Administration of Justice degree at Mississippi College in May 2008.

Jared Taylor ’05 co-authored of The Jackson Heart Study Data Book. The data book is a report to the cohort and community of the Jackson Heart Study. The book also featured paintings by Johnnie Mae Maberry ’70.

Roslyn Griffin ’06 was featured on Yahoo® recently presenting a gift to then-candidate and Democratic nominee, Senator Barack Obama, on the tarmac of the airport in Memphis, Tenn. She delivered the gift to the senator on behalf of the Constance Slaughter Harvey Chapter of the Black Law Student Association -- University of Mississippi School of Law. Roslyn is the chapter’s president for the 2008-2009 academic year. She is also very active with other law school organizations including the School of Law’s Moot Court Board.

Clinnesha Dillon Sibley ’06 wrote and produced a new play, called “The Women of Strong

Hope.” The play was produced in September 2009 in both Jackson and McComb. She has formed her own theatre company in Arkansas, called Emerge. To get on the mailing list, visit www.emergetheatregroup.com or email [email protected]

Chase LeRoy Gayden ’07 earned his Master of Education in Elementary Education degree summa cum laude from Mississippi College in May 2008.

Quiana Natasha Hunter ’07 earned her Master of Science in Biology degree from Mississippi College in May 2008.

Crystal Sarina Watts ’07 earned her Master of Education in Teaching Arts Secondary Education degree from Mississippi College in May 2008.

In addition to her duties at The Jackson Advocate, DeAnna Tisdale ‘08 has been busy performing at venues in Washington, D.C., as well as with the Mississippi Opera in April 2010.

Ronald Hicks ’09 made his operatic debut as Marullo in Mississippi Opera’s Full Production of Rigoletto on November 15, 2008. Ronald, a music major graduated in Vocal Performance in 2009.

Brittney Sherrod ’09 was elected Pre-Alumni Council (PAC) Member of the Year at the 2009 NPAC Conference in South Carolina. The Tougaloo PAC chapter was named Chapter of the Year, as well.

Models: PAC members,, left, Marnise Webb (sophomore biology major) and Allison Johnson (sophomore mass communication major)

Keep the warmth of Tougaloo with you

all year with a Tougaloo College throw.

$50 each (benefiting the TC Pre-Alumni Council)

601-977-7836 or 601-977-4455 or

visit Alumni House on campus to order

Wrap Yourself in the Warmth of Tougaloo

’03

’05

’06

’07

’08

’09

55

{alumni news}

Kevin Jackson, ’88 and his wife, Judy, have a new arrival, Lindsay Elise Jackson, adopted August 1, 2009 from Guangxi Province, China (photo at left). The couple spent two weeks touring and going through the adoption paperwork in China but now she is home!!! A healthy and happy baby girl with her tired and excited parents! Blessed!!

A Celebration of HistoryLos Angeles, California

We are grateful to Esther Collins,’52, for recent work on behalf of the UNCF. She made nearly 100 table centerpieces for the 21st Annual Martin Luther King Day Breakfast held on Monday, January 18, 2010, at the Proud Bird, Los Angeles, California. Her great enthusiasm boosted attendance, as she personally encouraged 39 of the more than thousand attendees to venture out on a stormy day to hear a powerful speech from John Silvanus Wilson, Jr., Director of the White House Initiative on Historically Black Colleges and Universities.

Eta Lambda Omega Chapter of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Pasadena/Altadena, California, selected Allie Louise Almore-Randle,’51, as their queen to ride in the Black History Parade held in February, 2010. In the addition, Dr. Almore-Randle, a Silver Star sorority member, was honored along with several other Diamond and Golden sorority members during the local chapter’s 50th Year Celebration Tea.

Another very important activity of the Tougaloo College Alumni Association of Southern California was in sponsoring two Pre-Alumni Students.

Several members the Tougaloo College Alumni Association of Southern California are diligently working with social programs that promote the well being of senior citizens. One such person is

Sarah Avery,’60, using her talents at the Ladera Senior Community Center.

Dorothy Hardy-Ross,’47, a member of People’s Independent Church, is a member of the Scholarship Guild and of the Nominating Committee. Percia Hutcherson,’44, is a Missionary from Diocese of Los Angeles Episcopal to Diocese Eldoret, ACK, Eldorent, Kenya, serving people with disabilities (PWD’S).

We continue to hold dear and pray for R. C. Ola Brown,’ 44 who is recovering from an illness. We extend condolences to the family of Geneva Franklin Arterberry,’47 who’s funeral was held on Monday, March 28, 2010 in Los Angeles, California. We pray for our college president, Mrs. Beverly W. Hogan on behalf of the enormous task that’s before her. We pray for the president of the United States, Barack Obama that God grant him strength, wisdom, and peace. We pray for the safety of President Obama and his family

In the meantime, we encourage Tougalooians everywhere if you know of alumni who are moving into the Southern California area, please let us know so that we may contact and welcome them to join us. The meetings are held on the third Saturday of each month, except July and August. The mailing address is Tougaloo College Alumni Association, 3007 West 77th Street, Inglewood, California 90305-1013. Roy Harris, President

’88


PassingsFranklin Arterberry,’47 of Los Angeles, CA, on 3/28/2010.

John L. Bates, Jr., of McComb, MS, 10/08/2008

Willie L. Buckner, of Racine, WI, 12/26/2008

Effie L. Burford of Indianapolis, IN on 1/18/2010

Mildred A. Campbell (née Allen) of Brookhaven, MS on 1/11/2010

Joe C. Collier, of Jackson, MS, 10/18/2007

Edmund D. Cooke, Sr. ’38, of Springfield, OH, 04/28/2008

Emanuel M. Crystal, of Jackson, MS, 12/24/2007

Gloria J. Davis (née Jimerson) of Biloxi, MS on 03/29/2010

Thelma S. Dixon, of Brookhaven, MS, 10/25/2007

Odessa M. Ealy, of Carthage, MS, 07/03/2008

Jay W. Fidler, of Rye Brook, NY, 10/31/2007

Pamela N. Fields (Jones), of Brookhaven, MS 4/20/2009

Dorothy D. Gray, of McComb, MS, 02/26/2008

Robbye J. (Robinson) Henderson ’60, of Itta Bena, MS, 10/06/2007

Joseph A. Herzenberg, of Chapel Hill, NC, 10/28/2007

Barbara J. (Harris) Hopkins, of Anchorage, AK, 04/23/2008

Berkeley A. Jemmott, of Springfield, MA, 01/25/2009

Theodore T. Jones, of Jackson, MS, 06/15/2009 Esther (Rice) Kennedy, of Cedar Falls, IA, 10/17/2007 Genevieve C. Kennedy, of Jackson, MS, 01/19/2009

Agnes E. Lee, of Ellisville, MS, on 08/04/2008

Ethylene T. Lewis ’42, of Silver Spring, MD, 3/30/2009

John E. Liebmann, of New York, NY, 05/30/2008

Glenn M. McKinney, of Houston, TX, 11/10/2007 Billie Marshall of Jackson, MS, on October 24, 2008.

Caroline H. Moore, of Jackson, MS, 11/30/2007

Willie E. Morgan ’50, of South Bend, IN, 03/22/2008

Charles R. Orr, Sr., of Jackson, MS, 07/01/2008

R. C. Parker ’51, of Mount Clemens, MI, 02/17/2008 Imbree C. Richmond, of Tylertown, LA, 04/11/2008

Nancy G. Robinson, of Tougaloo, MS, 06/27/2008

Kempes Y. Schnell, of Chambersburg, PA, 01/15/2009

57

{alumni news}

Book your travel where it makes a

difference! Visit the Tougaloo

College National Alumni

Association travel website at:

www.TougalooTravel.com

• You'll find the same airlines,

hotels, rental cars, cruises and

more.

• You'll get great travel prices!

• Each time you book travel a

portion of the travel commissions

will go to the TCNAA!

It's that simple!

TCNAA Travel


Introducing

TCNAA Travel!

An Exciting New Way to Turn

Your Vacations into Donations!


Irma J. Seiferth, of Lynchburg, VA, 03/15/2009

Curtis W. Smith ’67, of Jackson, MS, 07/19/2008

Willie R. (Crowder) Stamps, of Edwards, MS, 06/27/2008

Ronald D. Thomas ’87, of Tallahassee, FL, 07/06/2008

John W. Todd, Jr., of Jackson, MS. 12/15/2007

Mrs. Roberta Walker ’61, of Germantown, TN, on August 12, 2006

Malcolm C. Walls, of Clarksdale, MS, 04/20/2009

Hazel L. Washington ’51, of Fremont, CA, 08/28/2008

Tonia F. Wells ’94, of Escatawpa, MS, 02/14/2009

Joseph Wilson of Urbana, IL on 02/09/2010

Felicia (Brown) Wolfe ’73, of Jackson, MS, 11/24/2007

JAZZY BRUNCHfeaturingLori Williams & FriendsSunday, July 18, 201011:30 am - 3:00 pm

Austin Grill750 E St., N.W.Washington, D.C.

Detach and mail to: Mississippi on the Potomac ••••• 1204 Colvin Meadows Lane, Great Falls, VA 22066 ••••• (703) 438-0727Make Checks Payable to WATAC

NAME _________________________________________________ NAME _____________________________________________________________

ADDRESS ________________________________________________ ADDRESS ____________________________________________________________ Street Street _________________________________________________ _____________________________________________________________ City State/Zip Code Phone # City State/Zip Code Phone #

E-MAIL _________________________________________________ E-MAIL _____________________________________________________________

Dates Events Individual Price Individual Price # of Tickets Total Amountbefore July 9th after July 9th Requested Enclosed

Friday, July 16, 2010 8th MOTP Golf Classic and Dinner $110 $130

Dinner only $35 $40

Saturday, July 17, 2010 Mississippi on the Potomac $35 $4018th Anniversary Picnic

Children (Ages 7-12) $15 $15

Sunday, July 18, 2010 Jazzy Brunch $50 $55

Children (Ages 7-12) $15 $15

I am unable to attend, but would like to contribute $ towards the success of Mississippi on the Potomac XVIII and Tougaloo College!

THANK YOU!

Please visit the MOTP XVIII web page at: http://www.watac.tcnaa.org

Tee Off for Tougaloo!

with

Congressman James Clyburn

Honorary Chairperson

8th MOTP Golf Classic

Friday, July 16, 2010

Shotgun start at 2:00 pm

Andrews Air Force Base

South Course

Andrews Air Force

Base, MD 20762

Picnic on the PotomacNaval Surface Warfare Pavilion

Indian Head, MD

Saturday, July 17, 201012 Noon-6 pm

Mississippi Fried Catfish Buffet 2:00 pm - 4:00 pm

Entertainment by The Young Bucks

Bring Picture I.D. for Entrance at Gate

Join the Washington Area Tougaloo Alumni Chapter

for

Mississippi on the Potomac XVIII“One More Time!”

July 16-18, 2010with

Congressman Bennie G. Thompson&

President Beverly W. HoganTougaloo College • Tougaloo, MS


King (center) received an Honorary Doctor of Humane Letters from then-President George A. Owens, as Dr. Naomi Townsend, Dean of Academic Affairs, looks on.

The legendary B.B. King delivers a riveting, almost two-hour performance at the 2009 Two Rivers Gala. Photo: Jay Johnson/Jay Johnson Photography

Clockwise from center: Jeanette Harris is cookin’ on the jazz stage; B.B. King receives his honorary doctorate from Tougaloo president, Dr. George Owens in 1973; Eddie Cotton delivers heartfelt blues on the Main Stage; B.B. King receives special citation at the gala from President Beverly W. Hogan, as Trustee Roy Irons (center) looks on; Akami Graham workin’ it out on the Main Stage; and B.B. King cuills with “Lucille” during his headlining performance

59

{alumni news}

The Seventh Annual Two Rivers Gala, the College’s premier scholarship fundraising event, was held on April 4, 2007 at the Jackson Medical Mall. The event was headlined by the legendary B.B King, himself, a 1973 honorary degree recipient of Tougaloo College.

“It’s nice to be back home,” he exclaimed from the main stage of the gala. “I’m happy, happy, happy to be here.” King was on fire and burned through a set lasting nearly two hours.

Other performers appearing on the Main Stage included the local band, The Bluz Boys and local R&B sensation, Akami Graham. Eddie Cotton and the Mississippi Cotton Club warmed the stage up for Dr. King, playing just prior to his arrival. Cotton’s performance was especially special since news spread through the crowd that his father had passed away only the morning prior to his gala performance. “I’m doing this one for my father,” he proclaimed. The Jazz Comedy stage was emceed by comedian Drew Fraser and featured another comedian, Benji Brown, as well as jazz artists The Jeanette Harris Band and Tougaloo’s own Jessie Primer III. This was Harris’ first appearance at the gala, but if crowd reaction was any indication, it won’t be her last.

The annual gala is one of the College’s main fundraising events, particularly for scholarships. Even in these difficult economic times, this year’s gala raised an impressive amount of money–a powerful testament to the drawing power of the incomparable B.B. King and to the loyalty and dedication of sponsors and patrons to this popular Jackson event.


{alumni news}

Tougaloo Bids Farewell...On Friday, October 2, 2009, the Tougaloo family said goodbye to two of its most promising eaglets, Kiara Taylor and Shanna Whitt. The two vivacious freshmen cheerleaders from Greenville, MS were returning to campus with their friend, Jamilia Haywood, a sophomore, also from Greenville, when they were involved in a fatal automobile accident, just moments from the College. This was, perhaps, the worst fate that can befall a college campus, and the entire campus was thrown into a state of shock. Shanna, a Presidential Scholar, was majoring in biology, while Kiara was a sociology major. The two young women were inseparable friends, both coming to Tougaloo from Greenville, along with their friend and fellow cheerleader, Jamilia.

A memorial service was organized by the students and held on Friday, October 9, 2009 in Woodworth Chapel. Students also prepared cards and scrapbooks for the families of the two students, which they delivered to the memorial services and funerals that were held in Greenville. (A bus was chartered by alumnus Precious Martin ‘94 to carry Tougaloo students and other members of the Tougaloo College family to the funerals.)During Founders’ Week activities, on Wednesday, October 14, students gathered to celebrate the two lives cut short by planting two Leland cypress trees in the courtyard at Holmes Hall. A brief ceremony was conducted by the Comprehensive Academic Resources (CAR) program, where Dr.

Margarette Butler read Joyce Tilmer’s poem, “Trees,” prior to the planting. The two cypress trees were donated by Allen and Mimi Martinson of GardenWorks (Ridgeland, MS).

As we watch the trees grow and mature, we will always be reminded of these two outstanding young women, who were taken from us far too soon, long before they had matured and had an opportunity to realize their potential. Although they affected many people in their short time with us, we must always wonder just how much we really lost that Friday in October.

Epilogue: Our grief was not over. During the course of the semester, two more young lives were cut short because of health-related issues. Blake “Big Blake” Fuller (above, left) and Ricky Riley (above, right) were also taken from the Tougaloo family. Our thoughts and prayers remain with the families of these four gifted and sorely-missed students.

Above: Kiara Taylor (left) and Shanna Whitt and Top right: Blake Fuller; Bottom right: Ricky Riley

UPCOMING EVENTS / ACADEMIC CALENDAR

May 7 Fri Residence Halls Close (6:00 p.m.) 9 Sunday Commencement 10 Mon Grades Due (Office of the Registrar) 31 Mon Memorial Day (College Closed)

SUMMER SCHOOL (1st Session) – 2010 (No Summer School Classes on Friday)

May 24-25 Mon-Tue Registration 26 Wed Classes Begin Drop/Add Begins 27 Thurs Drop/Add Ends

June 9-10 Wed-Thu English Writing Proficiency Exam (3:00 p.m. – 5:00 p.m.) 28 Mon Last Day of Classes 29 Tue Final Examinations 30 Wed Grades Due

SUMMER SCHOOL (2nd Session) – 2010 (No Summer School Classes on Friday)

June 30-July 1 Wed-Thu Registration

July 5 Mon Independence Day Observance 6 Tue Classes Begin Drop/Add Begins 7 Wed Drop/Add Ends 8-9 Thurs - Fri Early Course Selection for new students: Freshmen, Transfers & Re-admits 11– 16 Sat-Fri 14th Annual Tougaloo Art Colony For information and registration, visit www.tougaloo.edu/artcolony 14-15 Wed-Thu English Writing Proficiency Exam (3:00 p.m. – 5:00 p.m.)

Aug 4 Wed Last Day of Classes Senior Examinations (ONLY) 5 Thurs Final Examinations (All Students) Senior Grades Due 6 Fri All Grades Due 9 Mon Commencement (Summer 2010 @ 6:00 P.M., Woodworth Chapel)

Office of Institutional Advancement500 West County Line Road

Tougaloo, MS 39174

Non-ProfitOrganizationU.S. Postage

PAIDPermit No. 5

Tougaloo, MS

tougaloo college news: winter/spring 2010

Documents

alumni news

alumni milestones

alumni passings

curtis jones

founders week convocationphoto

64secretary1founders

art colony

tophas anderson