Saint and sprinter
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PRIDE Magazine • University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff
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chosen to tell a great story
Harriet Tubman was a deeply spiritual woman who lived her ideals and dedicated her life to freedom. Cherie A. Butler was recently appointed as Superintendent of the Harriet Tubman Underground Railroad National Monument in Cambridge, Maryland, and gets to tell her amazing story.
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PRIDE Magazine • University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff
Table of Contents | FALL 2013 30
OUTSIDE THE BOX
SAINT AND SPRINTER
36 Story by Tisha D. Arnold. Photos by Brian T. Williams.
4 Letter from the Editor 5 Chancellor’s Letter 6 News & Events
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THEN & NOW
16
RECAP
IMPACTING THEIR INDUSTRY
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42 Annual Report 48 The Bookshelf 49 In Memoriam
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CLASS NOTES
Fall 2013
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Letter from the Editor
Volume 1 No. 3 Chancellor Dr. Laurence B. Alexander Program Director for Public Information/Editor-in-Chief
Tisha D. Arnold
sOMETHING TO CHAMPION It takes courage to do something different. There are so many examples of comfort in routine and familiarity – getting up at the same time each morning, picking up/ dropping off kids, going to work. It’s so easy to settle into the mundane concerns of the day-to-day life and almost function on automatic. It’s when we begin to assess ourselves and the environment around us that we begin to get uncomfortable and realize that our impact can be greater. Most people are familiar with the word champion as a noun meaning the top placement in a competition. Merriam-Webster also shows the word in verb form that means: a militant advocate or defender; one that does battle for another’s rights or honor. This embodies the statement, “if you don’t stand for something, you’ll fall for anything.” It goes without saying that advocacy takes passion and resolve. You have to believe in that cause enough to associate your name and success with it. This should be the case when it comes to the University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff. What aspect of the institution would you champion or advocate? Maybe it’s the internationally renowned Vesper Choir, or the critically acclaimed Marching Musical Machine of the Mid-south or the Science, 4
Technology, Engineering and Math (STEM) Academy. Perhaps it’s the well-recognized Aquaculture/Fisheries Center of Excellence, award-winning theatre department or the many internship and job opportunities that are cultivated in the Office of Career Services. Maybe you like the fact that UAPB has partnered with several institutions, foreign and domestic, to ensure that our students are ready to compete in a global society. Whatever your area of interest at this institution, defend its honor by finding opportunities to develop and champion your passion for UAPB. The stories in this issue will talk about those that are creating their own paths and making an impact in their respective fields. They champion determination and perseverance and confirm that inspiring graduates come from the University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff. What will you champion?
PRIDE Magazine • University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff
Editor - in - Chief
Copy Editor
Donna Mooney Creative Director
Brian T. Williams Contributing Writers
Tisha D. Arnold Staphea Campbell Bobbie Handcock Donna Mooney Contributing Photographers
Brad Mayhugh Richard Redus Brian T. Williams Correspondence and Address Changes University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff ATTN: Pride Magazine 1200 N. University Drive, Mail Slot 4789 Pine Bluff, AR 71601 870.575.8946 Email pridemag@uapb.edu Website www.uapb.edu/pridemag Pride Magazine is published three times a year by the University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff, a member of the University of Arkansas System. The University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff is committed to a policy of equal opportunity for all in every aspect of its operations. The university has pledged not to discriminate on the basis of race, color, sex, age, religion, national origin, sexual orientation, marital status or disability. This policy extends to all educational, service and employment programs of the university. The University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff is fully accredited by The Higher Learning Commission, 230 South LaSalle Street, Suite 7-500, Chicago, IL 60604. Let Us Know What You Think! We want to know what you think of this issue of Pride. To share your opinions, email us at pridemag@uapb.edu.
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Chancellor's letter
I
have been Chancellor of this great institution for almost 100 days and I can enthusiastically say that I am glad to be a part of the pride. The first few months have been eventful, building and strengthening ties, developing partnerships, meeting alumni and other key stakeholders. As we move forward, we will continue our quest in achieving the gold standard in overall academics- teaching, research, and service along with growth in size and stature of the student population. Growth in enrollment is vital but must be lasting; it cannot be measured by size alone but by the success of the students through graduation and beyond. Through development, UAPB will seek new resources and foster of a spirit and culture of excellence in everything we do. We remain steadfast in our goals to improve customer satisfaction and student success as we seek to increase our recruitment, retention and graduation rates. We look forward
to what the future holds at the University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff and ask that you journey with us. Your positive words of encouragement, endorsements, partnerships, advocacy and financial gifts support our goal of being student focused, success driven, and mission based. The University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff has a great history, filled with outstanding students, staff, faculty, proud alumni, supporters and friends. We must honor and embrace that history with a positive outlook, determination and perseverance. Let’s all work together to raise the university to the next level of the Golden Era of Excellence!
Chancellor
Fall 2013
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News News & Events & Events
Beebe delivers $750k for UAPB STEM Academy By Michael S. Lee | Pine Bluff Commercial
Governor Mike Beebe paid a visit to the University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff campus Monday morning to formally present UAPB Chancellor Laurence B. Alexander with a check for $750,000 that will go toward the completion a of the STEM Academy and Conference Center. “There is a one-time fund for building projects that the state Legislature creates,” Beebe said in remarks given during a formal program held in the L. A. Davis Sr. Student Union Lounge. “They give me a pot of money to give out according to the needs that I see across the state.” Beebe said providing the funds to UAPB is an endorsement of the importance of preparing minority students for careers in the sciences, technology, engineering and mathematics. “The STEM subjects tend to create the greatest number of jobs with the highest salaries in this day and age,” Beebe said. “Your job prospects are enhanced with a STEM degree. I encourage as many students as possible to be a part of this and to not be afraid of 6
PRIDE Magazine • University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff
Photographs by Richard Redus
math and science.” Beebe said the UAPB STEM Academy is incredibly important because blacks and Latinos are underrepresented in STEM careers. Mary Benjamin, UAPB’s vice chancellor for academic affairs, expressed her appreciation for the presence of Beebe and of other dignitaries including Shane Broadway, interim director of the Arkansas Department of Higher Education; Donald Bobbitt, president of the University of Arkansas System; and state Sen. Henry “Hank” Wilkins IV. “Today is a bright and exciting day,” Benjamin said. “Our goal with the construction of the STEM Academy and Conference Center is to ensure a well-prepared and diverse STEM workforce. Today I also want to acknowledge the teamwork between our STEM students; and the teamwork between state and federal agencies in the construction of this new building.” Keith Ross, assistant director of the UAPB Physical Plant, provided a construction update.
Arkansas Governor Mike Beebe makes remarks during the ceremony where he presented a check for $750,000 towards the construction of the STEM Academy and Conference Center. Below, Arkansas Representative and fundraising chairman Henry "Hank" Wilkins, IV makes remarks during the ceremony.
“We are at 35 percent of total completion and are scheduled for substantial completion of the academy by April 2014,” Ross said. “At this point we are ahead of schedule. The conference center is scheduled for substantial completion by late summer of 2014. We have 47 percent participation by minority and local contractors and as of right now we are within budget.” Wilkins spoke in his capacity as STEM building campaign chairperson. “It was a great joy for me to be asked to be a part of this endeavor,” Wilkins said. “The governor did not have to come here and give us this check but he did.”
At right: Governor Beebe, ADHE Interim Director Shane Broadway, Vice Chancellor for Academic Affairs Dr. Mary Benjamin, STEM students and faculty pose for a photo in front of the construction site on L.A. "Prexy" Davis Drive.
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News & events
Six-thousand year-old Indian dart points found near Jacskonville by Michael K. Wilson. They are made of stone raw materials from diverse geographical locations in Arkansas. Comparable points from archeological sites on the Ouachita River have been radiocarbon dated to around 6,000 years ago.
HEaded in the right direction
UAPB archeologist helps update Indian Prehistory exhibit for Jacksonville library By Tisha D. Arnold
Photographs Courtesy of Esther Dewitt Nixon Library
JACKSONVILLE, Ark. – Over the past year, Dr. John H. House, Arkansas Archeological Survey Station archeologist at the University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff, collaborated in updating an exhibit of local prehistoric Indian artifacts that is currently displayed in the Esther Dewitt Nixon Library in Jacksonville. The artifacts were collected over a period of more than 30 years by Michael K. Wilson on his farm on Bayou Meto in the outskirts of Jacksonville. Wishing to share his discoveries, Mr. Wilson had exhibited the artifacts in the library lobby. He contacted Dr. House for help in updating the exhibit in terms of current archeological knowledge. The updated exhibit displays stone projectile points (dart and arrow points) from distinct prehistoric eras ranging from 11,000 to 400 years ago. The exhibit also 8
PRIDE Magazine • University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff
interprets changing prehistoric life and technology, and exchange among prehistoric Indians throughout Arkansas and beyond. Dr. House directs the Arkansas Archeological Survey Research Station at UAPB and also teaches in the Department of Social and Behavioral Sciences. The Esther Dewitt Nixon Library, a unit of the Central Arkansas Library System, is located 703 W. Main Street in Jacksonville. The library is open 9:30 a.m. – 8p.m. Tuesday and Thursday, and 9:30a.m. – 6p.m. Monday, Wednesday, Friday and Saturday. For more information about the exhibit, contact the Esther Dewitt Nixon Library at 501-457-5038 or the Arkansas Archeological Survey, UAPB Station, at 870535-4509 or jhhouse@uark.edu.
(l-r) Joyce Bracy-Vaughan, Draymond Pugh, Dr. Margaret Martin-Hall, Kelly Vaughan-Noble, UAPB Chancellor Dr. Laurence B. Alexander, Mrs. Rose Pridgeon-Vaughan, and Edward Earl Vaughan.
Vaughans give $1,000 by Tisha D. Arnold
T
he family of the late David Vaughan, a former University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff (UAPB) student presented a check to the University for $1,000 to benefit the David Vaughan Performing Arts Scholarship. Vaughan’s unfortunate death on October 2, 2003 halted a promising career in theatre arts. According to David’s mother Rose PridgeonVaughan, he had a love for the Arts. “He always loved to write,” she said. “At the age of eight; he acted in a play called The Crucifixion that started it all.”
Books Were Open, directed by former theatre professor Steve Broadnax. He had plans of moving to New York to write plays and performing on Broadway. David’s mother presented the check to UAPB Chancellor Dr. Laurence B. Alexander and was accompanied by her husband, Edward Earl Vaughan (David’s father), Kelly Vaughan-Noble (David’s sister), Joyce Bracy-Vaughan (David’s aunt), and Draymond Pugh (David’s nephew). Dr. Alexander was also accompanied by Dr. Margaret Martin-Hall, director of University Relations and Development and the Title III Program.
Vaughan went on to participate with Mississippi Boulevard, Port City Players and the John McLinn-Ross Players. A performing arts major and a playwright himself, David had also written a play called And the
Photograph by RICHARD REDUS
Fall 2013
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News & events
keeping up with modern trends to communicate their concerns. Unlike their forefathers, who lived through post-colonialism from the British and were more inclined to develop a Western inspired work, new generation of Malaysian artists produce art that mirrors their own cultural experience. Whether Professor bridges international cultures through art through traditional or new media, By Tisha D. Arnold these artists are conscious of their role in a global society and are helping to redefine their collective KUALA LUMPUR, Malaysia – Husny Dahlan, assistant identity in the 21st century. professor of Art at the University of Arkansas at Pine During the lecture, Dahlan proposed a collaboration Bluff recently returned from spending a month in Kuala between UAPB and UTM. At a workshop later that day, Lumpur, Malaysia. The visit coincided with several art he introduced the idea of creating an art installation to events he had scheduled prior to his departure. about 30 ceramics majors. Dahlan, who teaches ceramics and art history, gave a Based on the zillij pattern the Pine Bluff artist has lecture on “Contemporary Trends in Art: A Postmodern conceived over the past two years, the art project Approach” to approximately 100 art students, faculty would offer students from the ceramics program an and administrators at the Universiti Teknologi MARA opportunity to work with an established artist and have (UTM). The largest state supported university in their contributions displayed at UTM and UAPB. Malaysia, UTM has a substantial student body and was “I want to build a bridge between our two countries the prefect venue to hold a lecture. and institutions. A partnership can be mutually “I am passionate about modern art,” said Dahlan. “I beneficial. There’s so much we can do through art and wanted to have a forum at UTM because their art and education.” remarked Dahlan. design program attracts some of the best and most This hopeful message was echoed in his radio, TV, talented students who are the future artists and leaders and print interviews. Dahlan intends to return next year of this beautiful nation.” to complete the art installation and exhibit the work. His Like many countries across Southeast Asia, programs at UTM were supported by a grant from the Malaysia is fertile ground for new and experimental United States Embassy in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia. art. Young artists are coming up with fresh ideas and
Artistic Exchange
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PRIDE Magazine • University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff
Fall 2013
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Melvin D. Clayton English/Pre-Law Pine Bluff, Arkansas Senior
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PRIDE Magazine • University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff
u o y k n a h T Fall 2013
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THEN & NOW
from one football to another The evolution of Pumphrey Stadium
By Donna Mooney | Photos courtesy of the university museum and cultural center
From the early 1950s to 2000, the University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff Pumphrey Stadium was the mecca for all fans of Golden Lion Football games. For decades alumni, community leaders, friends and supporters of this hometown team filled Pumphrey to capacity, unfeigned by shoulder-to-shoulder crowding, stop-and-go traffic on then Cedar Street, or aroundthe-block and down-the-street parking. Today, Pumphrey Stadium is the home and field of the UAPB Lady Lions Women’s Soccer Team, and this sport has brought renewed worth to a memorable site.
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Pumphrey used to have a seating capacity of 6,000, which was large scale for an HBCU at that time. According to Carl Whimper, UAPB Recruiting Officer and former UAPB Sports Information Officer, a successful stadium campaign in 1989 funded an upgrade to add end-zone stands that boosted the seating to 7,500. Documents from the University Museum and Cultural Center show that Pumphrey Stadium was named after Claude T. Pumphrey, an outstanding UAPB football player from 1936-38, who hailed from Ogden, Arkansas.
Pumphrey was only the second football field for the campus. The first football field was located near the current L.A. “Prexy” Davis, Sr. Student Union building. This first field did not have a name; neither did it have any seating. The new UAPB Golden Lion Stadium opened in 2000 after long-awaited anticipation. With a seating capacity that doubled Pumphrey’s, the Golden Lion Stadium’s state-of-the art design offered everything Pumphrey could not. This new $14 million facility has 12,500 seats (160 indoor seats), offers press and broadcast accommodations, a field house and vehicle parking capacity for 4,000. In 2006, Pumphrey Stadium’s weather worn and fan weary stands were prepared for demolition. Pumphrey had to have a new identity, and UAPB visionaries had the perfect solution for this former hub of all things football at UAPB. It would become a much needed soccer field. After entering the NCAA, the University Athletics Department added soccer to its roster, and UAPB quickly garnered enough interest to have Lady Lion’s Soccer Team. The team needed a soccer field for practice and play. Fortunately, Pumphrey Stadium needed minimum changes to convert from one type of football to another. Transforming this former football field required the University to remove stands and lighting because the dimensions for soccer fields are larger than those for football fields. Also, campus officials bought a new score board, and the rest is Lady Lions Soccer (2010 SWAC Champions) history. Golden Lion Athletics
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Recap
One Voice, One Purpose
National alumni conference promotes unity among graduates
By Tisha D. Arnold 16
Photographs by Brian T. Williams
PRIDE Magazine • University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff
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lumni of Arkansas Agricultural, Mechanical and Normal College (AM&N) and the University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff gathered in the windy city of Chicago for the annual alumni conference. Hosted by the Chicago alumni chapter, the objective of the conference was to strengthen and re-energize the alumni base to support the university.
University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff alumni enjoy each others company during the opening reception
Bobbye Sweat, National Alumni Association executive board member noted that engagement of young alumni is paramount to the sustainability of the institution; “In order for our campus to survive, you need however, support strong alumni,” said Jackie Cason, president of by all graduates the Chicago alumni chapter. “When we leave this would certainly conference, I am hoping that our alumni will be a help. “I hope that lot stronger than they are today.” alumni hear something from the speakers and learn something from the workshops Mr. Cason also touted the that will show them the importance of conference planners and preparation giving back and keeping the doors [of taken to pull the event together. UAPB] open, because that’s what it’s Although the location is 900 about.” miles from UAPB, the number of The opening session included a State participants was greater than that of of the Alumni address by National chapters close to the campus like the Alumni President Calvin Booker who Pulaski county chapter, according to Cason who says that more than 10,000 carefully explained the purpose and theme for this year’s conference, A UAPB graduates live in the greater Rope with many Strings is Strong: Little Rock area.
Together we can Accomplish Much. “If you don’t get anything else out of this conference, understand that [the National Alumni Association] has a voice when it concerns our institution,” said Booker. “What we need are more voices to go with it so we can be heard.” He stated the need for more alumni and implored them to go back to their respective chapters and galvanize what they learn at the conference. To reiterate his theme of how one voice can have an impact, President Booker reminded them of how the unified voice of many alumni were significant to the recent turn of events – the selection of Dr. Calvin Johnson as interim chancellor, appointment of Dr. Stephen Broughton to the University of Arkansas Board of Trustees, selection of Dr. Laurence Alexander as chancellor of the University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff, and support for the construction of the STEM Building from the Arkansas Governor’s office. He also talked about the Miss UAPB Alexis Cole, First Lady Veronica Alexander and Frank Dorsey enjoy the conference; National Alumni Association Executive Director Staphea Campbell, Danny Campbell and Mrs. Janetta Booker participate in an interactive exercise during the Young Alum Mixer.
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Recap
contributions of the association as a whole to the institution as one of the largest donors to UAPB. “[The National Alumni Association] has given over $150,000 to the university in the last two years, making us one of the largest donors to the institution,” said Booker. “That helps give us a voice. I want you to understand what that voice means and how it can impact the process of our university.” While President Booker reviewed the list of accomplishments within the organization that included an increase in life memberships, he emphasized the most significant one being the hiring of an Executive Director, Mrs. Staphea Campbell. The intent of his efforts were summarized at the conclusion of his speech.
communication skills and networking with the purpose of building stronger alumni chapters. The second day began with a breakfast that featured a state of the university address by newly appointed Chancellor Dr. Laurence Alexander where he extended his appreciation of the reception he and his wife Veronica received upon their arrival to Pine Bluff and emphasized his confidence in the institution. “I am pleased to report that the state of the University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff is strong and that the needle is moving in the direction of making it stronger,” said Alexander. “We are on our way to greater status and recognition. We are also seeking greater prominence – not for ourselves – but for the institution. We are moving from good to great.” Another highlight of the “If you build the right organization, if you day included a student panel build the right product, I believe people of graduates that reflected on will want to be a part of it because we have their UAPB experience. That evening, the a voice.” conference was concluded with a banquet where The conference featured workshops Chancellor Alexander was the keynote that included fundraising, membership speaker. After starting his address development, strategic planning, by reading the philosophy of the
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institution, he reflected on how he was notified about the position. He was contacted by President Booker about the search, started looking into the institution and was sold by the history and progress of the institution along with the reception he experienced by people in Arkansas. Alexander outlined the importance of alumni in the success of the institution.
“Alumni are an institution’s most loyal supporters and fundraising prospects. They should have a sense of gratitude and should want their institution to succeed,” said Alexander. “They also generate valuable word-ofmouth marketing among their professional networks. By engaging alumni, an institution can continue to benefit from their skills and experience that they’ve gained.” Chancellor Alexander also challenged alumni to stand up for the institution, say good things about their alma mater and stay connected. “I think the conference was very rewarding,” said Robert Locke, second vice president of the Pulaski County alumni chapter. “I think what we’ve learned is that it’s important to get alumni actively involved as early as the student level. If they can commit themselves at that stage with a pattern of giving, they will know how to give back when they graduate.” Clockwise from top left: Students pose for a picture during the conference; Chancellor Alexander speaks during the Young Alum Mixer; Illinois Congressman Danny K. Davis gives remarks during the banquet.
YES WE CAN
UAPB chancellor invokes Obama in call for enrollment growth By Michael S. Lee | Pine Bluff Commercial Photographs by Brian T. Williams
Students cheer as Chancellor leads the crowd in joining together to advance the university during Fall Convocation Photo: Brian T. Williams
University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff Chancellor Laurence B. Alexander used his inaugural fall convocation address to the student body, faculty and staff Tuesday morning to rally the crowd behind his declared objective of increasing student enrollment to 4,000 within the next two years. Enrollment numbers released Monday give UAPB a total student enrollment for fall 2013 of 2,615 students.
“During the 2008 U. S. presidential campaign candidate Barack Obama said that there has never been anything false about hope,” Alexander said. “So today we adopt the spirit of the 2008 campaign. Yes we can. We will continue to focus on creating a college-educated workforce. We will partner with businesses and grow alliances between the university and the community in order to provide internships and co-op programs for
our students. “Do you believe we can?” an energized Alexander asked the audience. “Yes!” came the enthusiastic reply. “Can we increase our enrollment to 4,000 students within two years?” Alexander asked. “Yes we can!” the audience answered. “Can we increase customer service on campus?” Alexander asked. Fall 2013
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Recap
At left: Chancellor Alexander gives remarks during Fall Convocation Below: Miss UAPB Alexis Cole greets the crowd and states her platform:–– Be True, Be You.
“Yes we can!” the audience responded. Alexander recounted growing up in the lower Ninth Ward of New Orleans as the child of a single mother. “We received public assistance and survived on food stamps,” Alexander said. “We lived in public housing. We got around on public transportation. I am a product of public schools and I am a first-generation college graduate.” Alexander emphasized to the students that despite his humble beginnings he was able to go on to become a journalist, a lawyer, a college professor and a college administrator. “We are a university that is missionbased and success-driven,” Alexander said. “Our student body remains our lifeblood, our reason for existence. UAPB has a long and distinguished history. We believe we can do it because we have hope.” Alexander paid homage to the interim chancellorship of Calvin Johnson and to the multi-decade career in service to the university of former chancellor Lawrence A. Davis Jr. “I now assume my place in the history of the leadership of this institution and it is with great humility that I do so,” Alexander said. Alexander praised the accomplishments of students, faculty and staff. “This is the place to be,” Alexander said. “The place where I am proud to be. The place with the highest and greatest HBCU traditions. I am honored to be here.” 20
Immediately after Alexander’s address the floor was opened to questions from the audience, which were submitted on note cards and read by several students at two microphones on opposite sides of the arena. The first questioned asked was whether new outside lighting was planned for the campus to improve security. “Public safety is in the process of conducting an assessment of campus lighting and security cameras to see what may need to be added to ensure campus safety,” Student Affairs Administrative Coordinator Elbert Bennett said. Another question concerned whether Alexander was confident in the UAPB faculty and staff. “If I didn’t think that the faculty and staff were capable I would not have come here,” Alexander said. “Is there room for improvement? Yes, of course. But I believe that we have an excellent group of faculty and staff members.”
PRIDE Magazine • University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff
Above: Maria Cabane, senior class president delivers the meditation during Fall Convocation. Photo by Richard Redus.
Impacting their industry service
Rickey Peer BIG Meritorious Service Award: Rickey Peer (second from left) accepts his meritorious service award from Blacks in Government. Peer was presented the award during the National Training Conference in Dallas, Texas in late August. He was nominated based on his work with various organizations including the Youth Motivation Task Force at the University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff, the Mu Chi Lambda chapter of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc., Big Brothers Big Sisters of the Mississippi Valley and the Minority College Relations Program. Photo courtesy of Roberre
Army civilian lands two service awards for making a difference By Ms. Rikeshia Davidson (AMC) | Public Affairs Specialist - Joint Munitions Command - Office of Public Affairs
ROCK ISLAND ARSENAL, Ill. -- "A recruiter came to my school, Mr. Bob Henderson, from the Industrial Base section. He was on campus and I interviewed for the job. I started May 1980 with the Cooperative Program. I'm in my 34th year. "And I guess the rest is history. That's how I started my government career. I was a junior so I was able to -- until I graduated -- alternate between school and work. So my very first tour was the summer of 1980." Rickey Peer sits in his fourth floor office at Rock Island Arsenal recounting how he came to the Quad Cities. Today, he's a Project Manager for Ammunition Depot Automation at the Joint Munitions Command, where he oversees the automation of logistics for depot operations. And it all began following that interview at the University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff.
But there's more to the story. Since that summer, Peer has accomplished a great deal both personally and professionally. Peer was recently honored not once but twice. He is a 2013 recipient of the Blacks in Government Meritorious Service Award. The award, a part of the BIG National Prestige Awards program, provides the opportunity to recognize exemplary and outstanding contributions in the furtherance of BIG's goals and objectives. His recognition came not for his daily efforts as a program manager but for the duties he undertakes for students from Historically Black Colleges and Universities, Hispanic Serving Institutions and minority serving institutions. In addition, Peer is also a 2013 recipient of the Fall 2013
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Asia Colen Biology Pine Bluff, Arkansas Junior
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PRIDE Magazine • University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff
staff
u o y k n a Th Fall 2013
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Impacting their industry service Rickey Peer_Official Photo: Rickey Peer is the Project Manager for Ammunition Depot Automation at the Joint Munitions Command where he also serves as a co-chair for the Minority College Relations Program. The MCRP affords students at minority serving institutions a chance to work on collaborative projects with Army agencies. Involved with the program since the 90s, Peer was recognized twice for his work. He is a 2013 recipient of the Blacks in Government Meritorious Service Award and the National IMAGE Meritorious Service Award. Photo courtesy of the U.S. Army
National IMAGE Meritorious Service Award. This award honors an individual civilian and military member who supported the Department of Defense mission or overseas contingency operations, or whose activities best demonstrate the core values of their respective military service or agency. Personally, Peer serves on the Board of Directors for Big Brothers Big Sisters of the Mississippi Valley and is a Big Brother. He is an active member of the Mu Chi Lambda chapter of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Incorporated and maintains ties to the University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff where he is a professional member of the Youth Motivation Task Force program. And amid all of this, Peer serves on the Minority College Relations Team at Rock Island Arsenal. The all volunteer team serves as the oversight committee for the Minority College Relations Program. In this capacity, he does a host of things. 24
"Mr. Peer has personally contributed to the recruitment of 97 student interns throughout the command which has led to the permanent placement of eight interns in the headquarters (Joint Munitions Command) and the prospect of many more. "Participating with 35 Historically Black Colleges and Universities and Minority Institutions, Peer has traveled extensively to these sites, speaking with students, meeting with the respective Deans and promoting the MCRP program," said Toni McNeal, Director, Security Assistance Management Directorate, Joint Munitions Command. As co-chair of the Rock Island Arsenal Minority College Relations Program, the program develops collaborative programs within the Army Sustainment Command and Joint Munitions Command, allowing minority serving institutions (Historically Black Colleges and Universities, Tribal Colleges and Hispanic serving institutions) to participate in the program and enhancing the future readiness of each command through these partnerships. Peer's interest in helping others, particularly college-aged students is no coincidence. While an impromptu interview launched Peer's career, former UAPB Career Placement employee, Glayton Johnson, was equally
PRIDE Magazine • University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff
instrumental. As a matter of fact, he made sure Peer met with Henderson. "He (Johnson) was the individual that said, 'hey, listen I have a recruiter on campus. I need you to come and take the interview,' recalls Peer. "I said, nope, I ain't doing it.” But Johnson said, 'Peer, you gotta take the interview'." Peer continues, "after I told him I didn't have the attire for the interview, he actually took the tie off his neck and said, 'give me a clean shirt, and I'll give you my tie'." "So, he (Glayton Johnson) pushed me to take the interview and then he pushed me to actually come to Rock Island," said Peer. "And he actually lent me the money to get to Rock Island and helped me find housing," he said. For Peer, Johnson's generosity meant a great deal at time when he came to the Midwest from a small town with no connections and never having left the state of Arkansas. "So those folks in my life", said Peer, "gave me a stepping stone, they gave me a push." Peer noted after his interview the rest was history but not quite. Peer was urged to attend college by older siblings but once he got there, something was different. UAPB was special. "Historically Black Colleges and Universities: they mean going beyond the classroom. The draw is they have a job (professors and faculty) and…they are interested in you; in seeing you become a successful productive citizen. They were willing to go that extra step. The dean of the Industrial Technology department and his administrative assistant were like a mother and father away from home. "She (Barbara Grayson) was an administrative assistant then, but now is a doctor (Ph.d). She pushed me and
Rickey Peer receives a one star note from Brig. Gen. Kristin K. French, commander, Joint Munitions Command. Peer has been employed with JMC for more than 30 years; he is the 2013 recipient of both the Blacks in Government Meritorious Service award and the National IMAGE Inc. Meritorious Service award. Photo courtesy of the U.S. Army
pushed herself as well. And that wasn't just for me but (I could name some names)," he said. Among those other names benefiting from the UAPB support system, his wife, Lisa Peer: now a successful director for logistics at Rock Island Arsenal. Years later, Peer hasn't forgotten the impact of his college years. "My experiences programmed me for who I am. I know I would not be where I am had I not had someone give me that extra push -- that guidance. That's who I am," he said. "I'm driven by how/when I was programmed. No one can change that. I'm the same at home as work," said Peer. "My family is supportive of what I do," he says. The married father often asks his wife, Lisa, her thoughts and opinion as he continues to find ways to make a difference. But more importantly, Peer's upbringing has deeply affected his desire to make a difference. "Rickey is by nature a very giving person. A very important philosophy of his is to help others when you have the opportunity. Not to say that he hasn't experienced disappointment while trying to help others, but he looks past these experiences, learns from them and continues to do what he feels very strongly about and that is helping someone to do better no matter what their situation. His children and I are very proud of him for being the person that he is. These awards could not have gone to a more deserving person," said Lisa. In addition to his time and efforts, Peer is willing to offer advice to students and young employees. Oftentimes that advice lingers,
becoming a tool for some, even years later. Lawrence Woods began his career in 2004 as a Student Career Experience Program student--a cooperative program, similar to the one Peer entered years earlier. As a SCEP, a program that worked alongside the MCRP to attract a diverse group of student interns, Woods met Peer. "I've taken Mr. Peer's advice; (he said) 'in whatever position you're in, learn as much as you can learn. Also while you're in that position, don't be too concerned or consumed in that realm. Diversify yourself; make yourself marketable." According to Woods, he's taken that advice and crafted his own plan for success. "In my government career I've changed jobs about every 2-3 years -- I've taken on various opportunities even if it involved deploying or relocating to make myself more marketable," said Woods. A Mississippi native and Alcorn State University graduate, Woods is now a team leader for the M1A2 Turret & Fire Control Armored Maneuver Group at Detroit Arsenal. Starting as a GS4, Woods credits the MCRP with opening doors. "The Minority College Relations Program basically offered me an opportunity that I wasn't aware of (or wouldn't have been aware of) outside of the Army. I think the MCRP is an awesome program. Since I've been in the program, it's been nothing but a great experience. It was a stepping stone for me to get to where I am today. Anyone offered the opportunity to put in for the position should put their best foot forward to get it," said Woods.
Woods took Peer's advice, modified and continues to pursue a successful government career. Today, Peer offers this advice, something that goes beyond wanting to give back and diversify. His advice is basic at its core. "Over my 34 years, coming at the lowest point of entry, I've come to learn the most important resource is people. If people know you care, they'll give 110120 percent productivity because they know you care." And with that, Peer makes no use of the standard elevator speech. His speech is the life he lives. With Southern roots, the backing of the HBCU experience and a passion for helping others, Peer's three decade career can simply be described as one where he realized people are the richest resource. So he gave back -- no more, no less. *** Peer has previously been named "Arkansas Traveler" by former Governor Mike Beebe (2008), a NAACP Roy Wilkins Renown Award nominee (2009) and two-time recipient of the Commander's Award for Civilian Service (2004). Blacks in Government was organized in 1975 and incorporated as a nonprofit organization under the District of Columbia jurisdiction in 1976. BIG has been a national response to the need for African Americans in public service to organize around issues of mutual concern and use their collective strength to confront workplace and community issues. BIG awarded Peer at the August National Training Conference held in Dallas, Texas. National IMAGE Inc, a National Hispanic Organization, is a 501(3) (c) nonprofit, advocacy organization established in 1971. Its mission is to empower Hispanics through leadership development by advocating for Employment, Education and Civil Rights. This year's IMAGE awards were presented in September in Baltimore, Md. Fall 2013
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impacting their industry communications
“Danger and Drudgery in the Marshes” The Stewart family owned large tracts of timber in the area. Joseph Stewart and other nearby landowners designed a canal to float cut logs and agricultural products to the wharves and shipyards in Madison Bay. Enslaved and free people dug by hand this seven mile canal through the marsh between 1810 and the 1830s. It was a grueling and sometimes deadly endeavor. Harriet Tubman learned important outdoor skills when she worked with her father in the nearby timbering operations. These skills would prove vital later in her life, when she would confidently guide passengers along the Underground Railroad. Through her work on the docks and in the forests, Harriet learned the secret networks of communication that were the provenance of African-American men, particularly those employed as mariners, carrying timber and other goods to cities and towns around the Chesapeake Bay and into Delaware, Pennsylvania and New England. Beyond the watchful eye of white masters, they spoke of freedom in the North, the safe places along the way and the dangers in between. Feeding her own growing resentment of slavery’s injustices, the free world beyond the shores of Dorchester County emboldened Harriet.
Chosen To Tell A Great Story Harriet Tubman was a deeply spiritual woman who lived her ideals and dedicated her life to freedom. She is the Underground Railroad’s best known conductor and in the decades before the Civil War, repeatedly risked her life to guide nearly 70 enslaved people to new lives of freedom in the North. Tubman would recognize the landscapes protected in this new national monument on Maryland’s Eastern Shore. Cherie A. Butler was recently appointed as Superintendent of the Harriet Tubman Underground Railroad National Monument in Cambridge, Maryland, and gets to tell her amazing story.
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how her story began
Cherie graduated from Pine Bluff High School with an initial interest was in the music business. While planning for her future in high school, she realized that focusing on a degree in communications would lead her to the multiple career paths she aspired to. While a student at UAPB, she worked at local radio stations in the area (KCAT, KPBA), but wanted to work more on the video production side or work in movies with the purpose of informing others. She wasn’t exactly sure at the time of the area she wanted to go in, but she knew it had to be in communications. “[For me] it really was all about meeting people and reaching out to the public in one way or another. It was all about making connections with people.”
Harriet Tubman, full-length portrait, standing with hands on back of a chair. At left, Cherie is photographed on the monument grounds
She had fond memories of King David Godwin, former instructor of theatre at UAPB and his influential personality. “Every class, we always walked knowing something new – whether it was life or the lesson at hand – the way he presented it was always enjoyable and would make you want to go to class.” According to Cherie, it was her experience at UAPB that brought to where she is today. During her junior year, the National Park Service was on campus conducting interviews for an internship available at the Statue of Liberty. She was interested in the position as a way to get into the entertainment industry. Through her connection with the Office of Career Services, Cherie worked for two summers at the Statue of Liberty. She credited relationships with former career services employees Wanda Goree and Glayton Johnson for presenting her with the opportunity. “My placement with the National Park Service happened by accident. The job didn’t exactly jump off the page because I wanted to go into the entertainment business. [Glayton Johnson and Wanda Goree] were able
job duties as Superintendent include to impress upon me the value in the oversight of 25,000 acres of land skills I would learn there.” that in some is connected to Harriet In the end, Cherie says they were Tubman’s life, the hiring of staff for right – she honed her skills in public speaking and critical thinking to name the management of programming and resource management. She also a few. “Initially, I agreed to go on the co-op manages the National Underground Railroad to Freedom that works with to get to New York. It all worked out communities across the nation that in the end and I am grateful to UAPB, has a story to tell. The network is Mr. Johnson and Ms. Goree. I couldn’t see it at the time and I appreciate that.” comprised of large and small museums along with other small groups that trekking her purpose Determined to work towards her goal of breaking gives the story a national platform. into the entertainment business, she “The monument covers an area went back to New York to work at the of history that’s not been talked Statue of Liberty after spending two about enough,” says Cherie. “What is summers there but only stayed for happening is that those untold stories six months until she left to work at a are being included. Anybody can find national park in Philadelphia near the their story in one of the 101 national Independence Bell and Liberty Hall parks throughout the country.” According to Cherie, when you before working at the monument. think about Harriet Tubman, she was “Working here is like bringing less than five feet tall and was able history to life. The National Park Service is like one big living classroom to accomplish so much although she could not read. – it’s teaching America’s public about its history.” "If you think about her According to Cherie, working accomplishments, they are at the Harriet Tubman National remarkable. I’m just excited to be Monument allows her an leading the site because I get to opportunity to raise awareness about Harriet Tubman and the share her legacy. Everybody can Underground Railroad. Her connect to part of her story.” Fall 2013
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impacting their industry AGRICULTURE
HOMEGROWN SUCCESS
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lumna Paularie Knox is making her mark at the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s National Institute of Food and Agriculture in Washington D.C. “As a policy specialist, I establish federal assistance policies for the programs of NIFA by planning, developing, and recommending policies and procedures for formula funds, grants, cooperative agreements and special projects,” Knox says. NIFA works with scientists at universities and colleges throughout 28
PRIDE Magazine • University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff
the United States and around the world to find innovative solutions to issues related to agriculture, food, the environment and communities. Through collaboration with other federal science agencies, NIFA also serves as an important contributor to federal science policy decision-making. In her previous position as a food safety/food science program specialist, Knox received a USDA/NIFA Leadership award for her management of the fiscal year 2011 Agriculture and Food Research Initiative Competitive Grant Programs’ Continuation Award Process and RFA Development Team. That’s not surprising given her penchant for leadership cultivated in college. Knox graduated from the UAPB School of Agriculture, Fisheries and Human Sciences cum laude in 2003
Paularie enjoys family and friends and is a loving wife to husband Antonio, who is also a UAPB alumnus and mother to 3-year-old son, Xavier.
with a bachelor’s degree in regulatory science – agriculture concentration. While at UAPB, she received the Chancellor’s Student Leader of the Year Award 2002-2003. She continued her studies and received a master’s degree in agricultural and Extension education from the University of Arkansas in 2005. The Michigan native, who spent her teen years in Arkansas, says her time at UAPB helped lay the groundwork for her career. “My enrollment at UAPB was the best academic experience of my life,” Knox says. “Through my academic experience within the Department of Agriculture in SAFHS and active involvement with many organizations on/offcampus, I was able to excel in the areas of my leadership skills and network arena.” While at UAPB, she says mentors, including Dr. Linda Okiror, Dr. Jacquelyn McCray, Dr. O.A. Porter, Dr. Shadrach Okiror, Shirley Jacobs, Ralph Owens, Florence Craine and Shawn Union, helped guide her. “If it were not for Dr. Linda Okiror’s recruitment efforts, I may not have attended UAPB, nor selected a major within SAFHS,” she admits. “I was recruited into the UAPB/SAFHS BRIDGE Program during the summer of 1999.” Funded by the USDA between 1998 and 2008, the summer BRIDGE program was designed to recruit students to SAFHS degree programs and ultimately to fill positions within the USDA and the food and fiber industry. Before the summer program, Knox says she had very minimal exposure to agricultural related fields/sciences. “That program opened my eyes and brain to a spectrum of science that I now strongly support and educate others about in professional and personal arenas,” she says. “I knew Paularie while she was still in high school,” says Dr. Linda Okiror, assistant dean of the School of Agriculture, Fisheries and Human Sciences. “I believed even then that she had the potential for a career with USDA. She
impressed me as a young woman committed academically and actively engaged in a rich college experience. I couldn’t be more proud of her success.” While at UAPB, Knox was active in many organizations including the Agriculture Club, SAFHS Navigators, and Minorities in Agriculture, Natural Resources and Related Sciences (MANRRS). She served as a National Graduate Officer within MANRRS. She was also selected by MANRRS as a judge for ‘Graduate Student Oral Research Division II – Education, Social Sciences & Business’ in 2012 and served as a USDA/ NIFA representative at the 150th Association of Public and Land-grant Universities Convocation. Knox says her parents, Larry and Paula Crane, are proud alumni of UAPB. She will always remember the advice that her father shared with her and her sister: “If you study and work hard, you will make A’s.” “That still holds true today in other aspects of my life professionally and personally,” she says. “If you work hard and put forth your best effort, you will obtain what you seek, no matter what it is.” She advises UAPB students to be “an active participant in social, academic and professional organizations – on or off campus. Don’t just be a body, be a voice and leader.” Giving back is also important, Knox says, encouraging students to volunteer, mentor and tutor in and around the university. Internships (whether paid or unpaid) will help students choose a career path. “Last but not least, one of my favorite quotes since I was 10 years old: ‘The future belongs to those who prepare for it today’ - Malcolm X,” she says. Fall 2013
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spotlight
Out side the Box ariston jacks
H
ow Ariston Jacks the Graphic Arts Design Lab on produces his campus. “I bugged Mr. Clifton creations may be I know,” Jacks said. “I stayed in futuristic, but how the classroom all day learning he lives is simplistic, embracing how to work freehand. I would life, music and art. Jacks says stay after hours with Mr. Clifton by donna mooney | photos by brian t. williams that he‘s more comfortable doing giving me advice and pointers.” artwork than he is doing most Jacks added that this was a good other tasks. For example, he’s a learning experience for him and cyclist, photographer and a former college instructor. In person seeing the logo now makes him proud. Jacks gave the University and by telephone, he exudes a calm persona of one who is wiser its logo and the University instilled in him a desire to travel. than his years and who has an unquenchable quest for life. Not If he could, Jacks said he would live in Africa six months just everyday life, but the life you don’t see behind the scenes. of the year. He began traveling to Africa a several years ago The kind of life that makes a man give away all of his furniture, while working as a documentary photographer for a non-profit including his television, and start all over again, devoting his agency. This past summer he was in Senegal, Africa. “I love life to the love of art, family and his fellow man. That is Ariston Africa’s history, artwork and jewelry,” Jacks said. “During that Jacks outside the box. last trip I was drawn toward the sculptures and jewelry designs. In 1998, Jacks became the student of the hour and campus I’m grateful for the opportunity to travel, and I believe it has hero when he provided the new logo for the University of been one of many major accomplishments in my life.” Arkansas at Pine Bluff. The announcement to find a new logo The first trip to Africa changed Jacks’ perspective on life, came when UAPB received the halting news that its former logo he said. “It caused me to view success differently. I met artists was similar to Auburn University’s, and UAPB had to create a who were able to pick up and travel where they needed to go new one - fast. Jacks, a UAPB art major, seized the opportunity to pursue their passion. Some people view success as a six and within a short amount of time, created the fierce, red-eyed bedroom house with four bathrooms. I view success as the UAPB golden lion logo seen today on almost everything UAPB ability to take care of my financial responsibilities and still be including t-shirts and license plates. Jacks graduated from able to do what I enjoy doing.” UAPB with honors in 2002, and went on to receive a master’s In 2006, following that Africa tour, he sold all of his furniture, degree in art from the University of Arkansas at Little Rock. moved out of an ample apartment and gave up his separate From 2008 to 2010, he taught in the UAPB Art Department. art studio. Since then, he has divided his current 650 sq. ft. “I remember listening to a Saturday morning radio talk loft apartment into his home/studio. Eventually, he said he show when of the UAPB athletic officials made the request,” would like to have 1,200 to 1,500 square ft. apartment with 40 Jacks said. “That (following) Monday morning, I went to talk ft. ceilings for his art work. Now, every summer he leaves the to Tom Clifton - UAPB graphics design teacher, Henri Linton country. For the past seven years, he has traveled to Eastern – UAPB Art Department director and Coach Lee Hardman. I Europe and Africa, for at least two to three weeks at a time. His believed I could do it.” At the time, Jacks was a first-time college frequent national travels include New York, Boston, St. Louis, student fresh out of the U.S. Navy and in need of a job. “I had Dallas and Houston. been doing odd jobs around town by selling my hand-drawn His 12-year-old daughter, Erin Maxine, is why he is illustrations for t-shirt designs. I was doing pretty good until committed to remain stateside a little longer. “I realized at one clip art came out.” point that I could not downsize completely because I needed a Jacks said he sketched a few logo designs and worked on it in place for my daughter to call home when she visits me,” Jacks
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spotlight
said. “She is who I get all of my best ideas from, and she is more creative than I am already. She’s been painting since she was four-years-old.” “My desire for travel began at UAPB as an art major. My appreciation for African American art history stemmed from the college classroom. I remember reading a lot of American art history but not much about African American artists, so I went to the library and read everything I could get my hands on about African American artists. Then after reading about it, I really wanted to see it first-hand.” His passion for more of life has poured beyond the four walls and spilled over into his paintings, demonstrating his thoughts and feelings about the present and the future. Music drives his artwork. James Brown and the J.B.’s, Fela Kuti, and Madlib are all instrumentalist that influence his work, but he mainly listens to what he calls Afro jazz. “The music and mood dictate the visual images I produce,” Jacks said. “I don’t miss television at all. I started listening to different genres of music before my daughter was born. I didn’t want her listening to hard core rap that degraded women, so I changed my music.” Jacks added that jazz artists Bobby Humphrey and Dorthy Ashby really drive his creativity when he’s 32
PRIDE Magazine • University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff
The morning of Novel T's Tour de Bluff, Ariston preps to enjoy one of his favorite past times, cycling.
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edge, without boundaries, yet he says he feels he has not reached his fullest potential. As for his accomplishments, Jacks says every artist wants to be accepted and collected by institutions as well as private collectors. To date, his work can be found in public places statewide such as the Arkansas Arts Center in Little Rock, the Arts and Science Center for Southeast Arkansas in Pine Bluff, murals at UAPB and in downtown Pine Bluff, and the Mosaic Templars Museum in Little Rock. He is currently working on three projects. One project is a large scale serigraph. A Clockwise from top : A sketch done by Jacks from his notebook, Your Ancient Future is Now C.O.T.T.O.N. Jacks shows a catalogue of his work from his trip to Africa Jacks is photographed with his daughter Erin Photos courtesy of Ariston Jacks
working on visual diaries. Currently, the multi-talented Jacks is the Art Coordinator for Creative Expressions for the State in Little Rock Arkansas. Through his guidance, this program uses visual art to empower individuals with mental illness. This program serves an entire psychiatric facility that promotes and supports self-awareness, growth, individuality and recovery through the creation of visual art. “As Art Coordinator, I facilitate creative exchange by demonstration through the creation of art providing a stimulating studio setting that becomes a resource for creative development with clients I am proud to serve,” Jacks said. His paintings may be described as futuristic, cutting 34
PRIDE Magazine • University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff
serigraph is a silk screened image where the original oil painting is scanned and separated digitally into each color found in the original. A separate silk screen is created for each color that was scanned. He has another project near completion for the Arkansas Black Hall of Fame Exhibit. His third project includes work on several drawings and paintings. “I like working on more than one project at a time, so that when one becomes laborious, then I can take a break and do something different.” Self-described as a quiet home-body, Jacks says he enjoys spending time with his daughter and people. His dreams include opening 2,500 sq. ft. art studio for the underserved community that would be part museum and part studio. “If people have the talent and ability they should be given the best resources available and not have mediocre resources. Why give a talented kid a 100 sq. ft. space when he has a vision of producing a 20 ft. by 60 ft. painting?” Finally, Jacks is a budding African American art history expert. “Some of the greatest African American artists came through the hallways of the UAPB Art Department,” he said. “Hale Woodruff founded art departments across America at black universities. He was a friend to John Howard. Jeff Donaldson, a Pine Bluff native, was another powerhouse artist who graduated from AM&N College. He founded the entire Black Arts Movement in the late 1960s. I would love to see a bachelor’s of arts degree program at UAPB.” The University has a powerful African American lineage in the Art Department with a legacy that is hard to beat, Jacks said.
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COVER Story
Saint and sprinter by tisha d. arnold
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| photos by brian t. williams
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COVER Story
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PRIDE Magazine • University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff
U
pon hearing of Terron Armstead being drafted by the New Orleans Saints, it was a proud moment for the University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff. He was the 68th member of the Golden Lions football team to be drafted or signed as a free agent in the National Football League. On the day of the draft, Terron says it was a different experience. On football day, you have more control and have a good idea of what’s going to happen. On draft day, you have to sit and wait. “I was at the house with family watching it and had to be patient. The selections went on until finally I got the call. The general manager, owner and head coach told me that they were going to take me in the next round. I was just in awe.” He was sitting in his mother’s room talking with his father when the call came. Once he got the good news, his father went into the other room, told the rest of the family and everybody began to cheer. As a senior in Cahokia High School, Armstead, who along with being a standout football player, was a state champion shot putter. Having run offensive and defensive lines, he was a late qualifier in the NCAA clearinghouse and ended up at UAPB. The industrial technology major also ran track while at UAPB and was ranked 14th in the nation for shotput. If football had not worked out, Terron says he would have pursued track. Fall 2013
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cover story
Cahokia High School Head Football Coach Antwyne Golliday, a 1984 UAPB alumnus, watched him grow as a player and was impressed by his skills and support system. “He had a good upbringing. He’s one of the few kids I coached that had a mom and dad.” According to Coach Golliday, Terron came in as a short guy with tons of potential. From freshman to sophomore year, he went from 5’8” to 6’2” and was known as a model student when he attended there. Golliday was also assistant track coach and pursued him for a few years to get him involved in that arena. He succeeded Terron’s junior year when he qualified for state on his first try throwing 48 feet. He was throwing 61’ by the time he graduated. Referring to him as a gentle giant, most big schools wanted him in to either play football or throw the shotput, but Terron wanted to do both. UAPB afforded him that opportunity. UAPB Head Football Coach Monte Coleman was very complimentary of his experience coaching Terron. He felt very fortunate to have him on the team considering the credentials 40
he had. Any big school could have recruited him, but it was the relationship between Assistant Coach Craig Raye and Antwyne Golliday at Cahokia High School that brought him to UAPB. Coach Coleman knew from his freshman year that he was going to be a standout. “It wasn’t hard to know that he would go far. I knew that eventually I would see him playing on Sunday. He’s a special young man and is the pride of UAPB.” Possessing tremendous strength and speed, Armstead used his athletic ability to compete in both football and track and field at UAPB. He appeared in 37 career games, while starting his final 32 contests protecting the quarterback’s blindside from the left tackle position. The Cahokia, Illinois native totaled 314 knockdowns, while also working to become an eight-time champion for the men’s track-&-field team. With solid footwork and a light first step, he stood out at the Senior Bowl and impressed scouts across the National Football League by running the fastest 40-yard dash time (4.71) by an offensive lineman in the history of the NFL Scouting Combine. When recalling that historic
PRIDE Magazine • University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff
moment, he did not hesitate to talk his about God-given ability for speed in spite of his 6’5”, 304 pound frame. Stating that he is not the type to get nervous, Terron practiced for weeks in Florida before competing. He did admit, however, that he got a little nervous when he got up to the line and looked over in the stands at NFL coaches waiting to see what he was made of. “I tried to shake it off, dropped down, got into my stance and shot out as hard as I could. Honestly, I knew two years ago that I was going to break the record. I wanted to make the highest possible time I could.” Although Arkansas was a bit of a culture shock, he found his stride and began to establish himself at UAPB that led to one of the highlights of his collegiate career – winning the 2012 SWAC championship. “I was in disbelief – even now – I sit and talk with some of the guys I played with at UAPB and have a hard time believing we won a championship.” It’s obvious that he has a lot of willpower – he often says he has a bit of animal in him. His personal mantra states that you shouldn’t have to settle for anything. It was a phrase of motivation during his training and helped him get to where he is now. He has a strong support system from his former teammates and coaches, and just as important, family. He recently became a father to twin girls Tatiana and Kennedy and couldn’t be more proud. With a world of possibilities ahead, Terron is confident that he has what it takes to seize the day.
“Opportunities come and go, but it’s important that they come. It’s up to you to make the most out of each and every one of them.”
“I entered UAPB raw and unformed. UAPB took me up in its cocoon and transformed me to a thriving butterfly, ready for life. The opportunities that were afforded to me at UAPB were beyond my wildest dreams. I will never forget, and I will always give back to my alma mater!�
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ANNUAL FUND DRIVE REPORT July 1, 2012 - June 30, 2013
The following is a list of club members for the levels of financial contributions to the Annual Giving Campaign (gifts received between July 1, 2012 and June 30, 2013). This list was compiled over a period of several months and there may be some inaccuracies. We apologize to any donor whose name may be shown incorrectly or has been inadvertently omitted.
Major Gift Donors $ 50,000 and up
M.K. Distributors, Inc. TYJ LLC
Miles C. Hogan Irrevocable Trust Parks, Carlon Pine Bluff National Bank/Relyance Pine Hill Baptist Church The Links Foundation, Inc. Walgreens Wal-Mart Foundation Watkins, Robert Zeigler, Charles & Gwendolyn
$10,000 - $ 24,999
LEADERSHIP CLUB
Coca Cola Company McNeal Scholarship Workers Simmons First National Bank UAPB/AM&N National Alumni Association
$25,000 - $ 49,999
Alumni Chapter – Houston Alumni Chapter - Memphis Christus Health Royal Knight Society (Pine Bluff, AR) Stuckey, III, Perry & Vivian
CHANCELLOR CLUB
$7,500 - $9,999 Alumni Chapter - Chicago Alumni Chapter - Southern California Bank of America EATON Corporation Hartfield, Dr. Freddie & Verna Ibrahim, Mark Thorns, Jr., Dr. Odail
PRESTIGE CLUB
$6,000 - $7,499 Alumni Chapter - Detroit Arkansas Association of Correctional Employees Trust Charles Mott Stewart Foundation Fiddmont, Dr. Dorothy Magett Gardner, Kenneth H. Horton, Kay M.
DEANS CLUB
$4,000 - $5,999 AT&T Brown Missionary Baptist Church Brown, Dr. Darwin L. Cooper, Larry B. Dunn's Fish Farms, Inc. Eliza Barnett Scholarship Foundation Finney, Dr. Gladys Turner Flowers, Dr. Martha A. Greer, Larry & Carolyn Linton, Sr., Henri & Dr. Hazel Love, Betty Mason, Jr., Jesse & Gail Reede Jones, MD McGee, Dr. Ivy
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$2,000 - $3,999 Allen, Gwendolyn Alumni Chapter - Milwaukee Alumni Chapter - Southeast Arkansas Alumni Chapter - Washington DC Alumni Chapter - Pulaski Co. Barraque Street Baptist Church Benjamin, Dr. Mary Bolton, Hannibal & Verlee Bracy, Carl & Katherine Bradley, Chris Branch, Dr. Lonzell & Letha Carroll, Fredda D. Dees, Drs. Earnest & Constance Destiny Educational Consulting, LLC Duffy Scholarship Fund Everett, Willie & Diana Faucette, Dr. Lois Felton, Theodore A. Fuller, Dr. Harold & Annie Blood Greenhouse, Bernard Hurt, Burnell & Sarah Jamerson, LTC Solomon J. Jeffers, Jr., Mylas & Mary Jefferson Regional Medical Center Johnson, Amos & Shirley Krewe of Harambee Kuykendall, Jr., John A. May, Dr. Kenneth & Patricia Monsanto Company Mount Zion Missionary Baptist Church National Association of University Women New Hope AME Church Old Saint Paul Church Page, Helen H. Paylor, Rogerick Richardson, George W. Rock of Ages Baptist Church Rollin' Lions RV Club Seals, Odell & Jacquelyn St. Paul Baptist Church (Pine Bluff, AR)
PRIDE Magazine • University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff
Stahler, James Staples, Sam & Zelma The Links, Inc. - Central Area Weathersby, Davis & Florence Williams, Don H. Zion Hill Baptist Church
HONORS CLUB
$1,300 - $1,999 Alumni Chapter - Northern California Arkansas Blue Cross & Blue Shield Bell, Drs. James & Josephine Branton, Sterling W. Brown, Dr. L. Don & Inez Brown, Edith J. Corrothers, Jerry & Billie Dixon, Lenora Flowers, Sr., Dr. John & Mary Gerber Foundation Hall, Art & Dr. Margaret Harris, Eddie Lamar & Reid-Harris, Dr. Michele Henry, Dr. Mildred D. Herts, Dr. George Hildreth, Willie & Sharon Hodge, Bobbie E. Hynes, Gerald Johnson, Dr. Calvin & Verbie Lewis, Grover Pettigrew, Rosalind Pine Bluff Sand & Gravel Ponds, Ronald & Gwen Ross, Dr. Vonnie Tate, John & Kwurly Thomas, Levi & Pauline Wallace, Doris Wiley Ministries, LLC Williams, Sr., Dr. Larry D.
ACHIEVEMENT CLUB
$700 - $1,299 Alexander, Margaret Alumni Chapter - Las Vegas American Honda Motor Co., Inc. Anderson, Verna J. Antioch Baptist Church Armstrong, Oscar & Audrey Ayres, Diane B. B.R.A.V.E. Baskins, Sr., Thomas H. Bates, Dr. Michael J. Baxter, Bunia S. Biley, Annie J. Blakely, Dr. Carolyn Blevins, Harold & Sylvia Bosley, James M. Branch, Dr. Samuel & Johnnie Bridges, Markell Brown, Perry & Addie
Burton, Mingo & Gloria Campbell, Joyce Chi Theta Omega Chapter – Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc. Chipchase, Karen A. CHS Foundation Chunn, Barbara Coleman, Dr. Viralene J. Collins, Gretchen Cosmopolitan Choir Cotledge, Quranner & Beverly Crayton, Josephine Crumblin, LTC Leon & Lillie Curry, Jr., Virgil Davis, Jimmy N. Doster, Martha El Bethel Missionary Baptist Church Ellison, Dr. Viola Entergy Corporation Grayson, Dr. Barbara A. Greater Second Baptist Church Hall, Chaundra Hardy, Jr., Lonza Harris, Deanna Harris, Fred & Archie Hunter, Jerry Johnson & Johnson Company Johnson, Elizabeth Johnson, Jeotha Johnson, Judge Charles & Lazelle Jones, Sylvia D. Jones-Wilson, Dr. Faustine Kelley, Dr. Manuel R. Kelley, John & Clementine Kilbert, Nate King, Roderick L. Lake, Henry Lawrence, Hazel Lee, Dr. Irene K. Liberty Temple Baptist Church Linton, Shakuntala M. Littlejohn, Virignia Lofton, LTC Artis & Clara Martin, Carla M. Massey, Rev. Leon & Deloris Matlock, Lester & Joy Maurice R. Horton Memorial Scholarship McBeth, James & Andrea McCall, Lucille McCullough, Sheryce E. McDonald, Johnnie B. McDonald's Restaurant McKinney, Elliott & Bettie McKinney, Paul & Hazel Me Me's Playhouse, Inc. Mike Ross for Congress Committee Morris, Dr. Bishawn
Neal-Hyman, Dr. Edith G. New Hope Baptist Church New Jerusalem Baptist Church (Pine Bluff, AR) Paige, Willie Parrish, Roland G. Pi Boule Sigma Pi Phi Fraternity Pine Bluff/Jefferson County Powell, Lucious & Edith Registry of Physician Specialists Roberts, John H. Royal Knight Society (Pulaski Co., AR) Simmons, Dr. Michael & Catherine Smith, Dr. Robert J. Smith, Joe & Mary Social and Art Club St. Stephens Baptist Church Stewart, Dr. Debra R. Stovall, Charles & Joyce Stuckey, Everett Talbert, Chere Tatum, Daisy Tatum, Kenny & Patricia Thearts Production, Inc. Thomas Groceries & Gift Store Thompson, Rev. Chester & Bobbie Todd, Keita S. Tolerson, Robert & Dorothy Trammell, Jr., Clincy & Theodora Walker Healthcare For Women Wells-Kilbert, Tanya Wilder, Bill Williams, Claudia D. Williams, Cora H. Williams, Shirley M. Wisdom, Karmell Woolfolk, Lee A. Wright, John & Lafrances Young, Johnnie L. Zavala, Humberto Zeigler, Rosalyn Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Inc.
CHALLENGE CLUB
$400 - $699 Alexander, Verdia Alpine, Inc. Anderson, Clyde Anderson, Elo Ballard, Charles Barnes, Ceola D. Bennett, Russell T. Brentley, Dr. Mary Brown, Timothy E. Buckner, Drs. Edmund & Anissa Campbell, Geoffrey & Linda Cascade United Methodist Church Casteel, Marty & Mary Clay, Kenneth R. Collins, Jr., Lee E. Conley, Rita D. Damascus Baptist Church Davis, Audrey & Flossie Davis, Gladys N. Davis, James R. Davis, Ora L. Dendy, Patricia A. Edwards, Jean & Artemeze Edwards, Jimmie Epistles of God Church
Flentroy, Alberta Fontenette, Edward Ford, Earnest Freeman, Edmond & June Freeman, III, William Fullerton, Tommie Geter, Shelia Gibson, Grover Gilmore, Dr. John & Curley Glover, Don E. Golden State Foods Goodman, Margaret Gordon, Lola D. Handley, Mattie R. Harrison, Dr. Bertha Neal Harris-Waddell, Frances Hartfield, Jr., Freddie Higgins, Columbus L. Hoover, Dr. Ruth Horton, Katryne S. Indiana Street Baptist Church James, Clifton & Olivia Jarrett, Theravan & Hazel Johnson, Hyder & Deborah Johnson, Jr., Elmos G. Jones, Dr. Verma Jones, Mary Jones, Otis & LaDonna Kearney, Janice Kelley, Marshall Kyle, Lowell Kyle, Stanley H. Kyles, Rubye R. Lang Brown, Dr. Vera Matthews, Rev. Robert & Georgia Mays, Dr. Edward McCall, Jr., Dr. Tomie McMurtrey, Emogene Moore, Dr. Pamela D. Morgan, Demetrius Nash, Tommie H. Nelson, Herman Newborn, Jesse P. Oertle, Mitchell & Wendy Okwumabua, Jebose & Theresa Ouachita County Ministerial Alliance Paxton, Linda J. Perry, James L. Pettigrew, James C. Pighee, Timothy & Veronica Pine Bluff M & L Bridge Club Reid, Dorothy Richards, James & Phyllis Sanders, Jr., Harold & Dora Scott, Floretta Shell, Charles Southeast Arkansas Hospice LLC Sparks, Sr., Earnest & Vernal Stewart, Wanda Stoudamire, Gloria Tabernacle Missionary Baptist Church Taylor, Margaret L. Terry, Romanetha Thomas, Dr. Godfrey J. Totten, Roger & Willette Trotter Ford Lincoln Mercury Turner, Carl E. Vaughns, Thomas Walker, Drs. David & Jewell Walter, Roy
Washington, Dr. Erma & Campbell, Jr., Dr. James Washington, Ralph Washington, Shirley Weaver, Joann C. Webb, Barbara Whitfield, Sherman & TaylorWhitfield, Paula Williams, Brian T. Wind and Star Production Wolfe, William Young, Myrtle
HERITAGE CLUB
$250 - $399 Abedi, Dr. Sharokh Adams, Josephine Allen, Jr., James Anyanwu, Marva Armstrong, Dr. Wanda L. Arnold, Ruby L. Barsh, Thomas & Beverly Benford, Theopolis & Gladys Bennett, Alonzo & Mary Blackshear, Patsy Branch, Dwayne & Anita Brown, Drs. Roosevelt & Irma Brown, O. D. Brownlee, Jocelyn Carroll-Lambert, Marie Colen, Jr., Dr. Charles & Tonya Concord Missionary Baptist Church Curry, Adora Davis, Benjamin & Suzanne Davis-Atkinson, Larna De Mera, Gerald & Dawn Durham, Harry & Cornelia Edwards, Crandall Edwards, Jasper Evans, Vanessa Ford, Tamera Fuller, Marie W. Gaines, James & Charlene Gant, Faye E. Garner, Jr., John & Olivia Glass, Grant & Beverly Graham, Dr. Brenda F. Gray, Lula Hadley, Julia M. Hardin, Dr. Willie Hatley, Laurae M. Haynes, Lester & Vera Hemphill, Cindy Higgs, George E. Hobbs, Dr. Antony & Letha Hopson, Edna H. Horatio State Bank Hudgins, Willie & Catherine Humphrey, Marion Ibrahim, Jason L.K. Jacks, Theo Johnson, Ale & Brenda Johnson, Donald & Restee Johnson, Solomon T. Joiner, Basil L. Jones, Earl J. Kelly, Shirley K. Kingston, Dr. Rebie R. Kyle, Margaret Lamb, Julia R. Landers, Jonail
Lorenz, Dr. Paul H. McCraw, Linel K. McCray, Jr., Eugene McIntosh, Jean H. McKinney, Edward P. Minor, Daniel D. Montford, Katherine E. Mooney, Donna Mouser, Kirby & Rosalind Nash, Stella R. Neal, Dr. Edna Nelson, Annette New Salem Baptist Church Nicholson, Jr., Eddie Nowlin, Daisey L. Paige, Queen E. Phillips, Mildred S. Pighee, Demetrius Pugh-Williams, Stephanie H. Raine-Shepherd, Michelle A. Reynolds, Marilyn Roberts, Harold & Dr. Ruth Shapiro, David A. Shiloh Baptist Church Sledge, Felicia Smith, James W. Smith, William & Corliss Spurlock, Walter Stehn, Warren P. Stephens, Dr. Avery W. Stovall, Sammie Stribling, Ledora L. Sweat, Bobbye J. Taylor, Sr., Dr. Theman Thomas, Aaron Torrence, Dr. William A. Turner, Cleophis & Ardelia Van Wright, Jr., Dr. Aaron Vaughan, Joyce A. Veazey, Dr. Carlton & Jean Watson Chapel Baptist Church Whaley, Melanie Whimper, Carl Whitfield, Allister & Tammye Whitney, Kevin & Lizabeth Wiley, Paul L. Young, Sharon M. Zion Hill Human Services Agency Zion Hill Youth Ministry
CONTRIBUTORS LIST $50 - $249 Adams, Arthur & Jimmie Adams, Grace C. Adderley, Atty. Tony S. African American Historical Commission of Camden AR Akin, Mike & Susan Aldridge, Frank Alexander, Delaney & Bennie Alexander, Shana Alexander, Sharon D. Allen, Harold & Sylvia Allen, Marisha Allen, Nadine Alrich, John & Annette Alumni Chapter - Kansas City Amos, Joseph & Bernice Anderson, Leonard Anderson, Pecola
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ANNUAL FUND DRIVE REPORT Hughes, Ruth A. Hughes, Sammie J. Humphrey, Mittie Hundley, Sandra Hunt, Mary Hutson, Willie & Edna IBM International Foundation Isom, Juanita J & R Real Estate Jackson, Alice J. Jackson, Milton & Vernette Jackson, Richard & Genetta Jacob, John & Shirley Jamerson, William & Sandra James, Marshall James, Rev. Floyd and Vera Jeff. County Democratic Women Jeff. County EHC Jefferson County Drug Court Jeffries, Sharon Jenkins, Idell & Bernice Jenson, Shirley R. Jerusalem Baptist Church John Kelly Edwards Bible Institute Johnson County NAACP #4038 Johnson, Ale Johnson, Brenda Johnson, Cal & Dorothy Johnson, Carol K. Johnson, Dave & Annette Johnson, Margo F. Johnson, Michael Johnson, Mildred Johnson, Myrtle M. Johnson, Nadine H. Johnson, Nicole A. Johnson, Paul Johnson, Rubye Jolivette, Freddie Jones, Alberta Jones, Berlin C. Jones, Clyde Jones, David R. Jones, Dr. Carolyn F. Jones, Gloria D. Jones, Hugh Jones, IV, Lorenzo Jones, Jimmie E. Jones, Melvin V. Jones, Omeski Jones, Shawndra D. Jones, Shirley J. Jones, Stanley T. Jones, Victoria Jones, Wanda Jordan, Edward Jordan, Vervely Kane, Avery Kelly Brothers Towing Service Kelly, Johnny Kendall, Samantha M. Khullar, Dr. Gurdeep Kilian Management Services, Inc. Kindle, Emma King, Hope Y. King, Jr., William H. King, Ollie M. Kory Management, Inc. dba McDonald's Kosmitis, Dr. Kim
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Kuykendall, Etta M. Kyle, Aaron & Judith Lacey, Jr., Dr. J.J. & Marian Lacy, Pfeifer W. Laird, Author Lambert, Mary Lambert, Mary H. Lee, Cleo Lee, Sonja Leonard, Doris D. Lever, Birlee Lever, Loretta Lewis, Clifton & Beverly Lewis, Dr. Billie Lewis, Jenequel Liddell, Jimmy & Eula Liddell, Mary Lihono, Makuba A. Livingston, Duane H. Lockett, Sonya Love, Columbus & Verna Luckett, Kellye Ludwig, Jr., James & Audrey Macedonia Baptist Church Macedonia Baptist Church – Mother Ministry Macedonia Baptist Church – Usher Ministry Mack, Ebony Madden, Jr., Azell Mallett, Alma N. Manley, Oree & Helen Marshall, Lora F. Martin High School/Class of 1967 Martin, Dawn R. Martin, Lavoris Mason, Pinkie Massie, Jr., Henry L. Maxwell, Agnes M. Maxwell, Anne Mays, Carl E. McCollum, Charles McCombs, Bobbie J. McCoy, Carolyn S. McCrimon, Darlene McCullin, Donald McDaniel-Warren, Elaine McDonald, Anthony D. McGadney, Glenda M. McIntosh, Carrie McKee, Henry McKissic, Gene McLarty, Marion McNeal, Jr., Fredrick D. McRay, Nelson & Sonya McSween Enterprises, Inc. Miller, Chiquita Miller, Gary W. Miller, Glenn Miller, O. B. Minton, Billie Mitchell, Carolyn B. Mitchell, Michelle Mitchell, Rev. Frankie & Freda Monger, Larry Montgomery, Emma Moore, Devonda Morning Star Baptist Church Morris, Floyd E. Morton, Rev. Johnny & Iris
PRIDE Magazine • University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff
Moses, Victor & Nora Mosley, Candice N. Moutry, Jr., Johnny L. Moyer, Theon Mt. Calvary Baptist Church Mt. Carmel Baptist Church Mt. Gillard Baptist Church Mt. Pleasant A.M.E. Church Mt. Zinia Baptist Church Mt. Zion Missionary Baptist (Warren, AR) Musketeers Civic Group Nash, Bob Neal, Elver & Edith Nelson, Israel & Geraldine Nelson, Lawrence E. Nelums, Eric & Linda New Haven Baptist Church New Jerusalem Baptist Church (Louann, AR) New Mt. Hebron Missionary Baptist Church New Providence Baptist Church New Zion Baptist Church New Zion Hill Baptist Church Newborn, Charles M. Newman, Dr. Nathaniel & Norma Newton, Roosevelt Nicholas, Annete Nicholas, Lola B. Nicholas, Nia L. Nichols, Robert & Brenda Nicholson, Herbert E. Njue, Dr. Obadiah M. Nolen, Delores W. Nolen, Eddie & June Norman, Rosemary O'Guinn, Rhonda Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc. - Mu Xi Chapter O'Neal, Clifton L. O'Neal, Ethel Overton, Benjamin & Janet Owasoyo, Dr. Joseph & Philomena Owens, Ralph & Brickett Owens, Victoria A. Pace, Dr. Rose A. Page, Dr. Yolanda W. Page, Lexa Page, Lula M. Page, Mary J. Page, Mervin L. Palmer, Simon H. Parks, Hershel Patrick-Wanzo, Carolyn Patterson, Dr. Andrew Paul, Elvis E. Pearson, Earnestene Pearson, Eva Pearson, Kathleen Pelham, Romie Pendleton, J. Andre Perry, Braxton Peters, Bennie J. Phillips, Harold Phillips, James Phoenix Chapter of Links, Inc. Pilgrim Rest Baptist Church (Fordyce, AR) Pilgrim Rest Baptist Church
(Camden, AR) Pipkin Farms Pipklin, Donald Pittman, Calvin L. Poindexter, Carnis L. Porchia, Dr. Lloyd J. Porchia-Wilborn, Mary S. Preston, Michael A. Price, Randel Price, Roland Price, Sr., Rev. Kerry R & R Associates Business Firm RAAM Ramsey, Lavon Randolph, Necie Rawlings, John Rawlings, Rhonda N. Rayford, Ernest M. Reed, Charles L. Reed, Janice Reynolds, Ann D. Reynolds, Paul & Ann Rice, Dr. Antonie Richardson, Annie Richardson, Juel Ridgell, Diane Rieckhoff, Kimberly Riley, Yulanda Roberts, Raymond Robins, Ruthie B. Robinson, John Rogers, Fraulene Rogers, Stephen Rose Hill Baptist Church Roshell, Jr., Andrew & Edna Ross, Joyce L. Roulhac, William & Libra Ruddock, William & Judith Ruth, Mitzi S. Ryan, Vivian C. Ryland, Brenda S. H. Waldon & Associates, LLC Sanders, Carol Sanders, Clinton & Bobbie Sanders, Kevin L. Sargent, James & Joyce Sass, Luisa D. Satterwhite, Keisha S. Savage, Lee N. Saxon, Wendell Schwartz, George & Janet Scoggins, Nona Scott, Brent L. Scott, Joe Scott, Priscilla Seiferth, Brandon D. Seymour, Frankie Shackelford, Bobby Shady Grove Baptist Church Sharp, Sara Sharpe, Jesse Shavers, Sharon Shaw, Bessie M. Shaw, Jr., Frank H. Shearer, III, Phil & Karen Sheehan, Carol & Stevenson, Jean Sheets, Blake & Charleen Shelton, Tina Shepherd, Jr., Reuel Sherrod, Eddie C.
Shields, Sheryl A. Silcott, Tonia R. Simms, Gaynor Simpson, Delouris Sims, Eric & Linda Sims, Michael J. Skateland BV Inc. Sloane, Bobby E. Smith, B. Winford Smith, Blanche F. Smith, Bobby & Rosemary Smith, Dr. C. Calvin & Earline Smith, Dr. Paul & Hazel Smith, Ineze Smith, Jennifer R. Smith, Kendra D. Smith, Thressia Smith, Valeria C. Solomon, Rev. L.K. & Vera Spears, Roy L. Spirit Led Christian Ministries Spriggs, Wesley Sprinkle, Marie St. Bethel Baptist Church St. James AME Church St. James Baptist Church St. Paul Baptist Church (Hampton, AR) Stackhouse, Frances C. Starks, Alvin R. Stedman, George Steele, Michelle Stephens, Judy Steward, Larry & Sandra Stewart Memorial Church Stigars, Stanley & Arnicee Stith, Marva L. Stockey, Loyci Stokes, Larita Stone, Nathan
Strain, Robert & Doris Straughter, George & Alice Stribling, Admiral Strickland, Liz Styles, Pamela Sueing, Wilma Sweet Home Baptist Church (Camden, AR) Sweet Home Baptist Church (Smackover, AR) Sweet Hope Missionary Baptist Church Swift, Roger Tabernacle of Faith Full Gospel Church Tabron, Barry & Wanda Taghavi, Dr. Seyed E. Taylor, Alton Taylor, Krystal Taylor, L'Tanya Taylor, Mary R. Templeton, George & Charlene Terrell, Dr. Jethro Terry, Clark & Gwen The Greater St. Paul Baptist Church, Inc. The Shepherds Center Thomas, Barbara Thomas, Eula V. Thomas, Jr., Quickman Thomas, Lois C. Thomas-Brown, Rebecca Thompson, Chezzie Thompson, George & Arleive Thompson, Jr., Billye G. Thompson, Larry J. Thompson, Robert & Carolyn Tillman, Kandris Todd, Keitron A. Tolbert, Marilyn
Totten, Willie Traplena, Beckee Traveling Friends Traylor, Pearlean Tri State International Building System Trice, Kerian Troy L. Dorn, Jr. Foundation Trudell Williams Revocable Trust Tucker, Laron & Betty Turner, Deloris Turrentine, Gwendolyn M. U of A Division of Agriculture Umbles, Leslie D. Union Hill Missionary Baptist Church USG Foundation, Inc. Utsey, Ryan Vander, Jacquelyn Varnado, Tyree Vaughn, Johnnie Vaughn, William & Annette Vector Business Corporation Vella, Joseph & Ora Victory Bible Church of El Dorado Victrum, Andrew A. Walker, Calvin Walker, Fulton Walker, Jr., Rev. Willis W. Walker, LTC Charley H. Walls, Eleanor Waren Sports Photography Warren, Barbara D. Warren, Cleonia Washington, Hosetta Washington, Juanita J. Washington, Robin Washington, Sr., Rev. E & Alice Watley, Georgia H. Waymon-Mills, Delois E.
Weatherspoon, Angela Webster Enterprise Wesley Chapel U. M. Church Wesley, George Weston, Redmond Whaley, Estelle White, Abel & Mattie White, Elizabeth White, Jeri R. White, Sr., John L. Whitest Chapel Baptist Church Whyte, Opal Wieland, Michael J. Wilburn, II, Isaac & Gaynell Wiley, Georgette A. Wilkins, Cassandra Wilkins, Eric Williams, Artis & Ruby Williams, Dr. Olivia A Williams, Ethel D. Williams, Joyce A. Williams, Jr., Louis & Ezerene Williams, Lonnie Williams, Wilfred Wills, Timothy Wilson, Brenda M. Wilson, Henri Etta Woolfolk, Janelta Woolfolk, Ridley Wortham, Jr., J. W. Wright, Diana A. Wyrick, Alvin & Irene Yancy, Nina L. Yancy, Queen E. Yon, Kimberly A. Young, Florida Young, Jacqueline Zell, Leonard
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Class Notes
'9os
Danny Campbell opens art exhibit at the Arts & Science Center Danny Campbell’92, opened a sculpture exhibit entitled RE| Reclaimed, Repurposed, Redefined at The Arts and Science Center for Southeast Arkansas. Campbell’s found object sculpture is formed from automobile remnants, predominantly tire treads, collected roadside. Campbell breaks down the treads fastening down remnants while leaving other fragments gnarled, swirling about the core of his sculpture. Unkempt, twisted steel wires burst from treads retaining a sense of explosiveness. The resulting from evokes a sense of movement, dynamism, but also fragility. Campbell’s addition of color with transitioning vibrant hues further underscores the sense of movement in the sculpture. The exhibition will feature roughly twenty-five works, including several of Campbell’s six-foot outdoor sculptures. “Art Cards,” ASC’s in-exhibition art education will accompany the exhibition alongside a gallery guide. Teachers, scout leaders, families, and art lovers are encouraged to stop in and view the Art Cards. The exhibition and art education is generously sponsored by Simmons First National Bank. Danny Campbell holds a master’s degree in education leadership from Charleston Southern University. He received his master of fine arts from Howard University and his bachelor of science in art education from the University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff. He currently serves as Assistant Professor of Art at the University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff.
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PRIDE Magazine • University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff
WSD Board of Education Extends the Contract Dr. Curtis Cain
Dr. Curtis Cain’97, received an extended the contract through the 2014-15 school year from the Wentzville School District Board of Education, and “interim” has been removed from his title as Superintendent of Schools. Dr. Cain has served as Interim Superintendent since July 1st. “Dr. Cain understands that student performance is the driving focus of our District,” said Board of Education President Dale Schaper. “He exemplifies professionalism and has demonstrated that he has the skills necessary to move our District forward. We ask that community members, stakeholders, staff, parents and students join us in supporting him as our Superintendent.” Dr. Cain came to the District from the Shawnee Mission School District in Overland Park, KS. "I'm truly humbled by this opportunity," said Dr. Cain. "I look forward to continuing to work with the Board of Education and the staff of the Wentzville School District to best serve the students and families of this proud community, and I'm excited about the possibilities for our future." Dr. Cain holds a B.S. in Social Science Education from the University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff, and a Masters and a Ph.D. in Educational Administration from Iowa State University.
Camron Doss’99, was recently named as the new district director of the Portland District Office by the U.S. Small Business Administration. Doss joins the SBA from the General Services Administration, where he served as the director of the Southern Service Center GSA Northwest/Artic Region. He has 14 years of federal experience with GSA. Doss graduated from the University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff with a bachelor of arts degree in mass communications and public relations. He received his MBA in business management from Texas A&M University-Commerce and is currently a Juris Doctor degree candidate focusing on business law at Lewis & Clark Law School. The Portland District Office is responsible for the delivery of the SBA programs and services to 30 of the 36 counties in Oregon and Clark, Skamania, Cowlitz and Wahkiakum counties in Southwest Washington.
Dr. Ruth Jones receives Wings of Excellence Award Antonio Knox’98, finished his Cisco IOS Security Specialist Certification this year. He is currently working towards Cisco Certified Network Professional (CCNP) Security certification, and is considering pursuing Cisco Certified Inernetwork Expert (CCIE) Security afterwards. IT certifications that he currently holds includes: CCNP Routing/Switching, Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA) Security, CCNA Routing/ Switching and 4011 Recognition as an Information Security (InfoSec) Professional by the NSA and the Committee on National Security Systems (CNSS). He is a proud 2002 Computer Science graduate of UAPB and a Spring 1998 initiate of the Gamma Delta Chapter of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. Antonio currently works as a Senior Network Engineer for the Department of Justice - Federal Bureau of Prisons Central Office in Washington, DC.
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Fall 2013
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class notes
the bookshelf Co-authored by Michael Payne'11, the key objective of the book is to keep up with the new technologies on some recent theoretical development as well as new trends of applications in biometrics. The topics covered in this book reflect well both aspects of development. ISBN: 978-953-51-0859-7
Written by Kamekio D. Lewis'99, she talks about the fantasy a girl has about love while growing up. Once she was grown and out on her own, there was no more pretending. She was trying so hard to enhance a romance, but had to realize that there wasn't a happily ever after to her story. ISBN: 978-1-44907322-0
Edited by Paul H. Lorenz (Interim Chair, Department of English, Theatre and Mass Communications - University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff) and David Roessel (the Peter and Stella Yiannos Professor of Greek Language and Literature at The Richard Stockton College of New Jersey). 318 pages. Boston: Somerset Hill Press, 2013. ISBN 978-1-935244110-0.
Rikki Nelson’06, recently booked and filmed a network national commercial for Honda and costarred in a new comedy on ABC called The Neighbors which will premier for a 2nd season this fall. When she’s not filming, she’s hosting events like the #FacetFashionShow and the #CurlyCartel and manages a new fitness account on Instagram called @Ebony_fitness that has taken off. She will be providing words of encouragement as a motivational speaker at a Fitness Pow Wow in Hollywood.
University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff School of Agriculture, Fisheries and Human Sciences
ic
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i sheries a re, F nd l tu H
S chool
Human Services
Arts, Audio-Video Technology and Communication
Government and Public Administration
Health Science
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Authors: Dr. Linda L. Okiror, Associate Dean - SAFHS Dr. Usman Adamu, Associate Professor Mrs. Rita Conley, Instructor
Business Management and Administration
Education and Training
Marketing
Pathwa
Written by John D. Foster, assistant professor of sociology at UAPB, White Race Discourse exposes and explains the contradictory nature of the race discourse displayed by sixty-one white college students in the United States. While many scholars have written about the “racetalk” of whites, few have succeeded in bridging both the theoretical and methodological gaps between whiteness scholars and discourse analysts. The book presents evidence that these white Americans are “bureaucrats of whiteness” in that they defend the racial status quo through their discourse, whether intended or not.
The SAFHS Career Guide: Companion to the Kuder Career Survey was published in June 2013 and was distributed to area schools to assist high school students who took the Kuder Career Survey understand how their career interests can be fulfilled through a major in the School of Agriculture, Fisheries and Human Sciences.
e n ce s
Agriculture, Food and Natural Resources
Sci
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Hospitality and Tourism
Finance
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Ag r
SAFHS Career Guide: Companion to the Kuder Career Survey
Americans and the Experience of Delphi is a collection of 15 scholarly essays written by American, European, and Middle Eastern scholars which explore the symbiotic relationship between American artists and the ancient site of Delphi, considered to be the center of the world by the ancient Greeks. The essays focus on writers and artists including Eva Palmer Sikelianos, who was instrumental in the revival of the Delphic Festivals of 1927 and 1930; George Cram Cook, one of the founders of the famed Provincetown Players; the famed American writer and playwright Susan Glaspell; and the American poet H.D. (Hilda Doolittle). The volume concludes with essays on Henry Miller and his friend Lawrence Durrell which are designed to provide a context for the other essays in the volume. The essay on Lawrence Durrell was contributed by Dr. Lorenz. The volume also includes a previously unpublished poem by Susan Glaspell.
ys
PRIDE Magazine • University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff
Written by Dr. Janice Coleman'76, assistant dean of University College and coordinator of the General Studies program, Where Do I Start? reveals the simplicity of designing online courses using concrete examples of instruments to use and step-by-step procedures leading to success without stress.
In Memoriam Deceased alumni since July 2013, arranged by graduation year.
1940s
1970s Ms. Nanette Estelle Coggs’43 08/12/2013 Inglewood, California
Mr. Albert Alley’71 07-23-2013 Pine Bluff, Arkansas
Mr. Parnell Miles, Sr. 08/4/2013 Kansas City, Missouri Mr. Harvey A. Evans’78 08/22/2013 Oakland, California
1960s Mr. James Floyd’66 07/24/2013 Little Rock, Arkansas
Ms. Linda F. Gardner 08/14/2013 Pine Bluff, Arkansas
1980s Reverend Lance Chaney’80 07/21/2013 Boynton Beach, Florida
Mr. Willie C. Frazier 09/5/2013 Houston, Texas
Mr. Thomas Phillips, Sr.’67 09/10/2013 Little Rock, Arkansas
UNSPECIFIED Ms. Amette Watson-Scaife’68 08/20/2013 Pine Bluff, Arkansas
Mrs. Lorrayne Cornelius 07/24/2013. Joliet, Illinois
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IN MEMORIAM
l.c. greenwood Henderson Greenwood was born in Canton, Mississippi and graduated from Arkansas AM&N (now University of Arkansas-Pine Bluff), where he became a member of the Beta Theta Chapter of Phi Beta Sigma fraternity. He was also named the 1968 Ebony All-American defensive lineman in the Southwestern Athletic Conference (SWAC). Greenwood was drafted by the Pittsburgh Steelers in 1969 in the 10th round. In 1971, he became the starting left defensive end. One of the four members of Pittsburgh's famous Steel Curtain, he would remain there until retirement in 1981. Greenwood, who was 6 feet 6 inches tall and weighed 245 pounds, was a six-time Pro Bowl player and was named to NFL All-Pro teams in 1974 and 1975. He was named All-AFC five times. He also led the Steelers six times in sacks with a career total of 73½ (sacks were an unofficial stat at the time). According to records kept by the Steelers, Greenwood's highest single-season sack total was 11, which he attained in 1974. He further had 14 fumble recoveries in his career, including five in 1971, which tied for the NFL lead. He had 4.7 in the 40-yard dash, and that speed allowed him to dominate his position. In Super Bowl IX against the Minnesota Vikings, Greenwood
L.C.
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batted down two passes from Fran Tarkenton. In Super Bowl X against the Dallas Cowboys, he sacked Roger Staubach four times. Greenwood played in all four of the Steelers Super Bowl victories in the 1970s. Unofficially, Greenwood had five sacks in the four Super Bowl appearances. Greenwood was known for wearing gold-colored shoes on the football field. (By today's NFL rules, Greenwood would be fined since it would not be in uniform with the rest of the team.) Greenwood was called “Hollywood Bags” because he claimed he kept his bags packed and ready so he could leave for Hollywood at a moment's notice. He was a finalist in the 2005 Pro Football Hall of Fame voting but did not get elected. He was again a finalist in 2006, but was not elected. Greenwood has stated that while he would be honored if he were to be inducted into the Hall of Fame, he would not be upset if he were not elected, feeling that the Steelers already in the Hall (in particular, "Mean Joe" Greene) represent the entire team's accomplishments. In 1991, Greenwood was named to the Super Bowl Silver Anniversary Team and in 2007 he was named to the Steelers All-Time team. Greenwood died September 29, 2013. He was 67 years old.
PRIDE Magazine • University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff
“What L.C. Greenwood has done for this university transcends beyond the football field. He showed that hard work, dedication and loyalty can help anyone achieve great things in life.” Dr. Laurence B. Alexander Chancellor University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff
“Greenwood was an outstanding representative of UAPB. Not only did he distinguish himself with the Pittsburgh Steelers, but at AM&N during a period when we had some of our most outstanding football successes.” Dr. Lawrence A. Davis, Jr. Chancellor Emeritus University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff
“The name of L.C. Greenwood has been one of the most recognizable names associated with the SWAC and all of college and professional sports. The fact that Greenwood played at UAPB has helped to bring national credibility to our athletics program. We have lost a true American legend.” Lonza Hardy, Jr. Director of Athletics
“I always followed his career when he played for the Steelers. The players at this university, through the years, have gained respect for his athletic ability and for what he really meant to this university and to AM&N. He will be missed.”
“L.C. was a man of great belief and faith, one who loved his family, his friends and his university. He has been a dear and trusted friend and brother for over four decades. My family and I will miss him immensely.”
Monte Coleman Head Football Coach University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff
Carson Fields Head Golf Coach University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff
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Pride magazine
University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff 1200 North University Drive -Mail Slot 4789 Pine Bluff, AR 71601-2780
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PRIDE Magazine • University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff