TODAY North Carolina Agricultural and Technical State University
ARTICLES
DEPARTMENTS
16) Obeying the Call
2) Inside Aggieland
Business school’s Olenda E. Johnson receives
6) Campus Briefs
Page 16
North Carolina’s top teaching award 10) From a Student’s Perspective 20) Taking Care of Business Willie “Tommy” Ellis Jr. is the top money man at North Carolina Agricultural and Technical State University
12) Aggie Sports 24) Research 26) People Behind the Scholarships 28) Alumni Profile 30) Aggies On the Move 32) Mixed Bag Page 4
Page 12
Page 16
Page 28
explore. discover. become. A&T TODAY North Carolina Agricultural and Technical State University Volume 8, Number 3, Spring 2005 A&T TODAY is published quarterly by The Division of Development and University Relations North Carolina Agricultural and Technical State University 1601 East Market Street • Greensboro, N.C. 27411 Phone: (336) 334-7582 • FAX: (336) 334-7094 Postage Paid at Greensboro, N.C. All editorial correspondence should be directed to Sandra M. Brown, University Relations Office, N.C. A&T State University,The Garrett House, 400 Nocho Street, Greensboro, N.C. 27411, or
[email protected]. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to Office of Alumni Affairs, North Carolina A&T State University, 1601 East Market Street, Greensboro, N.C. 27411. Phone: (336) 334-7583.
Editor: Sandra M. Brown Editorial Assistants Nettie Collins Rowland ’72/’95MS Mable Springfield Scott ’99MS Contributing Writers Darlene F. East ’04 Millicent Rothrock Nettie Collins Rowland ’72/’95MS Mable Springfield Scott ’99MS Joya Wesley Photographer Charles E. Watkins ’03 Design: Donna M. Wojek Gibbs Printing: News & Record Direct
Board of Trustees John J. “Nick” Becton ’79 Milton S. “Brick” Brown III Carole Bruce, Secretary D. Hayes Clement Henry H. Isaacson Calvin F. Williams Jr., Student Representative Velma R. Speight-Buford ’53,Vice Chair Michael L. Suggs ’82 Melvin C. Swann Jr. Gerald Truesdale, M.D., Chair Steven C. Watson Joseph A. Williams ’72
Executive Cabinet Chancellor - James Carmichael Renick Provost/Vice Chancellor, Academic Affairs Carolyn W. Meyers Vice Chancellor, Business and Finance Willie T. “Tommy” Ellis ’77 Vice Chancellor, Development and University Relations - David W. Hoard Vice Chancellor, Information Technology/Chief Information Officer - Rodney E. Harrigan Vice Chancellor, Research and Sponsored Programs Narayanaswamy “Radha” Radhakrishnan Vice Chancellor, Student Affairs Roselle L. Wilson (Interim) Executive Assistant to the Chancellor Colleen P. Grotsky Special Assistant to the Chancellor, Legal Affairs Camille Kluttz-Leach
Deans Agriculture and Environmental Sciences Alton Thompson Arts and Sciences - Caesar R. Jackson (Interim) Business and Economics - Quiester Craig Education - Lelia L.Vickers Engineering - Joseph Monroe Graduate Studies - Kenneth Murray (Interim) Library Sciences - Waltrene Canada Nursing - Patricia Price-Lea Technology - Elazer J. Barnette Alumni Association Executive Officers National President - Teresa M. Davis ’89 First Vice President - Claudette Bennett ’75 Second Vice President - William Moses ’88 Secretary - Carolyn Rinehardt ’64
Treasurer - Gerald Williams ’83 Parliamentarian - Sam Eady ’65 Historian - Deloris C. Chisley ’73 Immediate Past President - John Petty ’70 Mideast Regional Director - Barbara Bell Jones ’47 Midwest Regional Director - Marvin Walton ’91 Northeast Regional Director Louise Murrill-Graves ’73 Southeast Regional Director - John C. Holley ’61 Western Regional Director - Chuck Burch Jr. ’82 Executive Director Harriet Frink Davis ’75, ’89MS (Interim)
North Carolina Agricultural and Technical State University is a land-grant doctoral/research intensive institution and AA/EEO employer. N.C. A&T is an ADA compliant institution, and university facilities are designed to provide accessibility to individuals with physical disabilities. 40,000 copies of this public document were printed at a cost of $22,477 or $0.56 per copy.
Visit us online at www.ncat.edu
INSIDE AGGIELAND
INDUSTRIAL TECHNOLOGY PROGRAMS REACCREDITED The National Association of Industrial Technology has awarded the N.C. A&T School of Technology a
THEATRE LOBBY NAMED FOR KILIMANJARO DURING GALA EVENING
new six-year reaccreditation of its industrial technology programs. The award reaffirms that the university meets
T
he lobby of the newly-renovated Paul Robeson Theatre has been named
an important national standard in the areas of elec-
for John Marshall Kilimanjaro, founder of A&T’s theater program.
tronics technology, manufacturing systems, occupa-
The lobby was renamed in March during intermission of a special presen-
tional safety and health, construction management
tation of the show, “Paul Robeson,” by Philip Hayes Dean, starring television
and graphics communication systems (computer
and stage actor Avery Brooks. Earlier that day, Brooks taught a master class for
aided drafting/design and printing/publishing).
A&T students. Kilimanjaro, also founder of the African American news weekly Carolina
NEW EDUCATION BUILDING TO BEAR CHANCELLOR’S NAME
Peacemaker, established A&T’s department of speech and theater arts in 1969 and founded the Paul Robeson Theatre in 1970. As executive director of the Theatre and the Richard B. Harrison Players from 1970-1981, he produced more than 80 plays and musicals.
A&T’s Board of Trustees will name the new school
The Kilimanjaro Lobby recognizes his tireless efforts and many contribu-
of education building in honor of Chancellor James
tions to theater at A&T. The John M. Kilimanjaro Endowed Scholarship sup-
John Marshall Kilimanjaro
ports A&T theater students. Contributions should be sent to: The John M.
and his wife Vicki take in the
Kilimanjaro Scholarship, c/o North Carolina A&T State University, Office of
audience’s congratulations
visionary who has tangibly demonstrated his theme,
Development, 1601 E. Market St., Greensboro, N.C. 27411.
after the official dedication of
‘we are only limited by our imaginations,’” said
the Kilimanjaro Lobby of the
Gerald Truesdale, M.D., chairman.
Carmichael Renick. “This is a fitting tribute for a higher education
Renick was appointed the ninth chancellor of
Paul Robeson Theatre.
A&T in July 1999. During his tenure, Renick’s creative vision has propelled A&T to a new level as a doctoral/research intensive university.Trustees said they made the decision in appreciation for his
PROPOSED CENTER RECEIVES GRANT
CUBIST SPENDS MONTH AT A&T
“exemplary leadership and outstanding contributions affecting the growth, development and trans-
entire month of March in Aggieland as the Spring 2005
P
Artist-in-Residence.
January when the Bank of America Charitable Foundation
Abstract cubist painter Joseph Holston spent the
lans for North Carolina A&T’s proposed Aggie Center for African-American Entrepreneurship and Wealth got a boost in
announced a $275,000 grant to the N.C. A&T University
The Maryland-based artist with a career spanning more than 30 years interacted with students and facul-
Foundation to support the center and the campus-wide interdisci-
ty during his stay. An exhibition featuring his works,
plinary financial literacy program. The grant will create the Aggie Entrepreneur Case Study
“The Art of Joseph Holston: A Retrospective,” opened
formation of A&T.”
NATIONAL CONFERENCE ON AGING HELD The Association for Gerontology and Human
March 23 and was displayed through May 27 in the
Library, which will enable the university to secure new teaching
Development in Historically Black Colleges and
University Galleries, which is located in the Dudley
materials, electronic aids and computer software, and create the
Universities held its 2005 conference at A&T,
Building.
Bank of America Business Plan Competition and the Bank of
March 31-April 2.
America Lecture Series.
Largely a self-taught artist with commercial art
“Bank of America is pleased to support North Carolina A&T
training, Holston’s work has drawn comparisons to
“Aging in a Multi-cultural Society: Empowering Adults to Age Well” was hosted by the school of
artists including John Singer Sargeant, Pablo Picasso,
State University’s creation of an interdisciplinary campus-wide
education’s adult and continuing education program.
Romare Bearden and Jacob Lawrence. His works are
learning program that will make the university unique among its
The conference presented an interdisciplinary and
peers,” said Milton Jones, Bank of America quality and productivity
multidisciplinary overview of critical issues in aging,
executive.
as well as provided ideas for practice.
included in numerous public and private collections. For more information, call University Galleries at (336) 334-3209.
2 A&T TODAY • SPRING 2005
Painter Joseph Holston (right) spent the month of March interacting with faculty and students.
SPRING 2005 • A&T TODAY 3
INSIDE AGGIELAND
1) Charles Ogletree, author and
4) Actor and filmmaker Tim Reid is edgy
6) A&T video graphics producer Ron
Harvard Law professor, moderates
and comic in his talks with students and
Fisher (left) and his wife Wanda Starke,
“The O.J. Simpson Trial 10 Years Later:
community members.
WXII-Channel 12 anchor, laugh with
The Media’s Role.”
DeWayne Wickham at a reception 5) National Public Radio host Ed Gordon
welcoming Wickam to his new post as
2) AP editor Sonya Ross and Washington
and former Los Angeles Police Depart-
executive director of A&T’s Institute for
Post reporter Kevin Merida share memo-
ment spokesman Dave Gascon participate
Advanced Journalism Studies.
ries of covering the White House.
in the panel discussion, which also featured footage from the trial coverage, including
The Fourth Estate and Blacks ADVANCED JOURNALISM COMES TO A&T
and Harvard University law professor
of A&T students during “The Fourth
Charles Ogletree, the panelists were
Estate and Blacks,” a conference sponsored
former Los Angeles County prosecutor
by the university’s new Institute for
Chris Darden, CBS reporter Bill Whitaker,
Advanced Journalism Studies (IAJS) that
National Public Radio host Ed Gordon,
brought a slate of celebrated journalists
former Los Angeles Police Department
and newsmakers to Greensboro.
spokesman Dave Gascon and Norma
The three-day conference included a
1
impact on the O.J. Simpson trial, a panel
2
3
The evening also included compelling
and sessions on black images in the media
audience as well as film footage from trial
led by actor and filmmaker Tim Reid.
coverage. The next day, journalism students
Wickham, a USA Today columnist with
and others got to hear the firsthand
a distinguished career in journalism,
experiences of black journalists covering
designed the conference “to explore
the nation’s commander-in-chief in a dis-
the ways journalists, and the media
cussion led by moderator Arthur Fennell,
organizations that employ them, affect
managing editor and anchor of CN8/
the lives of blacks.” It meshed with the
Comcast. Sharing memories and perspec-
IAJS’ mission of stemming the loss of
tives were April Ryan of American Urban
blacks from the journalism profession by
Radio Networks, Sonya Ross of the
offering them a broad mix of professional
Associated Press, Kevin Merida of The
enrichment programs and reporting
Washington Post and William Douglas of
opportunities not normally available to
Knight-Ridder Newspapers.
Heavy-hitters drew a crowd of more
Simpson’s white Bronco.
about the media coverage of the trial.
professor at Indiana University. questions from A&T students in the
them in their newsrooms.
shares complaints during the conference
Johnson, a criminologist and adjunct
of blacks in the White House press corps
IAJS executive director DeWayne
the footage visible of police chasing
By Joya Wesley
More than 500 people swelled the ranks
10th anniversary discussion of the media’s
3) Chris Darden, O.J. Simpson prosecutor,
5
4
The last day of the conference featured Reid, who talked about the realities
than 400 people to the public discussion,
of Hollywood and presented a screening of
“The O.J. Simpson Trial 10 Years Later:
his award-winning film, “Once Upon a
The Media’s Role.” Moderated by author
Time When We Were Colored.”
6 4 A&T TODAY • SPRING 2005
SPRING 2005 • A&T TODAY 5
CAMPUS BRIEFS FACULTY AND STAFF NEWS
Ida Robinson-
ise on the impact of agriculture on air quali-
instructional technology and multicultural
at the Carnegie Academy for the
Backmon, formerly a
ty. On March 9, under Gayle’s leadership,
education, Jost and the other commissioners
Scholarship of Teaching and Learning in
tenured associate professor
A&T hosted a meeting of the N.C. Board
are mandated to seek the truth surrounding
Stanford, Calif., in residence June 18-27.
at the University of
for the Licensing of Geologists. Gayle
the shooting deaths of Nov. 3, 1979, and
Roberto was chosen from more than 300
Baltimore’s Merrick School
recently began a second three-year term on
recommend ways for the city to heal.
international applicants the organization
of Business, has been
the board.
believed represent some of the most Harvette C. Jenkins,
promising work in the scholarship of
ment of accounting. Before going to the
J. Phillip Halstead,
M.D., has been hired as
teaching and learning. Scholars are
University of Baltimore in 2001, Robinson-
former executive direc-
medical director of
expected to make “significant contributions
Backmon also served on the faculties of A&T
tor of the Business and
Sebastian Health
to an understanding of integrative learning,
and Oklahoma State University. She has been
Technology Institute
Center. Jenkins is a
bringing to the practice and profession
a certified public accountant in North
(BTI) and director of
graduate of North
of teaching in higher education the kind
Carolina since 1985.
the Kansas Polymer
Carolina State
of rigor and attention to student learning
named chair of the depart-
Research Center at
that distinguishes the best scholarship.”
Carey Baldwin, who
Pittsburg State University (Kansas), is asso-
UNC Chapel Hill School of Medicine and
retired as an Air Force
ciate vice chancellor for outreach and
completed her internal medicine residency
Jagannathan Sankar,
colonel after 27 years of
economic development. Halstead brings
at Lehigh Valley Hospital in Allentown, Pa.
professor of mechanical
service, has been named
30 years of national experience spanning
physical plant director.
education, business, government and
Charles Lownes,
ing and director of the
Since retiring, Baldwin
consulting to A&T. In his new post, he is
M.D., has joined the
Center for Advanced
has served as executive
responsible for developing interdisciplinary
Sebastian Health
Materials and Smart
director of physical facilities management
research activities, partnerships, collabora-
Center staff as universi-
Structures, was honored
and as interim associate vice president for
tions and agreements with other universities,
ty physician. An A&T
by the AAAS, the world’s largest general
administrative services at Howard University.
government agencies and the business sector.
alumnus, Lownes
scientific organization, with the 2004 AAAS
received his medical
Mentor Award. He was recognized for
He also will assist the vice chancellor for
and chemical engineer-
Godfrey Gayle, a
research in developing strategic plans and in
degree from UNC Chapel Hill School of
mentoring 46 Ph.D. students, including
bioenvironmental engi-
formulating and promoting polices that sup-
Medicine and completed his residency in
22 underrepresented minorities. The award
neer, has been invited to
port a large and diverse faculty in conduct-
family practice at Moses Cone Hospital in
is directed toward individuals in the early
attend an Oxford Round
ing their research and technology transfer.
Greensboro. He is a Diplomat of the
or mid-career stage who have mentored
American Board of Family Practice and the
students for less than 25 years.
Table meeting at Saint
6 A&T TODAY • SPRING 2005
University. She earned her medical degree at
Anthony’s College,
Muktha Jost, an assistant professor of
University of Oxford
curriculum and instruction in the school of
American Board of Emergency Medicine.
(England), July 31- Aug. 5. Discussions will
education, is one of seven individuals select-
Michael Roberto, an
be centered on trade and human rights. Gayle
ed through a democratic process to serve on
assistant professor in the
recently tackled related issues at the National
the Greensboro Truth and Reconciliation
history department, has
Air Quality meeting in Washington, D.C. He
Commission, the first of its kind in the
been selected as a 2005
is a member of the Agricultural Air Quality
United States. A native of India whose work
Carnegie Scholar. He
Task Force, which provides advice and expert-
focuses on areas including teacher education,
will join 20 colleagues
SPRING 2005 • A&T TODAY 7
CAMPUS BRIEFS STUDENT NEWS
“Creating a Partnership between North
Seven A&T students placed in oral
mentor), mathematics, second place;
Architecture students from the
Carolina Agricultural and Technical State
and poster competitions at the Ninth
Jerry Adams and Erin Woolridge
College of Engineering and the School
University and North Carolina Public
Annual North Carolina Louis Stokes
(Abdollah Homaifar), second place,
of Technology competed and won prizes
Schools,” a proposal developed by Joi N.
Alliance for Minority Participation
engineering/technology, and William
in the North Carolina Sustainability
Bass, a manufacturing systems major, and
(NC-LSAMP) Undergraduate Research
Totten and Cristin Brown (William
Design competition. Tonya Lang,
Rico D. Beans, an agricultural business
Conference that was held in March
Craft), third place, engineering/
Jamaryl Matthews, Nashid
major, has been funded for $60,000 by Cargill,
at Fayetteville State University in
technology.
Inc. The purpose of the project is to
conjunction with the FSU-Research
create a professional development program
Initiative for Scientific Enhancement
were Starla Lyles (Alex Williamson,
won second place and $500, and
that would motivate and prepare students in
(RISE) Colloquium. The joint confer-
faculty mentor), first place, chemistry;
Jeremy Lyon and Charles Springs
grades K-12 for college in the fields of agricul-
ence provided an opportunity for
Brandon Ball (Maranda McBride),
won third place and $250.
ture, business, engineering and technology.
NC-LSAMP students to showcase
first place, engineering/technology;
faculty-mentored research accomplish-
Nicole Allen (Clinton Lee), second
ments by students and faculty members.
place, engineering/technology, and
Nicole Y. Evans received a $7,500 scholarship from the transportation and space
A&T students who placed in
Placing in the poster presentations
Muhammad and Malcolm Primus won first place and $750, Turi Lipkins
Thaddeus Lamb and Gerald
division of Battelle, a global science and
the oral presentations were Cheickna
Durham (Vincent Childress), third
technology enterprise that develops and
Barber (Belinda Borah, faculty
place, engineering/technology.
commercializes technology and manages laboratories for customers, for the 2004-2005 academic year. Len Testa, a Ph.D. candidate in computer
The school of nursing held it’s 48th Annual Capping and Pinning Ceremony April 2
science, was featured in the New York Times
at Carolina Theatre in downtown Greensboro. More than 700 family members and friends
in December because of doctoral research he
attended the event for 135 nursing students. The following students received scholarships and awards:
is conducting at an unlikely place: Disney World in Orlando, Fla. A software developer
Lakisa Ballard, senior, Overall Leadership and Contributions to the School of Nursing
for American Express, Testa is using the
Maria Bortz, The Dr. Gerald Truesdale Studies Award
theme park as a laboratory, timing trips to
Leslie Bridges, The C.C. Steward Memorial Medical Foundation Award
various attractions within Disney World in a
Shannon Burton and Justin Spears, James R. Rogers Memorial Awards
larger attempt to answer a question that
Carmen Chatten and Nadirah Hargrove, Service to Humanities Awards
plagues many faced with logistical dilemmas:
Melissa Cobb, District 8 NCNA Scholarship
What is the most efficient way to dispatch
Ayo Corbett, The PG Group Class of 1997 Award
people to multiple destinations, taking into
Cassandra Corbett, The Florence Nightingale Award
account fleeting factors like travel delays and
Glennis Holland, The Graduate Chapter of TELOCA Award
weather?
Aisha Ibrahim, Central Carolina Black Nurses Council Award Renee Jones, Cleveland Sauls and Andrea Young, TELOCA Undergraduate Awards Julia Redding, senior, Highest GPA William Whitsett, Men in Nursing Foundation Award
8 A&T TODAY • SPRING 2005
SPRING 2005 • A&T TODAY 9
A STUDENT’S PERSPECTIVE
By Migael S. Penix
CROSS CULTURAL COLLEGE COMPARISONS As I write this, I have just finished the
and were allowed to go exploring to
reputation for failing many students. In
campus is wireless and this feature is utilized
first exams of my study abroad experi-
our hearts’ content. I decided to ven-
spite of her toughness, she is well loved.
within the classroom. Students and teachers
ence. In contrast to the UNC system of
ture off with two other people to near-
She treats every student like a grand-
often carry their laptops around campus
having midterm exams and then final
by Sayulita, a town known for its surf-
child, bringing the Mexican family cul-
and to classrooms, which I find can help
exams, here we have three exams called
ing beach, interesting arts and crafts,
ture into the class by kissing each stu-
or hinder the learning process. From con-
“parciales” and then a final exam. We
and very rural community qualities. I
dent and showing a genuine reaction to
versations with Chancellor Renick, A&T
have just completed our first parcial.
learned how to surf and met a variety
good and bad work.
soon will be completely wireless, an
The university I attend is private and very wealthy, as are the students. So to celebrate the completion of the first parcial, many organizations
of people.
There is one aspect of student life
New experiences continue to present themselves.
that the school is very strict about: attendance. For most classes, a student
advancement I believe would enhance the educational experience exponentially. My study abroad experience continu-
can only miss a total of four classes
ously gets better as time goes on. I can’t
planned trips to other cities and towns.
from the classes at A&T. I am enrolled
throughout the semester. Missing more
wait to see what new experiences I’ll have
I went with an international organiza-
in four core classes and two electives.
than four days can result in being
to share with you next time.
tion to the Mexican tourist destination,
Five classes are in Spanish, and I am
barred from taking the final exam. As
Puerto Vallarta, a place that many
taking a speech class in English. Most
harsh as this rule may seem to students
Migael S. Penix is a
people visit for spring break and after
of the work done in class is group ori-
used to academic liberties within the
junior at N.C. A&T State
retiring.
ented. The teachers are very lenient
classroom, it makes sense within the
University and a
with students, and grades — as a rule
culture of Mexico, where children are
N.C.Teaching Fellow.
— can usually be argued a little higher.
not mandated to go to school.
The trip had nothing to do with education. It was simply a way for everyone to calm down from the stress of the first exams. We stayed in a hotel
The classes here are very different
My chemistry teacher, however, is an exception to that rule. She has a
Like A&T, the campus here is technologically advanced. The entire
STUDENTS TAKE ADVANTAGE OF GLOBAL OP PORTUNITIES In addition to Migael S. Penix, the following A&T students also are spending the Spring 2005 semester abroad. Troy Aikins, Jennifer Crosby and Rikki Vinson, industrial engineering - Brazil Simon Conway, political science - Japan Maurice Jenkins, computer science - Sweden Lance Louison, professional theatre South Africa Lauren McGee, environmental design - Australia
Matthew McHugh, history and secondary education - Finland Christina Minor, business management and French - France Cassonya Neal, marketing - Japan Carol Osborne, journalism/mass communication - United Kingdom Kaushalya Patel, psychology - India
10 A&T TODAY • SPRING 2005
The following A&T students were welcomed back from their study abroad in January. Chancellor James C. Renick and the Office of International Programs hosted a reception in their honor. Payton Bailey - Mexico
Shannon Koonce - Russia
Judith Ball - New Zealand
Nathaniel Lewis II - Russia
Anita Butler - Spain
Clifton Neal - Scotland
Quentin Carson - Brazil
Arabia Pryor-Boykin - Russia
Cecile Crawford - Russia
Radeena Stuckey - Kenya
Crystal Ivey - Scotland
SPRING 2005 • A&T TODAY 11
AGGIE SPORTS
AGGIES GET FIRST FEMALE A.D. DELORES “DEE” TODD — DIRECTOR OF INTERCOLLEGIATE ATHLETICS Education B.S., Health and Physical Education,Winston-Salem State University M.S., Human Relations and Psychotherapy, Governor’s State University Professional Experience Thornridge High School (Dolton, N.J.), Coach Rich Central High School (Olympia, N.J.), Coach Bethesda-Chevy Chase High School (Bethesda, Md.), Coach Northwestern University, Head Coach Georgia Institute of Technology, Coach World Track and Field Championships (Seville, Spain), Assistant Coach ACC Assistant Commissioner/Director of Student-Athletic Welfare
AGGIE-EAGLE CLASSIC TO BE PLAYED LABOR DAY Due to a scheduling conflict, the Aggie-Eagle Classic — which traditionally has been played on the Sunday before Labor Day — N.C. State’s 2005 football opener against Virginia Tech, originally scheduled for Saturday, Sept. 3, has been moved to Sunday, Sept. 4, in State’s home field, Carter-Finley Stadium — the same venue as the AggieEagle Classic. The stadium gates will open at 9 a.m. for the annual gridiron match between A&T and N.C. Central.The game begins at 1:30 p.m.
FOUR AGGIES TURN SHARKS Cornelius Gary, Aleiene Washington, Montrail Pittman and Ivan Butler — four former A&T football players — have been signed to play with the Carolina Sharks of the new Atlantic Indoor Football League. players with local connections, the Sharks are among six teams in the developmental minor league designed to help players advance to NFL Europe, the Canadian Football League or the Arena League.
12 A&T TODAY • SPRING 2005
standing room crowd of Aggie alumni and supporters were on hand May 4 when Chancellor
James C. Renick introduced the new director of intercollegiate athletics during a news conference in Bryan Fitness and Wellness Center. DeLores “Dee” Todd is the university’s new A.D., effective June 15. “We are very pleased that we were able to recruit Dee Todd for such an important role at A&T,” Renick said. “She has excellent experience and the right motivation to manage and lead our intercollegiate athletics program.” As the Atlantic Coast Conference (ACC) assistant commissioner/director of student-athletic welfare since 2000, Todd said she was excited and eager about her new role at A&T. “I am extremely excited about the opportunity to take the athletics department in the same direction as the university with its growth,” Todd said. “I am looking
Boards, Committees & Organizations (Past and Present) NCAA Championship/Competition Cabinet and Administration Subcommittees NCAA Certified Contests Subcommittee, Chair USOC Minorities in Sports Task Force, Chair National Association of College Women Athletic Administrators Board of Directors, President NCAA Division I Track and Field Subcommittee, Chair NCAA East Regionals for Women, Tournament Manager Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. Greensboro Parks and Recreation Commission North Carolina Juvenile Justice Commissioner Goodwill Industries Board of Directors Mental Health Board of Directors YMCA Board of Directors Center for Creative Leadership Board of Directors Women’s Professional Forum and Board of Governors, External Vice President Summit House of North Carolina
has been rescheduled for Monday, Sept. 5.
Based in Charlotte, N.C., and featuring
A
By Mable S. Scott ’99MS
DeLores “Dee” Todd
Awards & Honors Cross Country Big Ten Coach of the Year (1983) Georgia State Intercollegiate Championship Coach of the Year (1985, 1986, 1987) ACC Coach of the Year-Women’s Outdoor Track (1987) CIAA Hall of Fame (2001) Winston-Salem State University Hall of Fame (2002)
forward to doing my best to motivate, support and lead the department to victory on the playing field, in academics and in life.” ACC Commissioner John Swofford described the hire as a wonderful opportunity for Todd, A&T and Greensboro. “Dee has vast experiences as a student athlete, coach and administrator, and she is an (outstanding) individual who knows intercollegiate athletics in and out,” Swofford said. Todd was the first female to serve as an assistant commissioner in the history of the ACC and will be A&T’s first female director of athletics. She has over 30 years of progressive experience and responsibility with documented success in interscholastic and intercollegiate athletes in planning, scheduling, training development, Olympic sports programs and financial and human resource management. Todd’s ACC responsibilities enabled her to supervise, direct and coordinate officiating programs for baseball, as well as plan, organize and direct men’s and women’s cross country, men’s and women’s indoor track and field, men’s and women’s outdoor track and field and baseball championship events. She was the liaison between those sports committees and coordinated special projects with institutional staff members.
SPRING 2005 • A&T TODAY 13
AGGIE SPORTS WINNING COACH SELECTED TO LEAD LADY AGGIES
By Mable Springfield Scott ’99MS
Veteran coach Patricia Cage-Bibbs has been named head coach of the university’s women’s basketball team.
Following a rewarding, 32-year career as a celebrated college and high school coach, Cage-Bibbs became a business-
Cage-Bibbs was head coach for women’s basketball at
woman in their family-owned car rental company in Ruston, La.
Hampton University from 1997 until 2004. She was MEAC
She and her husband Ezil have two daughters, Sabrina and Satin.
Coach of the Year in 1998 and MEAC Outstanding Tournament Coach in 2000, 2003 and 2004. In 2000, Cage-Bibbs was honored for her team’s 300th victory and as the first basketball coach at Hampton (men’s or women’s) to take the team to the
Cage-Bibbs said she is excited about coaching at A&T to further fulfill her dream to work on the collegiate level. “I am a builder who loves challenges,” Cage-Bibbs explained.“Many people avoid challenges ... but this has always
NCAA Division I post-season
been my purpose.This is what
tournament.
God has given me to do ...
Cage-Bibbs moved up the ladder in athletics at her alma
to walk in new situations and build strong, effective
Cage-Bibbs
mater, Grambling State
programs.
University in Grambling, La.,
“I’m here at A&T to build
from 1983 to 1997, where she
and manage a program for
was head softball coach, assis-
young women to bring results
tant women’s basketball coach,
for our team and to develop
head women’s basketball
our players. I feel good about
coach and assistant athletic
coming to Greensboro and (I
director/senior women’s
am) energized about the new
administrator. She was the first
program.”
NCAA women’s basketball
The coach received her
coach to go undefeated in the
undergraduate degree in
SWAC regular season in 1997
health and physical education
and she was SWAC Coach of
and a master’s degree in
the Year for seven seasons. She
sports administration from
was the first basketball coach
Grambling State University.
at Grambling (men’s or
She did an internship at
women’s) to take the team to
Michigan State University and
the NCAA Division I post-
other graduate work at
season tournament.
Louisiana Tech University. She
The standout has
is a member of the MEAC
received the NAFEO
Basketball Tournament
Distinguished Alumni Award
Committee,Women’s
and Black College Sports Information Directors Association
Basketball Coaches Association, Black Coaches Association, and
Coach of the Year Award. During her stint as a high school
NCAA Council (1987).
coach, Cage-Bibbs was Louisiana High School Coach of the
A life member of Grambling State University’s National
Year, Louisiana Sportswriters Association Coach of the Year, and
Alumni Association, Cage-Bibbs is affiliated with Zeta Phi Beta
All-Lincoln Parish Coach of the Year several times while work-
Sorority and St. Rest Baptist Church (Choudrant, La.).
ing in Louisiana high schools.
14 A&T TODAY • SPRING 2005
SPRING • A&T TODAY SPRING 20052005 • A&T TODAY 15 15
EVERY DAY WHEN OLENDA E. JOHNSON ENTERS HER CLASSROOM, TEACHING AND LEARNING BEGIN AFRESH. She believes that her students’ learning
siblings born to Olen (she is his namesake)
surprised by his daughter’s latest achieve-
experiences should be like dew is to earth
and Thelma Johnson has been teaching and
ments. As a matter of fact, both parents
and sleep is to eyelids.
leading all her life.
believe that the energy, leadership,
This year, Johnson’s cutting edge style
According to her mother, when she
organizational skills and compassion for
of teaching and rapport with her students
played school with her siblings and other
others that she exhibited as a child are the
and peers earned her the Outstanding
children, she was always the teacher.
characteristics that make her an excellent
Teacher Award in the school of business and
“Learning came easy to her and
teacher.
economics. Added to that milestone is the
because it came so easy, it was always just
state’s 2005 UNC Board of Governors
something that she loved to do. It was
growing up in Cheyenne, Wyo., where he
Excellence in Teaching Award.
natural for her, even as a little child,” her
retired from the military, Johnson was
mother said.
always challenged by something. She was
Established in 1994, the Excellence in Teaching Award is given annually to
Quiester Craig, dean of the N.C. A&T
Her father said that as a young girl
the first African American cheerleader in
emphasize the importance of teaching and
School of Business and Economics, believes
her school, she was on the debate team
to reward good teaching across the UNC
that Johnson represents what the school is
and she played base saxophone in the
system’s 16 campuses. Honorees receive a
supposed to be about. It was no surprise to
orchestra.
commemorative bronze medallion and a
him when it was announced that Johnson
$7,500 cash prize.
had been chosen for the state’s award.
“As a student, she always wanted to excel and often fell asleep at night with a book in her hand,” her father said. Johnson’s mother often told her that all work and no play was not good for the mind, but she wasn’t interested in anything but learning and trying to
y i e n b g o
further her education. Teaching is Johnson’s passion and she takes pride in it. “I am called to teach,” she said.
the call
“It’s what I do!” Edna Ragins, interim chairperson for business administration, agrees with
Business school’s Olenda E. Johnson receives North Carolina’s top teaching award.
Johnson’s proclamation. “Teaching is her calling and she does an excellent job,” Ragins said. “She is just a caring person. In addition to that, she Olenda E. Johnson is never too busy to discuss projects with students. Johnson is
has the expertise that is needed to teach
one of the state’s 2005 UNC Board of Governors Excellence in Teaching Award recipients.
in her field. “She absolutely loves it and the
By Darlene F. East ’04 Johnson began her teaching career
students know it,” she continued. “When
know that I was surprised because of my
students talk about Dr. Johnson, their eyes
torate in organizational behavior from the
knowledge of just how seriously she takes
just light up and they are filled with grati-
University of Pittsburgh’s Katz Graduate
teaching, how seriously she engages in
tude for experiencing what she does in
School of Business. She has a B.S. and an
preparation for her students and how
the classroom.”
M.B.A. in business administration from
enthusiastic she is about teaching. She is
Florida A&M University.
just dedicated to what she does and that
major, and Darlene Mason, a senior
shows up in the results of her kids.”
business education major with a minor in
Teaching however, is not new to Johnson. The next to the youngest of six
16 A&T TODAY • SPRING 2005
“I was pleased,” Craig said. “I don’t
with A&T in 1996 after receiving her doc-
Like Craig, Johnson’s father was not
Marquez Keller, a junior marketing
marketing, echo Ragins’ comments.
SPRING 2005 • A&T TODAY 17
“In our management concepts class,
In order not to shortchange her
“You don’t want to be called out
The Wall Street Journal.
Raised in a Christian home, Johnson
same day) indicating that he was going to
she applies her personal experience from the
students, Johnson uses a variety of teach-
every day by apologizing to the class for
business world,” said Keller. “She can actu-
ing techniques to ensure that learning
being late,” said Jason Jones, a senior busi-
students’ comprehension, but she evaluates
ally take a concept and apply it to what she
always takes place in her classroom.
ness management major who had a
her own success as well. She uses the feed-
Because she walks by faith, being cho-
has been through. It gives us better insight
A strong advocate of active learning, her
propensity for being late.
back from the quantitative assessment and
sen as the first African American female to
scenario is that Craig and Johnson had
into the concept that she is trying to
students are involved in activities that
written responses on student evaluations at
teach at the U.S. Army War College in
never met, she had not applied to A&T,
express.”
develop their critical thinking skills.
mendation for his favorite teacher, believes
the end of each semester to measure her
2002, the teaching awards for 2005 and
nor had he seen her vita. It turned out
Mason agreed by saying, “She is
Jones, who wrote a letter of recom-
Not only does Johnson measure her
is quick to acknowledge that she lives by
do everything in his power to get me to
faith and not by sight.
A&T,” said Johnson. What is most unusual about this
Recently, she incorporated the Adult
that she is responsible for changing his atti-
effectiveness in the classroom and to
being named three times in Who’s Who
that Craig was a very good friend of
hyped; her energy level is way above other
Learning Model in her instruction.
tude about life. He started A&T in 1999,
improve the learning environment.
Among America’s Teachers by her students
Johnson’s mentor, Melvin Stith, formerly
professors and teachers. You know that you
Students drive the learning process in this
dropped out and returned in 2003. It was in
is seen as God’s way of acknowledging that
the dean of the business school at Florida
are not going to fall asleep in her class.
model, learning from one another.
her class where he made up his mind what
me that the things they learned at A&T
she is using her gift according to his plan
State and presently dean at Syracuse
he wanted for the future.
have helped them, I feel I have done a good
and purpose for her life.
University. Stith mentioned Johnson’s
You know that you are going to get some-
Senior recreational administration
thing challenging and rewarding each
major Derrick Johnson praises Johnson’s
and every day.”
teaching methods.
Humor, encouragement and personal development (e.g., dining etiquette, e-mail
“When students come back and tell
job,” says Johnson.
While she is both honored and hum-
For Johnson, teaching doesn’t stop in
bled by these awards, they are not goals
After graduating from FAMU, Johnson
“She makes us feel welcome and very
had a short but successful career at Eastman Kodak in Rochester, N.Y. During that time, the passion for teaching remained alive.
provide input to the discussions,” he said.
She found time to teach and mentor stu-
“By the time you leave Dr. Johnson’s class,
laugh, even if it is at the expense of my
dents from the community, and every year
you will definitely know what to expect in
corny sense of humor. Laughter puts stu-
she returned to her alma mater as a speaker.
the business world!”
dents at ease, thereby creating an open learning atmosphere.”
one of 28 African Americans across the
men or by her own plan, but her obedi-
country to receive a Ph.D. in business
ence to the moving of God’s hand.
“I would return to work invigorated,”
etiquette and speaking etiquette) play
the classroom. She serves as faculty advisor
that she has written on a wall to achieve
much a part of the curriculum in her class-
important roles in Johnson’s curriculum
to the national Management Doctoral
at certain periods in her life.
room. She is very open and wants us to
as well.
Association, which is designed to increase
Classes are conducted in a business
“I love to see and hear my ‘kids’
name to Craig and she ended up at A&T. As a teacher, Johnson instructs her students to think ahead. “I teach them to think of their
Recruited by FAMU, Northwestern
possibilities, think of their goals and what
the number of people of color who receive
and several other Ivy League schools after
it is they want to be when they grow up,”
Ph.D. recruitment in business.
receiving her Ph.D., Johnson recognizes
she said. “Yet, I have no plans or goals in
“When I graduated from the
that doing what she loves best at A&T is
place for my own life and it is the antithe-
University of Pittsburgh in 1996, I was
not by mere chance, the overt doings of
sis of what I teach my students,” she said. When Johnson said, “I don’t know
Johnson said, “and I realized that it was
setting and professional norms are outlined
teaching and college life that I loved.”
in her syllabi. For example, there is no
stand the course material, exams are
out of 1,200 awarded,” Johnson said.
It was at this point that she decided to leave
chewing gum in her classroom, proper
designed to assess comprehension and
Since then, she has watched those num-
asking for God’s will regarding where to
had an epiphany of Oswald Chambers’
Eastman Kodak to pursue her first love,
grammar is a must, and Johnson is a stick-
application. Class discussions are often
bers grow and finds it to be a wonderful
begin my academic career, I received a
classic devotional, “My Utmost for His
teaching.
ler regarding punctuality.
centered on articles from USA Today and
experience.
telephone call from Dean Craig (that
Highest.”
To determine if her students under-
what God has in store for me, I just look
“While at Pitt, after praying and
forward to whatever it is,” it seemed she
Professors Receive Honors for Outstanding Work In addition to Olenda E. Johnson, six additional A&T faculty members were recognized this year for their outstanding teaching skills at the annual Honors Day Convocation that was held March 17 in Corbett Sports Center.
18 A&T TODAY • SPRING 2005
Ronnie S. Bailey
DeWayne R. Brown
Linda F. Callahan
Edward B. Fort
Lorna H. Harris
Abolghasem Shahbazi
Associate Professor
Associate Professor
Associate Professor
Professor and Chancellor Emeritus
Professor
Associate Professor
College of Engineering
School of Technology
College of Arts and Sciences
School of Education
School of Nursing
School of Agriculture and Environmental Sciences SPRING 2005 • A&T TODAY 19
What They Say about Tommy … Quotes from Tommy Ellis’ Team
T
ommy is big on most university
and waves and wanders around the main
“I have worked with Tommy Ellis for
campuses, for Tommy Hilfiger is a hot
campus in his stylish sweaters, slacks and
over 18 years. … he saw potential when
shoes. Far from pushy, Ellis is a behind-the-
he hired me. I thank Tommy for that
scenes leader who empowers his team and
opportunity.” — Deborah Harris,
silently affects A&T in a profound way.
accounts payable supervisor
brand among college students. Tommy is big in Aggieland, for Willie “Tommy” Ellis Jr. is the top money man at North Carolina Agricultural and Technical State University.
experienced and versatile financial executive
“Tommy is a team player who is always
with talents in organizing, motivating and
looking for positive solutions. He has
finance, Ellis keeps A&T in the black.
leading innovative teams of employees in
contributed to the successful university
He is responsible for the university’s fiscal
collaborative yet entrepreneurial focused
construction program over the past five
operations including accounting, auxiliary
financial and strategic initiatives.
As vice chancellor for business and
services, budgeting, financial reporting,
about himself. Instead, he commends the professionalism of his team while staying
“Vice Chancellor Ellis is a very progressive
has played a significant role in implementing
attentive to a stream of instant messages and
and supportive leader. He allows his
new management strategies, upgrading
incoming email. Wired with an ear-piece, he
managers to ‘step through’ problems that
technology, ongoing renovations, and new
responds to an urgent call, answers questions
are within their area of responsibility.
construction, especially during the Renick
and deals with his constant companion —
When we are faced with issues that are
era. Hundreds of unsung heroes within this
a Blackberry — during the course of the
more global in nature, he employs the
division have loyally offered their service to
interview.
team approach and plays a significant role
“I love gadgets and technology,” Ellis
in the resolution process.”
to strengthen the fiscal and physical aspects
admitted. “Thanks to this Blackberry, I can
— Lavonne Matthews, director of
of the university.
move across campus and beyond and stay
contracts and grants
up-to-date with what’s going on. Technology
physical plant, Ellis’ team has served the
helps us work smart and keeps us ahead of
“Tommy Ellis is an effective communicator,
community-at-large by sponsoring fund
the curve.”
planner, delegator, sounding board, and
raisers to benefit the disadvantaged; they
By Mable Springfield Scott ’99MS
years.” — Andrew M. Perkins, assistant vice chancellor for facilities
The division of business and finance
Aside from clean audits and a safe
Business
Face-to-face, Ellis is hesitant to talk
purchasing, personnel, and campus safety.
provide leadership, training and assistance
TAKING CARE OF
According to his resume, Ellis is an
Ellis also remains well connected to
educator. Working with, listening to and
have adopted families; provided food,
his family. During rigid timelines and
observing him for more than 15 years has
toys and clothing, and assisted with academic
stringent deadlines balancing the books,
convinced me that he keeps one eye on the
scholarships.
Ellis is constantly reminded of home in his
future to plan, one eye on the past as a bal-
“We provide support and service,”
home away from home. He has decorated
ance, and two hands busy in the interim
Ellis said. “We are probably the most diverse
his office in Dowdy Administration Building
making sure that things happen within
group of departments within the university
with colorful, large photographs of his family
Business and Finance.” — Vanessa
setting, but we come together to do what’s
that he personally shot.
Lawson, special assistant to the vice
best for our students.
He smiles as he warmly talks about
chancellor for business and finance
“You will find somebody from our
his wife Yvonne, his children Wesley ’05,
division working 24 hours a day, seven days
Brittany (a student at A&T) and Corbin
“Mr. Ellis strives to increase the effectiveness
a week, to maintain the fiscal management
(a high school student), and his parents
and efficiency of his staff by getting involved
and physical plant of the university,” Ellis
Alice Jean and Willie T. Sr. Ellis shares a
in issues that affect them, and by making
explained. “We’re everywhere, taking care
story about his relaxing weekend working
sure these issues are resolved in a positive
of business.”
on his lawn, but he tries to avoid talking
manner.” — Helen Buck, CPA, interim
about himself and smiles when he is asked
director of accounting
And that’s why you may find Ellis indifferent parts of the campus communicating with colleagues regarding projects. He checks
about his years growing up in Greensboro. Some of A&T’s human resources staff SPRING 2005 • A&T TODAY 21
remember Ellis as a youth. Kathryn
When Hart had the privilege of
Webb-Evans has known Ellis since their
working with youth baseball, he saw Tommy
teenage years at Aycock Junior High and
display excellent sportsmanship on a rival
Page High School.
team.
“When I think of Tommy Ellis
“Tommy happened to come along
What They Say about Tommy … Quotes from Tommy Ellis’ Team “I’ve learned many leadership qualities just
back in the day, I think of cars,” Webb
during an era of exceptional athleticism in
by observing Tommy Ellis interact with his
said. “But the thing I most appreciate is
the Tarboro community where the extended
counterparts and direct reports. It seems that
how he still has that happy-go-lucky
family and mentors like his father helped
he has an innate ability to diffuse situations
personality.”
shape our destiny.”
and has a keen sense or ‘gut’ — as he refers
Glenn Hart remembers Ellis even further back than Webb. “Before the Ellis family moved to Greensboro, I was their newspaper route carrier in Tarboro, N.C.,” Hart recalls.
The Ellis family eventually moved to
to it — for detecting trouble in the camp. I
Greensboro where Dr. Ellis became A&T’s
admire him most for his ability to lead firmly
assistant vice chancellor for academic affairs.
without firmly leading. He allows us flexibility
He retired in June of 1989.
in leading our departments, and that promotes
“An apple doesn’t fall too far from
creativity.” — Kim Sowell, treasurer
“Tommy’s father, Dr. Willie T. Ellis Sr.,
the tree,” Hart said. “Dr. Ellis gave many
was quite a role model and Tommy was
years of valuable service to A&T and so
“Mr. Ellis’ leadership does so much to guide
quite an athlete in baseball and basketball.”
has his son.”
and teach us in an unequivocal way that is genuine in promoting the overall growth
Willie T. “Tommy” Ellis Jr. EXPERIENCE North Carolina A&T State University — Vice Chancellor for Business and Finance • University Budget Director • University Treasurer • Supervisor of General Accounting Coopers and Lybrand, Charlotte, N.C. — Auditor
and development of the division.” — Angela A. Peterson, director of auxiliary services
“A leader with high standards and
SHOW YOUR
AGGIE PRIDE EVERYWHERE YOU GO
unquestionable integrity are the words to describe Vice Chancellor Willie T. Ellis Jr.” — Richetta Graves Slade, deputy
North Carolina A&T State University — Research Analyst
chief of public safety
EDUCATION M.B.A., General Management with an emphasis in Strategic Planning — Wake Forest University, Winston-Salem, N.C. • Traveled to Japan to study managerial practices
“Tommy has strong leadership abilities.
B.S., Accounting — North Carolina A&T State University, Greensboro, N.C.
people together and got them to work
B.S., Business Administration — North Carolina A&T State University, Greensboro, N.C.
together as a team with a common goal.”
He has pulled a very diverse group of
— Ted A. Little, CPM, director of
PROFESSIONAL & COMMUNITY AFFILIATIONS
Let your ride display your Aggie Pride with an official State of North Carolina license plate bearing the North Carolina A&T mascot. The plate is available through the North Carolina
purchasing
Division of Motor Vehicles at a cost
• 2004 N.C. A&T State University Paul Robeson Susan B. Dudley Award • 2004 N.C. A&T State University Staff Senate Support and Assistance Award • Member, Phi Kappa Phi Honor Society • 2003 Nissan-ETS Fellow • 2003 Thurgood Marshall Leadership Award-Outstanding Achievements as a Chief Financial Officer • Management Development Program, Harvard University • Past Board Member, Triad Sickle Cell Anemia Foundation • Past Financial Advisor, Piedmont Center for Advanced Manufacturing • Member, National Association of College and University Business Officers • Member, University of North Carolina Budget Officers Roundtable • Graduate, Greensboro Education and Development Council Leadership Program • Volunteer, Cub Scouts Troop #441, St. Matthews Methodist Church • Volunteer, Cub Scouts Troop #402, St. James Presbyterian Church
of $25 each year plus the standard renewal fee. You now can order your A&T license plate online. Visit www.ncat.edu and click Alumni, or visit www.onlinedmv.com. For more details, call the N.C. A&T Office of Alumni Affairs at (336) 334-7583.
Tommy Ellis 22 A&T TODAY • SPRING 2005
SPRING 2005 • A&T TODAY 23
RESEARCH SENSORY ANALYTICS, A&T COLLABORATE
RESEARCHERS NAMED DISTINQUISHED UNIVERSITY PROFESSORS elestine Ntuen and Jagannathan
honored to represent an institution aspir-
of his research funding, which has been at
Advanced Materials and Smart Structures
Sensory Analytics, LLC, a Greensboro-based provider of coating
“Jag” Sankar, two engineering pro-
ing greatness,” said Ntuen. His counterpart
a high level since he joined A&T in 1994,
(CAMSS) and director of NSF/CREST and
thickness and color measurement solutions used in manufacturing,
fessors, were presented the North Carolina
Sankar said, “Recognition for your work is
and his research program is a cornerstone
DoD/Center for Nanoscience and
and North Carolina A&T State University have announced the estab-
A&T State University Distinguished
a good stepping stone for accomplishing
on which the human factors engineering
Nanomaterials. He has been a leading
lishment of an agreement to cooperatively seek and perform on new
University Professor Award at the April
even more on behalf of your fellow
graduate program at A&T is built. In the
researcher in the field of advanced ceramics,
government development programs for defense, aerospace and
board of trustees meeting.
beings.”
last 18 years, Ntuen has conducted
composites, electronic ceramic lenses, sensors
advanced manufacturing applications.
research in excess of $11.7 million at
and smart structures for the past two decades.
C
The professorships are recommended
Ntuen is an internationally recog-
to Chancellor James C. Renick by a com-
nized expert in human-machine systems
mittee of their peers as well as the provost
engineering. This is evidenced in his more
and board of trustees.
than 250 publications and presentations.
“The Distinguished University
A&T.
A&T received distinction when Sankar
Under the terms of the announced agreement, Sensory Analytics and N.C. A&T will jointly propose and perform selected government
recognized the strategic importance of develop-
and commercial contracts focused on the areas of film and coating
accepted by a wide variety of journals not
ing a high profile advanced materials research
thickness measurement and defect detection technologies. In addition,
Ntuen introduced education and research
only in both human factors engineering
and education program at A&T. He has
Sensory Analytics will utilize the advanced testing and qualification
Professor Award is the highest honor for
programs in human factors and ergonomics
and general engineering journals. In the
achieved national and international recogni-
capabilities of A&T for selected new product offerings from its
an A&T faculty member,” Renick said. “It
to the industrial engineering curriculum,
area of human-machine systems engineer-
tion with over 340 publications to his credit in
expanding product suite.
is a wonderful honor for them because we
which subsequently has made A&T the
ing, Ntuen has worked with and coordi-
international journals and conferences, and he
are able to recognize and recruit the very
largest — if not the only — producer of
nated diverse teams of researchers from
has graduated 24 M.S. and M.E. students and
of coating measurement and various detection products for the aero-
seven Ph.D.s.
space, manufacturing, defense and homeland security markets,” stated
Notably, Ntuen’s research has been
best. Ntuen and Sankar represent the
Sankar has developed a team of
best!”
“We are pleased to join forces with A&T on the development
Sensory Analytics CEO Greg Frisby. “With their enviable track record
researchers and staff along with several external
of successful research work for government applications, we look
Professor is conferred by the chancellor to
scientists from industries and universities both
forward to a rapid expansion of our efforts.”
select members of the A&T faculty in
in the U.S. and abroad. His research has sup-
recognition of distinguished
ported eight faculty from mechanical engineer-
space, with strong customer relationships throughout DOD and the
achievements and contribu-
ing; four, electrical engineering; two, chemical
aerospace community. A&T looks forward to working with Sensory to
tions in learning, discov-
engineering; one, computer science; one, agri-
link our research and test facilities and their tremendous commercial
ery and engagement. It
culture; two, physics, and one, mathematics.
and government experience,” added N. Radhakrishnan, vice chancellor
The title University Distinguished
In 2001, Sankar received the “White
is the highest academic honor at A&T reflect-
Ntuen
Sankar
House Millennium (HBCU) Researcher” title.
“Sensory is a fast growing leader in the information technology
for research and economic development at A&T. Headquartered in Greensboro, Sensory Analytics is a leader in the
This February, he received the American
development of optical, RF and related sensory solutions for color and
ance in two of the fol-
THE TITLE DISTINGUISHED UNIVERSITY PROFESSOR IS
Association for the Advancement of Science
thickness measurement and control applications.The company provides
lowing areas: teaching,
CONFERRED IN RECOGNITION OF DISTINGUISHED
2004 AAAS Mentor Award for mentoring 46
its information technology solutions globally to manufacturers that are
mentoring and advising;
ACHIEVEMENTS AND CONTRIBUTIONS IN LEARNING,
Ph.D. students, including 22 from underrepre-
seeking to reduce their manufacturing costs, while also increasing their
research, scholarship, or artistic
DISCOVERY AND ENGAGEMENT.
sented minorities.
production throughput. Sensory Analytics was founded by regional
ing exemplary perform-
The title of Distinguished University
creativity; and extension, university serv-
Professor will be held for the remainder of the
ice or professional practice.
entrepreneurs Frisby, Doug Young and Joseph “Jody” Price in 2004. A&T has developed a suite of technologies for structural health
recipient’s full-time, active service at A&T.
monitoring that uses sound waves to detect and locate cracks in
Distinguished Professors exceed substan-
minorities in the field. The human-
MIT, University of Illinois at Urbana-
Upon retirement, the title Distinguished
airplane frames and other rigid structures.
tially those of faculty at the rank of full
machine systems engineering tract has
Champaign, University of Maryland and
University Professor Emeritus will be conferred
professor, bringing honor, distinction and
become an established discipline within
Georgia Institute of Technology. Within
by the chancellor.
recognition to the university. The quality
the department of industrial and systems
an interdisciplinary team at A&T, he has
The Distinguished University Professors
of the accomplishments is unequivocal
engineering.
coordinated faculty and students from the
Recommendation Committee is composed of
A&T. “Not only does this collaboration have the potential for joint
departments of psychology, computer sci-
faculty who hold the rank of full professor
development of new non-destructive testing equipment and techniques,
bility to A&T through his efforts to organ-
ence, electrical engineering, mechanical
and/or Distinguished University Professor.
but it may also expose new applications for the technology.”
ize and conduct two international sym-
engineering and the School of Education.
Deans advised the provost and the chancellor
The accomplishments of University
and unambiguous, supporting the university’s focus on excellence. “I am humbled to be selected from a group of talented peers and scholars and
In addition, Ntuen has brought visi-
posia. He is recognized for the consistency
Sankar is director of the Center for
on the awarding of this honor.
“Our researchers have developed and patented technology that complements Sensory Analytics’ non-destructive testing equipment,” says Doug Speight, director for outreach and technology transfer at
For more information on Sensory Analytics and its information technology solutions, please visit www.sensoryanalytics.com. For further information on A&T, visit www.ncat.edu.
24 A&T TODAY • SPRING 2005
SPRING 2005 • A&T TODAY 25
PEOPLE BEHIND the SCHOLARSHIPS Lillie M. Robbins ’66
AND THERE WERE PEOPLE WHO MADE SACRIFICES FOR ME TO ATTEND SCHOOL AT THAT TIME AND OF COURSE I THANKED THEM, BUT YOU WANT TO GIVE BACK SOMETHING TANGIBLE THAT JUST MIGHT HELP SOMEONE ELSE. — LILLIE M. ROBBINS ’66
WHY I ESTABLISHED AN ENDOWED SCHOLARSHIP AT A&T
F
or Lillie M. Robbins, endowing
A&T,” Robbins says of her
in sociology from Atlanta
a scholarship at N.C. A&T is
decision to fund the schol-
University. In 1969, she
part of the many acts of community
arship. “I wanted to do
joined what is now the
service she performs each year,
something before it became
Atlanta office of the U.S.
mostly in Atlanta, Ga., where she
a memorial scholarship so
Department of Education
has resided for 30 years.
maybe I could even meet
For nearly 25 years she has given $1,000 scholarships to young members of her Georgia church who
Office for Civil Rights,
and communicate with the kids
where she worked as an investigator
who will benefit from it.”
and team supervisor until her retire-
Raised on a tobacco farm about
ment in 2002.
opt to study at A&T. In addition to
10 miles outside of Greenville, N.C.,
her church scholarship, she always
Robbins, the youngest of 15 children,
she worked as a residence hall advi-
wanted to establish a scholarship
learned the value of education at an
sor, president of the Baptist Student
fund at her alma mater.
early age.
Union and a member of a service
Beginning this fall, students
For high school valedictorian
Since her days at A&T when
society, Robbins has always enjoyed
will receive money from the
Robbins, it wasn’t really a matter of
serving her community. Today, she is
Lillie M. Robbins Endowed
if she would attend college or where
a tireless member of Cascade United
Scholarship. In 2004, Robbins
she would attend college. Everyone
Methodist Church and a ground
created the scholarship with an
she admired — family members and
breaking member of the Kiwanis
governor of the Georgia district and, finally,
and to have new experiences. I’ve seen parts
outright gift of $25,000, which
teachers — studied at A&T.
Club, serving as the first female pres-
the first African American to serve as gover-
of the world I read about in geography books
ident of her club, the first female
nor of Kiwanis International.
growing up.
was matched through Title III. “I wanted to leave the scholar-
Robbins graduated from A&T
Lillie M. Robbins ’66 presents a $25,000 check to A&T Chancellor James C. Renick during Homecoming 2004.
“When I look back at how far I’ve
Students from Pitt County (N.C.)
in 1966 armed with a degree in
lieutenant governor for the Georgia
ship as a lasting legacy in terms of
sociology. She moved to Atlanta and
district of Kiwanis and the first
come, it’s amazing to me. My education
and Atlanta are eligible for the Lillie M.
my service to my community and to
eventually earned a master’s degree
African American female to serve as
allowed me a job that allowed me to travel
Robbins Endowed Scholarship.
GUIDELINE TO ESTABLISH AN ENDOWED SCHOLARSHIP AT NORTH CAROLINA A&T STATE UNIVERSITY An endowed scholarship strengthens the long-
Typically, annual awards equal no more than
term financial underpinnings of North Carolina
5 percent of the principal balance (depending on
A&T State University. Endowed Scholarships provide a
investment performance).Thus, a $25,000 scholarship
base of support for generations of students in perpetuity.
would pay out $1,250 (5%) each year in the form
An endowment is a permanent fund, often named in
of a scholarship. Annual earnings above the payout
AMOUNTS REQUIRED Endowed Scholarship (minimum)
$25,000
Fully Endowed Scholarship North Carolina or Washington, DC Student
$200,000
Fully Endowed Scholarship Out of State Student
$400,000
A donor (or donors) may suggest a designation and associated criteria for an endowed scholarship. For example, the John Doe Endowed Scholarship Fund may be designated
The minimum amount to establish an endowed scholarship
for a student in the College of Engineering who demonstrates financial need and who is from North Carolina (or a specific county or region of North Carolina).
honor of an individual, created for the purpose of leaving a
amount are reinvested in the principal of the scholarship
legacy to current and future Aggie students.The principal, or
fund.This builds the principal of the endowment
is $25,000 and may be donated over a period of up to five years
corpus, of an endowment fund is never spent. Only annual
fund over time, allowing for larger scholarship awards
($5,000 gifts annually for five years). One year after the principal
(pledge statement) and document the desired scholarship
earnings, or a portion of annual earnings, are awarded for
in future years.
reaches $25,000, the first scholarship award may be made. (One
designation and criteria.
scholarships. In this way an endowed scholarship provides annual income to be awarded to deserving students forever.
26 A&T TODAY • SPRING 2005
Historical evidence proves tuition typically increases!
A scholarship donor(s) is required to sign a Deed of Gift
year is needed after the minimum is reached to earn interest.)
Reinvestment also serves as a hedge against inflation. SPRING 2005 • A&T TODAY 27
ALUMNIALUMNI NEWS PROFILE GLOBAL WARMING
By Nettie Collins Rowland ’72/’95MS
Studying abroad is rapidly becoming part of the curriculum at North Carolina A&T State University. This academic year, nearly 30 A&T students are exploring, discovering and becoming knowledgeable of the language, culture, religion and trends of other countries. While matriculating in such places as Mexico, Australia, South Africa, Russia and Japan, these students are experiencing firsthand what they have read in their textbooks.
mitri L. Stockton, chief executive officer for Central and Eastern Europe-GE Consumer Finance in Switzerland, wasn’t afforded any global opportunities when he attended A&T in the 1980’s. Growing up on a farm in the small town of Stoneville, N.C., he never envisioned living or working outside the United States. However, Stockton never doubted that he would obtain a college education. This was a mandate given to him by his mother at an early age. “My mother (Peggy Watkins) had a tremendous impact on my life,” the 1986 accounting graduate said. “My parents divorced when I was seven, and I think success for her was making sure that I did something with my life. One of her minimum requirements was that I would get a college degree.” Upon entering A&T, Stockton, like most students, was apprehensive about his pathway to success. But early on he met two business gurus who immediately took him under their wings, Quiester Craig, dean of the school of business and economics, and Mark Kiel, former chair of the accounting department. The astute Stockton was wise enough to realize that if he adhered to their advice and took advantage of the internships and other opportunities the business school offered, he would achieve anything he set out to do.
D
28 A&T TODAY • SPRING 2005
“A&T created an environment where I could network and interface with such people as Dennis Dammerman, vice chairman of GE,” Stockton said. “The personal interactions — just the experience laid out before me — the rigor and the exposure to corporations in the business school was great.” The National Association of Black Accountants’ 2004 CEO of the Year may have had some doubts when he first came to the university, but when he departed he knew that he was capable of excelling. “When I came out of A&T there was no question that I was going to succeed,” he said. “A&T has a unique way of building self-confidence in people and giving them the confidence that they can achieve anything they want; it is up to them. I am eternally grateful for the time I spent there. If I hadn’t matriculated (at A&T) things probably would have turned out differently.” The bond that Stockton developed with Craig and Kiel still remains. He routinely has discussions with them. “They are like an extension of my family,” he said. Kiel believes that Dmitri is successful as a professional for the same reasons that he achieved as a student. “He has always been highly focused and has always possessed a strong desire to learn and to excel,” Kiel explained. “More importantly he recognizes that learning and excelling require a willingness to compete.”
After graduating from A&T, Stockton joined Arthur Andersen & Company as an external auditor. He discovered that the accounting profession wasn’t for him, and that he wanted to work in the corporate finance field. In 1987, Stockton began his career with General Electric in the prestigious Financial Management Program and later joined the GE Capital audit staff. During his audit at GE Commercial Real Estate he joined the team in 1991 as a project manager; he was later promoted to managing director in 1994. Stockton continued to climb the ladder at GE, becoming the chief risk officer of GE Mortgage Corporation in 1997, senior vice president for marketing and business development at GE Mortgage Insurance in 1999, and senior vice president for New Growth Initiatives in 2001. He went on to serve as chief executive officer at GE Capital Bank in Switzerland where he grew revenues from $262 to $475 million over a three-year period. In January 2005, he assumed his current position at the largest banking platform for GE Consumer Finance in Europe, which has approximately $8 billion in assets and over $1 billion in revenues. Stockton oversees approximately 8,000 people in countries that include Russia, Poland, Hungary, Czech and Slovakia. He is charged with expanding retail banking for this business and entering other markets such as Turkey, Bulgaria, Romania and Ukraine. When it comes to hiring his employees, Stockton is quick to tell you that he
Dmitri L. Stockton ’86 and daughter Sydney
employs the best. “I hire people who are smarter than I am. I won’t compromise on that. You are only as good as the people you have around you.” This is an attribute that Kiel has admired about the CEO over the years. “Stockton has a desire to achieve at a high level and his motivation to have others with whom he is associated have an equal measure of success,” he said. Change is something that Stockton embraces, so living in Switzerland — where the people speak four languages (English, French, Italian and German) — is a positive for him. He has adapted to this environment and sees it as an opportunity to broaden as a leader, living with the approach of learning something new each day. The 41-year-old believes that to live in a foreign country you must be open in how you view the world and you must be
willing to immerse yourself in the culture. That’s exactly what he is doing. Of course, he has had to make adjustments in Switzerland, such as getting use to the stores closing at five, banks closing at lunchtime and dry cleaners closing on weekends. He misses attending professional basketball and hockey games; nevertheless, he enjoys bicycling, hiking and skiing. And it helps that his wife Renee, who has put her public accounting career on hold since they moved to Switzerland, fully supports him along with their two daughters, Nicole (12) and Sydney (10). Living more than 4,000 miles away hasn’t stopped him from supporting A&T. “Dmitri continues to demonstrate his commitment through giving to his alma mater,” said Harriet Davis, director of alumni affairs at A&T. “He has made A&T a part of his invest portfolio. ... While he continues to soar professionally,
he never forgets what he learned here, the experiences that he had here and the people here at A&T that aided him in preparation for his life’s experiences.” Dean Craig also speaks highly of Stockton. “Dmitri Stockton is an outstanding family man, a respected leader, a competitive professional, a role model and mentor, and a strong supporter of the school of business and economics and the university. We are extremely proud of his accomplishments.” Stockton realizes the importance of his international experience. “I think about how as a father I have a chance to create global children,” he said. “Children who have global mindsets can go further than I have gone in my lifetime. I look at what the outcome has been for me. It can be at least 10 percent higher for them. I think they can live a phenomenal life.”
SPRING 2005 • A&T TODAY 29
ALUMNI NEWS AGGIES ON THE MOVE
Dupont-Columbia award for excellence in
Lenard D. Moore ’97 of Raleigh, N.C., is
and she is published in Cellular and Molecular
broadcast journalism. Before Orlando, he
the first poet to sweep all three categories in
Biology. Davis, who graduated magna cum
worked in markets including Charlotte,
the annual awards given by the Haiku jour-
laude from A&T with a B.S. degree in chem-
nal The Heron’s Nest. Moore, who earned his
istry, currently holds a post-doctoral position
undergraduate degree from Shaw University
at Howard.
Miami and Cincinnati. Jabbar R. Bennett ’96, research and sci-
and his master’s degree in English and
ence specialist in the Office for Diversity and
African American literature at A&T, was the
LandDesign, an urban
Thelma M. Hauser ’47, social worker/
the U.S. delegation to the event. McKoy is a
strategic investments for Nationwide, the
Community Partnership at Harvard Medical
Reader’s Choice Poet of the Year. In addi-
planning, civil engi-
placement coordinator for the Department of
former presidentially-appointed member of the
$16.8 billion insurer. James and her team
School, recently shared his story in the week-
tion, he received both the reader’s choice
neering and landscape
Veterans Affairs, was named the 2004
African Development Foundation (ADF), the
manage five subsidiaries that generate $650
ly online publication Science’s Next Wave.
and editor’s choice Poem of the Year honor.
architecture company in
District of Columbia Outstanding Older
principal agency of the U.S. government to
million in revenues and employ some 2,100
His article told of his growing up in
He is the author of books including The
Charlotte, N.C., recent-
Worker. She was honored at the annual
support Africa. He also has run his own man-
people, Black Enterprise said. James is also fea-
Winston-Salem, N.C., graduating from the
Open Eye (North Carolina Haiku Society
ly hired Ashlie Hood
Experience Works Prime Time Awards.
agement consulting firm and served in govern-
tured in the “Speaking of People” column of
N.C. School of Science and Math in
Press, 1985), Forever Home (St. Andrews
’00, as a landscape
Hauser has a bachelor’s degree in biological
ment roles including deputy secretary of the
the May 2005 edition of Ebony magazine.
Durham, and then earning a bachelor’s
College Press, 1992) and Desert Storm: A
and social science from A&T and a Master of
North Carolina Department of
degree in biology with a minor in Spanish
Brief History (Los Hombres Press, 1993). His
Charlotte native who earned a bachelor’s
Social Work degree from Howard. She has
Administration and director of the North
Bradford Hayes ’83, Aggie saxophonist,
from A&T and a Ph.D. in biomedical
poetry has appeared in over 30 anthologies.
degree in landscape architecture. She worked
worked with Veterans Affairs since 1957. In
Carolina Human Relations Commission. In
composer, record label owner, bandleader and
sciences from Meharry Medical College.
He is founder and executive director of the
in the Charlotte offices of two other archi-
addition, she has served as the District of
1995, he was elected to the N.C. State Senate.
educator, was in the spotlight in February in
Bennett served as assistant coordinator of
Carolina African American Writers’
tectural firms before joining LandDesign.
Black NJ eMagazine, an online publication.
Meharry’s Health Careers Opportunity
Collective and co-founder of the Washington Street Writers Group.
Columbia’s representative to the White House Conference on Aging, as chair of the
Charles E. Huff Jr. ’69 is owner and
Hayes majored in music education at A&T.
Program before beginning post-doctoral work
D.C. Social Work Board and as an active
president of Charles E. Huff’s International
He credits William Smiley, chairman emeri-
at Harvard, where he conducted research in
member of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority Inc.
Funeral Home and CEO of Star Productions,
tus of the music department and Hayes’ saxo-
basic cell biology and immunology research.
Inc., a concert promoting enterprise. Huff is a
phone teacher, with having a strong influ-
William D. Smith ’65, the new president of
member of several professional organizations
ence on him. Since graduation his career has
Parsons Brinckerhoff Quade & Douglas Inc.
and boards of directors, including St. Francis
included 22 years teaching in the Newark
(PBQ&D), has been named Black Engineer
Hospital, which featured a profile on him in
of the Year for 2005. The honor goes to an innovator who demonstrates a commitment
architect. Hood is a
LandDesign recently promoted Robert
Jillian Heather Davis
Hayes ’01 to project
’99 completed all of the
manager. As project
Sylvester “Sly” Fleming ’96 of Bowie,
requirements for the
manager, Hayes supervis-
Md., has published the book, 30 Days of
Doctor of Philosophy
es a team of engineers
Public Schools and 15 years playing with the
Love: A Spiritual Journey. Fleming, an
degree in pharmacology
and deals with client
the fall edition of its magazine, Spirit of St.
African drum legend Babatunde Olatunji,
MBA as well as an author, says the book
from Howard University
needs. He has worked for
Francis.
among others. Hayes plans to record a CD
reconnects with the true meaning of love
on Dec. 16, 2004. Her
LandDesign for three and a half years and
to engineering expertise and leadership and
William A. Dudley Sr.
this spring and do some touring. For more
in a time when drugs, sex and violence are
major field of research is
as an intern while in school.
serves as a role model who can excite and
’72 is the 2005 recipient
information, visit www.bradfordhayes.com.
taking center stage in society. The book is
cancer pharmacology. Davis was the recipient
inspire young people to reach their potential.
of North Carolina’s John
available online through websites including
of numerous honors and awards while
The award winner must also carry substantial
R. Larkins Award, which
Holla If You Hear Me...No More Blind Dates,
amazon.com, Heaven1580am.com,
attending Howard. She presented her
financial and management responsibility and
recognizes state employees
Please!, a book by Shawne A.White ’92,
barnandnobles.com, and xulonpress.com.
research in Hawaii and in many U.S. cities,
be an innovator in his or her field. PBQ&D
for dedication to human
has been released. This first-person account
is the oldest and largest of the companies
rights. Dudley received
of a young woman’s blind dating search for
comprising Parsons Brinckerhoff (PB). As
the award during the
“the One” entertains and shares lessons
president, Smith oversees 3,000 employees
annual state Martin Luther King Day pro-
learned along the way. Vicariously tag along
working on 1,700 infrastructure planning and
gram. Other Aggie recipients are Lloyd E.
with White as her blind date blunders and
design projects, including transit and rail sys-
Inman Jr. ’74 (2002) and Nelli Feaster
occasional successes unfold in oftentimes
tems, highways, bridges, tunnels, airports,
Riley ’66 (2003).
ports, and water resources facilities in the United States and Canada.
Donna A. James ’79, featured on the
IN MEMORIAM Alumni
Others
humorous therapeutic observation and
William E. Banks ’72 MEd, Jan. 27
Evelyn Sterling Bennett, former English instructor, April 15
commentary. White currently lives and dates
Allan Boyd Carlson, March 23
Reginald W. Brinkley Jr., student, March 26
in Knightdale, N.C.
Evelyn Sterling Bennett, April 15
Camilla Allen Graham, retiree, Feb. 10
February 2005 cover of Black Enterprise as one
Jerry L. Chandler ’89, April 3
Doris Levon Graham Hunter, registrar, Jan. 23
Henry E. McKoy ’68,
of the “75 Most Powerful Blacks in Corporate
Anzio Williams ’94 is the new news direc-
Ralph McKinley Dowe, Jan. 2005
Theodore Hall Patrick, retired professor, Feb. 11
regional director of Africa
America,” has received the Business
tor of WDSU NewsChannel 6, the Hearst-
William H. Edwards ’56, Jan. 23
for the Peace Corps, trav-
Achievement Award from Beta Gamma
Argyle owned NBC affiliate serving the
William Franklin, April 2
eled to Mozambique in
Sigma after being nominated by the A&T
New Orleans area. Williams previously
Mark A. Hord, April 4
February for the presi-
chapter. Quiester Craig, dean of business and
served as assistant news director at WESH in
Annie Ruth Ingram, April 3
dent’s inaugural ceremony
economics at A&T, presented the award. An
Orlando, Fla., where he and the news team
William A.Thomas Jr. ’66, Jan. 16
after being asked to head
accounting graduate, James is president of
received the Peabody Award and the
30 A&T TODAY • SPRING 2005
SPRING 2005 • A&T TODAY 31
MIXEDBAG IT’S A FLAT WORLD, AFTER ALL he text-in-community series at North Carolina A&T is an excellent forum for academic discussions across the disciplines. It’s been nearly two years since the university put this interdisciplinary series in motion. Last year students and faculty were required to read and discuss W.E.B. Du Bois’ The Souls of Black Folk and this year’s pick was Ralph Ellison’s Invisible Man. Some revealing discussions and attitudes were born as a result of these required readings. The academic community actually communicated across disciplines ... there was a common thread. Another winning text has been selected for academic year 2005-2006. Pulitzer Prize author Thomas L. Friedman’s The World Is Flat: A Brief History of the Twenty-First Century could not have been “required” at a better time. Friedman sums up in 13 chapters societal changes that have left many people dazed, confused and a little annoyed. Like its two predecessors, the coming year’s text has an intriguing title. And the ensuing pages are not disappointing. The World Is Flat is an easy, captivating read that is filled with aha moments. Friedman explores trends that have caused the world to flatten (becoming smaller and more connected in recent years), beginning with the fall of the Berlin Wall in the late 1980s and the evolution of
T
By S. Marie Brown
personal computers and the Internet in the early 1990s. As you might guess, politics, technology, economics and globalization greatly influenced this phenomenon. The author’s anecdotes are cleverly disguised history lessons, and each chapter provides unsuspecting Swingers, Boomers and early GenXers with good, oftentimes familiar examples of when and how the world became flat (again) right under our noses. In the final chapter, Friedman compares the “competing forms of imagination at work in the world today: the creative imagination of 11/9 and the destructive imagination of 9/11.” This chapter corroborates what has become widely known and increasingly feared: “in a flat world so many of the inputs and tools of collaboration are becoming commodities available to everyone.” During Christopher Columbus’ time, the world was thought to be flat because of man’s lack of knowledge and technology. Today, Friedman’s theory is that the opposite has occurred — which raises numerous questions about the way commerce and politics will be conducted in the very near future. I’ll stop here. This is not intended to be a book review; just an invitation to read the book and join the resulting dialogue.
S. Marie Brown works in the University Relations Office at N.C. A&T.
THE GREATEST HOMECOMING ON EARTH save the date
OCTOBER 13-16, 2005 Alumni Concert featuring
Charlie Wilson and The Gap Band
FRIDAY, OCTOBER 14 32 A&T TODAY • SPRING 2005
REMEMBERING THE PAST Doris Levon Graham Hunter A loyal member of the N.C.A&T Alumni Association and a university employee for more than 32 years, Doris Levon Graham Hunter’s death (Jan. 23) was a loss to the entire Aggie Family. Hunter served as registrar for more than a decade. She first joined A&T’s staff in 1973. In addition to dedicated service in her professional work, Hunter was a proud member of Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority Inc. and a community volunteer. Survivors include husband Danny, mother Gertrude W. Graham of Laurinburg, and a host of other relatives. Memorials may be made to: Doris Graham Hunter Scholarship Fund North Carolina A&T State University Foundation 1601 E. Market Street, Greensboro, N.C. 27401
____________________
North Carolina Agricultural and Technical State University 1601 East Market Street Greensboro, NC 27411
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