FaSt track

SPriNg 2007









TODAYNorth CaroliNa agriCultural aNd teChNiCal State uNiverSity









PLUS



UNC Board

of GoverNors

HoNors

On the MarY sMitH





FaSt track

Accelerated teacher education program lets

iN searCH

of a CUre





math and science professionals make a career

change to become licensed teachers

TODAY North Carolina agricultural and technical State university

Spring 2007







DEPARTMENTS ARTICLES

2) inside aggieland 12) Seven receive ‘teacher of the year’ honor



6) Campus Briefs 12) uNC Board of governors honors Smith



10) research 19) Name value

22) on our Side

20) aggie Sports Page 16

26) People Behind

the Scholarships

FEATURE ARTICLES

28) aggies on the Move

14) on the “Fast track”

29) in Memoriam Accelerated teacher education program lets

math and science professionals make a career

32) a Student's Perspective

change to become licensed teachers

33) Mixed Bag

16) Something in Common



North Carolina Agricultural and Technical African Americans and Cubans share historical struggles

State University is a learner-centered

24) Bread and Butter

community that develops and preserves

CIAA Hall of Fame inducts Joe Howell ’60 Page 5

intellectual capital through interdisciplinary

learning, discovery, engagement, and

operational excellence.









explore. discover. become.

Page 14 Page 16 Page 24









editor design executive Cabinet deans Geographical Area I Director, Seat 1 - Board of Directors (BOD) Seat 8 (School of

A&T TODAY

Sandra M. Brown Donna M. Wojek Gibbs Chancellor - Lloyd V. Hackley (Interim) Agriculture and Environmental Sciences - T. Roberson Edwards ’73 Agricultural and Environmental

North Carolina Agricultural and Technical State University

Provost/Vice Chancellor, Academic Affairs - Alton Thompson Geographical Area I Director, Seat 2 - Sciences) - Elvis Graves ’79

Spring 2007 editorial assistants Printing Janice Brewington ’70 (Interim) Arts and Sciences - Michael Plater Eugene Preston ’57 BOD Seat 9 (College of Arts and Sciences) -

A&T TODAY is published quarterly by Nettie Collins Rowland ’72 P.N. Thompson/Henry Wurst, Inc. Vice Chancellor, Business and Finance - Business and Economics - Quiester Craig Geographical Area II Director, Seat 3 - Nita Dewberry

The Division of Development and University Relations Mable Springfield Scott ’99 MS Willie T. “Tommy” Ellis ’77 Education - Lelia Vickers Deloris Chisley ’73 BOD Seat 10 (School of Business and

Board of trustees

North Carolina Agricultural and Technical State University Vice Chancellor, Development and University Engineering - Joseph Monroe ’62 Geographical Area II Director, Seat 4 - Economics) - Jerry Thorne ’75

Contributing Writers John J. “Nick” Becton ’79

1601 East Market Street • Greensboro, N.C. 27411 Relations - Mark Kiel (Interim) Graduate Studies - William J. Craft (Interim) Sam Eady ’65 BOD Seat 11 (School of Education) -

Corey Caldwell Carole Bruce, Vice Chair

Phone: (336) 334-7582 • FAX: (336) 334-7094 Vice Chancellor, Information Technology Library Services - Waltrene Canada ’70 Geographical Area III Director, Seat 5 - Velma Speight-Buford ’53

Darlene F. East ’04 D. Hayes Clement

and Telecommunications/CIO- Nursing - Patricia Price Lea Jim Bridgett ’53 BOD Seat 12 (College of Engineering) -

Postage Paid at greensboro, N.C. Laurie Gengenbach Eunice M. Dudley

Vijay K. Verma (Interim) Students - Judy N. Rashid ’74 Geographical Area IV Director, Seat 6 - Leotis Parrish ’91

Samantha Hargrove Michelle Gethers-Clark

All editorial correspondence should be directed to Sandra M. Brown, Vice Chancellor, Research and Economic Technology - Ernest L. Walker (Interim) Marvin Walton ’91 BOD Seat 13 (School of Nursing) -

Brian M. Holloway ’97 Henry H. Isaacson

University Relations Office, N.C. A&T State University, The Garrett House, Development - Narayanaswamy “Radha” University Studies - Joseph L. Graves Jr. Geographical Area V Director, Seat 7 - Schenita Davis-Randolph

Nettie Collins Rowland ’72 Albert Lineberry Jr.

on the Cover: 400 Nocho Street, Greensboro, N.C. 27411, or smbrown@ncat.edu. Radhakrishnan Ulysses J. Cozart Jr. ’77

Susan Schumacher, Ph.D. Franklin E. McCain Sr. ’64

(Clockwise from top right) Vice Chancellor, Student Affairs - Sullivan A. alumni association Board of directors

Joya Wesley Velma R. Speight-Buford ’53, Chair

Teacher of the year Mary PoStMaSter: Send address changes to Development Operations, Welborne Jr. ’61 (Interim) Executive Director - Gladys Gallop ’76 (Interim)

Michael L. Suggs ’82

Smith, chemistry student North Carolina A&T State University, Dowdy Building, Suite 400, university Photographer Special Assistant to the Chancellor - President - Teresa M. Davis ’89

Steven C. Watson North Carolina Agricultural and Technical State University is a land-grant university that is

Corey Caldwell and Fast Track 1601 East Market Street, Greensboro, N.C. 27411. Charles E. Watkins ’03 George Antonelli First Vice President - Claudette Bennett ’75

Arnita Floyd Moody, ranked by the Carnegie Classification System as “high research activity.” N.C. A&T is an AA/

graduate Terry Corbett Jr. Phone: (336) 334-7600. Special Assistant to the Chancellor - Second Vice President - Chuck Burch ’82

Contributing Photographers Student Representative EEO employer, and it is an ADA compliant institution; thus, facilities are designed to provide

Shirley T. Frye ’53 Treasurer - Gerald Williams ’83

Eric Legrand Joseph A. Williams ’72, Secretary accessibility to individuals with physical disabilities.

Visit us online at www.ncat.edu James Parker Special Assistant to the Chancellor,

Legal Affairs - Camille Kluttz-Leach

Secretary - Carolyn Rinehardt ’64

DeWayne Wickham 40,000 copies of this public document were printed at a cost of $21,248.00 or $0.53 per copy.

INSIDE AGGIELAND

HEAT

North CaroliNa a&t State UNiverSity is now transportation service. Anticipation of the inclusion notified to admit all A&T students with valid

a partner in the Greensboro Transit Authority’s of A&T was a part of the overall program strategy student identification by visual inspection.

Higher Education Area Transit (HEAT) program and that foresight is now returning dividends with Public transportation planners soon will

serving Greensboro and Jamestown. the addition of the school and its 10,000-plus establish the location of an on-campus stop and

In a letter from the university, Chancellor Lloyd students. shelter to be located near Memorial Student Union.

V. Hackley stated that the university has reassessed Said Libby James, public transportation Additionally, A&T will gain an off-campus shuttle

its needs and determined that the expanded manager with the City of Greensboro, “HEAT route similar to UNCG’s 73 that will serve student

transportation service that HEAT provides would be was conceptualized with seven schools taking part housing in the A&T vicinity. The route is planned

beneficial to students, faculty and staff. in providing enhanced transportation options for to start operation by the fall 2007 semester.

With the agreement of the university to students and the general public. It is exciting to have The HEAT service, supported primarily by

immediately become a financially supporting partner, this major institution of higher learning now an federal and state grants, is a partnership between

A&T students can ride any HEAT or official partner in this groundbreaking effort and we GTA, the City of Greensboro and the following

GTA bus on a fare-free basis. look forward to even more students enjoying HEAT.” financially supporting institutions: Bennett College

Although A&T was not a A&T students can access HEAT at any for Women, Elon University School of Law,

financially supporting partner designated HEAT bus stop including the current Greensboro College, Guilford College, Guilford

at the time of launching HEAT A&T locations on East Market Street using their Technical Community College, North Carolina

in August 2006, the university Aggie ONEcard for fare-free access. GTA is working A&T State University and The University of

was heavily involved to program HEAT and GTA bus fare boxes to accept North Carolina at Greensboro. Service information

in the two-year valid Aggie ONEcards. However, during the fare including route maps and schedules can be found on

planning of the box programming process, bus operators have been the web at www.rideheat.com.





NEw MArkETiNg AND MANAgEMENT

CErTifiCATE PrOgrAM

NEr EDiTOrs CONfErENCE

Companies throughout the United States are looking for new

OPTiONAl liCENsurE PrOgrAM Julius L. Chambers, the pioneering civil recruits to replace their sales forces made up of baby boomers

rights attorney and former president of N.C. who will be retiring in the next decade. The School of Business



T he School of Education at North

Carolina A&T State University

has launched an Optional Licensure

teacher and principal now coordinating

the university’s Master of Arts in

Teaching program, are taking the

Most students can complete these

requirements by attending school for

two summer sessions and using some of

Central University, highlighted the 57th

Annual Negro Educational Review (NER)

and Economics at North Carolina Agricultural and Technical

State University is helping to meet this increasing demand for

Board of Editors Conference that N.C. A&T frontline sales professionals with the development of a new

Program designed to help non-education message across campus that students can their electives. State University hosted April 26-28. certificate program targeted to undergraduate students – the

majors increase to their post-graduation make a difference by becoming teachers. In addition to providing a stable Chambers, whose distinguished career Customer Relationship, Marketing and Management Certificate.

options by adding teaching licenses to “In preparing to become a teacher, alternative for future employment, includes service as director-counsel of the NAACP’s Legal Students who complete 18 credit hours in this program,

their degrees. you develop skills that will serve you learning the foundations of education Defense and Education Fund (LDF) in New York, spoke during a including an on-site internship, will be prepared to step into the

The internal recruitment effort well in any job you may ultimately and the basic skills needed to teach also luncheon panel discussion on the theme, “Educating in a Time of exciting world of professional sales.

is part of a larger endeavor by the choose,” Vickers told students during can lead to corporate success. Licensed Cultural Evolution.” A major partner with N.C. A&T in this new program is the

University of North Carolina General the recent Career Development math and science teachers can earn a Founded in 1950, the NER is a scholarly journal devoted to 3M Corporation. The company has supported the development

Administration to meet the state’s Conference sponsored by the Office starting salary of as much as $40,000 a providing “a forum for discussion of Afro-American issues.” It is of this program as a way to create recruits for their sales force.

demand for teachers. North Carolina of Career Services and the University/ year. published quarterly and has readers across the United States and In February, A&T hosted its first Sales Education for

has an estimated 12,000 available Industry Cluster. For more information about the in many other countries. Enhancing Deliverable Solutions (SEEDS) event. Sales

teaching jobs each year. To earn a teaching license, students Optional Licensure Program, contact The journal relocated to N.C. A&T early in 2006 from Florida professionals from 3M visited and taught classes with A&T

Lelia L. Vickers, dean, and A&T must take several education credit Erwin at kderwin@ncat.edu or (336) A&M University, which the university is celebrating by hosting faculty in a coordinated “teach-in” to promote the idea of sales

School of Education graduate Kimberly hours including 10 weeks of student 334-7848. the floating editors’ conference this year. Leila Vickers, dean as a professional career path and the importance of sales in to

D. Erwin, a former elementary school teaching, and pass licensure exams. of the N.C. A&T School of Education and member of the NER the health of any business.

Board of Editors, was the conference chair.





2 A&T TODAY • SPRING 2007 SPRING 2007 • A&T TODAY 3

INSIDE AGGIELAND continued

ENVirONMENTAl sCiENCE AND

TECHNOlOgY CONfErENCE



the third National Conference on Environmental Science

and Technology will be held at North Carolina Agricultural

and Technical State University, Sept. 12-14, in the Alumni-

NABJ sHOrT COursE Foundation Event Center.

The conference will provide a forum for the U.S.





T he National Association of Black Journalists (NABJ),

in conjunction with the department of journalism and

mass communication at North Carolina Agricultural and

Department of Education, U.S. Environmental Protection

Agency, National Science Foundation, National Oceanic and

Atmospheric Administration and other federal agencies, as

Technical State University, held the 15th Annual Broadcast well as industrial technology users and colleges/universities

Short Course at N.C. A&T, March 14-17. to address pollution prevention problems, solutions and

Thirty-nine students from across the country, including research needs.

24 A&T students, participated in the four-day seminar that Topic areas include bioremediation, fate and transport

was created to acquaint African American college students of contaminants, pollution prevention/solvents and processes,

with behind-the-scenes jobs in the broadcast industry. innovative environmental technologies and sensors, and global

The short course aims at encouraging more African climate change.

American journalism students to pursue television The deadline to register for the conference is Wednesday,

management as a career. It also gives students an opportunity Aug. 15. To register online, visit www.ncat.edu/~wmi/

to interact with African Americans who currently work as conference/conf.html.

news directors, producers, writers, assignment editors, directors For general information, contact Godfrey Uzochukwu,

and some of the top television stations in the country. director of the Interdisciplinary Waste Management Institute

at N.C. A&T, by email, uzo@ncat.edu, or telephone, (336)

334-7030. Information about lodging is available at www.ncat.

edu/~wmi/conference/hotels.html.









NOw is THE TiME Note

TO wAiVE iNsurANCE



North Carolina A&T State University requires all

CisCO sOluTiONs sHOwCAsE undergraduate, graduate and professional students, taking six

or more credit hours, and all international students to have



O n March 13, the Division of Information

Technology and Telecommunications,

the School of Technology and the College of

illustrating how hospitals can use the power of

the network to bring language translators into

hospitals nationwide.

medical insurance coverage as a condition of enrollment.

Students currently covered by a major medical insurance plan

should waive out of the plan offered by the university.

Engineering teamed up to host the Cisco Solutions “Going forward, one of our goals is to make Log on to www.studentinsurance.com and follow the

Express (CSE) Demonstration Showcase. N.C. A&T a truly technology enabled institution instructions on the website. The deadline to waive is

Newly designed, the CSE is a 90-foot, 18- in service of our community,” said Vijay Verma, Sept. 14, 2007.

wheel mobile truck equipped with Cisco’s latest interim vice chancellor of ITT. “Therefore, we Be sure to print the confirmation page and keep it for

business and technology solutions. The mobile need to strengthen our existing partnerships with your records. This will serve as a receipt and proof that

demonstration venue was created specifically for other organizations and build new ones. the student complied with the university’s requirement.

enterprise and government businesses. “We see Cisco Systems as a key partner in Adjustments will not be made after the deadline without the

The CSE truck features hands-on these efforts. Having the Cisco CSE event at confirmation page or confirmation number.

demonstrations that highlight security, mobility, A&T is one of several events that we plan to Students who fail to appropriately waive coverage by the

unified communications and network management organize in order to bring some excitement to this Sept. 14 deadline will be enrolled in the University Health Plan.

solutions. It also has a video demonstration of the campus,” he added. The Sebastian Health Center staff is available to assist

Health Care Interpreter Network (HCIN) video students. For further details or assistance, call (336) 334-7880.









4 A&T TODAY • SPRING 2007 SPRING 2007 • A&T TODAY 5

CAMPUS BRIEFS

fACulTY & sTAff





Barnette Carlson Craft Davis Graves Kornegay Luster-Teasley Moore Mosley Williams







instruction (School of Education); valeria William J. Craft, professor of mechanical alton l. Kornegay, an assistant professor “Autumn Passages,” a documentary by

J. McMillan, associate professor, department engineering, has been appointed interim in the manufacturing systems department, Michael Moore, video/teleconference

of family and consumer sciences (School of associate vice chancellor for research and was elected president of the Industry producer, was a part of the Heritage Film

Agriculture and Environmental Sciences); dean of the School of Graduate Studies, Division of the National Association of and Video Festival that was held March 31

Barbara Milliken, adjunct instructor, effective March 5. Craft has over 30 years of Industrial Technology (NAIT) during the at Prince George’s Community College in

department of electronic, computer educational experience at A&T as well as organization’s 39th annual convention in Largo, Md. The documentary is about Joyce

and information technology (School of industrial experience with Martin Marietta Cleveland, Ohio. NAIT is the foremost Wellman’s tenure as artist in residency at

Technology); and gail Wiggins, assistant Corporation. accreditation body of colleges and N.C. A&T during the fall semester of 2005.

professor, department of journalism and universities of technology in the United

mass communications (College of Arts and ray J. davis, associate dean for States. The Industry Division is one of the ivan t. Mosley Sr., chairman of the

Sciences). undergraduate programs in the school of four primary divisions that make up the manufacturing systems department, has

technology, made a presentation at the 69th executive board of NAIT. been selected as a Distinguished Technology

vivian Barnette has been named director Annual Conference of the International Educator. The DTE designation is a coveted

of counseling services at N.C. A&T. Technology Education Association March Stephanie luster-teasley, assistant mark of distinction in technology education,

Barnette is a former staff psychologist 17 in San Antonio, Texas. The title of professor of civil and chemical engineering, recognizing those who have demonstrated

and interim counseling center director Davis’ presentation was “A National Survey is one of 15 scholars participating in a high level of competence and

Recipients of the 2007 Center for Student Success Excellence in for the University of North Carolina at on the Status of Distance Learning in the 2006 Institute for Scholarship on conscientiousness in the field of technology

Academic Advising Award are (l-r) Anthony Graham, Sylvia Black, Greensboro. She also has served as a staff Technology Teacher Education.” Engineering Education (ISEE) cohort. education. With 4,700 members worldwide,

Pamela Ivey Chavis, Gail Wiggins, Valerie McMillan and DeRome Dunn.

psychologist for the University of Iowa Luster-Teasley’s year-long tenure as an only 146 others have received this honor.

Barbara Milliken is not pictured.

Counseling Service and the University of Joseph l. graves Jr., professor of biological ISEE Scholar began last July at Howard

Oregon. She is a licensed psychologist and sciences and dean of university studies, was University with a one-week intensive lea e. Williams, interim associate vice

is certified as a health service provider- chosen for the faculty of The Association residency culminating in a well-defined plan chancellor for academic affairs, has assumed

The Center for Student Success recently psychologist (HSP-P). of American Colleges and Universities for conducting a research study. Throughout additional responsibilities as interim

honored seven members of the faculty for Institute for General Education, May 18-23, the year, she will continue to work on her director of The Center for Student Success.

excellence in academic advising: Sylvia ruby Jayne Carlson has been appointed at Salve Regina University, in Newport, R.I. project, which focuses on the impact of Williams’ career in academia spans nearly

S. Black, assistant professor, department temporary staff employment manager for In addition, an article that was co-authored case studies used in a laboratory course on three decades.

of business administration (School of the Office of Human Resources. Carlson by Graves, “Against Racial Medicine,” student motivation, knowledge gained, and

Business and Economics); Pamela ivey is a former executive assistant to the appears in a special edition of Patterns of cognitive ability to apply lab techniques to

Chavis, clinical assistant professor (School provost and vice chancellor for academic Prejudice, Sander Gilman editor, Vol. 40(4- societal practice.

of Nursing); derome o. dunn, assistant affairs. She has 15 years of human resource 5): 481-494. The volume is titled “Race and

professor, department of mechanical experience including manager of a Contemporary Medicine: Biological Facts

and chemical engineering (College of temporary agency and human resources and Fictions.”

Engineering); anthony graham, assistant manager for a Fortune 500 company in

professor, department of curriculum and Burlington, N.C.







6 A&T TODAY • SPRING 2007 SPRING 2007 • A&T TODAY 7

CAMPUS BRIEFS continued





sTuDENTs

The School of Nursing held its Capping and reid, Natasha S. Sanders, Keatah B. Smith, Juanita C. Four students from the

Pinning Ceremony in March. The following junior thompson, alicia travis, amy troy, vernicia valentin, department of graphic

nursing students were capped: lashanda M. adams, tedrick l. vernon, Jennifer N. Williams, lorraine Wilson communication systems and

and edward l. Withers. technological studies are winners

Natasha J. alston, Zonie C. armstrong, Jerry asare- Josh ellis, Shaun harrison, roderick ross and Breon of this year’s PICA awards.

Passh, lakeisha B. askew, Maureceia a. autry, taneika Williams, students from the department of graphic Pictured left to right are E. Dean

r. Baker, tiffany S. Banks, Katrina Best, Janae t. Bosby, Senior nursing students who were pinned include Maud communication systems and technological studies, Gilbert, assistant professor;

holly l. Branch, tunisha Branch, Martin a. Bynum, acquah-Nelson, ruthetta Banks, Jade S. Bland, tia l. Roderick Ross, winner of a Best

participated in the Printing Industry of the Carolinas, Inc.

Jenny Callahan, Cameron Chalmers, Wanda Chapman, Broadnax, Sabrina N. Brooks, ashley S. Brown, armecia of Category Award; Cynthia

(PICA) student awards program. Ellis won the Special

elizabeth a. Chitwood, ashley K. Cunningham, angela Burnette, avis P. Carter, Carolyn Chaffin-tate, tonii a. Gillispie-Johnson, department

Judges Award for his entry, “The Godfather”; Harrison chairwoman; Josh Ellis, winner

Cobb, Kendall J. Collins, ashura Corbett, Brandy daye, Chavis, dionna e. Croom, Peace o. darku, Sabrina l.

won the Best of Category Award for “Oska Phones”; of a Special Judges Award; and

adia e. dial, ernest h. dick, Jacklyn S. elmore, tracy davis, Shantay l. dawson, lakera S. daye, Callie M.

Ross won the Special Judges Award for “Sidewalk Breon Williams, winner of an

Fields, Courtney Flewellen, Carol e. Florence, angelina France, april Freeman, rashidah J. habeebulah, Brenda Excellence Award.

Surfer”; and Williams won the Excellence Award for

v. garofalo, Crystal C. griffin, tia hamlet, Suzann K. hall, Nicole hankerson, Karena r. harris, Jennifer

“World Wide Aggie Pride.” The winners were announced

C. henry, lachele C. horton, Seray t. Jah, timeka M. harrison, ashley l. hughes, Jacqueline r. ivey, Joi

at the 40th Annual PICA Awards Banquet, held at

C. James, Barbara Johnson, Candace M. Johnson, Johnson, tiffanie a. layton, Phyllis F. Madrey, tiffany

Grandover Resort and Spa in Greensboro, N.C.

deNeece Jones, Julie Jones, Sharon lewis-Keith, l. Martin, Sohnnel K. Morrow, tawain r. Mcalister,

Shatara lynch, Beverly McCoy, ashlee J. McCrea, Brittany M. McCoy, tunisia Mcdowell, Chau N. Nguyen,

Beth S. Mcentire, ashley McNeil, Kristen Martin, Sylvia Nimmons, alex J. Passmore, Nylz h. reyes,

Kinnitrish Means, Jose’ Mendoza, alemu t. Mengistu, Cathy richards, Nicole rodgers, elissa rodriguez,

tiffany S. Mitchener, lauren l. Munford, euniqua e. Bethany g. rouse, Shikira P. Sherrer, Courtney

Neal, Sherry N. Patterson, latasha r. Phillips, Crystal Singletary, Clarissa Staten, Brittany C. tate, Melinda

J. Porter, latoya r. ramsey, Misty reagan, Chiquita valentin, Michelda West and Kimberly l. Wright.









Baucum Caldwell Crumpton Davis Jones Paul Williams



Jordan Baucum, yolonda Crumpton and Corey J. Caldwell, a senior chemistry major, Kebede of N.C. A&T, and richard Sykora Magnetohydrodynamics Using Numerical alan antwine, Chanel helper, Meegan scholarship competition that was held in

daniel davis are participating in the UNC is a recipient of Alpha Lambda Delta’s of the University of Southern Alabama. Analysis and Simulation.” In addition to Johnson, Jonathan Jones, Karlen Marshall, February. The competition featured posters

in Washington program this spring. The Warner O. Moore Jr. Fellowship. Caldwell Jenkins also conducted a hands-on laboratory winning this award, the Ronald E. McNair Pauline Braxton and Joseph Bostic are and presentations by undergraduate and

program is a statewide initiative conducted was awarded $3,000 for graduate study for session – “Is it Physical or Chemical?” – Scholar received a certificate of excellence seven A&T students who have been awarded graduate students. Jasette Casterlow, won

by the UNC Office of the President that is academic year 2007-2008. Alpha Lambda for participants of the Summer Space for his oral presentation at A&T’s 2007 Xerox Technical Minority Scholarships that first place; terrance o. Winbush, second

designed to provide an opportunity for upper- Delta National Honor Society for First Science Institute for Teacher-Student McNair Symposium in January. recognize high academic achievement in the place; Phillip J. troxler, third place; and

level students from 14 of the University of Year Students awards 23 fellowships to its Team workshops. fields of science, engineering and technology. lashia levins, fourth place.

North Carolina’s constituent institutions members for graduate study. evan Paul, a chemical engineering major They were among 122 winners from more

to expand teaching and learning using Marvin Q. Jones Jr., a junior applied and waste management certificate candidate, than 26 states and Puerto Rico chosen from Miss N.C. A&T, Crystal r. Williams, was

Washington, D.C., as the classroom. As part darkus Jenkins, a graduate student majoring mathematics major, won $500 for having the has been selected as the first O’Brien & Gere 800 qualified applicants. The majority of the first runner-up in the Miss MEAC

of the program, the students are required in chemistry, presented a paper at the 58th most outstanding poster presentation at the Scholar for the university. O’Brien & Gere, the scholarship recipients received $1,000 Competition and Coronation that was held

to conduct an internship. Crumpton, Southeast Regional American Chemical Georgia Institute of Technology Graduate an environmental engineering consulting toward college tuition costs for 2006-2007, during the MEAC Tournament weekend in

a journalism and mass communication Society Meeting in Augusta, Ga. The Technical Symposium 2007, Merging company located in Syracuse, N.Y., awarded and 12 scholarships were granted in amounts Raleigh, N.C. Thanks to Aggie supporters

major, has an internship at Strauss Radio paper, “Synthesis, X-ray Crystallography, Multiculturalism and Multidisciplinary N.C. A&T’s Waste Management Institute up to $10,000. around the globe, Williams received the top

Communication, and political science majors and Photoluminescence Studies of Gold(l) Research, held March 15-17 in Atlanta. His $10, 000 to support Paul during his junior score in the online voting segment. Aggie

Baucum and Davis have internships with the Complexes with Tri2-furyl Phosphine presentation was titled “An Investigation and senior years at the university. The Four graphic communication systems majors Pride!

Washington Bureau-NAACP and the Office Ligand,” was co-authored by associate in Astrophysical Gas Dynamics: company also will provide him with a (School of Technology) placed in the

of U.S. Senator Richard Burr, respectively. professors Zerihun assefa and abebe Analyzing Two-Wave Interaction in Ideal summer internship. American Society for Quality Section 1109





8 A&T TODAY • SPRING 2007 SPRING 2007 • A&T TODAY 9

RESEARCH A&T lAuNCHEs firsT sPiN-Off COMPANY





N

By Laurie Gengenbach





orth Carolina Agricultural

and Technical State

University has launched its

product development hurdles must be surmounted in advance of

production, but in the best-case scenario, the company could be

ready to start production in three years. The university is looking

wiNNiNg COMBiNATiON first spin-off company based at the new Gateway University Research Park-North Campus in

on research conducted in the Greensboro as a home for the company.

School of Agriculture and Protein V is medically important because it forms strong

When Jones Elementary fifth grader Nicole Shaw (pictured right) of Greensboro

Environmental Sciences. chemical bonds to antibodies, which makes it possible to extract

needed a consultant for her science project “Sick Shopping Carts” – which

Provagen, as the company them from blood serum. Antibodies in their purified form are

focused on E.coli and other germs on shopping cart handles – she turned to

Allen Thompson is called, is a biotechnology increasingly used to treat and diagnose disease, as well as in

dora l. Som-Pimpong, a research technician in the biology department at A&T.

company that plans to produce research.

The research has resulted in the student winning local science fair honors.

and market a protein – called Protein V – that can be used in The university’s Office of Outreach and Technology Transfer

While competing locally, ABC-TV’s “Good Morning America” happened to

medical research or in manufacturing treatments and diagnostic has been instrumental in establishing Provagen as a corporation.

see a local news clip of Shaw and Som-Pimpong discussing the project. ABC

tests for disease. N.C. A&T will retain equity in the company and The next steps will be to hire a CEO, seek small business funding,

interviewed Shaw after the competition, and her comments were broadcasted the

earn royalties on the product. and continue with market and product development. Other groups

next morning in a segment about shopping carts having more germs than public

“Creating commercial ventures out of research is important assisting in the start-up include the North Carolina Biotechnology

restrooms and Arkansas lawmakers trying to pass a bill that would require stores

because it ensures that our research makes it out of the laboratory Center, N.C. Small Business and Technology Development Center

to clean their carts.

and into the marketplace, where it can benefit consumers and and the HiTEC Program at N.C. State.

After winning in the elementary division at the local and regional levels,

society,” said alton thompson, dean of the School of Agriculture “We are very pleased that something that we have been

Shaw competed against 72 other students at the North Carolina State Fair

and Environmental Sciences. “That’s what a land-grant university working on for so long might have a useful application in what

where she and seven others won the Exemplary Award, the highest honor in the

is all about. We are in the business of finding solutions and then has become the multi-million dollar market for antibody binding

competition. She also received a monetary gift and a nomination for the Discovery

getting the information to the people who need it.” proteins,” said John allen, a molecular biologist whose discovery of

Channel Team Challenge. If chosen for Team Challenge, a national competition,

As with any biotech startup, many regulatory and market and Protein V and subsequent research paved the way for the company.

she will have the opportunity to win $20,000.

Shaw is working on a patent for a shopping cart cleaning system.









The 2007 Outstanding Researchers are (l-r) Loury Ollison Floyd,

TOP iNVEsTigATOrs rECEiVE uNiVErsiTY HONOrs Dhananjay Kumar (standing), Margaret Kanipes, Mohamed

Six North Carolina A&T researchers have been honored by the university for their outstanding work. Ahmedna (standing), Stephanie Luster-Teasley and Shanthi Iyer.





loury ollison Floyd and Stephanie luster- architectural and environmental engineering. be innovators with unlimited potential for Team funded at $1.4 million. presentations, two book

teasley have received the Rookie of the Luster-Teasley has secured approximately new discoveries. The Senior Researcher Award is given chapters and one reference

Year Award, which was implemented two $260,000 in sponsored research funding, Since her arrival at A&T, Kanipes annually to the most outstanding researcher. book. In addition, he has

years ago to recognize assistant professors in she has produced articles in peer-reviewed has participated in research and directed The recipient must be tenured and must have successfully submitted three

their second year of appointment who have publications and she has presented papers at the research of several students. She is demonstrated sustained research productivity patent applications on research

shown extraordinary research initiative and several conferences. currently the principal investigator on through submission of proposals, proposals technologies developed in

have displayed outstanding promise for future Margaret Kanipes, an associate grants totaling half a million dollars from that have actually been funded, refereed his lab. A recent publication

research activities. The award has a $1,000 professor of chemistry, and dhananjay the Department of the Army and the publications, citations received, intellectual was listed by Science Direct

cash stipend. Kumar, an assistant professor of mechanical National Institutes of Health. Kanipes is also property disclosures, patents and/or copyrights, as one of the top 25 hottest funded at $2.5 million.)

Floyd is an assistant professor in the engineering, have received the Outstanding preparing a manuscript and is the author of and other pertinent contributions. Mohamed articles worldwide as judged by the number of Iyer has authored or co-authored

department of curriculum and instruction. Young Investigator Award. The award is several papers, including 10 refereed journal ahmedna and Shanthi iyer are the award downloads on the Internet. over 60 refereed articles, proceedings

Since her tenure began in 2005, Floyd has given annually to junior, tenure track or publications. recipients this year. Iyer is a professor in the department and presentations and is referred to by

been awarded almost $250,000 in funded research faculty in the third or fourth year Kumar has published over 18 technical Ahmedna is an associate professor in the of electrical and computer engineering and her colleagues at institutions such as

research, she has authored several articles at the university and it carries a $2,000 articles in peer-reviewed journals, has food science and nutrition program. He has a trailblazer in the world of semiconductor the University of New Mexico, North

and she has presented at over 30 conferences stipend. Recipients of this award must have been invited to serve on National Science submitted over 27 research proposals during research. She is also director of the Army Carolina State University and Clemson

and workshops. demonstrated outstanding capability and Foundation review panels and is the recipient his seven-year tenure at A&T, and he has Battlefield Center of Excellence for University as a “dominant research force

Luster-Teasley is an assistant professor exceptional promise for significant future of two prestigious grants from NSF: the Nano been awarded 15 times in excess of $4 million. Environmentally Stable Flexible Displays. in the semiconductor materials area.” Her

with a joint appointment in the departments achievement as evidenced by distinctive Exploratory Research Grant worth $100,000 Ahmedna has authored or co-authored (There are only five Centers of Excellence in outstanding work places her among the top

of chemical engineering and civil, contributions to their discipline. They must and the Nanoscale Interdisciplinary Research over 100 scientific papers and professional the United States housed at HBCUs. Iyer’s is researchers in her field throughout the world.







10 A&T TODAY • SPRING 2007 SPRING 2007 • A&T TODAY 11

SEVEN RECEIVE ‘teaCher of the year’ HONOR

North Carolina A&T State University honored seven professors as Teacher of the Year for their

respective colleges and schools during the annual Honors’ Day program.









uNC BOArD Of

gOVErNOrs HONOrs

BiOlOgY PrOfEssOr

fOr ExCEllENCE iN

Ankomah Dobie Kabadi McIntosh Smith Somah Worku

TEACHiNg

SChool of agriCUltUre aNd SChool of BUSiNeSS College of eNgiNeeriNg She provided an opportunity for me to

eNviroNmeNtal SCieNCeS aNd eCoNomiCS The teaching philosophy of vinayak N. develop as a person as well as grow into a

Mulumebet “Millie” Worku, an associate professor in The primary mission of Kathryn e. dobie, Kabadi, a professor in the department of competent and caring nurse.”

the department of animal sciences, is committed to a professor in the business administration mechanical and chemical engineering, is

student centered teaching approaches and empowers department, is to provide students with the grounded by the commitment to bring out SChool of teChNology

associate professor of biology Mary A. Smith is one of the winners of the her students to achieve their highest potential by opportunity to grow in their understanding the best in his students. For example, in his Syrulwa l. Somah, an associate professor

13th Annual Awards for Excellence in Teaching, given by The University of being receptive to their needs and being aware of their of their own potential and in their ability to core undergraduate classes, Kabadi began in the construction management and

North Carolina Board of Governors. circumstances. She encourages and respects sustained reach their goals. To accomplish this, Dobie organizing recitation sessions outside the occupational safety and health department,

The 16 recipients, representing an array of academic disciplines, were effort and diligent commitment to excellence. encourages students to expand their abilities organized lecture hours. The recitations were believes that true education involves

nominated by special committees on their home campuses and selected by As a result, Worku’s students regularly excel through active involvement in the learning so successful that other departments in the preparing students for the duties and

the Board of Governors Committee on Personnel and Tenure. The recipients in further studies and the work arena. Her students process. College of Engineering have made these types responsibilities of life. He says that effective

were honored at a luncheon where each received a commemorative bronze note that she “goes out of her way to demonstrate her Dobie believes that active discovery of sessions a requirement for their students. teaching combines practical and theoretical

medallion and a $7,500 cash prize. commitment to each and every student” and that she is is essential for students to gain the passion One of Kabadi’s former students teaching to ensure the “wholesome

Established by the Board of Governors in 1994 to underscore the “always interested in the well being and success of her for knowledge and the ability to apply it in wrote, “Professor Kabadi is one of the best functioning” of graduates.

importance of teaching and to reward good teaching across the University, students as individuals and professionals in and out of varied situations, critical attributes in today’s instructors I have had in my entire academic One of Somah’s former students notes,

the awards are given annually to a tenured faculty member from each UNC the classroom.” competitive world economy. life. ... I learned a lot in this class, but most “Upon meeting Dr. Somah, I was extremely

campus. Winners must have taught at their present institutions at least of all I felt that my success and learning was impressed with his passion for seeing his

seven years. No one may receive the award more than once. College of artS aNd SCieNCeS SChool of edUCatioN important to him. It made me work harder students succeed, his superior knowledge

Smith believes that excellence in teaching requires ongoing Mary a. Smith, an associate professor in the Paul K. ankomah, an associate professor knowing that Dr. Kabadi was pulling for me.” and experience in the field. As a graduate

professional development, a commitment to developing students as department of biology, continually encourages her in the department of human performance and safety professional, I now appreciate all

independent learners, and a focus on building a student-centered learning students to reach beyond their own visions and and leisure studies, believes that teaching SChool of NUrSiNg that Dr. Somah tried to instill in us on how

environment. Recognized by her colleagues as an “innovator in classroom provides valuable opportunities to nurture their should help students move beyond the linda C. Mcintosh, clinical assistant to be an asset to our employer. Dr. Somah’s

instruction,” she is continually seeking out effective approaches to motivate development as scientists, scholars and learners. As one world of textbooks and factual knowledge to professor, is committed to respecting the excitement and passion for teaching and

and engage students in learning science. of her students notes, “Dr. Smith inspires the genius, encourage reflective practice, collaborative students she works with as unique learners student learning is immeasurable and quite

She regularly leads summer student-faculty research teams at venues challenges the mind, and nurtures the soul.” thinking and effective communication. He who are able to learn and produce scholarly contagious.”

such as the Argonne National Laboratory and Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory, Colleagues and students alike praise her deep views students as discoverers of new ideas work more efficiently when they are both

exposing her students to cutting edge technology while developing their commitment to actively involving undergraduate and knowledge creators rather than as challenged and listened to. Her willingness

research confidence. students in the process of learning, a pedagogical passive receptacles for memorizing previously to work with students and treat them fairly is

A professor of biology at A&T since 1995, Smith received her strategy that transforms students’ lives. A colleague developed knowledge. one reason she is respected by students and

baccalaureate and master’s degrees in science education from Morgan says, “… she has strived to make her students lifelong A former student writes, “Dr. Ankomah her colleagues.

State University and a doctorate in plant physiology from Cornell University. learners, equipping them with the tools, discipline- makes learning fun, practical and relevant to A former student says, “Dr. McIntosh

based fundamentals, and more important, the the ever changing and evolving world.” inspired me to put forth incredible effort by

intellectual curiosity to take what they have learned her encouragement and supportive coaching.

and use it to further their careers.”

12 A&T TODAY • SPRING 2007 SPRING 2007 • A&T TODAY 13

>

“A lot of people underestimate younger kids, but seeing how I’ve

been around them so much, I’ll talk to them like I’ll talk to anyone

else,” he says. “They have a lot to say if you’ll listen to them.”



Accelerated teacher education — Terry Corbett Jr.

program lets math and science

professionals make a career change

to become licensed teachers

T erry Corbett Jr., a graduate of N.C.

A&T State University who also

completed the School of Education’s “Fast

effective teachers. In addition to the

coursework, each student who completed

the program and began a teaching job also

as a tutor during high school and college,

and running a card game league for

elementary school students at a bookstore

Track to Teaching” program, will receive was assigned a mentor. in Burlington, his hometown. He got

his teaching license this winter. As Corbett’s mentor, Leon involved with the latter through his sister,

Corbett began teaching math at Sturdivant of the A&T faculty visits the who is 10 years younger.

Greensboro’s Dudley High School at school and offers pointers in such areas He acknowledges that working with

the start of the academic year, and he as content, classroom management and younger children differs from working

has a bachelor’s and a master’s degree discipline. with high school students.

in mechanical engineering. Instead of “That’s been very helpful,” Corbett “A lot of people underestimate

working in his field, he is lending his said. “We discussed discipline in Fast younger kids, but seeing how I’ve been

expertise to help Guilford County Schools Track, but actually applying that in a around them so much, I’ll talk to them

cope with a severe shortage of teachers classroom setting is a little different than like I’ll talk to anyone else,” he says.

– especially math and science teachers. it is in the book.” “They have a lot to say if you’ll listen to

“Teaching has always been something At 26, Corbett was the second- them.”

I had considered. When I found out about youngest participant. Most of the At Dudley, he has learned some

Fast Track, I figured this would be a way participants, he said, “were people who things about older students.

to actually do that,” says Corbett. had been in various industries for awhile.” “Sometimes it’s easy to forget that

School of Education Dean Lelia Corbett’s experience entering they are still just kids, because at this age

L. Vickers received a grant from the teaching has been mostly pleasant, they’re trying to act grown,” he says. “But

University of North Carolina General although he says there have been they remind me every once in a while

Administration to offer Fast Track, challenges. He teaches three classes: that they are not grown.”

an accelerated teacher education calculus, pre-calculus and “bridge math,” a With more learning to do and

program designed for math and science course for students needing to strengthen more to offer the school system, Corbett

professionals who want to make a career their skills. plans to continue teaching. Fast

change and become licensed teachers of “Teaching can be a rewarding Track participants agreed to make a

math and science. experience,” he says, adding, “it also can commitment of at least three years.

For 10 weeks over the summer, be a trying one.” “I’m definitely going to stay for

Fast Track participants spent six hours a In addition to what he has learned awhile,” Corbett says. “I learned a lot in

day, four days a week, in the classroom in Fast Track and on the job, Corbett also my first semester here. Second semester









On the

learning the skills they need to become is applying experience he gained working should be different in a good way.”









FaSt track By Joya Wesley









14 A&T TODAY • SPRING 2007 SPRING 2007 • A&T TODAY 15

Something in Common African Americans and Cubans share historical struggles.









By Samantha Hargrove



Mention the names W.E.B. Du Bois, Paul Robeson and Marcus Garvey institute’s mission to enhance the coverage of Cubans, in 1902, began to rule A&T student Kathryn Lomax, who take for granted, most Cubans want to

to young people today and many may not know important issues facing people of African descent. independently, although U.S. influence attended the luncheon, said she was shocked retain their free health care and education

much about them. Mention the same names to The IFAJS hosted a special presentation remained strong. The U.S. naval base to learn that so many American students are systems.”

the people of Cuba, young and old alike, and you’ll luncheon, Feb. 27, with a Cuban twist, and shared Guantanamo Bay is still housed on the studying in Cuba. Also, despite their widespread poverty,

find out much more. with N.C.A&T students and professors the stories island under agreements dating back “I thought it was interesting and it Cubans have a life expectancy and literacy

With economic chips stacked against the yet to be told. to 1903. gave me incentive. I could go to Cuba and rate that is similar to those in the U.S., and

burgeoning communist country — stifling U.S. The group of reporters served as panelists Throughout most of the first half of become a doctor and learn the language and their infant mortality rate is lower than the

trade embargos and the hopes of finding oil and informed the audience of Cuba’s two-fold the 20th century, the Cuban government it’s free,” said the 21-year-old public relations U.S. While American media still perpetuate

off its coast — the average Cuban seems more fight. Unlike the United States where the fight functioned under a series of corrupt major. the myth that communism is evil, the U.S.

adequately informed of its struggle than their for independence and the struggle against presidents and dictators. In the mid-1950s Lomax said she was glad she learned has diplomatic and economic ties to both

neighboring African Americans. slavery were separated by nearly a century, many Cubans, longing for true independence, more about the country. China and Vietnam. Even with poor housing

According to a group of journalists who Cubans launched both social and political battles opposed the corruption and political “I learned not to believe all of the conditions, the Cuban constitution guarantees

recently traveled to Cuba with the Institute for together, Wickham said. repression under Fulgencio Batista and information that I read about Cuba in the housing for its citizens, virtually eliminating

Advanced Journalism Studies, Cubans are very That, he added, happened on Oct. 10, 1868, organized a revolt known as the Cuban paper. I should find out more about their homelessness.

aware of America’s shameful history and have a when a plantation owner freed his slaves and Revolution. culture for myself,” she added, noting that Kaplan admitted that the trip helped

lot in common with African Americans. urged blacks and whites to join forces to end In 1959, Fidel Castro and a number of Cuba’s educational and health systems appear open her eyes to biases we have as Americans.

“There is an interesting historical connection Spain’s control of the island. other revolutionaries overthrew the Batista to be farther along than what we have here in “I didn’t realize how 'American' I was until

between African Americans and Cubans of Despite the negative publicity felt towards government and by the 1960s Castro split with the United States. “What they have seems to I spoke with Cuban people,” she said. “We don’t

African descent. Cuba’s struggle for independence Cuban ruler Fidel Castro by most Americans, the United States and became an ally of the be working. I think America needs to humble think the same way. We think individual and

from Spanish colonial rule started in 1868. prior to his rule Cubans fleeing the hostile USSR – then the world’s leading Communist itself and look at what other countries are they think more for the whole.”

Three months after the (U.S. Constitution’s) 14th environment were mostly black. It wasn’t until nation. Castro formally embraced Marxism, doing.” The 90-mile distance and 45-year-old

Amendment was ratified, which gave citizenship after Castro came to power (1959), did Americans the political philosophy that forms the basis Beneath the surface, Cuba is a trade embargo has not stopped Cubans from

to blacks in the United States, Cuba’s war for see white Cubans seeking asylum and escaping to for communism. fascinating place with close cultural ties to inhaling American culture.

independence began,” said DeWayne Wickham, Florida's shores in droves. While the gap between whites and African Americans. Black activists like Marcus “Ask Cubans about the music they

director of the Institute for Advanced Journalism Cuba’s history, like most of the Caribbean blacks in America continued to widen with Garvey, W.E.B. Du Bois, Stokely Carmichael and like and their answers will have a familiar

Studies at North Carolina A&T State University islands, was infused by powerful European the passage of Black Codes, Jim Crow laws Langston Hughes all spent time there. ring. The 50-something reservations clerk

and a columnist for USA Today. countries, including Spain, the United States and the rise of organized hate groups such In the capital of Havana, visitors can see in the hotel where I stayed said she likes

and the Union of the Soviet Socialist Republics, as the Ku Klux Klan, whites and blacks in the Martin Luther King Center located next to Muddy Waters and Eric Clapton. A man in

all seeking its rich soil, sugar cane and tobacco Cuba united under the conflict and fight for that city’s Ebenezer Baptist Church. his early 30s told me he favors Luther

… on Oct. 10, 1868, a plantation owner freed his slaves and urged production. independence. Though still regarded as a poor country, Vandross and Lionel Ritchie. Two college

blacks and whites to join forces to end Spain’s control of the island … For 400 years, Cuba was a colony of Spain. “Black and white is not spoken of like it is in past years Cuba has relaxed its views to students in their early 20s said they enjoy

Tired of the poor treatment, the Cuban people here,” said Weathersbee. allow more tourism and trade. listening to rappers Big Daddy Kane, Mos

Wickham took three columnists — Tonyaa formed an independence movement and by “When you ask them ‘what are you,’ “Cubans place a higher value on the Def and Talib Kweli. All of this suggests that

Weathersbee, Florida Times Union, Erin Aubry 1868 began to fight the first of three wars for they just say ‘Cuban,’” she added. But collective good rather than individual blacks in Cuba know a lot more about us

Kaplan, Los Angeles Times, and Gregory Kane, The independence. Then in 1898, the U.S. entered Weathersbee and the other panelists agreed gain,” Wickham told the audience. “While than we do about them, and that’s a pity,”

Baltimore Sun — on a fact-finding trip to the the war against Spain and declared Cuba that there is still a lingering scent of racism many of them would like to enjoy many of said Wickham.

communist country in February, as part of the independent but under the protection of the U.S. toward darker skin. the freedoms and consumer items that we





16 A&T TODAY • SPRING 2007 SPRING 2007 • A&T TODAY 17

NAME VALUE

Alumnus Royall M. Mack Sr. ’69 names room in his parents’ honor

By Darlene F. East ’04









R OYALL M. MACK SR.

’69 HAS A PASSION.

It is the naming of the

Teleconference Center in the

College of Arts and Sciences’ General

his older brother Ernest Jr.

Both parents insisted they

observe, listen and learn from their

father’s and grandfathers’ mistakes so

they, too, could be good fathers.

Classroom Building in honor of his Royall both admired and

parents, Thelma Sarah Montague feared the way his parents

Mack and the late Ernest Edward thought.

Mack Sr. “They seemed to be

His passion for the naming emotionally and intellectually

is his way of giving back for the inseparable,” he said.

values of discipline, dedication and He was never able to

commitment to excellence, that they maneuver one to say “yes” and the

taught him. other “no” in order to put them on

“There are thousands out opposite sides of parental issues. As

there like us, whose parents and parents, they demonstrated bonds

grandparents worked hard for us to that were immeasurable. organizations) and a recent scholar-

have a better life,” said Mack. “Many Mack remembers that his parents in-residence at A&T be so passionate

of us, when we move up, have a were not head-over-heels romantics, about naming a room in memory of

tendency to forget the sacrifices of our but they displayed something around his parents?

ancestors.” their sons that is priceless, friendship. Why would a retired executive

Rather than gift the university To this day he believes that it was the at The Gillette Company based in

in his own name, he has chosen to secret of their great devotion. Boston, Mass., who was recognized

honor his parents who believed in “It is difficult to know all the for developing a program that

their parents’ tradition of teaching and reasons why people divorce,” he resulted in a $1 million contribution

living the values of family, hard work, said, “but of this one thing I am sure, to his alma mater – the largest gift

community, property ownership and friendship holds couples together.” to a Historically Black College and

sharing. In 1965 when Royall Mack University in the company’s history at

“These rules have been in place applied to A&T, Mel Groomes, the that time – not choose himself?

for the children of the Macks and baseball and football coach, told his Why would a man who has

Montagues for over 100 years before I father that Royall could be a better been inducted into the prestigious

was born,” Mack said. student than an athlete. National Black College of Fame and

Thelma was born on a farm in Royall’s dad agreed and despite who serves on numerous boards and in

King William County, Va., and is opportunities at nine majority community organizations feel the need

the 14th of 15 children born to John institutions they insisted he attend to honor others first?

Montague and Sarah Carter. A&T. As he looks back over his life, Why would a loving husband,

Ernest was the third born of he also agrees that both Groomes and father of five and grandfather of seven,

Sebon Mack and Mamie Lee Bothwell his father were right. be so dedicated to this endeavor?

who moved from Lewisville, Ga., to So, why would the CEO of Ciara Because over 60 years ago,

Virginia to work on a 600-acre farm. Enterprises, Inc. (a company that his parents poured into him many

The Macks placed a high provides strategic plan development, valuable lessons and now it is time

premium on fatherhood and tactical execution and budgeting to give back to two people who have

constantly instilled it in Royall and expertise to profit and non-profit given so much.









SPRING 2007 • A&T TODAY 19

AGGIE SPORTS By Brian M. Holloway ’97





sTuDENT-ATHlETEs HONOrED fOr ACCOMPlisHMENTs

sCHMiEDEl NAMED AggiEs VOllEYBAll COACH

48 Aggies also recognized by the MEAC







N inety-eight North Carolina A&T

student-athletes were honored in April

Howard is a red shirt freshman baseball

player freshman from Atlanta. He is

A fter spending two seasons as assistant

coach, lyndsay Schmiedel has been

promoted to interim head volleyball coach.

During her collegiate career, Schmiedel was a four-year

starter as setter for the Akron Zips. When she graduated in

2004, she was third on the Zips all-time assists list. Schmiedel

by the athletics department for earning majoring in graphic communication systems. The Aggies volleyball team was 16-4 in is a Livonia, Mich., native, and she attended Livonia High

a cumulative 3.0 GPA or better. Kaycee Twenty-two A&T cheerleaders received the Mid-Eastern Athletic Conference over School where she graduated with a 4.0 GPA.

anderson, austin ewing, Jerrine Foster awards, and out of the university’s 15 varsity those two seasons, including an appearance “I’m looking forward to next season,” said Schmiedel.

and James howard earned 4.0 GPAs. sports, swimming had the best percentage in the MEAC Championship game in 2005. “I’m happy to still be working with my team, and I’m happy

Anderson, a volleyball transfer out of of athletes to earn a 3.0 or higher. Eight Schmiedel, 24, will be entering her first season to be their head coach at North Carolina A&T. We have a

Sheridan Junior College, is a junior from out of the 11 swimmers (72.7 percent) were as head coach of a collegiate program. great group of student-athletes on the team. I’m expecting a

Kaysville, Utah. Her major is sports science recognized. Before arriving at N.C. A&T, Schmiedel lot from them next year. They already have experienced my

and fitness management. In addition, 48 Aggies were recognized served as an assistant volleyball coach at Christopher Newport coaching style and they respect it, so I think it should be an

Anderson

Ewing is a 5’10” men’s basketball player by the Mid-Eastern Athletic Conference for in Newport News, Va. In her only season there, Schmiedel easy transition.”

from Atlanta, Ga. During this past season, academic excellence. The MEAC does not helped the CNU Captains win the USA South Atlantic The Aggies return three starters next season, including

he was a red shirt junior on the court. His recognize freshmen on its Commissioner Conference Championship as well as the regular-season versatile setter Brenden Chatman. They also lose three

major is psychology. All-Academic team. The following is a list conference title. The Captains also advanced to the Division starters to graduation in all-time kills leader Arlene Mitchell,

Foster runs track and field for the of Aggie athletes recognized by the MEAC. III NCAA regionals. Darlene Mitchell and defensive standout Lauren Walker.

Aggies. She is a freshman civil engineering

major from Jamaica.







Women (25): Jamie Brungard (BO, biology), danielle hanna (BO, sports science), erica Johnson

(BO, political science), Shea Stark (BO, biology), adia dial (SB, nursing), Britney hodges (SB,

wAlls PArTiCiPATEs iN NCAA lEADErsHiP CONfErENCE

Ewing

social work), Sylvia Felder (SB, sports science), Chaola Simmons (SB, social work), tabitha veney

(SB, psychology), donielle Campbell (SW, graphic communication systems), asha el-Shair (SW,

professional theater), Kira Johnson (SW, history), aasiya townsell (SW, journalism and mass

communication), Signe Walbauer Signe (SW, biology), gia Wright (SW, English education), Jewel

W ide receiver Curtis Walls

represented N.C. A&T at the

2007 NCAA National Leadership

making and problem-solving skills.

The leadership conference also promotes better

communication among student-athletes, coaches,

Wright (SW, sports science), terika Palmer (WE, mechanical engineering), Christina ruffin (WE, Conference that was held May 27-31 administrators, faculty and communities. The five-

sports science), atir Carter (WT, mechanical engineering), Brittany dixon (WT, sports science), at Disney’s Coronado Springs Resort in day leadership conference consists of daily exercises

Christina gray (WT, health and physical education), Carmenta Mitchell (WT, marketing), Krystal Florida. and activities to help the student-athletes develop as

Cooper (VB, accounting), valosha odom (VB, biology) and lauren Walker (VB, biology). Walls is a 5-foot-9 receiver from individuals and as contributing members to a group.

Charlotte, N.C., who will be a senior Walls is a football representative for A&T’s

Men (23): ronnie Battle (BA, sports science), Cyril daniel (BA, marketing), Charles gamble (BA, when the 2007 football season starts Student-Athlete Advisory Committee, an organization

landscape architecture), James howard (BA, printing and publishing), Nicholas Mayo (BA, sports

in September. He was in the run- that exists at many universities across the country, also

Howard

off for president of the A&T Student Government allows for student-athletes to express their concerns

science), graham rosser (BA, sports science), ryan Sellers (BA, sports science), Jasper Smith (BA,

Association. and ideas to athletics administrators.

management), eugene Banks (FB, finance), Michael Caldwell (FB, accounting), Michael Christen

The conference provides NCAA student-athletes Walls caught 42 passes for 471 yards to lead the

(FB, economics), Chaz dawson (FB, management), elton Fowler (FB, civil engineering), ortiz green

with a forum to openly discuss issues that may affect Aggies in receptions and receiving yards. He had nine

(FB, electronics technology), Chaz truesdale (FB, biology), tarrish alexander (MT, sports science),

them on their campuses and in their communities, catches for 115 yards against Division I-A Louisiana

Justin Byron (MT, finance), Jesse Fox (MT, engineering physics), antonio lee (MT, industrial

while also providing them with the opportunity to Lafayette on September 23.

engineering), Kevin lowe (MT, marketing), lonnie Phifer (MT, management), Steven rush (MB,

enhance their leadership, communication, decision-

chemistry) and austin ewing (MB, psychology).









20 A&T TODAY • SPRING 2007 SPRING 2007 • A&T TODAY 21

AGGIE SPORTS continued







ON Our siDE

Nationwide sponsors athletics initiatives By Darlene F. East ’04









E arly in March 2006, A&T’s athletics

sponsorship programs reached a new level

when Nationwide agreed to be on their side with

Brewer agrees with McAlpin that there are multiple

reasons why this is a good relationship for A&T and

Nationwide.

a $50,000 sponsorship. “When we looked at the growth of the university in

Sponsorships and private donations are very terms of the direction it is going in education and increased

important to the athletics program, and A&T enrollment,” Brewer said, “we could see that it was a great

is proud to have Nationwide as one its largest opportunity to partner our name. Athletics is a good way to

sponsors. gain exposure to students, alumni, faculty, staff and fans.”

“They have signed a multi-year agreement with us that Richberg is a Nationwide agent with mixed alliances and

gives them far reaching exposure and access to our Aggie fans doesn’t need to be convinced to give. “I have always loved

and supporters,” said Phillip McAlpin, director of development A&T football,” he said.

for athletics and executive director of the Victory Club. He is a graduate of Dillard University and a very active

Nationwide is a Fortune 500 company with over 80 years Aggie Club member who is pleased with the relationship. “We

of experience and it is one of the largest insurance and financial played a role because we produced and our corporate office took

services companies in the world. Based in Columbus, Ohio, notice of that,” he said.

Nationwide has many locations in North Carolina. Agent Mosley likes what her company is doing, too.

Prompted by Nationwide’s involvement with the football “I am proud to be involved with a corporation that

rivalry classic between A&T and South Carolina State, supports A&T,” said the Carolina alumna. “They are my

McAlpin approached North Carolina agents Gail Mosley, family’s school and I have been coming to events at A&T ever

(Greensboro office), John Peterson (Burlington, Greensboro since I was born.”

and Goldsboro) and Sam Richberg (Greensboro) to determine Peterson sees his role as being a facilitator in recognizing

interest in building a relationship. two organizations that have a vested interest in developing the

The agents liked the idea and – along with McAlpin – African-American community and bringing them together.

enlisted the support of Todd Brewer, director of sales operations, “I know A&T and what they represent,” said the North

and John Thrasher, regional vice president of the North Carolina State alumnus. “I know Nationwide’s mission and

Carolina operation. Using their expertise, knowledge of A&T’s vision and I felt that there were commonalities there that are

history and status as an outstanding historically black university, relative to the African-American community that could work

the Triad market and the sales skills and profitability of the in the best interest of both parties.”

supporting agents, Thrasher and Brewer sold the idea to senior So far, the sponsorship has been just that, in the best

management at Nationwide. interest of both parties.

A&T athletics is among an elite group of minority In January, Nationwide’s North Carolina operation held

programs, foundations and community initiatives that its annual sales kickoff in Greensboro with over 500 agents

Nationwide sponsors or is a partner. in attendance. A&T’s drumline and cheerleader squads were

“Nationwide is also proud of its partnership with the showcased at that event.





www.ncataggies.com

Tom Joyner Foundation, the National Urban League and the “Expanding sponsorship opportunities is always the goal

NAACP,” said Lorraine Brock, vice president of urban and of our athletics department,” said McAlpin, who is a visionary,

diverse markets. “Nationwide has invested more than $450 “and the relationship with Nationwide is really the template for

million towards fostering homeownership and revitalizing urban where we want to move all of our athletic sponsors.”

communities across the country.”









22 A&T TODAY • SPRING 2007 SPRING 2007 • A&T TODAY 23

Bread & Butter

N.C. A&T basketball

great Joe Howell ’60

J oseph Howell ’60 has never been a

man who likes to talk about himself.

But according to the statistics, he really

doesn’t have to say a word. His outstanding

basketball record at North Carolina

Agricultural and Technical State University

speaks for itself.

As the glue that held the team

So it came as no surprise to others

when it was announced that Howell would

be inducted into the Central Intercollegiate

Athletic Association Hall of Fame.

“It is just like it was yesterday. I will

always remember those days as some of the

best days of my life,” said Howell during

his acceptance speech at the John B.

Philadelphia, Pa. As a member of the Older

Boys Club of Philadelphia, he played hard

and earned a certificate of achievement as

a member of the International Federation

Basketball Championship Team.

He attended West Philadelphia High

School and was known as a very skillful

and aggressive player. In 1954, while still

Joseph “Joe” Howell ’60







but I say they were better people,” he added.

“He was just a very good basketball

player. I have been very fortunate to play

with him,” said Miller, who along with

eight other teammates attended Howell’s

induction ceremony.

“We were the first team from A&T

to make it to the NCAA final four,” he

together, this guard led the 1958 and 1959 McLendon Jr. CIAA Hall of Fame brunch in high school, he was chosen as one of the recalled. “We were probably also the first

assumes rightful place Aggies basketball team to two CIAA

championships and became known as the

that was held March 2 in Charlotte, N.C.

Other inductees included Leroy “Lanky”

top five players in the City of Brotherly team from A&T ever fly on an airplane,”

Love and was a member of the All-City said the 69-year-old.

in CIAA Hall of Fame “bread and butter” of the budding team. In Banks, Shelia Baxter, Joe Gilliam, Bill Public School League. His basketball legacy “I tried to keep the team motivated. My Among a host of accolades, Howell

1956-57, he was said to be the “brightest Hayes, Al Roseboro and A.B. Whitfield. includes playing against the late great Wilt thing was never give up; no matter how earned the title of 1959 CIAA scoring

spot in the athletic picture for N.C. A&T’s Howell’s basketball days began on Chamberlain, a player Howell now admits down we may be, we could always come leader, Jack Gibson Memorial Award, four-

By Samantha Hargrove basketball team.” the school yards and playgrounds of his high school team could never beat. back,” he said. year starter in basketball, two-year starter

His once in a lifetime opportunity to On the court Howell was a force to be in baseball and was inducted into the N.C.

attend A&T on a basketball scholarship reckoned with. Off the court he conveyed a A&T Hall of Fame.

came with the aid of his childhood friend more humble spirit. During his basketball career at A&T,

Vince Miller ’60, who convinced coach Cal Former teammate and coach for the Howell scored more than 1,500 point

Irvin to recruit Howell. Golden State Warriors, Al Attles ’60, and played on the All-CIAA team. After

“Our team needed a guard and I told remembers the days of playing with Howell. graduating, he played semi-professional

Coach Irvin. Back then, white institutions “We had a good team. Joe was a very basketball before becoming a middle school

were not recruiting black players. On quiet guy. Unassuming. But he was an teacher and coach in his hometown.

my word alone the coach gave him a full outstanding player on the court,” he said. “I “I liked teaching and coaching middle

scholarship,” Miller recalled. watched how our team just grew and grew.” school. The kids really didn’t know which

It couldn’t have happened at a better Amidst the fond memories, Attles said, way to go. I think I made a difference,” said

time. According to Howell, who had “I have played all around the country and I the 71-year-old.

recently graduated high school and was would say on a college level, (Howell) was He retired from teaching three years

working, he did not have the means to as good as any player I have ever played ago and says he is living out the rest of

The Aggie delegation congratulates N.C. attend any college. with or against.” his years enjoying simpler things in life,

A&T basketball great Joe Howell ’60 at “This was a great thing because I came The group has stayed very close like long walks and cutting grass. He

his CIAA Hall of Fame induction. Pictured from a home with a single mother and I over the years, attending homecomings and his wife Beatrice have been married

left to right are Donald Young ’57, Walter

would not have been able to afford to go to and supporting one another through the for more than 30 years. They have two

Holtzclaw ’62, Jerry Powell ’63, Vince

college any other way,” he said. He would decades. adult children, Lisa and Dustan, and one

Miller ’60, Al Attles ’60, Howell, Herb

Gray, Paul Greer, Charles Harrison ’59, later become the first college graduate in his “Our team is still very close. It was a granddaughter.

Coach Cal Irvin and Bob McQuaige ’59. family. good team. It goes beyond statistics for us,” “I know that I was a great basketball

When he entered A&T in 1955, it said Attles. player in my day because I had great players

didn’t take him long to make a name for “For those of us who have played with around me and a great coach, Coach Cal

himself. As a six-foot guard, Howell was him, he sticks out in our memories. I am Irvin. If these guys did not pass me the ball,

also known as a well rounded player and very happy for him,” he added. “We like to I wouldn’t be standing here today,” he said.

served as the team’s captain for two years. talk about how good they were as players,





SPRING 2007 • A&T TODAY 25

PEOPLE BEHIND the

guiDEliNE TO EsTABlisH AN

ENDOwED sCHOlArsHiP AT NOrTH

CArOliNA A&T sTATE uNiVErsiTY









SCHOLARSHIPS

Once a member of the Blue and Gold Marching Machine who an endowed scholarship strengthens the long-term

dropped out of the university because he couldn’t pay tuition, financial underpinnings of North Carolina A&T State



actor Blake Dye creates endowed scholarship for band students. University. Endowed scholarships provide a base of support

for generations of students in perpetuity.

An endowment is a permanent fund – often named

MArCHiNg ON By Nettie Collins Rowland ’72

in honor of an individual – that is created for the purpose





“A

of leaving a legacy to current and future Aggie students.

lot of people say they can’t give while matriculating at A&T. didn’t know if he was serious or playing.” A&T is benefiting from Dye’s “It is so important that alumni

The principal, or corpus, of an endowment fund is never

back to the university because of Dye’s Aggie experience began in At A&T, Dye was a student leader second scholarship. In 2005, he raised and friends make contributions to the

spent. Only annual earnings or a portion of annual earnings

what they make,” says Blake dye, a former 1986. He arrived at A&T hoping to who was heavily involved with the enough money to endow a $10,000 university, regardless of the amount

are awarded for scholarships. In this way an endowed

member of A&T State University’s Blue continue music studies and improve as a university and the community. Along scholarship at Winston-Salem State in because their gifts help the university

scholarship provides annual income to be awarded to

and Gold Marching Machine, “but they cellist, but he soon discovered that would with playing in the band, he was a writer honor of his late mother. continue its mission of making

deserving students forever.

don’t realize the amount of money that not be possible because there was no for the A&T Register and a member of Blake’s commitment to give back significant impacts in this world and in

Typically, annual awards equal no more than 5

they waste on trivial things.” orchestra. Toastmasters. He also served as president to A&T didn’t occur overnight; he the lives of young people who attend

percent of the principal balance (depending on investment

In February, Dye, a human resources That did not deter him. of the North Carolina Student Legislature, made the commitment eight years ago. A&T,” she said.

performance). Thus, a $25,000 scholarship would pay out

professional on the West Coast, donated Dye was given a chance to join later holding a state-wide office with the “A&T is where I gained my Aggies have no problem defining

$1,250 (5%) each year in the form of a scholarship. Annual

$12,500 to N.C. A&T to establish an the Marching Machine with the organization. love and respect for the band, where Aggie Pride, but Dye is exhibiting

earnings above the payout amount are reinvested in the

endowed scholarship for the university’s understanding he would learn to play a Things were going quite well for I was very close to a lot of band staff, more than talk.

principal of the scholarship fund. This builds the principal

marching band – a first for the program. wind instrument. Within six weeks the Dye until his junior year when, like and where I made most of my lasting “Aggie Pride is a commitment to

of the endowment fund over time, allowing for larger

The gift has been matched with a Title III confident musician had mastered the many college students today, he began relationships.” the whole institution – not just having

scholarship awards in future years.

grant and is now up to $25,000. baritone horn. He fondly remembers experiencing financial difficulties. Over 82 He consulted Pamela Johnson, a sticker on your car or showing up at

Historical evidence proves tuition typically increases!

“I have never had a high paying “Rumors,” the first song he learned to play percent of A&T students are currently on president of the Washington, D.C. a football game. You must also give of

Reinvestment also serves as a hedge against inflation.

job,” the 38-year-old explains. “But I have and other hits such as “Diamonds” and financial aid. A&T Alumni Chapter about his goal. yourself through service and through

found creative ways of living within my “Hip to be Square.” “I had to leave college because I “I simply told him that I would help financial donations, and always

aMouNtS reQuired

limited means. Everyone that knows me A&T’s band director, Kenneth Ruff, could no longer afford the out-of-state him contact the right people to make represent the university

knows I am notoriously cheap.” often reminisces with Dye about the tuition,” the political science major said. his dream a reality,” Johnson said. as best you can.” Endowed scholarship (minimum) $ 25,000

An aspiring actor who spent two good times they had playing in the band. “I was crushed. I knew that without a Dye is among the 15 percent of Dye encourages all Aggies to fully Endowed scholarship $200,000

seasons as a featured police officer on They are both founding members of the degree I wouldn’t be successful in what I Aggies who give back to the university. give back. North Carolina or Washington, D.C. Student

HBO’s “The Wire” and had principal university’s band fraternity, Kappa Kappa wanted to do.” “As Aggies, we all started to

roles on Court TV’s “Psychic Detectives” Psi, and throughout the years have seen After dropping out of college, Blake fully Endowed scholarship $400,000

develop our sense of professionalism

and the History Channel’s “The Cole the band grow from 120 to as many as 220 worked arduously in the clerical and Blake Dye (front right) with band Out-of-state Student

from our days at A&T and we have

Conspiracy,” Dye prepares his own meals, members. industrial areas trying to secure enough director Kenneth Ruff and members

got to give back to the place that

of the marching band. The minimum amount to establish an endowed scholarship

uses coupons, buys mostly at clearance or Ruff was utterly surprised when Dye money to return. Eight months later he helped us get to where

closeout sales and finds ways to entertain awarded the gift to create an endowed had acquired the funds he needed. And is $25,000 and may be donated over a period of up to five

we are today,” he said.

himself with free activities. He also drives scholarship for the band. although he loved Aggieland and wanted years ($5,000 gifts annually for five years). One year after

Johnson

a seven-year-old midsized car. “Over the years Blake has to continue pursuing his degree at A&T, the principal reaches $25,000, the first scholarship award

echoes Blake.

Dye fits the bill of being frugal; volunteered with the band and has often the out-of-state tuition was just too costly. may be made. (One year is needed after the minimum

however, mention education to him and said he wanted to do something for the The avid traveler who has visited 42 is reached to earn interest.)

his demeanor changes. band, but his donation was a shock to states and three foreign countries decided Donors may suggest a designation

“Education is the true path to a me,” Ruff said. to move to Winston-Salem, N.C., where and associated criteria for an endowed

successful future,” he said. “I have always He is especially proud that the he could stay with relatives and attend scholarship. For example, the John Doe

wanted to establish a scholarship on scholarship was created by his line brother. Winston-Salem State University, which Endowed Scholarship Fund may be

campus. I wanted to create one that would “It is the first major contribution allowed him to pay in-state tuition. He designated for a student in the College

offset some of the costs of school so that made by a band alumnus since I have been joined the Rams band, served as captain of Engineering who demonstrates

students would not have to quit the band here,” he said. of the Honda Campus All-Star Quiz financial need and who is from North

to work.” Idella Jones, student services Bowl team for two years, and received a Carolina (or a specific county or region of

The New York native is quite familiar coordinator for the Career Services Office degree in urban affairs. He later received North Carolina).

with the ordeal of having insufficient remembers the jovial Dye. a master’s in public administration and Scholarship donors are required to

funds to participate in the band or money “He had a great sense of humor,” she higher education administration from sign a Deed of Gift (pledge statement)

to pay for tuition. He encountered both said. “There were times, however, when I Appalachian State University. and document the desired scholarship

designation and criteria.





26 A&T TODAY • SPRING 2007 SPRING 2007 • A&T TODAY 27

ALUMNI NEWS

1950s

__________________________________



State Senator ulysses Currie ’59

(D-Maryland) was featured in a Baltimore Sun

article recently. In the article, Currie reflected

on his humble beginnings in Whiteville,

AGGIES ON THE MOVE









N.C., and as the first in his family to attend

1970s

__________________________________



Merl F. Code ’70 has been

elected to the Palmetto

Institute Board of Directors

for a two-year term that

began Dec. 11, 2006.

1980s

__________________________________



harold W. george ’82

is the municipal court

judge for Willingboro

Township in New Jersey.

George also serves on

1990s

__________________________________



John hodge ’90 is

making a name for

himself in the field of

education. Currently the

director of the Urban

Memoriam Alumni howard lee alford ’58, April 27

esther Bernice Wooten Barber ’48, Jan. 27, 2000

Fletcher Barber Sr. ’76, Jan. 26, 2000

Joseph P. “Joe” Cotton ’63, March 10

college. He has served as Prince George’s Code is an attorney with the boards of directors for Learning and Leadership doran earle, April 24

County’s senator since 1995. Ogletree, Deakins, Nash, Smoak & Stewart, Trinity Cathedral Academy and New Jersey Center (ULLC) and former director of the lemon thomas long ’69, March 20

P.C., in Greenville, S.C. He concentrates his Protection and Advocacy. He is a past trustee Achievable Dream Academy (ADA), a William N. “Bill” Martin ’66, April 6

practice in the areas of positive employee of the Mercer County Bar Association and Virginia inner city school, Hodge says he

1960s Madie ruth oliver ’62, March 28

__________________________________ relations and diversity. he is a life member of Kappa Alpha Psi believes in team work and is dedicated to delorese M. twiggs, March 4

Fraternity, Inc. the education of African American children Kenneth McBeth Whiteside, April 12

Betty J. Williams ’66 was appointed Melvin Carver, ed.d. all over. It was his dedication to ADA and John Zeigler ’57, March 9

to the National Association of Women ’72 has been selected by elmer gilliam Jr. ’86 is its partner organization ULLC that landed

Judges (NAWJ) Board of Directors at the the Oxford Round Table featured in an article in his team on CBS’ “The Early Show” two Others harrison oladunjoye “eleko” akingbade,

organization’s annual meeting in January. Program Committee, Harris the April/May 2007 edition years ago. Prior to starting his career in former professor, March 17

Judge Williams is co-chair of the NAWJ Manchester College in of Diversity/Careers in education, Hodge served in the 7th Infantry Brenton Stovall, student, May 3

Women in Prison Committee, and she chairs England, as a presenter at Engineering & Information Division of the U.S. Army.

the New York Chapter-NAWJ Women in their annual meeting July 8-13. Carver’s paper Technology magazine

Prison Committee. Williams was elected presentation, “Balancing the Two Cultures: (www.diversitycareers.com). The article

to Kings County Civil Court Judge in Mainstream Universities Versus HBCUs in addresses hot careers in the expanding fields

November 2000 and is currently assigned to the USA,” will focus on the strengths and of pharma, biotech and medical equipment.

Misdemeanor Brooklyn Treatment Court in differences in art and humanity programs Gilliam is continuous improvement manager D.C. CHAPTEr ANNOuNCEs 2007 sCHOlArsHiP rECiPiENTs

Kings County Criminal Court (Brooklyn, N.Y.). at member institutions in the University of at Talecris Biotherapeutics (formerly Bayer





T

She was featured in the 2006 fall edition of North Carolina system. He is the chairman Biological Products) in Clayton, N.C. he Washington, D.C. Chapter-North Carolina A&T State University Alumni Association recently awarded its 2007

How We Live magazine as one of six notable of the department of art at North Carolina academic scholarships to three N.C. A&T mechanical engineering students: Bobby henry iii, Jonathan McCoy and

professional women from her home state of Central University, and he recently illustrated a leon White.

South Carolina. children’s book, The Greedy Spider. These annual monetary awards recognize the academic achievements of metropolitan Washington, D.C., area students

planning to attend or currently enrolled at N.C. A&T. The recipients of this year’s awards will receive between $1,000 and

$4,000 to pay tuition and fees.

Henry is a freshman from Bowie, Md., where he attended Jericho Christian Academy in Landover, Md. At A&T, he is

a member of the Honors Program and the National Society of Black Engineers. Henry plans to pursue a career in the auto-

the National Association for Equal Opportunity in Higher Education (NAFEO) recently

motive industry and develop safe alternative fuel vehicles. He eventually wants to own a company that designs, develops and

honored four North Carolina A&T State University graduates at its 2007 Distinguished

produces the most sleek, safe, fuel efficient vehicle in the world.

Alumni Luncheon that was held during the 32nd Annual Conference on Blacks in Higher

McCoy is a sophomore from Columbia, Md., where he attended Long Reach High School. Currently, he is president of

Education in Washington, D.C.

Alpha Lambda Delta Honor Society and a member of the Honors Program, the National Society of Black Engineers and the

The honorees were verdina W. Bingham ’93, business manager for Radio

American Society of Mechanical Engineers. He also is a volunteer for Big Brothers and Big Sisters. McCoy has a passion for

Bingham Butler One Inc.; hosea Butler Jr. ’58, retired district manager for the U.S. General Services

business and plans to earn a master’s degree in business administration and own an engineering firm.

Administration; Pamela l. Johnson ’91, senior engineer with Technology, Automation

White is a freshman from Upper Marlboro, Md., and he attended Charles Flowers High School in Springdale, Md. He

and Management Inc., and harold l. Martin Sr. ’74, senior vice president for academic

is a member of A&T’s Honors Program and the American Society of Mechanical Engineers, and he serves on the executive

affairs for the University of North Carolina-General Administration.

board of the National Society of Black Engineers. White plans to pursue a Ph.D. in mechanical engineering. He lives by

The NAFEO Distinguished Alumni award honors alumni of historically black colleges

Mahatma Gandhi’s philosophy: “live as if you were going to die tomorrow, learn as if you were going to live forever.”

and universities or predominately black institutions “who rise to lofty heights in their

The scholarship recipients were recognized at Washington, D.C. Chapter’s Annual Scholarship Gala on April 6.

professions and use their time, talent and treasure to enhance the African American



Johnson Martin community and the world.”









28 A&T TODAY • SPRING 2007 SPRING 2007 • A&T TODAY 29

ALUMNI NEWS AGGIES ON THE MOVE

continued







DiffErENT PATHs lEAD TO BlACk ENgiNEEr Of THE YEAr HONOrs





In 1978, tony e. Carter and James C. dalton Jr. were two of only six program, and he is a trained EEO counselor. Carter

graduates to receive bachelor’s degrees in also works directly with historically black colleges

architectural engineering from N.C. A&T. Both and universities and other educational institutions

graduates embarked on careers with the United to whet students’ interest in pursuing fields in

States Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) in the engineering and science.

Wilmington District (Wilmington, N.C.), but from Dalton, USACE’s director of engineering









1926-2007

there their paths took different directions. and construction, is the only African American

Twenty-nine years and numerous accolades engineer who is a member of the Senior Executive

later, both men received Black Engineer of the Service (SES). He has earned the Black Engineer

Year Awards in February 2007. of the Year 2007 Career Achievement in

Carter has remained with the USACE- Government Award.

Wilmington District. He currently works in the During his career, Dalton has participated in

programs management branch as a civil engineer. U.S. hurricane recovery missions in the United

His success in making diversity thrive has resulted States and city design, infrastructure building and

in him earning the Black Engineer of the Year oil facility construction in Saudi Arabia. He is the





Celebrating 81 Years of the Greatest Homecoming on Earth

2007 Affirmative Action in Government Award. first African American Corps of Engineers senior

Recognized as a “dynamo of creative energy” civilian in the Korean and Alaskan districts and

by his commanders at USACE, Carter is a member the first to occupy senior Corps official status in

of the Equal Employment Opportunity committee, Egypt and Iraq.

he manages the black employee special emphasis THursDAY, OCT. 25 friDAY, OCT. 26 sATurDAY, OCT. 27 suNDAY, OCT. 28

alumni Welcome desk 29th annual richard e. moore Shuttle Service to aggie Stadium alumni Continental Breakfast

Sheraton Four Seasons Hotel, 10 a.m. memorial golf tournament Sheraton Four Seasons Hotel Sheraton Four Seasons Hotel,

Grandover Resort 7 a.m.-6:30 p.m. (every 20 minutes) Imperial Ballroom, 8-9 a.m.

alumni Career fair (tentative)

8:30 a.m. Shotgun Start

Sheraton Four Seasons Hotel, Imperial get your official aggie Worship Service

Ballroom, Time TBA aggie “No tap” annual Paraphernalia from the Sheraton Four Seasons Hotel,

Scholarship Bowling tournament N.C. a&t Bookstore Auditorium IV, 9 a.m.

get your official aggie

Gate City Lanes Sheraton Four Seasons Hotel, 4-11 p.m.

Paraphernalia from the vending

First shift begins at 9:30 a.m.

N.C. a&t Bookstore homecoming Parade Sheraton Four Seasons Hotel,

Sheraton Four Seasons Hotel, 4-11 p.m. alumni Welcome desk 8 a.m. Pre-function Area, 8 a.m.-noon

Sheraton Four Seasons Hotel, 10 a.m.

alumni reception (Invitation Only) vending

Sheraton Four Seasons Hotel, 6 p.m. get your official aggie Sheraton Four Seasons Hotel,

Paraphernalia from the Pre-function Area, 8 a.m.-Midnight

miss a&t Coronation

N.C. a&t Bookstore

Corbett Sports Center, 7 p.m. School of Nursing

Sheraton Four Seasons Hotel, 4-11 p.m.

teloCa Breakfast

vending Sheraton Four Seasons Hotel,

Sheraton Four Seasons Hotel, Time TBA

Pre-function Area, Time TBA

football game

Chancellor’s donor reception a&t vs. Bethune-Cookman

(Invitation Only) Aggie Stadium, 1:30 p.m.

Sheraton Four Seasons Hotel, Contact: N.C. A&T Ticket Office

Victoria Ballroom, 6 p.m. (336) 334-7749

alumni Concert victory Club Stewardship event

Greensboro Coliseum, 8 p.m. (Invitation Only)

(336) 433-5560 Sheraton Four Seasons Hotel, Victoria

Ballroom, 8 p.m.-1 a.m.

alumni dance

Sheraton Four Seasons Hotel, Guilford

James C. Dalton Jr. ’78 (left), Brig. Gen. Joseph Schroedel and Tony Carter ’78 Ballroom, 9 p.m.-1 a.m.



Details are forthcoming for events sponsored by the schools and colleges

30 A&T TODAY • SPRING 2007

A STUDENT'S MIXED BAG

PERSPECTIVE

iN sEArCH Of A CurE By Corey Caldwell

HigH BlOOD PrEssurE: THE silENT killEr

By Sue Schumacher, Ph.D.









A s I listen to health statistics, I am

dismayed by the reports stating that

soy, green tea and black tea.

Our bodies have the ability to

there is a strong driving force to produce

a drug that will increase the amount of

A pproximately one-third of the adults I meet walking

across campus have either borderline blood pressure or

high blood pressure (120/80 mm Hg or higher).

time, not avoiding their favorite foods, not wanting to

exercise and not having money or medical insurance. Patients

also do not like the side effects of the medications.

cancer is the second leading cause of death defend itself against cancer causing detoxification enzymes in the body and at

African Americans have a greater chance of acquiring My hypertension research program at N.C. A&T

in the United States. As a young black male, substances by using detoxification enzymes the same time will not produce a toxic effect

high blood pressure than white Americans and at a much State University offers free treatment using one of three

I am on high alert in the midst of my own that act as the body’s own “policemen” by on the consumer.

earlier age. Overall, the American population has one of the techniques that have been proven to lower blood pressure.

life. removing all toxins and cancer causing The first group that would benefit

highest rates of hypertension in the world, with cardiovascular For those individuals that are on medications but still have

According to the American Chemical substances through a three-phase process. from such a drug is cancer survivors and

disease (CVD) being the number one cause of death in BPs in the hypertensive range, this is especially important.

Society, the rates of cancer and cancer death those who have a high risk for cancer. More

American women. As a preventative, these techniques can also prolong life by

are expected to be dramatically higher for importantly, this type of drug would show

Alarming is the fact that people who may be on two controlling the factors that contribute to the gradual rise of

African Americans than any other racial or immediate benefits in the African American

or three blood pressure medications still have high blood blood pressure over the years.

ethnic group in the U.S., again this year. community, which leads the world in cancer

pressure. Why is this alarming? Because blood pressure that Initial funding is for African American individuals age

In addition to having two family caused mortality. Since chemotherapy and

remains higher than average contributes to CVD, including 50 years or older that have hypertension. However, we are

members’ lives taken by cancer, I have been surgery have not been fully effective against

heart attacks, stroke, diabetes and many other associated finding that so many younger people have hypertension, so

moved to dedicate my life’s research efforts the high incidence or low survival rate of

illnesses. we have submitted another proposal to use these treatments

to encompass the potential for a global most cancers, the approach we are suggesting

There may not be any noticeable symptoms of with adult African Americans, but we will not turn away

impact on cancer and – especially – to has promising benefits.

hypertension until the disease is serious enough to result any individual with high blood pressure, regardless of age or

loosen the unyielding grip that cancer has The goal of our project is to determine

in permanent damage, shortened lifespan and death. Most ethnicity.

on African Americans. whether naturally occurring or synthetic

people will not go to the doctor unless they have significant What does the Hypertension Research Program cost?

As a student researcher in the gallic acid derivatives can be the drug

symptoms. Insurance, the rising cost of health care and the Nothing, except a commitment to want to live longer and

department of chemistry at North Carolina described above. We suspect that by

time involved to go to the doctor are some of the reasons why the equivalence of approximately one hour a day to devote to

A&T State University, under Dr. Marion changing the structure of gallic acid we will

individuals cannot afford to go to the physician. oneself. The treatment program is 12 weeks with six months

A. Franks, we have focused our efforts on enhance the body’s own natural protection

Hypertension has multiple causes, making treatment of follow-up.

against cancer causing substances and stop

more difficult when the specific cause is not known. Diet, The on-campus sessions meet twice a week for 12 weeks

the promotion of DNA mutations. For that

Chemoprevention is the attempt to use natural and synthetic chemical compounds genetics, socioeconomic status and stress are all contributors in the Hypertension Research Lab in the New Sciences

reason, our hypothesis is that gallic acid

to intervene in the early stages of cancer, before uncontrolled cell growth begins to hypertension, which is considered a series of diseases. Building; after that, twice a month for refresher classes and

derivatives will allow the body to remove

and increases the risk for cancer in an otherwise healthy individual. The high incidence of high blood pressure in America to collect blood pressure data. Sessions also are held at local

toxins and substances that cause cancer.

seems to be related to the American lifestyle, as evidenced by churches and recreation centers upon request.

To date, we have successfully made

Africans moving to America initially with lower average BPs

chemoprevention. Chemoprevention is The process is enhanced by the addition several gallate derivatives using simple

than their American counterparts. Sue Schumacher is an associate professor of

the attempt to use natural and synthetic of certain chemical compounds found synthetic organic transformations. Our

When they have been in this country approximately five psychology and founder of the newly established

chemical compounds to intervene in the in dietary components. Therefore, what reactions provide very good yields of pure

years, their pressures rise to levels consistent with African Hypertension Research Program at North

early stages of cancer, before uncontrolled a person eats and drinks could possibly products and may give a new methodology

Americans. With each generation, the factors associated with Carolina A&T State University. For two

cell growth begins and increases the help them to prevent the onset of cancer. for the synthesis of many types of

hypertension increase. There is less exercise, more consecutive years, she was nominated by the

risk for cancer in an otherwise healthy Unfortunately, it requires the consumption derivatized gallates that can be used as

fast food, more salt and more chemicals in Southeastern Psychological Association for

individual. This strategy is used to stop the of large amounts of foods that are not the chemopreventives. We will discern further

our diets. We tend to live for the moment, the Outstanding Research Paper Award as a result of this research

process of carcinogenesis, the transformation norm for American society such as three- the efficacy of our synthesized gallate

rather than looking toward the futures in on alternative therapies to treat hypertension. She placed second

of a normal cell into a cancer cell. day-old broccoli sprouts that have not derivatives through anticancer studies

our lifestyle. this year.

The drug candidates that we make been cooked. A need exists to determine using a human derived liver cell culture

In addition, many people Schumacher’s research is funded as a subproject of a grant

are derived from a natural substance called the active compound in these dietary model (HEPG2) in collaboration with Dr.

with high blood pressure are from the Research Infrastructure in Minority Institutions (RIMI)

gallic acid. Other researchers have shown components and enhance them. Minnie Holmes-McNary from the biology

hesitant to do anything division of the National Center on Minority Health and Health

that the structure of gallic acid is common There are also dietary components that department.

to treat the problem. Disparities (NCMHD). Information on this program is available

in the framework of most of the active will help increase the onset of cancer, in

Excuses include not by contacting Schumacher or her technician, Katherine Welker, at

natural chemopreventive dietary addition to the many environmental toxins Corey Caldwell is a senior chemistry major.

having enough (336) 256-2375.

components, such as cherries, raspberries, that were not present 50 years ago. Thus,



32 A&T TODAY • SPRING 2007 SPRING 2007 • A&T TODAY 33

REMEMBERING

THE PAST

Honoring Those Who Serve

Six North Carolina a&t

employees, all former or

active members of military

service, place a wreath in

front of the war memorial

on campus during this year's

Memorial day observation.

Pictured are edward Cheek

(Coast guard), Clinton

gillespie (army), debora

Ferguson (army), Celesta

dunston (army), david

Jackson (army) and edward

anthony eason (Navy).









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