News & Announcements             Athens State to open Center for Lifelong Learning on Courthouse Square September 1, 2010 - Just when you think you have learned all you needed to know in life, Athens State has to go and create a Center for Lifelong Learning! The Center, to be located in the former Boys and Girls Clubhouse building on the east side of the courthouse square, is scheduled to open in early 2011 to served as an educational and social outlet for all members of the community. “The Center for Lifelong Learning is the University’s way of sharing our educational wealth with Athens and Limestone County,” states Associate Vice President for Academic Affairs Dr. Lee Cheek. “It will encompass a broad scope of uses – from credit and non-credit class offerings to a gathering place for social and entertainment purposes. We foresee it to as a draw to downtown Athens and an educational and entertainment haven for area residents.” The Center’s planned uses cover five main purposes: Enriching the community life, establishing a Lifelong Learning Institute, supporting the University’s online classes, creating an Action Institute to introduce young people to the offerings of Athens State, and housing specific established University Centers and Programs. A University bookstore, managed by Follett which currently operates a branch on the institution’s main campus, will also have a presence in the Center. “Many people in the community think we are simply placing a bookstore on the square,” remarks Cheek, who is overseeing the creation of the Center. “This project will be so much more than a typical university bookstore, it will truly be a place that the name suggests – a place to learn at any age throughout a lifetime. We are very cognizant of our place and to not be perceived as competition for any existing businesses – we truly want to enhance the square, not compete in a retail district that has been such good neighbors for so many years.” The Follett extension will take up approximately a quarter of the downstairs area and will offer textbooks, collegiate and local team-related sportswear and gifts, and books and materials focusing on the University’s programs and scheduled guest lecturers. “This will be a great addition to our downtown district,” states Spirit of Athens Executive Director Trisha Black. Suggested caption: Dr. Lee Cheek of Athens State University and Trisha Black of the Spirit of Athens. ASU Constitution Day Event to Feature Nationally-respected Constitutional Scholar August 30, 2010 - Athens State University will celebrate Constitution Day on September 17th. The University will host a guest lecture by Dr. Daniel Driesbach from American University in Washington, D.C. The lecture will take place at 11:00am in McCandless Hall on the Athens State University campus and the general public is invited. Dr. Driesbach is a recognized authority on the American Founding and a former Rhodes Scholar. The topic of his lecture will be the Famous Founders and Forgotten Founders. When asked to identify the “founding fathers,” Americans typically respond with a short list of five or six notables who have achieved iconic status in the American imagination and collective memory. The small fraternity of “famous founders” typically includes (in no particular order) Benjamin Franklin, George Washington, John Adams, Thomas Jefferson, James Madison, and Alexander Hamilton. There is, however, a much larger company of now “forgotten founders” who made salient contributions in thought, word, and deed to the construction of the American constitutional republic and its institutions. The lecture considers why a select few founders are famous and other important figures whose well-documented contributions were celebrated in their time are largely forgotten in our time. The lecture concludes that a variety of factors and circumstances help explain why certain founders have been placed in the pantheon of famous founders and others have slipped into unmerited obscurity. Daniel L. Dreisbach is a Professor of Justice, Law and Society in the School of Public Affairs at American University in Washington, D.C. He is also a faculty member (and Georgetown University adjunct professor of history) in the federal government’s James Madison Memorial Fellowship Foundation Summer Institute in Washington, D.C. He received a Doctor of Philosophy degree from Oxford University, where he studied as a Rhodes Scholar, and a Juris Doctor degree from the University of Virginia. Following law school, he served as a judicial clerk for Circuit Judge Robert F. Chapman of the U.S. Fourth Circuit Court of Appeals, and for two years he practiced public interest law specializing in civil and religious liberties. He has authored or edited seven books, including Thomas Jefferson and the Wall of Separation between Church and State (New York Univ. Press, 2002) and The Sacred Rights of Conscience (Liberty Fund, 2009). ASU’s First eLearning Symposium a State-wide Success August 23, 2010 - Athens State University hosted the first annual Alabama Community College System eLearning Symposium on its campus Friday, August 20, 2010. The event was sponsored by Blackboard Inc. eLearning (Electronic Learning) encompasses any use of computers, software, and other electronic technologies to support teaching and learning. Ranging from technology-enabled classrooms to systems supporting fully online classes, eLearning enhances teaching, improves learning, and increases access to educational opportunities. The one‐day event was open to all faculty, technology staff, and administration within the Alabama Community College System as well as the Alabama Department of Postsecondary Education. Athens State President Bob Glenn and Alabama Community College System Chancellor Freida Hill served as official hosts. “We were very pleased as to the attendance from our sister institutions and by the quality of the presentations,” stated Glenn. “Athens State is committed to providing a quality education and with the increased interest in distance education this symposium was welcomed and utilized state-wide. We are proud to have our campus identified as its home now and for the future.” The keynote speaker for the event was Ray Henderson, President of Blackboard Learn. As President of Blackboard\\\'s Teaching and Learning Division, Ray oversees product development, client success and support as well as the Global Services and Managed Hosting functions. Founded in 1997 and headquartered in Washington, D.C., Blackboard is a global leader in enterprise technology and innovative solutions that improve the experience of millions of students and learners around the world every day. Representatives from leading providers of eLearning technology - Blackboard Alliance Program, Acxiom, Echo360, Microsoft, NBC Learn, Wimba, Softchalk and Respondus were in attendance to give individual workshops on their products. Art Competition for Athens State’s Christmas Card Announced August 23, 2010 - For the second year, Athens State University President Robert Glenn is sponsoring an art competition to design a Christmas Card for the University. Area artists of any age are encouraged to submit up to three suitable entries in any medium. The winner will receive $250.00 and the publication and distribution of the card. The card will include a short bio of the artist along with their artwork. “This is a great opportunity for a resume building project for area artists, as well as a chance to see your work in print,” said art professor Pamela Keller. Entries are due to the campus of Athens State University no later than Monday, November 1st, 2010 and may be mailed, emailed or hand delivered. All entries must have the artists name, medium and contact information on the back, along with signed, written and dated permission to use the image if selected as the winning entry. Contact Professors Pamela Keller or Gail Bergeron at 256-233-8100 for additional information or to arrange to drop off your entry. Suggested caption: Last year’s winning Christmas Card was by Athens State Student Matt Bender. Athens State honors long-time employees at University In-Service August 19, 2010 - At Athens State’s In-Service meeting on Thursday, August 19, the institution recognized those employees who have served the University for 5, 10, 20, 25, 30 and 35 years. “The Chronicle of Higher Education recently named Athens State as a Great Place to Work,” stated Vice President for Advancement Rick Mould. “I believe the fact that we honored 54 employees today for extended periods of service is the best illustration of this fact recently uncovered by The Chronicle. Athens State is not only a great school, but a great contributor to our community.” Recognized for five years of service were: Pat Bradford, Amanda Branscombe, Bridgett Chandler, Jowanda Cobb, Jill Cook, Malcolm Cort, Ronald Fritze, Mary Harris, Trevor Harris, Michael Heatherly, Valarie Hendrix, Wendy Hobbs, Stacy Hughes, Lisa Hyde, Debra Kelley, Kimberly LeFevor, Sherry Lyle, Helen Marks, David Martin, Barry Moley, Dana Waldrop and George Williams. Recognized for ten years of service were: Gail Bergeron, Denver Betts, Dottie Gasbarro, Rosemary Hodges, Patrick Ragunci, Nancy Raiden, Beth Reed, Debra Tarpley, Sherry Weathers and Cathy Woodruff. Recognized for twenty years of service were: Carla Breeding, Jess Brown, Patricia Chavanne, Kenneith Collins, Sheila Davis, Dave Erwin, Tracy Hicks, Bryan Kennedy, James Limbach, Sarah McAbee, Patsy Naves, Molly Pepper, Carol Quillen and Diann Shelton. Recognized for twenty five years of service were: Joe Bullington, Barry Devine, James Hand, Tina Hicks, Tim Jones and Debbie Schaus. Necedah Henderson was recognized for thirty years of service and Dwight Lovell was recognized for thirty five years of service. Athens State University Named a “2010 Great College to Work For” Honor by The Chronicle of Higher Education puts Athens State in elite company August 19, 2010-Athens State University is one of the best colleges in the nation to work for, according to a new survey by The Chronicle of Higher Education. The results, released in The Chronicle’s third annual report on The Academic Workplace, are based on a survey of more than 42,000 employees at 277 colleges and universities. In all, only 97 of the 277 institutions achieved “Great College to Work For” recognition for specific best practices and policies. Athens State won honors in three categories this year: compensation and benefits, work-life balance, and facilities, workplace and security. “The Chronicle of Higher Education confirms what has been common knowledge in North Alabama for the last half-century, or so, and that is that Athens State University is one of the best places to work within higher education,” states University President Bob Glenn. “Whenever you talk to a member of the faculty or staff it won’t be long before they start talking about how much they love their work, and, how much they love working at ASU. Whenever we have a vacancy on the faculty or staff you will always see a long list of applicants from other institutions because the great reputation of the institution draws people to it. The people here are the heart and soul of the institution and as long as we are smart enough to recognize and honor that fact, we will remain one of the very best places to work.” The Chronicle is the nation’s most important source of news about colleges and universities. “With the Great Colleges program, The Chronicle can provide even more of the vital information our readers rely on – unbiased reporting on which colleges are being innovative in their workplace practices.” said Jeffrey Selingo, The Chronicle’s editor. The survey results are based on a two-part assessment process: an institutional audit that captured demographics and workplace policies from each institution, and a survey administered to faculty, administrators, and professional support staff. The primary factor in deciding whether an institution received recognition was the employee feedback. Great Colleges to Work For is one of the largest and most respected workplace-recognition programs in the country. For more information and to view all the results of the survey, visit The Chronicle’s Web site at http://chronicle.com/academicworkplace Athens State Recognized by National Military Publication G.I. Jobs Magazine names Athens State as a Military Friendly School for 2011 August 16, 2010 - G.I. Jobs Magazine recently announces the release of its 2011 list of Military Friendly Schools and Athens State University was recognized for the second year in a row. The list honors the top 15 percent of colleges, universities and trade schools which are doing the most to embrace America’s veterans as students. “Athens State has a long history of providing tailored service to our veterans and servicemen,” states Athens State President Bob Glenn. “Likewise, these students bring a lot of beneficial qualities to our campus. Qualities such as leadership, pride, and maturity help to form a diverse and well-rounded student body.” Athens State’s Office of Veterans Affairs assists any registered or interested veteran with admissions, transfer, or educational program issues. The Office of Veterans Affairs is located in the lower level of the Sandridge Student Center. “This list is especially important now because the Post-9/11 GI Bill has given veterans virtually unlimited financial means to go to school,” said Rich McCormack, G.I. Jobs publisher. “Veterans can now enroll in any school, provided they’re academically qualified. So schools are clamoring for them like never before. Veterans need a trusted friend to help them decide where to get educated. The Military Friendly Schools list is that trusted friend.” Criteria for making the Military Friendly Schools list included efforts to recruit and retain military and veteran students, results in recruiting military and veteran students and academic accreditations. Derek Blumke, president of Student Veterans of America and a member of the list’s Academic Advisory Board, agrees. “The Military Friendly Schools list is the gold standard in letting veterans know which schools will offer them the greatest opportunity, flexibility and overall experience. It’s especially important now with so many schools competing for military students.” Caption: Coordinator of Veterans Affairs Lisa Payne and Athens State President Bob Glenn proudly display the plaque from G.I. Jobs Magazine. Freida Hill to address Athens State graduates August 13, 2010 - Chancellor of the Alabama Postsecondary System, Dr. Freida Hill, will be the keynote speaker at Athens State University’s summer commencement on Saturday, August 28 at 9 a.m. Graduation exercises are planned to be held on Athens State’s campus in front of Founders Hall. Approximately 200 students are expected to graduate. Hill made history as the first woman to serve as a permanent chancellor of the system when she took the helm on December 1, 2009. Previously, she served as the deputy commissioner for the Technical College System of Georgia. She has spent most of her career in community and technical colleges, including five years as a president and six years as a vice president of economic development. Dr. Hill believes in high standards of academic and professional excellence, and is committed to learning and advocates professional development. She has participated in the American Association of Community Colleges’ Presidents Academy, and coordinated the development and delivery of Georgia’s Executive Leadership Academy. Dr. Hill is passionate about student success, especially for at-risk students, believing that getting an education is the most important thing people can do to improve their lives and those of their families. Athens State University offers coursework at the junior and senior level and is the baccalaureate degree granting institution of the Alabama Community College System. It provides affordable education in an environment that recognizes diversity and nurtures the discovery and application of knowledge. Athens State prepares students for professional careers, graduate school, lifelong learning, and enrichment. Caption: Dr. Hill, Chancellor of the Alabama Community College System. Mike McCoy named Vice President for Financial Affairs at ASU August 3, 2010 - Mike McCoy, CPA, former Business Office Manager at Athens State University has been named the institution’s Vice President for Financial Affairs. McCoy assumed the responsibility for this new position on July 12. “I am very pleased to have been offered this opportunity at Athens State,” states McCoy. “This is an institution that has served me, my family, and our community very well over the years. I am proud to be a part of both its history and its growth.” McCoy holds a bachelors degree in accounting from the University of North Alabama and an associate’s degree from Martin Methodist College. Prior to joining the staff at Athens State, McCoy was a partner with Johnson, Feigley, Newton and McCoy, LLP. “Mr. McCoy brings a wealth of knowledge about both Athens State and the Alabama Community College System to the position,” stated University President Bob Glenn. “I believe he will provide a long career of excellent service to our campus.” McCoy’s position oversees Athens State’s financial and business affairs, as well as the operations of the University’s Information Technology and Facilities Departments. Athens State Names Dennis Story as Director of Development Former Vice President at Iowa Wesleyan to head fundraising at Athens State July 2, 2010 - Dennis Story has been recently named the Director of Development at Athens State University. This newly created position is housed in the Office of University Advancement and reports to Rick Mould, the Vice President for that division. Story comes to Athens State after serving as the Vice President for Institutional Relations at Iowa Wesleyan College in Mount Pleasant, Iowa for the last seven years. He recently led a $36 million capital campaign at Iowa Wesleyan. Story is a native of the Pulaski, Tennessee area. “I look forward to working with Dennis as we strengthen our fundraising efforts with alumni, friends and supporters of Athens State,” states Mould. “He will certainly be an asset to the University and its mission.” Throughout 32 years of service in higher education, Story has served at private and public universities for 21 years as a college Vice President or Chief Advancement Officer. Previous assignments included Martin Methodist, Tennessee Tech, Iowa Wesleyan, and as a fundraising consultant. Prior to jobs in academic advancement, Story retired from the United States Army after 21 years of service in the aviation field that included assignments with the Office of the Surgeon General and the U.S. Army School of Aviation Medicine. Story stated, “Providing the needed resources to insure future success at universities today has never been more critical, especially given the current economic conditions, budget cutbacks, and the competitive nature of providing the highest quality educational programs. I am excited about the opportunity and challenge of joining the advancement team at Athens State University. Those members of the faculty, staff, and the community that I have visited with in my first few weeks on campus have certainly welcomed me back home to the Tennessee Valley.” Athens State Science Camp Teaches Science and Fun The first Athens State University Science Camp, “Science Among the Columns” has been held on the Athens State University campus for the past two weeks. Dr. Mary Harris was the director of “Science Among the Columns.” In addition to directing the program, Dr. Harris designed the curriculum, and supervised the pre-service teachers. Dr. Amanda Branscombe assisted Dr. Harris with this camp and supervised the pre-service teachers. A total of 80 Limestone County children in the third through sixth grades have participated in this summer enrichment program. The Athens State University pre-service teachers taught lessons and worked with the students as part of their field experience assignment. They used an inquiry-based approach to exploring the different disciplines of science such as astronomy, biology, chemistry and physics. They investigated these areas with scientific activities like “Down with Gravity,” “Leafy Explorations,” “Physic –ally Fit,” and “Bubbly Crews.” In addition, they stressed the work of real scientists by having the children approach the experiments as if they were scientists and reflect on their findings by keeping observational journals. In addition, the children have written their own science camp songs, held science challenges, and developed a new found love for science. As one the campers said, “I want to come to this school when I grow up because they do stuff with science.” The pre-service teachers love their experience because they apply what they have learned in their university classes, have their own classrooms, and collaborate with their classmates to learn how to use inquiry-based science lessons. Funding for this science camp came from parents’ tuition, the College of Education, and a grant from Dekko Foundation. The Dekko Foundation funds grants for Limestone County as well as counties in Florida, Indiana, Iowa and Minnesota. Its mission is to ‘foster economic freedom through education.’ Currently, many Alabama elementary teachers and students fear or dislike science. Few elementary teachers and students have the opportunity to study science through an inquiry-based approach because of the increased emphasis placed on reading and math. This camp experience provided the children and pre-service teachers with opportunities to develop an appreciation for science so that they will become even more interested in science and consider a career in a science related field. Camp instructor Jessica Fabery with kids Athens State Opens Office at Snead State’s Arab Instructional Site June 23, 2010 - Athens State University has a presence at Snead State’s new Arab Instructional Site. Alecia White, Center Manager for Athens State at Snead State’s Boaz campus, has opened an extension office at the Arab Facility. “It is a good fit for Athens State to have a presence in Arab,” stated White. “Snead students will have the opportunity to transition from their associate’s degree into our bachelor degree track.” White assists Snead state students who will be transferring to Athens State with admissions, class scheduling, financial aid and most other student services that would have in the past required a trip to the school’s Athens campus or to Snead State’s campus in Boaz. She will be staffing the Arab center one day every two weeks and can be reached at 256-931-3791 for an appointment. The programs offered through the Arab site include all programs in Business, Computer Science (CIS Option), Religious Studies, Early Childhood Ed, and Elementary Ed. The Athens State University Center at Snead State provides one-stop transfer and enrollment services to prospective or currently enrolled students. The Arab office is located at 241 South Main Street. Athens State serves as the baccalaureate granting institution of the Alabama Community College System. It provides course work at the junior and senior levels, with the majority of its students transferring from within the community college system. Photo: Alecia White, Athens State University’ Snead State Center Manager Athens State’s Summer Enrichment Academy at Tanner Make Summer Learning Fun Elementary School and College of Education work together to promote off-time learning June 21, 2010 – The Athens State sponsored Summer Enrichment Academy at Tanner Elementary School is underway once again with more than double the students participating than they had last year. Co-Supervisors of the program and Athens State University faculty members, Lisa Hyde and Rosemary Hodges, worked with Tanner Principal Billy Owens to organize the 8-half-day program and created an experience that was fun and educational for the students participating. The Summer Enrichment Academy targeted elementary school students in grades 1 through 5 with each grade working under a separate curriculum. “We made a few changes from last year’s program,” states Assistant Professor of Elementary Education Lisa Hyde. “The most noticeable change being that we added first and second grade students to those invited to participate. The Athens State students are really benefitting from the broad range of age groups involved this year.” Other Athens State faculty members involved in the project are Dean Debra Baird, Professors Pat Kuby, Cathy Woodruff, Yvette Bolen, Jahema Gardner, Tedi Gordon, Nate Mitchell, Andryna Kyzmicic and Kathy Buck. Erica Temple, a math teacher from Sparkman High School and Athens State field experience students were also involved as instructors. “I was extremely proud of the program when it was first introduced last summer,” states Athens State President Bob Glenn. “I am not surprised to see that the interest and participation has increased. This type of program offers excellent training for our field service students and provides a fun and educational outlet for local elementary school students.” The Summer Enrichment Program began on June 14 and will run through June 24. The program has been held on the Tanner and on the Athens State campuses. Athens State to rededicate Waters Hall on June 16th June 9, 2010 - On Wednesday, June 16, Athens State will rededicate Waters Hall, the University’s sciences and math laboratory and instructional facility. The event is scheduled for 1:30 p.m. in front of the building located on Hobbs Street at Beasley Field. Various speakers will open the event with an open house to follow. All laboratories and teaching spaces will be open. In 1955, Waters Hall, named for trustee Newman Waters, was constructed and became the home to the science programs of Athens College. Hundreds of Athens State students have used the biology, chemistry, physics and computer labs and taken classes in the building. Last year, the University began an extensive renovation of Waters Hall. The building was gutted and taken down to a brick shell. Over the last 12 months, the building has experienced a metamorphosis. More than 15,000 square feet in classroom and lab space were added. The exterior was dramatically altered with four Greek columns adorning the front of the building along with a picturesque cupola atop. The rededication and open house is open to the public. For more information call 256-233-8296. Athens State Announces Its Annual Flag Day Ceremony June 3, 2010 - Athens State University will be hosting its annual Flag Day Ceremony sponsored by the Athens State Alumni Association on Monday, June 14 at 12:00 noon in the Sandridge Student Center Ballroom. This year’s program will be presented by Lieutenant Colonel Jim Hawkins, Jr., Training Officer for the Alabama National Guard at the Joint Forces Headquarters in Montgomery, AL. Also, David Stamm, Senior Systems Engineer for the Counter Rockets, Artillery, and Mortars (C-RAM) Program Office, will present a special flag that was flown in Iraq in honor of Athens State University. Music for the event will be provided by the Athens State Community Band. A local quartet “Southern Splendor Four” will sing. The public is invited to this yearly free event and the ceremony is followed by a cookout. \"We are honored to have LTC Jim Hawkins with us this year,” says Lisa Payne, chairperson of the Flag Day Committee “LTC Hawkins is a graduate of Athens State University. We are thrilled to welcome him back to campus to be a part of this annual patriotic event.” Flag Day committee members, left to right: Lisa Payne, Trish DiLullo, Janice Owen. Riders In The Sky to perform at this year’s Fiddlers Convention June 1, 2010 - Headlining the 44th annual Tennessee Valley Old Time Fiddlers Convention at Athens State University will be famed musicians Riders In The Sky. The group is expected to perform on the Founders Hall stage on Friday evening, October 1. For thirty years, Riders In The Sky have been keepers of the flame passed on by the Sons of the Pioneers, Gene Autry and Roy Rogers, reviving and revitalizing the Western musical field. Remaining true to the integrity of that genre of music, they have become modern-day icons by branding a group with their own legendary humor and wit. Riders In The Sky are the only exclusively Western artist to have won a Grammy, actually they have won two! Riders In The Sky is made up of four character musicians: Ranger Doug, Joey, Woody Paul and Too Slim. The group is based in Nashville. For more information about the Tennessee Valley Old Time Fiddlers Convention, visit http://www.athens.edu/fiddlers/ Tickets Still Available for Athens State’s Evening with Chick-fil-A President Dan T. Cathy May 24, 2010 - The Athens State University Foundation still has tickets available for an evening with Dan T. Cathy. The event will be Tuesday, June 1 in the ballroom of the Sandridge Student Center. A 6:00 p.m. reception will be followed by Cathy’s remarks at 6:45 p.m. Attendees will be treated to refreshments provided by Cathy’s own Chick-fil-A menu items. As president of one of the nation\'s largest family owned businesses, Chick-fil-A\'s Cathy represents the next generation of leadership for the Atlanta-based quick-service chicken restaurant chain founded by his father, S. Truett Cathy. Since 2001, Dan Cathy has served as the president and chief operating officer of the 1,490 unit chain. Tickets are $25 with tables of 6 available for $150. Recognized sponsorships are available; Gold Sponsorship at $500 includes two tables, and Silver Sponsorships at $250 includes one table. Tickets are available at the Athens location of Chick-fil-A, or you may call the Athens State Foundation at 256-233-8215. All proceeds benefit the Athens State University Foundation. Athens State Grad to Join Teach for America May 19, 2010 - While Olivia Clayton Carter was an undergraduate at Athens State University, becoming a teacher was not her immediate goal. Then again, she didn’t realize that she would be tapped to be a part of one of the nation’s most prestigious post-graduate programs. “Having a work-study job at Athens State’s Writing Center gave me my first opportunity to be in the role of instructor.” states Carter. “There, I learned that not only did I love to teach writing, but I also was good at it! There is a certain satisfaction in seeing a student ‘get it.’ I saw my first glimpse of this at the Writing Center, and knew I wanted more.” Carter, originally from Madison and a graduate of Bob Jones High School, left Athens State in the summer of 2008 and relocated to Boston to attend graduate school at Brandeis University in Waltham, Massachusetts. At Athens State, Carter focused on the study of English and Religion, and at Brandeis she will be completing in May a joint masters program in English and Women’s and Gender Studies. With her bachelor’s and master’s degrees in hand, Carter will join the forces of Teach for America, an organization whose mission is to build a movement to eliminate educational inequity by enlisting our nation\'s most promising future leaders in the effort. Teach for America recruits outstanding recent college graduates from all backgrounds and career interests to commit to teach for two years in urban and rural public schools. They provide the training and ongoing support necessary to ensure their success as teachers in low-income communities. “The process is very competitive,” explains Carter. “In 2010, Teach for America received more than 46,000 applications and roughly 10 percent of applicants were selected to join the program.” The process to become a part of the program requires the completion of an online application packet which includes an essay, reference letters, and a resume. Once the packets are received, select candidates are chosen for an interview by phone. Some candidates – like Carter – were able to bypass the phone interview and were interviewed as a group. Click Here to continue story... Athens State University Alumni Golf Classic a success May 18, 2010 - The annual Athens State University Alumni Golf Classic was held Thursday, May 13 at Canebrake Golf Club in Athens. A shotgun start was held for the 100 players after a lunch provided by Greenbrier Restaurant with beverages provided by Pepsi Cola of Decatur. First place team winners were Mike Medlen, Stewart Whitt, Sanders Woodroof, and Jack Bauer. Second place were JJ Donahue, Oliver Carlota, Jim McDole and Bill Kennemer, and third place were Jeremiah Harris, John Romine, Lynn Huffstetler, and David Phillips. Prizes were also awarded for closest to the pin and longest drive. Photo Caption: Left to Right: Gold Classic Chairman Walt Merritt and winning team members Stewart Whitt, Mike Medlen, Jack Bauer, Sanders Woodroof with Athens State Vice President Denver Betts. Athens State Wesley Group Aids Victims of Albertville Tornados May 12, 2010 - The Athens State University Wesley Fellowship has come to the aid of their neighbors in Albertville by assisting teachers to secure new school supplies they may have lost during the recent outbreak of tornados in that area. “Athens State has a wonderful reputation for producing educators that serve the North Alabama area,” states Wesley Fellowship sponsor Cathy Brett. “We thought this would be a wonderful way to show our support, not only to teachers but to students in that area who will be benefitting from the supplies.” The group plans to donate $500 that it recently raised by serving as valet parkers at a recent Rotary Club event held at Madelyn’s in the Grove. The group made their donation through the Albertville City School Foundation. The Wesley Fellowship was founded at Athens State in the fall of 2005 and is led by Sherri Bassham of First United Methodist Church. It is open to any students, but is mainly supported by the North Alabama Methodist Conference. Athens State University commencement planned for May 15th May 5, 2010 - Athens State University’s graduation exercises will be held on the campus lawn in front of Founders Hall on Saturday, May 15 with three separate ceremonies. In the event of rain, the ceremonies will take place at Lindsay Lane Baptist Church. At 10:00 a.m., the College of Arts and Sciences will present diplomas to their graduates with Dr. Harry Joiner, Professor of International Commerce and Political Science, serving as the college’s keynote speaker. In addition, the Athens State University Community Band will perform. At 1:00 p.m., the College of Business’ graduation ceremony will take place with Senior Class President Heath Daws offering greetings to the graduates and guests attending. The Athens State University Community Band will perform at the College of Business’ ceremony as well. At 5:00 p.m., the College of Education will commence with Dr. Mary Jane Caylor of the Alabama State Board of Education addressing the attendees. Dr. Joe Brasher will provide musical entertainment. Approximately 300 students will march from the graduating class for the 2010 spring semester. In the past, Athens State has held graduation ceremonies for the fall and spring graduating classes simultaneously at the Von Braun Center in Huntsville. This commencement will be the first separate spring ceremony in many years. “Founders Hall will be such an inspiring backdrop for our graduates,” states Vice President for Academic Affairs Denver Betts. “We are happy to be bringing the pomp and circumstance back to our campus. Breaking out the three ceremonies by academic colleges was the most logical way we could easily accommodate those planning to attend graduation.” Athens State\'s Commencement Ceremonies are free and open to the public. For more information call 256-233-8296. Athens State’s Bob Glenn Returns the President’s Office to its Original Location May 4, 2010-Founders Hall office space once again to house institution’s leader Kim Sandridge Snell remembers the President’s Office at Athens State well. She always felt welcomed there, even as a teenager while her father, Dr. Sidney Sandridge, led the day-to-day operations of the then Athens College. “I liked visiting my father’s office – his door was always open to all of his brood, as well as the students and the community,” remembered Snell. “Daddy’s secretary, Marte Porter, would be the first face I would see upon entering his office suite. Her duties went beyond the clerical; she was more like the hostess of the college.” After almost three decades of serving other purposes, the original President’s Office at Athens State University once again houses the institution’s leader. Dr. Bob Glenn moved his headquarters into the office suite in Founders Hall in April. During the 1980s, Brown Hall became the President’s domain and in the early millennium years, the Bullington home across Beaty Street from Founders Hall served as the administrative headquarters. “I guess you could say the original purpose of the rooms has been reinstated,” remarks Glenn. “It is funny how things come full-circle - - when the building was erected in 1842, the architect Hiram Higgins had the foresight to place this office where it could best serve the school. We can learn a lot from the ingenuity of our past generations.” Glenn’s office suite is now located on the north side of Founders Hall with large windows looking out to the north and east lawns. The suite gives easy access to the circle drive in front of the building and the parlor, where so many institutional and community events are held. Amid the unpacked boxes and general chaos of moving, Glenn and his secretary, Sandra Stockton, are carrying on their daily mission. While the duties of the office have no chance to slow down, bookshelves are slowly being filled and pictures are hung. The history of the rooms is well-chronicled by Elva Bell McLin in her books Athens State College History 1821-1994 and Madame Childs: The Lady and the Legend. The early presidents of the institution actually lived in Founders Hall, starting with President Richard Henderson Rivers who brought his wife and five children who set up house in the two rooms allotted to him when the building was completed in 1844. Athens State University Community Band announces spring concerts April 13, 2010 - The Athens State University Community Band will present a Spring Concert on Sunday, May 2nd at 3:00pm, and a second concert on Monday, May 3rd at 7:30pm. Both concerts will be held in McCandless Hall. Admission to the concert is $5.00 per person and reservations are available by calling 256-233-8296. The Community Band, under the direction of Dan Havely, was founded in 2003 and is supported by Athens State University’s Livingston Concert Lecture Series. In the beginning, the group was largely conceived as an outlet for graduates of the Athens High School band program, which Havely conducted for 34 years, to continue with their musical interests. Today the band meets weekly throughout the year to practice and welcomes any local musicians with an interest in music and having fun. In remarking about this year’s spring line-up, Havely says the band will play works “…from J.S. Bach to Sousa to Satchmo (Louie Armstrong) and a lot in between. We will also play \\\"Strike Up the Band\\\" by Gershwin, the wonderful Suite in F for Military Band by Gustav Holst, plus other classic band literature.” “We are playing an arrangement of \\\"Puttin\\\' On the Ritz\\\" that was done by one of our own members, Dr. Mary Crowell,” added Havely. “Mary has her doctorate in music and plays in the clarinet section. The arrangement is quite unique and we are delighted to perform it.” Athens State Education Honor Society Hosts Spring Initiation and Officer Installation April 8, 2010 - The Rho Gamma Chapter of Kappa Delta Pi at Athens State University initiated forty-five new members at a ceremony held in McCandless Hall on April 6, 2010. Dr. Joe P. Brasher, Chapter Counselor, Mrs. Bonnie Heatherly, Associate Counselor, Dr. Andryna Kuzmicic, Chapter Foundation Representative, and Tony McGehee, Chapter Treasurer conducted the initiation ritual. Dr. Robert Glenn, ASU President, spoke to the initiates and offered his congratulations. The Society inducts only those individuals who have exhibited the ideals of scholarship, integrity in service, and commitment to excellence in teaching and its allied professions. Selection as a member of Kappa Delta Pi is based on high academic achievement, a commitment to education as a career, and a professional attitude that assures steady growth in the profession. Founded in 1911 at the University of Illinois, Kappa Delta Pi is the largest honor society in education, representing 572 undergraduate and professional chapters and more than 45,000 active members. Its most distinguished members over the last century have included Margaret Mead, Albert Einstein, George Washington Carver, and current leaders in education Howard Gardner, Maxine Greene, and Carol Gilligan. The new members are: Lena Angle, Delane Bairrow, Kimberly Bates, Hilary Bice, Shannon Black, Barbara Boyett, Candance Cates, Heather Childers, Kari Driver, Sabrina Dugger, Alicia Duncan, Meagan Eberhart, Tammy Evans, Christine Foster, Sabrina Gilbreath, Mary Graves, Allison Gregory, Amanda Hill, Christi Howell, Jacqueline Jefferys, Antonia Kouknakou, Ann Lang, Robin McConnell, Amanda Miles, Debra Millwood, Garrett Monroe, Tiffany Morton, Pamela Peacock, Kala Phillips, Kylie Pickens, LaTiya Qualls, Alicia Rowell, Lauren Russell, Lindsay Sims, Juliah Stephens, Barbara Tanner, Shann Thomas, Bridget Trammell, Heather Tucker, Melissa Warren, Ashley Weems, Starla White, Jennifer Williams, Amber Young, and Deborah Young. Dr. Brasher, Chapter Counselor, also installed two new chapter officers for the 2010-2011 academic year. The new officers are Lindsay Sims, Chapter President, and Shann Thomas, Chapter Treasurer. Following the ceremony, a reception for new members and their guests was held in the Parlor of Founders Hall. Photo captions: Members of Kappa Delta Pi at Athens State University. Athens State Professor honored for research on Abraham Lincoln April 7, 2010. - Dr. A. E. Elmore, Professor of English and Drama at Athens State, is one of 16 college professors chosen by the National Endowment for the Humanities from throughout America to participate in a seminar on the Civil War in Savannah, Georgia this summer. Elmore is the author of Lincoln’s Gettysburg Address: Echoes of the Bible and Book of Common Prayer (Southern Illinois University Press, 2009), a book reviewed by history professor and Lincoln scholar Ferenc Szasz as “an absolutely stunning interpretation.” “The Civil War at 150” is the subject of the seminar sponsored by the NEH and held at the Georgia Historical Society center in Savannah, a major research center housing 400 million manuscripts, many of them connected to the Civil War. Highlighting the seminar will be appearances by award-winning Civil War authors David Blight of Yale, Chandra Manning of Georgetown, and Elizabeth Brown Pryor of the American Foreign Service. All those chosen for the seminar are expected to conduct original research at the center that will lead to further essays and books of their own. Elmore is a graduate of Millsaps College and the University of Mississippi Law School. He holds the PhD in English from Vanderbilt University. A former prosecutor, public defender, and law professor, he has instructed at Athens State since 1987. Jim Hutto named Vice President at Athens State University Athens, ALA - Mr. Jim Hutto has been named the Vice President for Enrollment Services and Student Support Services at Athens State University. Hutto entered his position on April 1. “After an extensive search, we identified Mr. Hutto as the best fit from a very qualified pool of applicants,” states Athens State President Bob Glenn. “We look forward to Mr. Hutto’s partnership and welcome him as our newest team member,” remarked Glenn. “His experience in enrollment management and student support services is an excellent match to both our needs and the mission and goals of Athens State.” Hutto, who is in the process of relocating to Athens from Texas, most recently held the position of Assistant Vice President for Enrollment at the University of Texas at Tyler. “I am excited to once again be working with Dr. Glenn,” states Hutto. “We were colleagues at Birmingham Southern where I first had a chance to admire his management style. I am proud to be on his team at this wonderful institution.” Hutto is no stranger to Alabama. Past positions he held in the state include the Dean of Enrollment Management at Troy University for 17 years, and the Director of School Relations at Birmingham Southern College. “After tenures at Troy, Birmingham Southern, Mercer University and the University of Texas at Tyler, I had entered the world of the retired,” states Hutto. “I was called to Athens State to review their student services and became very interested in their open position of Vice President. I entered the pool of candidates and after following the proper interview channels, I was honored to hear that I got the job.” Photo Caption: Vice President for Enrollment Services and Student Support Services Jim Hutto. Athens State student groups plan unique fundraiser Athens, ALA - The University Athenians and the Student Government Association at Athens State have devised a unique fundraiser for their 2010 Senior Gift. On Friday, April 9 from 11:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. the organizations will be hosting Cow Pie Bingo on Beasley Field. A cow will be released onto Beasley Field upon which a numbered grid of bingo squares will be placed. It will then be the cow’s responsibility to “mark” the winning bingo square in a manner that is most natural to the cow. The prize for the winning marked bingo square is a 50” plasma television. You may purchase a bingo square for $10.00 by calling Tena Bullington, Coordinator of Student Affairs, at 256-233-8243 or emailing her at Tena.Bullington@athens.edu. By far the most, and only, appetizing portion of the event will be the availability of Cattleman Association ribeye sandwiches for $5.00 while supplies last. Photo: SGA members and University Ambassadors, front row, left to right: Kelly Webber, Lee Michael, Chase Cantrell. Back row, left to right: Student Affairs Coodinator Tena Bullington, Krystal Stremel, Lauren Clark. Religious honor society at Athens State inducts new members Athens, ALA - Pi Tau Chi National Honor Society in Religion, with the Alpha Beta chapter at Athens State University, recently inducted new members. The ceremony was held on March 23 in the Founders Hall Chapel of Pi Tau Chi with a reception following in the parlor. Membership is by invitation and rewards outstanding service in religious activities. Requirements for membership include leadership in home, church or community, and participation in activities on campus. New members picture are, left to right: Gina Lovett, Lindsay Sims, Meggie Turner, LaTayne Wood, Kelly Webber, Kinetra Troupe, Tonyia Bowling, and Dr. Janet Dorning. Athens State professor participating in civil education institute Athens, ALA. - Dr. Prentice Chandler, Assistant Professor of Secondary Education at Athens State, has been invited by the Center for Civic Education and the Center for Social Studies and International Education at Indiana University to attend the ninth R. Freeman Butts Institute on Civic Learning in Teacher Education at the University Place Conference Center. More than thirty professors of education will participate in the institute, to be held from May 21 through May 25. The Center for Civic Education will be paying all expenses, including air and ground transportation, housing, and meals, to have Dr. Chandler participate in the meetings. The theme of the 2010 institute is “Citizenship, Rights, and Identities: What Challenges might Face U.S. Constitutional Democracy in the Twenty-first Century?” The content of the institute will focus on connections between constitutional principles and the rights and identities of citizens. Presentations will address the relationship between indigenous sovereignty and national citizenship; the evolving interpretation of religion and the first amendment; and the implications of U.S. involvement in international treaties. \"Dr. Chandler is an international rising star in his field and I am so glad he is at Athens State,” remarks College of Education Dean Debra Baird. “He certainly brings much to the table for us.\" Dr. Chandler joined the faculty of Athens State in 2006 after teaching social studies at Clements High School for five and a half years. New Director of Alumni Affairs and Annual Giving Appointed at Athens State Athens, ALA. - After a recent search for a Director of Alumni Affairs and Annual Giving at Athens State, Tricia Di Lullo, formerly the Secretary of Student Activities and Alumni Affairs, has been selected to serve effective April 1. The position will be reporting to the Vice President of University Advancement, Rick Mould. “Athens State has given me the necessary tools to move into a new stage in my career,” stated Di Lullo. “This is a very exciting opportunity. I look forward to focusing my time and energy back to my alma mater, an institution of which I am very proud.” Di Lullo received her Associates Degree in Pre-Law from Calhoun Community College in 2002, a Bachelor’s Degree in Behavioral Science from Athens State University in 2004 and a Masters Degree in Postsecondary Education from Troy University in 2009. Athens State Alumni Association President Anita Raby served on the search committee that recommended Di Lullo. “I think that I speak for the entire Alumni Board of Directors in saying that we are very excited to again have a full time Alumni Director,” said Raby. “I am very pleased with the selection of Ms. Di Lullo and look forward to working with her in planning and setting goals for the Alumni Association and leading the alumni in support of Athens State.” “Any institution strives to promote from within,” states Athens State President Bob Glenn. “We simply could not discount the value of her campus experience. Over the years Tricia has built a strong reputation with our alumni, and her relationship with the Alumni Association is invaluable.” Di Lullo will work closely with a soon to be hired Director of Development to enhance annual giving and overall contributions to the University. Di Lullo has been working with the Office of Alumni Affairs since 2004 and will continue to work with the Alumni Board of Directors on events, increasing the awareness and positive image of the Alumni Association and bringing new ideas to the campus to meet the needs of all graduates. “I believe a strong Alumni Association is one of the key underpinnings of any great university,” states Glenn. “We have wonderful plans for our group, its campus involvement, and its impact upon the future of Athens State.” Athens State Professor Joins Political Science Journal Editorial Board Athens, ALA - Dr. Lee Cheek, Associate Vice President for Academic Affairs and Professor of Political Science at Athens State University, was recently invited to join the Editorial Board of the Political Science Reviewer, a prominent academic journal. According to the journal’s editor, Dr. Bruce Frohnen of the Ohio Northern School of Law, the publication “is a beacon in the often-murky world of professional political science journals. Unencumbered by any of the reigning orthodoxies, the PSR welcomes the evidence of empirical study, but upholds the primacy of theoretical understanding. The PSR is best known as a journal featuring essay-length reviews of classic and contemporary studies in law and politics, as well as examinations of leading political science textbooks” Frohnen added that Cheek was asked to join the board as the result of his “academic accomplishments in the field of American political thought and his scholarly devotion to encouraging the study of the ethical potentialities of politics.” “The PSR seeks scholars of clear insight, analytic rigor, and integrity for our board. Nothing less will do. And Lee Cheek will make an outstanding addition.” Cheek’s books include Political Philosophy and Cultural Renewal (Transaction/Rutgers, 2001; with Kathy B. Cheek), and Calhoun and Popular Rule (University of Missouri Press, 2001; paper edition, 2004); Calhoun: Selected Writings and Speeches (Regnery, 2003); Order and Legitimacy (Transaction/Rutgers, 2004); an edition of Calhoun\'s A Disquisition on Government (St. Augustine\'s, 2007); and an critical edition of W. H. Mallock\'s The Limits of Pure Democracy (Transaction/Rutgers, 2007). He has also published more than 50 journal articles in publications such as the Journal of Politics, Methodist History, International Social Science Review, and is a regular commentator on American politics. Cheek\'s current research includes completing an intellectual biography of Francis Graham Wilson and a study of the political thought of Patrick Henry. Athens State marks another record enrollment for spring semester ATHENS, ALA. - The current semester at Athens State University represents one of the largest increases in enrollment in the University\'s history. With 3,536 students registered for classes this spring, the upper division institution realized a 9 percent increase in the registered attendees over the figures for spring 2009. \"As we add areas of study such as our majors focused on military management in the College of Business, we realize there are concentrations that are underserved and we are reacting appropriately,” states Athens State President Bob Glenn. “Our students have always served as a barometer for us to measure and respond to the effectiveness of our curriculums. We want to be able to offer the classes they need, and our consistent increase in enrollments is evidence that we are doing just that.” Overall, the percentage of students taking online coursework has remained steady at 51 percent of the total student body for the spring semester. The University offers at least one or more courses that can be taken online in each of the university\'s 31 majors, as well as traditional day, evening and weekend classes. Dr. A.E. Elmore to discuss book at Athens State Athens, ALA - Athens State Professor A. E. Elmore will discuss his book, Lincoln\'s Gettysburg Address: Echoes of the Bible and Book of Common Prayer at 7:00 p.m. in the Chapel of Founders Hall on Thursday, February 11. The lecture is sponsored by the Livingston Concert Lecture Series. Elmore’s book is a new look at the sources of one of history\'s great speeches. While it has long been determined that Abraham Lincoln\'s writings were influenced by the King James Bible, until now no full-length study has shown the precise ways in which the Gettysburg Address uses its specific language. Refuting the view that the address was crafted with traditional classical references, this revealing investigation provides a new way to think about the speech and the man who wrote it. Elmore offers chapter and verse evidence from the Bible as well as specific examples from the \"Episcopal Book of Common Prayer\" to illustrate how Lincoln borrowed from these sources to imbue his speech with meanings that would resonate with his listeners. He cites every significant word and phrase - conceived, brought forth, struggled, remaining, consecrate, dedicate, hallow, devotion, new birth, to name a few - borrowed by Lincoln from these two religious texts for use in his dedication of the Gettysburg National Cemetery. Elmore demonstrates how Lincoln transformed the lovely old language of the Bible and the \"Book of Common Prayer\" into something as close to classical perfection as any public speech has ever achieved. The February 11 event is free and open to the public – no reservations are necessary. WHNT Presents Scholarship to Athens State University WHNT Vice-President, Finance Nonda Sloan and WHNT President and General Manager Stan Pylant stand on the set of WHNT News 19. The two recently presented a $2,000 check from WHNT to Athens State President Bob Glenn in support of the Athens State University Foundation Scholarship Program. The scholarship funds will be used for students during the 2010-2011 academic year. Nonda and Stan are Athens State alums. Dr. Ron Fritze to discuss his book, Invented Knowledge: False History, Fake Science and Pseudo-Religions, at Athens State on Jan. 26 Let\'s begin with a simple question: What is the book about? One word answer: pseudohistory. The prefix is rooted in the Greek pseudesthai, \"to lie.\" So, Invented Knowledge is a selective study of false and spurious accounts of history. Many of these accounts are the focus of various popular subcultures, each tied to an alternative perspective on a particular aspect of the vast wilderness of the past. Some pseudohistorical texts are downright fantastic and very much fun to contemplate. Others are troubling interpretations of the human condition. College of Arts and Sciences Dean Ron Fritze will discuss his book on Tuesday, January 26 at 7:00 p.m. in the Chapel of Founders Hall. The lecture is sponsored by the Livingston Concert Lecture Series. Fritze will hit upon such topics as Atlantis, ancient alien visitations, and the Ten Lost Tribes of Israel. Fritze was named Dean of the College of Arts and Sciences at Athens State in 2005. Recently, the Alabama Humanities Foundation picked him to be a speaker in its Roads Scholars programs. He also sees more of the world by attending world-wide cruises as a destination speaker. The January 26 event is free and open to the public with no reservations required. For more information call 256-233-8296. Ron Fritze Athens State Center at Wallace Hanceville in new location Hanceville, ALA – The Athens State University Center at Wallace Hanceville Community College has moved. With the beginning of this spring semester, the center will be callling the 7th floor of the Tom Bevill Health Education Building home. The Athens State Center services Wallace-Hanceville students who are preparing to enroll or currently enrolled at Athens State. Previously, the center had occupied the 9th floor of the James C. Bailey Center. The move was effective on January 4. “I feel this is a good move,” states Center Manager Helen Cantrell. “Athens State has had an established presence at Wallace Hanceville since 2005 and having our own floor in the Bevill Center will help us promote the two institution’s collaborative effort.” The Athens State Center is comprised of five classrooms including the lab, four full-time faculty offices and will be Cantrell’s base of operations. She can be reached at 256-352-8090 or by email at Helen.Cantrell@athens.edu. Helen Cantrell Athens State University Announces Winter Commencement Plans Athens State University will hold Winter Commencement exercises on Friday January 22nd and Saturday, January 23rd in the sanctuary of the First Baptist Church. In the past, Athens State’s commencement ceremonies were held at the Von Braun Center in Huntsville in May for the December and May graduating classes, and on the lawn of Founders Hall in Athens in August for the summer graduating classes. Going forward, the three ceremonies will all be held in Athens. This graduating class will be the first to march in a winter commencement ceremony. Almost 300 students are expected to receive diplomas over the course of the graduation weekend. “Previously, due to space limitations, we had been forced to hold our commencement exercises outside of Athens,” explains Athens State Vice President for Academic Affairs Denver Betts. “With our change in format for the ceremonies, we can now hold them in Athens. We are very pleased that our neighbors at the First Baptist Church have graciously allowed us to use their sanctuary to assure that all of our graduate’s family and friends will be able to be in attendance.” The College of Arts and Sciences will hold their commencement ceremony at 7:00 p.m. on Friday, January 22. The featured speaker will be Dr. Mabry Miller of the class of 1937. An Alabama native, Miller’s career in education culminated in a professorship at Drake University in Des Moines, Iowa. After her retirement, and return to Alabama, Miller became extremely active in civic affairs in Huntsville and continues to serve on many boards which serve the arts and music. The College of Business will hold their commencement ceremony at 10:00 a.m. on Saturday, January 23. The featured speaker will be Ms. Sandra Ables of the class of 1984. Ables is a native of Bay City, Michigan but has called Alabama home since 1975. She is currently a portfolio manager and financial consultant for Morgan Stanley in Huntsville. Ables is a member of the Athens State University Foundation Board and is a member of Rotary International of Huntsville. The College of Education will hold their commencement ceremony at 1:00 p.m. on Saturday, January 23. The featured speaker will be Dr. Robert Murphree. Murphree, who recently moved to Virginia from Athens, is a Professor Emeritus of Education from Athens State. Athens State Crowns 2009 Ms. Merry Christmas Athens, Ala. - This year\'s Athens State University Ms. Merry Christmas was crowned on Friday, November 20 in McCandless Hall. Loren Ashbaugh from Cullman will reign as the 2009 Ms. Merry Christmas. She is the daughter of Lori and Mike Ashbaugh and transferred from the University of Tennessee, majoring in Elementary Education. First Runner Up is Lauren Clark from Elkmont, the daughter of Donna and Keith Clark. Lauren transferred from Calhoun Community College and is majoring in Contract Management and International Business. Kristi Greenhaw from Elkmont is the Second Runner Up. She is the daughter of Cathy and Gerry Greenhaw and transferred from Calhoun Community College majoring in Computer Science. The pageant is sponsored annually by the University\'s Athenian Hosts and Hostesses. Photo Caption: Left to Right- Lauren Clark, 1st Runner-up, Loren Ashbaugh, Ms. Merry Christmas and Kristi Greenhaw, 2nd Runner-up Dr. Lee Cheek named Athens State Associate Vice President for Academic Affairs Athens, ALA. – Dr. Lee Cheek, Jr., currently the Vice President for College Advancement at Brewton-Parker College, has been appointed Associate Vice President for Academic Affairs at Athens State University, President Bob Glenn announced today (October 5). Beginning December 1, Cheek, who also serves as a Professor of Political Science and Philosophy at Brewton-Parker, will assist Vice President for Academic Affairs Denver Betts to develop and revise policies, procedures, guidelines, and other documents pertaining to the academic structure of the institution. “I am very pleased that Lee Cheek has agreed to serve in this role,” said Glenn. “Given Athens State’s commitment to the academic enrichment of its students, this new position will serve as a vital link to creating and maintaining a curriculum focused on quality education. Dr. Cheek brings a myriad of experiences to the table that is needed to sustain a broad view for Academic Affairs for the years ahead.” “Dr. Cheek’s experience as both a professor and an administrator make him a choice candidate for the position,” stated Betts. “After our national search, we were extremely exciting to be able to offer him the position and are thrilled he accepted.” Cheek received his doctorate in Political Studies from The Catholic University of America in 1998, and he holds masters degrees from Western Carolina and Duke Universities. His responsibilities at Brewton-Parker included functioning as the Chief Development Officer and supervising the staffs of Alumni Relations, Development, and Athletics. “Athens State’s reputation for academic excellence made the decision for me to join their ranks an easy one,” said Cheek. “I look forward to becoming a member of their faculty, and a part of the Athens community.” Click Here for more information English Society at Athens State Donates to Endow Scholarship Athens, ALA - Athens State University\'s Kappa Zeta Chapter of Sigma Tau Delta English Honor Society recently contributed $2,500.00 to the Athens State Foundation\'s A. E. Elmore Drama Scholarship. The scholarship fund will become fully endowed when donations reach $10,000. The money for the scholarship was earned by selling ribeye sandwiches at the Tennessee Valley Old Time Fiddlers Convention in partnership with the Limestone County Cattlemen\'s Association. Historically, Sigma Tau Delta members pledge “to endeavor to advance the study of the chief literary masterpieces, to encourage worthwhile reading, to promote the mastery of written expression, and to foster a spirit of fellowship among students specializing in the English language and literature, ever keeping in mind [their] international motto: Sincerity, Truth, Design.\" Pictured are English Professors Al Elmore, Bebe Shaw, and Kevin Dupre, the club\'s sponsors, and Sigma Tau Delta President, English major Brianna Lovell, second from left. Athens State President Bob Glenn to Receive Service Award Athens, ALA. – Athens State University President Robert K. Glenn will be honored by being awarded one of four top professional recognitions from the Southern Association for College Student Affairs (SACSA). The Howard Davis Sr. Award will be given to Glenn at the SACSA conference in Nashville on Monday, November 8. The Howard Davis Sr. Award recognizes outstanding service rendered to SACSA by a member of the Association. The award recognizes achievements in one or more of the following areas: Performance of duty above the expected; Completion of a service to the Association that reflected faithful and competent achievement; Development of new programs or concepts with a positive impact upon the Association. The purpose of the SACSA is to promote interdisciplinary programs and ideas regarding student affairs work to bring about an improvement in the field. The organization is a professional association that strives to meet the needs of many student affairs professionals in the South. Throughout the year, members are able to benefit from a variety of unique opportunities for professional development, networking, and education. “Interaction with students has always provided the energy that charges my professional batteries,” states Glenn. “One of the qualities that drew me to Athens State University was its solid commitment to serving the needs of the students who are the heart of the University Community. Many years ago Alexander Astin, one of the greatest researchers in higher education, said that the measure of a great university is whether it can meet a student where ever s/he is and take them to where ever s/he wants to go. That is exactly what ASU does and precisely what makes us a great university!” Prior to taking the helm at Athens State, Glenn served as the Vice President for Student Affairs at Middle Tennessee University (MTSU). His career involvement with Student Affairs has covered 30 years, holding student service positions at MTSU, Birmingham Southern-College, the University of North Alabama and Missouri State University. New Athens State College of Business Program To Teach Global IT Skills Enterprise Systems Management to use SAP software and knowledge Athens, Ala. - Athens State University has joined the SAP® University Alliances program, an initiative that brings SAP software, knowledge and skills into university classrooms around the world. The SAP University Alliances program provides university faculty members with tools and resources to teach students how to apply the latest technology in a business context, integrate business strategy and processes, and put information technology (IT) theory into practice. As a result of their participation in the program, students will gain hands-on experience that will have significant relevance to their careers and chosen field. Click Here for more details Dr. Neil Lamb of HudsonAlpha to Speak on Medical Ethics at Athens State Public Table Topic discussion sponsored by the Department of Religion and Ethics Athens, ALA. – Athens State University’s Department of Religion and Ethics will present a Table Topic discussion featuring Dr. Neil Lamb of HudsonAlpha Institute for Biotechnology. The event will be held at noon on Tuesday, November 10 in the Chapel on the second floor of Founders Hall on the Athens campus. The topic of Dr. Lamb’s discussion will be “Ethical Challenges of Bio-Medical Research.” Lamb is the HudsonAlpha director of educational outreach. He received his B.S. degree in molecular biology from Auburn University and his Ph.D. in human genetics from Emory University. In 1999, Lamb became a faculty member of the department of human genetics at Emory. He served as director of education, overseeing genetic educational opportunities with the schools of medicine, nursing and theology, as well as directing outreach efforts for K-12 programs and the public. At HudsonAlpha, Lamb serves not only as a “cheerleader for genetic education” but also develops and implements a comprehensive outreach program aimed at educating school-age children, educators and the public. He and his team have developed a genetics module for the Alabama Math, Science and Technology Initiative (AMSTI), providing hands-on experiences with DNA for middle- and high-school students across the entire state. Importantly, his team also trains a number of teachers each year so they can lead their classes through genetics and biotechnology curricula. Neil also developed the wildly popular \"Biotech 101\" program, where both HudsonAlpha and associate company personnel teach basics and applications of biotechnology for a five-night series of classes. The HudsonAlpha Institute is the cornerstone of a 150-acre biotech campus strategically located in Cummings Research Park in Huntsville, the nation\'s second largest research park. The non-profit institute is an integral part of Alabama\'s life sciences community. The free event at Athens State is open to the public with no reservations needed. Please call 256-233-8126 with questions. Athens State to host lecture by Christy Jordan of Southernplate.com Athens, ALA. – Southern cuisine afficienado and creator of Southernplate.com, Christy Jordan, will speak at Athens State on Tuesday, November 17 at 7:00 p.m. in McCandless Hall on the Athens State campus. The event is offered free to the public and no reservations are required. “We relate our experiences to what was served, what was prepared,” says Jordan. “Celebrations center around dishes steeped in tradition and memories of Great Granny preparing her special rolls or pie.” Jordan spent her childhood hearing stories from her great grandmother about a lifetime of sharecropping and her childhood filled with memories of wonderful food. These stories, born from the tradition of great Southern cooks, have been firmly embedded in the family root system generations earlier when they were among the first to settle the Tennessee Valley. Now, the Home Ecomonics degreed busy mom and wife works from home with a laptop on the kitchen counter and her iPhone to her ear as she tries to build a business which I had originally begun purely as a hobby. “My days are spent responding to hundreds of emails,” explains Jordan. “I take photographs of food, write columns for newspapers and magazines, manage a website, film cooking segments for television spots, and try to wrangle in time to talk on the phone to food industry execs.” Jordan’s website, Southern Plate.com, is a rapidly growing site. During the first year alone SouthernPlate.com generated over 18 million page views. The site now averages over 6 million page views per month and has just begun its second year. For more information about the event, or about the Livingston Concert Lecture Series at Athens State University, please call 256-233-8126. Athens State Art Department hosts a competition for artwork with Fiddlers theme Athens, ALA. - Each year the Art Department at Athens State holds a competition for artists who use a designated Athens State site as inspiration. This year, the inspiration was the Fiddler’s Competition. Athens State President Bob Glenn will choose one work to become a part of the ASU permanent collection and the winner will receive $150.00. The show is up currently hanging in the Sandridge Student Center Gallery and will run through October 30. Receptions for the show will be held on Thursday, October 15th at noon and at 6:00pm. The gallery is open weekdays from 8:00am to 4:30pm and the gallery and reception are open to the public. At Athens State University, Convention crowns “Fiddle Champ” Athens, Ala. – Adam French was named “Fiddle Champion” at the 43rd annual Tennessee Valley Old Time Fiddlers Convention at Athens State University on Saturday night. It was the first time for French to win the convention title. French of Leitchfield, Ky., won the title by winning the “fiddle off” which traditionally pits the top fiddlers from the junior and senior divisions. Wayne Jerrolds, Savannah, Tenn., finished runner-up. French, who won the junior fiddle division, earned the convention’s top prize of $1,000. The convention is sponsored by the Athens State University Foundation and the Greater Limestone County Chamber of Commerce. The convention has contributed more than $500,000 to Athens State to fund student scholarships and university projects. Well Known Poets to Speak at Athens State University Library Program kicks off North Alabama Tour by Jeanie Thompson and Kathleen Driskell Athens, ALA. – Poets Jeanie Thompson and Kathleen Driskell will perform a poetry reading on September 29 at 2:00 p.m. at the Athens State University Library. The event, sponsored by the Friends of the Athens State University Library, will be free and open to the public. Montgomery native Jeanie Thompson is a poet, essayist, executive director of The Alabama Writers\' Forum and poetry faculty member in the Brief Residency MFA Writing Program at Spalding University in Louisville, KY. She will read from her latest book, The Seasons Bear Us, which was released in April of 2009. Kathleen Driskell serves as the Associate Director of Spaulding University’s brief-residency Masters of Fine Arts in Writing program. She will read from her latest book, Seeds Across Snow, which was released in 2009 as well. This event will kick off Thompson and Driskell’s North Alabama literary tour that will also include speaking engagements in Huntsville and Florence. A reception will follow the readings in the Library. For more information about the event please call 256-233-8126. Reservations are not necessary Aubrey Haynie to perform with Bobby Osborne at Fiddlers Haynie to join Osborne and the Rocky Top X-press for two performances Athens, Ala. – As an added treat at the 43rd annual Tennessee Valley Old Time Fiddlers Convention at Athens State University, famed musician Aubrey Haynie will join Bobby Osborne and the Rocky Top X-press for two performances on Friday, October 3 at 4:00 p.m. and 6:00 p.m. Aubrey Haynie is an American bluegrass musician who has mastered the fiddle and mandolin. In his career, Haynie has recorded three studio albums for the Sugar Hill Records label, all of which mostly contained songs he wrote himself. In 2004 he won the fiddle category at the 39th Annual Academy of Country Music Awards, and this year was named Fiddle Player of the Year by the organization. A legendary giant in bluegrass music, Bobby Osborne continues to be on the cutting edge of the now enormously popular music form. His instantly recognizable, quality high lead and tenor voice and inventive mandolin stylings remain unsurpassed. For more information about the Tennessee Valley Old Time Fiddlers Convention, visit http://www.athens.edu/fiddlers/ Athens State University Faculty and Staff are True Blue Governor’s proclamation spurs employee wardrobe choices ATHENS, Ala. – Friday September 4 was proclaimed as “College Colors Day” by Governor Riley. The Governor encouraged all citizens of Alabama to proudly wear their college colors as a way of promoting an appreciation of higher education. President Bob Glenn of Athens State encouraged his faculty and staff to do the same and show their spirit. The employees obliged and Dr. Glenn saw a sea of royal blue across the campus! Some of those faculty and staff members wearing the university’s colors on Friday assembled on the steps of historic Founders Hall for a picture. Susan Parker to address Athens State graduates Public Service Commissioner Susan Parker will be the keynote speaker at Athens State University’s summer commencement on Saturday, August 29 at 9 a.m. Graduation exercises will be held on Athens State University’s campus in front of Founders Hall. Approximately 200 students are expected to graduate. Susan Parker was elected to the Alabama Public Service Commission in 2006. Parker’s political career also includes being elected as State Auditor of Alabama in 1998, and she was the first woman in Alabama ever nominated for the U. S. Senate in 2002. Prior to becoming involved in politics, Parker had a 25-year career in public education. In 1972, at the age of 16, she started working at Calhoun Community College as a file clerk and rose through the ranks to become an Associate Dean. Parker worked her last eight years in higher education at Athens State University where she served as Development Officer and Assistant to the President. The accomplishment of which Parker is most proud is that she completed four college degrees by attending college at night and working full-time during the day. It took her 13 years but Parker persevered and completed her associates, bachelors, masters and Ph.D. — all with honors. Throughout her career, community service has been important to Parker. She has served as president of numerous non-profit organizations including; Boys and Girls Clubs, Heart Association, Cancer Society, Leukemia Society, Big Brothers/Big Sisters, and United Way. In 1988, Susan Parker became the first woman in Alabama to receive the coveted TOYA Award (Ten Outstanding Young Americans) by the U. S. Jaycees. Parker and her husband of 29 years, Paul Parker, enjoy golf and travel. They are members of the Cumberland Presbyterian Church. Athens State University offers coursework at the junior and senior level and is the baccalaureate degree granting institution of the Alabama Community College System. It provides affordable education in an environment that recognizes diversity and nurtures the discovery and application of knowledge. Athens State prepares students for professional careers, graduate school, lifelong learning, and enrichment. Tabor and Lopez to kick off Livingston Concert Lecture Series Athens State offers a diverse line-up for the upcoming academic year Athens, ALA. – Athens State University’s 2009/2010 Livingston Concert Lecture Series will kick off its third season this year with a free concert by renowned musicians Tabor and Lopez. Violinist Alfonso Lopez is one of the most versatile and prominent musicians of his generation in Venezuela. Michelle Tabor, pianist, holds B.F.A., M.A., and Ph.D. degrees in piano and theory from Tulane University, the University of Denver, and Florida State University, respectively. The concert will be held at 2:00 pm on Sunday, September 20 in the sanctuary of First Baptist Church. No reservations are required and the concert is open to the public. Other performances scheduled for the upcoming academic year include Dulcimer aficionado Don Pedi who will be hosted by the Dulcimer Society, Fiddle Historian Chris Goertzen whose visit will precede the Fiddler’s Convention, a performance of “Trout Fishing in America” by musical comedy duo Keith Grimwood and Ezra Idlet, southern food expert and national blogger Christy Jordan, acclaimed historian and novelist Dava Sobel, and the world famous pianist will return to Athens State Emile Pandolfi. Other performances and lectures are still on the drawing board but will be announced soon. The Livingston Concert Lecture series was inaugurated in 2007 and was made possible through the generosity of Robbie Nelle Christopher Livingston, a member of Athens College\'s class of 1942. For more information about the series, please call 256-233-8126. Athens State Recognized by National Military Publication G.I. Jobs Magazine names Athens State as a Military Friendly School for 2010 Athens, ALA. - Athens State University has been selected by G. I. Jobs magazine as a Military Friendly School for 2010. This honor places Athens State in the top 15% of all schools nationwide. Along with the honor, the university received a plaque which reads, “The institution’s steadfast commitment to educating our great nation’s military veterans will enable the United State to prosper for generations to come.” G.I. Jobs magazine is a national publication for military transitioners. It provides education, transition assistance, and job opportunities for military personnel and their families. “What a nice surprise,” said Lisa Payne, Athens State’s Coordinator of Veterans Affairs. “To be singled out by a national publication for doing something for which we have long been committed is certainly a welcomed vote of confidence.” The plaque will hand outside of the Transfer Advising Center, where the Office of Veterans Affairs is located in the Sandridge Student Center on the Athens State campus. Fourth Annual Egg Drop teaches students teamwork and management skills Athens State professor stresses planning and trial and error in managing. Athens, Ala. – On Tuesday, July 14 the students in Dr. Brenda Harper\'s Principals of Management class got a hands-on lesson stressing the importance of teamwork. The class was divided into groups for the fourth annual Egg Drop from the balcony of Founders Hall. “Students work as teams to create the most successful and protective solution to transporting a free-falling egg from point A (Founders Hall balcony) to point B (the hard sidewalk below),” states Harper. “It is a simple task, but it incorporates so much of what I teach in Principles of Management.” An interesting detail that changes the parameters for this year’s drop was that all of the participants are distance learning students who have been discussing the forming, norming, storming stages of leadership for the past four weeks. Then collectively they communicated virtually what their team will do to protect their egg. The Egg Drop was held on Tuesday, July 14 at 10:00 am in front of Founders Hall. Summer Enrichment Academy: Tanner and Athens State Make Summer Learning Fun Two week program involved collaboration between elementary and collegiate group Athens, ALA. – When Athens State Dean of Education Debra Baird envisioned a Summer Enrichment Academy for kids, she never realized the quick actions of her department would lead to such a successful program. “I visited the Summer Enrichment Academy at Tanner Elementary School,” said Baird. “I was absolutely impressed with what those folks were doing. Bravo to all involved for such hard work and such great response from the children! “ Co-Supervisors for the program and Athens State University faculty members, Lisa Hyde and Rosemary Hodges, worked with Tanner Principal Billy Owens to organize the 8-half-day pilot program and created an experience that was fun and educational for the students participating. The Summer Enrichment Academy targeted elementary school students in grades 3, 4 and 5 with each grade working under a separate curriculum. “The 3rd grade had a thematic topic of ‘A Bug's Life’ in their lessons,” explains Hyde. “In 4th grade, the students did an author study of the children's writer Patricia Polacco, and the 5th graders integrated a study of fossils and dinosaurs into their reading curriculum. The program was very hands-on, discovery/inquiry oriented.” Other Athens State faculty members involved in the project were Pat Kuby, Amanda Branscombe, Mary Harris, Bonnie Heatherly, Cathy Woodruff, Tina Sloan, and Darlene Turner-White. Athens State education students assisting were Allison Linick, Jessica Wathan, Shaina Stoddard, Amy Rosenblum, Nancy Ruff, Kellianna Brazier, Leanne Reed, Deborah Craft, Hannah Britton, and Kri'Shon Long. Athens State President Bob Glenn thanks those involved. “Athens State is a great University precisely because we have professionals like these who go the extra mile to do the best job possible,” says Glenn. “I am proud of each of them for what they did.” Tanner Assistant Principal Vince Green was so impressed with the program that his own 3rd and 4th grade children participated. “The Summer Enrichment Academy was a great opportunity to enhance our students’ reading skills,” stated Green. “We are able to offer a quality educational opportunity along with free breakfast and lunch to youth in the Tanner community. It was a great experience for the kids.” Photo caption: Left to Right: Academy participants Jazmin Ellison and Reagan Green with Athens State student Kri’shon Long. Athens State Scholarship supports the arts Athens, Ala. – A student scholarship for the arts has been created at Athens State University by Dr. Joe H. Slate, an alumnus and longtime professor at the University. Dr. Slate and his wife Rachel recently met with Athens State President Dr. Bob Glenn who accepted the $10,000 check to establish the Dr. Joe H. Slate Scholarship for the Arts. The scholarship shall be awarded to one or more students enrolled at Athens State University. The student must be earning a major or minor in the arts which may include art, drama, dance, theater, music, graphic arts, or English. The scholarship will be managed by the Athens State University Foundation. “We sincerely appreciate the support for our students through the creation of this scholarship,” said Glenn. “We are grateful to alumni like Dr. Slate who share our desire to provide academic opportunity through our scholarship program. This fund will help us build and attract new students to our arts programs.” Dr. Slate was a longtime professor of psychology at Athens State. He is the author of numerous books in the field of psychology and parapsychology. He and Rachel reside in Hartselle, and own and operate Holladay Antiques. This year, the Athens State University Foundation awarded approximately 125 scholarships to deserving students at Athens State. The scholarships are annual or endowed scholarships donated corporately or by individuals to the Foundation. Criteria vary for each scholarship but typically include one or more of the following: the student’s grade point average, field of study, student involvement, and financial need. Caption: Left to Right: President Bob Glenn, Joe Slate and Rachel Slate. Athens State University Alumni Bridge Benefit to be held June 17th Athens, Ala. - Wednesday, June 17th marks the date for the Athens State University Alumni Bridge Benefit. Last year's event hosted more than 70 players and assisted in raising much needed funds for the Alumni Scholarships. "As in years past there will be door prizes provided by the Alumni Board of Directors from our local merchants,” says Trish Dilullo of the office of Alumni Affairs. “We have special gifts for the high, 2nd high and low scorers." The Bridge Benefit is open to any interested players - not just alumni of Athens State. Table reservations for teams of four are $10 per person and include refreshments. June 15th is the deadline for registration and individuals or teams can do so by calling 256-216-3319 or visiting the Alumni Office in the Sandridge Student Center on the Athens State campus. Athens State Announces Its Annual Flag Day Ceremony Athens, Ala. - Athens State University will be hosting its annual Flag Day Ceremony sponsored by the Athens State Alumni Association on Friday, June 12 at 12:00 noon in the Sandridge Student Center Ballroom. This year’s program will be presented by the Sons of the American Revolution – Cullman Chapter. The organization members wear both regimental continental line uniforms and colonial militia hunting frocks with tri corner hats. The chapter members will bring eight flags from different periods of American History and briefly describe the history of each one. They will also talk about their ancestors who fought in the Revolutionary War. Before and after the presentation, guest may view a display of revolutionary period items such as real muskets, lanterns, period kid’s games, wooden canteens, etc. Music for the event will be provided by the Athens State Community Band. The public is invited to this yearly free event and the ceremony is followed by a cookout. "We are honored to have the Cullman chapter of the Sons of the American Revolution with us this year,” says Lisa Payne, chairperson of the Flag Day Committee. “Their costumes and relics will add an interesting element to our much-anticipated yearly event.” Picture Caption: Athens State Flag Day Committee, left to right: Chad Easterling, Tena Bullington, Lisa Payne, and Janice Owen. Athens State Sponsored Trips Deadline Approaches Collette Tours to be on campus June 9th for presentation The Athens State Alumni Association is sponsoring two upcoming trips. A New England Backroads trip on October 10-17, 2009 with a reservation deadline of June 10, and a European Christmas Market Trip from December 5-13, 2009 with a reservation deadline of July 5, 2009. Reservations for these trips made after the deadline dates are subject to price increases. An online brochure about the trips are located on the University website at http://www.athens.edu/alumni/events.php The Alumni Association will host a trip presentation on Tuesday, June 9, 2009 at 6:30 p.m. in the Ballroom of the Sandridge Student Center. A representative from Collette Vacations will highlight the European tour and be available for questions. Incentives will be offered for those that make a reservation and turn in a deposit that evening for the European tour. Refreshments will be served. If you are not interested in either the New England Backroads or European Christmas Markets trips, visit www.collettevacations.com and check out the over 170 other tours. Please mention Athens State University as the group when you communicate with Collette or contact the Office of Alumni Affairs at 256-216-3319 for assistance in researching your specific travel interests. Athens State University commencement on May 8th Congressman Parker Griffith to be keynote speaker Athens, Ala. – Congressman Parker Griffith will be the keynote speaker at the institution's spring commencement on Friday, May 8th at 7 p.m. Graduation exercises will be held at the Von Braun Center in Huntsville. Approximately 600 students will march, encompassing both the fall and spring graduating classes for the academic year. Congressman Griffith is a retired physician and small business owner. He was elected to the Alabama State Senate in 2006. In 2008, Griffith was elected to his first term in Congress where he serves on three House Committees – Transportation & Infrastructure, Science & Technology and Small Business “Congressman Griffith is a part of Athens State - he is certainly no stranger to our campus,” stated Athens State President Bob Glenn. “It is certainly apropos that he relay his message of congratulations and words of inspiration to these students beginning new stages in each of their lives.” Athens State's Commencement Ceremony is free and open to the public. For more information call 256-233-8126. Congressman Parker Griffith Athens State University Community Band announces spring concerts Athens, Ala. - The Athens State University Community Band will present a Spring Concert on Sunday, May 3th at 3:00pm on the lawn of Founders Hall. In the event of rain, the concert will be held in McCandless. On Monday, May 4th at 7:00pm, the Community Band will present a special Inaugural Concert honoring the Installment of Dr. Robert Glenn as Athens State’s 36th President. This concert is also planned to be held on the lawn of Founders Hall or in McCandless in the event of rain. The Community Band, under the direction of Dan Havely, was founded in 2003 and is supported by Athens State University. In the beginning, the group was largely conceived as an outlet for graduates of the Athens High School band program, which Havely conducted for 34 years, to continue with their musical interests. Today the band meets weekly throughout the year to practice and welcomes any local musicians with an interest in good music, good fun, and community performances. “We're going around the world in 80 minutes,” states Havely. “We’ll be playing music from England, Ireland, Germany, Italy and of course the United States.” Havely also stated that some guest artists will appear, and for the Monday evening performance they will honor President Glenn with "The Presidential Polonaise" by John Philip Sousa. Both concerts are free and open to the public. For more information please call 256-233-8126. Follett Company Donates Gift Cards to ASU Scholarship Students Athens State Bookstore helps those coeds with a demonstrated financial need ATHENS, Ala. – The Follett Company, the vendor for the Athens State University Bookstore, is donating $2,500 worth of gift cards to need-based scholarship students. The University has selected to donate 25 of the cards at $100 per card to those students identified by the institution as needing the most assistance with funding for books and supplies. Doug Clark, Vice President for Financial Affairs, states, “Follett has made a commitment to financially support those students we feel would benefit the most by receiving assistance with the cost of essential materials. We thank them for their generosity.” The Athens State University Bookstore serves the campus and the community and is open during the academic calendar Monday through Thursday from 9am to 5pm, and Friday 9am until 3pm. The bookstore is located on the lower level of the Sandridge Student Center. Vision 2020 to Map the Direction of Athens State’s Future Master Plan project involves campus and community participation ATHENS, Ala. – In Lewis Carroll's Alice's Adventures in Wonderland, there is a conversation between Alice and the Cheshire Cat that is often paraphrased as "If you don't know where you are going, any road will get you there." Athens State President Bob Glenn agrees, grinning like the famous cat, and says, "The most important thing in charting the course of a university is making choices between well worn paths and the paths less chosen. We are at the stage in our development where we need to surge forward on some well worn paths, like our College of Education, and we need to carefully select some new trails to blaze, like distance education, so that we can help our students get to their destinations." As Athens State enters a new era of administration, it realizes the importance of physical and academic direction as it begins the compilation of a comprehensive Master Plan entitled VISION 2020 to be completed by the end of 2010. This planning initiative commenced with an initial meeting of the VISION 2020 Committee on April 9 on the Athens campus. Glenn indicated that he expects the plan to guide major University decisions during the next decade. He also indicated that the plan should be comprehensive, visionary and feasible. Glenn states, “We have asked campus representatives, community leaders, and institutional experts to assist us in indentifying the major components of our future vision for Athens State. We have assembled a top-notch team and are confident that their report will encompass areas of needed attention and areas of most potential.” Dr. Jess Brown, Professor of Government and Public Affairs, has been tapped to chair the VISION 2020 Committee, consisting of 25 voting members. President Glenn and Vice Presidents Rick Mould, Denver Betts, John King, and Doug Clark will serve on the committee as ex-officio members. College Deans Linda Shonesy and Debra Baird will also be ex-officio members. The university representatives will be Dean Ron Fritze, Wanda Pryor, Jim Kerner, Larry Keenum, Suzanne Sims, Robert Burkhardt, Mike Gibson, Sean Busick, Robbie White, Al Elmore, Susan Owen, Lisa Rich, Kim LaFevor, Bob Gulbro, Wanda Hutchinson, Yvette Bolen, Nate Mitchell, Prentice Chandler, and student representative Laura Leigh Laxson.

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