A Magazine for Alumni, Faculty and Supporters

Fall 2012

Global Ties Create New Opportunities

Sorrells Makes Engineering History

NO VOTE, NO VOICE Bold Student Campaign Addresses

Importance of Voting

Marching Storm Finds New Leader in Zachary

Gala 2013

Opal Johnson-Smith Auditorium

Willie A. Tempton, Sr. Memorial Student Center

Prairie View A&M University

Table and Underwriting Opportunities Available

Proceeds to bene�t the Prairie View A&M University

Marvin D. and June Samuel Brailsford College of Arts and Sciences

Contact (936) 261-1590 for more information or visit www.pvamu.edu/GALA2013

An Evening of EntertainmentCelebrating our Traditions in the Arts and Sciences

Saturday, April 13, 2013 Cocktails . Dinner

8 p.m. Show

Featuring a Broadway musical performance of

Jelly’s Last Jam

Table of Contents is published in both the

spring and fall semesters

by the Office of Student

Affairs and Institutional Advancement for

faculty, staff, alumni and friends of Prairie View

A&M University. Reproduction in whole or part

without written permission is prohibited.

The comments and opinions expressed in

this magazine do not necessarily represent the

views of the editors, staff or the official policies

of Prairie View A&M University or The Texas

A&M University System.

A member of the Texas A&M University

System, Prairie View A&M University is an

equal opportunity/affirmative action employer

and is dedicated to its mission of excellence

in teaching, research and service. Address

changes, inquiries and contributions of

information may be made to:

Alumni RelAtions P.O. Box 519, MS 1218 Prairie View A&M University Prairie View, Texas 77446 (936) 261-1566 alumnirelations@pvamu.edu

Lauretta F. Byars, Vice President for Student Affairs and Institutional Advancement

Sheleah D. Reed, Executive Director of Communications

Nelson Bowman, Executive Director of Development

Carol Campbell, Alumni and Special Events Officer

Lynn Morris, PVAMU National Alumni Association President

Roy G. Perry, Chairman, Prairie View A&M Foundation

stAff

Editor-at-Large: Sheleah D. Reed

Managing Editors: Candace Johnson and Christi A. Landry

Photography: Akki Harvey, Marcus Williams, Colby Walker, Desmun Dangerfield Cover photo by Marcus “Sway” Williams

Contributors: Scheane Brown, Jena Peevy, Chris Elliott, Moriah Scott, Douglas Johnson, Gloria Mosby

Design: Blank Canvas Graphic Design

Editing: JustWrite, Dr. Kimetris Baltrip

me

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Pres

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tStudents are still surprised to see me walking around

the cafeteria. The expression on their faces when I ask about their grades or family is simply priceless. They are eager to tell their story and share their family history. They are always excited about life and full of energy. That excitement is what keeps me focused on the goals of this University. Indeed, the life they have in front of them starts right here at Prairie View. Sure, they will face challenges and make mistakes, but their education – inside and outside the classroom – will prepare them for everything life will throw at them.

As I pose photos with students, teach my class, walk this campus and visit with alumni the same thing comes to mind - you can’t beat investing in the students of Prairie View.

Take Kelsey Espinsoa for example. Her athletic prowess on the volleyball court has brought the University wins and notoriety but her very own leadership skills were strengthened as she led the team through the season (pg. 21). On Election Day, the students who woke up early and led their peers to the polls to vote helped shape history. Those votes chose the leaders of our country. The student-organized “No Vote No Voice” campaign also illustrated their understanding of such an important civic duty. The lessons they learned through the process will be with them forever.

In those student examples it is easy to see a return on investment. But, the $100 million dollar research initiative of The Texas A&M University System (pg. 17) will also bear great fruit. The research done by our faculty and students will shape the word will live in.

Investment in our infrastructure like, the beautiful new entrance of campus, the residential complex for upperclassmen (pg. 21), the new student recreation center (pg.4), retail center and of course the new stadium also will impact the lives of the students we educate.

All of these things will pay off. It may not be during my tenure as president. We may not see it through a huge donation during this year’s phon-a-thon or read about it the newspaper next month, but mark my words “PVAMU is experiencing a return on its investment.” Former students like, Dr. Danny R. Kelley (pg. 9) returned to invest in the future of his alma mater after earning an undergraduate degree at PVAMU. He can attest that an investment in PVAMU pays off.

P.S. There is no way to capture the full PVAMU Homecoming experience in only a few photos, but the photos featured on pg. 2 give you a glimpse into “Our Tradition. Our Homecoming.” Mark your calendars for next year: October 19, 2013.

Fall2012Vol2, No2 PVAMU:

A good investment.

4 Zachery heads up renowned band

4 Campaign uses media attention to promote voting

12 PVAMU Shifts to a Global Focus

15 Sorrells becomes first female engineering doctoral degree recipient

Campus happenings, events and activities

2 Faculty, staff and student campaigns build culture of philanthropy

2 Homecoming Activities Unite PV fans, supporters

PROuD Graduates and alumni stories

9 License plates show support of University

academy faculty achievements

16 Juvenile Justice, Agriculture programs have new leaders

ScholarS student achievements

18 Woodard sets eyes on Olympic gold medal

Noteworthy

notes and announcements about all things PVAmu

35 Behind the scenes of newest marketing efforts

25

COVER STORIES

18

To apply or learn more abouT

www.pvamu.edu

5

about the dollar amount raised. It is about participation level. We want to show that the heart. of the institution–its employees–support the University,” said Bowman.

The campaign, “Making a Difference Starts with Me and

You,” allowed employees to donate in support of the institutional initiatives they feel most passionately about. Each person received a pledge card that allowed them to give through payroll deduction, on-line, bank draft or with a

2 3

Mr. PVAMU Timothy Bryant, II and Miss PVAMU Chasmine Cousins were officially crowned during the annual ceremony.

Plans for the first portion of the new athletic complex are well underway. Located on the corner of L.W. Minor and O.J. Thomas, a new recreational center will anchor the complex which is set to include a new football stadium and field house, a renovated William “Billy” J. Nicks, Sr. Field house and improved sports fields and track.

Construction for the $31 million project is expected to begin next fall and conclude in the spring of 2014. The new center - a two-story building – includes three multipurpose courts for basketball, volleyball, dodgeball and badminton, fitness spaces for cardio and weight lifting, group fitness exercise studios, and a wellness center with a demonstration kitchen and a massage therapy room. A juice bar, and lockers and showers round out the facility.

In addition, preliminary plans call for an upgrade to the current 50-meter swimming pool. Under the plan, the existing pool deck will be expanded to allow for a diving board and additional activity space.

Chondra Johnson, director of Recreation Sports believes the design and program concept she, a team of students and contracted firms Moody Nolan and Smith Associates developed will engage both the mind and body of the students and the community alike. “Accessibility to a variety of recreation options for healthy lifestyle maintenance is essential to the total student experience and this new state-of-the art recreation and wellness center will deliver just that!”

Two years ago, the student body approved a $175 recreation student fee per semester to cover the cost of the new facility. The bill outlines that the facility will serves as a resource for the entire student body and supports a healthy living environment by offering a variety of sports entertainment features.

“Once this is built, PVAMU students will have access to one the top recreational centers in the country,” said SGA President Harrison Blair. “It will not only support the current student body but will also serve a great recruitment tool for our future students.”

Leroy G. Moore Intramural Gymnasium will remain in use and serve as a teaching facility specifically for programs in health and human performance.

Student Rec centeR PlanS undeRway

The Office of Development has a simple charge – create and maintain a culture of philanthropy.

The team has been busy engaging three of its closest constituent groups through various initiatives to meet that charge.

The faculty and staff campaign giving kicked off in September two weeks after the student campaign began and the alumni giving campaign (phon-a-thon) rounded out the activities in mid November.

“We have an all campus approach to fundraising in which all constituent groups:

alumni, students faculty and staff and are engaged,” said Bowman, executive director of development. “This sends a very powerful

“Teaching students to give while they are still on campus, helps them to create a habit of giving that will extend past graduation,” she said. Lewis is responsible for all three components of the annual fund.

Throughout the year, students will continuously be encouraged to get involved through smaller giving activities and events. Recently, the “Freshman Stuff the Pig” campaign achieved sixty percent participation among the freshman body raising more than $900 through a competition of dorm buildings. Currently, the sororities and fraternities are in a heated competition to collect funds for their selected causes. The organization that raises the largest amount will receive a cash stipend toward one of their social events and of course, bragging rights.

They aren’t the only group competing for bragging rights.

A 52-37 win against Alcorn State University was the icing on the cake for the 2012 homecoming committee. Their year-long hard work

and plans paid off as students, alumni, friends and supporters showed up in record numbers for the 2012 homecoming events.

Dubbed “Our Homecoming. Our Tradition.” this year featured a diverse line-up of activities that began with a gospel explosion featuring singer Kurt Carr, highlighted the royal court at the annual coronation and ended with a concert featuring two of the hottest names in music, 2 Chainz and Melanie Fiona.

In case you missed it, here’s a look at some of the highlights from Homecoming 2012.

Activities unite generations of PV fans, supporters

The PVAMU Panthers put on quite a show for the 12,000 fans that filled Blackshear Field. Sophomore quarterback De’Auntre Smiley made a triumphant return to the gridiron after more than a month away.

Dr. E. Joahanne Thomas-Smith, provost and senior vice president for academic affairs, was honored as the grand marshal of the parade for her unwavering supporting of the University.

The class of 1987 celebrated their silver (25th) reunion with several events this homecoming. Led by reunion

chair, Stephen L. Hubbard, the group partied with a purpose as they collected donations that will go toward

a scholarship endowment fund. The class of 2001 and 2007 also hosted events for its graduates.

Songstress Melanie took the stage in the William “Billy” J. Nicks building and sang her soulful ballots to a nearly sold out crowd. Popular rapper 2 Chainz also performed his hit singles “Birthday Song,” and “No Lie.”

Alumni Giving CampaignFaculty & Staff Giving Campaign

Student Giving Campaign

annual Fund

message to external donors as it indicates that everyone connected to Prairie View is on board with helping the institution.”

Beginning with the start of the 2012 – 2013 school year, the Office of Development launched its first Student Giving Campaign, “Building Dreams 1 Student at a Time.” This

is on the heels of a student approved fee increase of $1per semester to establish a permanent scholarship endowment. According to Annual Fund Manager Felicia Lewis, this is a good step toward cultivating alumni giving.

It’s not just about the fundraising.

It’s about bringing together all

the people who love and support

this institution, raising money

happens along the way.

The 2012 faculty staff campaign brought out the competitive spirit of many departments on campus. Through their efforts, the campaign raised nearly $89,000 and the final tally showed 71 % participation. More than 23 departments had 100% employee participation.

“The faculty and staff campaign is never

“Nelson Bowman

X Culture of Philanthropy extended to students, staff and alumni

”

The women of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc. were triumphant in the Stagebreakers Step show. They walked away with first place in the sorority category.

>

one-time gift. Everyone is also able to designate exactly where their contributions would land.

Lastly, alumni were solicited by students through the semi-annual phon-a-thon. Nearly 15,000 supporters were called over a span of 12 days and asked to contribute to the greatest needs of the University. More than $65,000 was pledged.

“It’s not just about the fundraising. It’s about bringing together all the people who love and support this institution, raising money just happens along the way,” said Bowman.

S. Reed, Jasmyn Carter contributed

the ban man

P54

Prairie View A&M University

has a long-standing tradition

of not only educating the

nation’s future leaders, but

also supporting the community through the use of historically underutilized businesses.

Recently, the University’s commitment to HUB vendors was clearly demonstrated as PVAMU

was recognized for spending the second largest percentage the businesses, according to a

semi-annual report released by the Texas Comptroller of Public Accounts in May.

PVAMU spent 36.8 percent of expenditures, or $6.9 million with HUB vendors, coming in

second to Texas A&M University’s main campus, which spent 37.2 percent, or $31.1 million.

For businesses to be classified as HUB vendors, it must be no less than 51 percent minority

owned, including Black, Hispanic, Native American, Asian Pacific or women.

In June, the University hosted a HUB Partnership Banquet to recognize historically

underutilized businesses that work with PVAMU to achieve its mission of excellence in

teaching, research and service. While the event

highlighted the University’s commitment to HUB

vendors, it also served a dual purpose, raising

$50,000 for the new stadium project.

PVAMu Ranked Second in Awarding HuB Contracts

Police Honored for Work against Terrorism

I n the name of keeping the homeland safe,

two members of the PVAMU Department

of Public Safety received commendations

from the Federal Bureau of Investigations.

Detective Darryl Hunt and Officer Traci

Thomas were honored for their work in

the case involving a Hempstead man

convicted of participating in terrorist

activities. During the investigation,

PVAMU officials worked in full

cooperation with the FBI and Bryan Resident Area Joint

Terrorism Task Force.

In 2010, former student Barry Bujol was arrested

after a two-year investigation found that he had been

communicating with members of al-Qaida seeking to

aid terrorism efforts. The investigation, which included

reviewing e-mail he sent using computers on the

campus, led to his arrest. Bujol stood trial last year and

was found guilty of trying to aid al-Qaida terrorists.

Music is no stranger to Dr. Timmey Zachery. The

Alexandria, La. native and accomplished trumpeter is

the new director of the Marching Storm band.

Before coming to PVAMU, Zachery served as an

instructor of Music – High Brass and assistant band

director at Norfolk State University in Norfolk, Va. He

also served as director of NSU Trumpet Ensemble

and Jazz Combo.

Zachery began playing the trumpet as a grade

school student and went on to play with the

Southern University Marching Band. He later earned

his bachelor’s and master’s degrees from Norfolk

State University and his Doctor of Music Arts degree

from Indiana University. He was assigned to the

United States Navy Band and has performed with the

Virginia Symphony, The David Baker Big Band, The

Right On Band, The Great American Music Ensemble

and the Atlantic Fleet Jazz Band, Concert Band,

Ceremonial Band and Show Band.

With nearly one fall semester at PVAMU under his

belt, he’s quickly getting accustomed to life on “The

Hill.” 1876 caught up with Zachery to discuss his

experiences, thoughts about Texas and cutting a rug.

1876 What is the first piece of music you learned to play?

TZ Kentucky 1800. I was in the 7th grade. Up to that point, I hadn’t taken music

seriously. But when you were around my band director (Cottrell Wrenn), you had no

choice. Everything about my persona personally and most things of the things about my

persona professionally are from middle school.

1876 Your HBCU experience is pretty extensive. You’ve been to Southern, Norfolk

State and now Prairie View. What stands out about each?

TZ At Southern I learned who I was as a person, my own self value. At Norfolk I learned

who I was as a professional. And Prairie View is going to be my laboratory. I’ll put all of

my experiences on the table and mix this with that and see what I come up with.

1876 What the first time you heard the Marching Storm?

TZ 1989 was the first time I heard Prairie View. I was in Southern’s band and they came

to play us. Unlike the rest of the Jaguar Nation, I could stand there and say, ‘Wow, that’s

a really good band.’ I felt that about three bands. I felt that about FAMU. I felt that about

UAPB, a brand new band at the time, and I felt that about Prairie View. They all came with

something different. Each band impressed me a different way.

1876 What has been your biggest adjustment to living in the Houston area?

TZ My wife is a big fan of living in the city. She’s lived in D.C., Atlanta and Dallas. She

always said (in Virginia), “We have to go everywhere for everything.” Now that we live

here, we can throw a rock at anything we need.

1876 What’s your best dance move?

TZ My best dance move is not to dance. The funny thing is at Southern I was always

on the front line because I was a better player. But that obviously did not translate to

dancing. Dr. Greggs would come out, shake his head and say, ‘My man, I’m glad you can

play.’ C. Landry

Timmey Zachery heads up renowned marching Storm

Current SGA President Harrison Blair

was taking plenty of notes during this year’s

Homecoming celebration. During a forum that

featured past SGA presidents, he quickly saw

a trend. PVAMU students have always rallied

together for the sake of ensuring students

spread the broad pattern of democracy.

Interestingly enough, nearly every SGA

president spoke about how a portion of their

tenure was used to educate the student body

about the importance of voting, make voting

more accessible to students living on campus

or rallying to get students excited about their

constitutional right.

Blair’s tenure won’t be without the same

history. Under his direction, the Student

Government Association’s Rock the Vote

Committee launched a “No Vote No Voice”

campaign in September. The non-partisan

initiative was designed to bring awareness

to the importance of voting. With the help

of several student organizations and even

administrators, the campaign went viral and

even received attention from local media. Other

schools and organizations acroos the country

used the campaign as a starting point for

similar photo opportunities.

“Our goal was to make sure every student

understood just how important it is to vote in

each election, said Blair, who hosted a voting

rally on election day and is also sponsoring

a trip for students to attend the presidential

inauguration in January. “It is not about who

they voted for but more about taking advantage

of the opportunity to have their voice heard.”

S. Reed

Student Campaign drawS media

attention

Photos by Marcus “Sway” Williams

Photo by C. Landry

true love

We Would loVe to heAR fRom you. Send your story ideas and achievements to

publicrelations@pvamu.edu | (936) 261-1566

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Alumni viewpoints

two things you couldn’t live without? Creating music and my wife Kemistri L. Texada

one thing people don’t know about you? I am a cancer survivor.

favorite movie soundtrack? All of the Batman movie soundtracks.

Biggest source of inspiration? Listening to different musical composers

Best advice someone has given you? Challenge yourself and do not give up

top 5 albums of all-time? Michael Jackson’s “Thiller,” Joe Sample’s “Sample This, ” Brian Culbertson, “It’s on Tonight” and George Duke’s “Brazillian Love Affair”

most unforgettable PV moment? Becoming Drum Major of the Marching Storm in 1998

7

Clarence Texada III ’99, has been educating students in the Dallas-Ft. Worth area for the last 12 years. The role has transformed his love of music into a solid musical foundation that inspires students throughout their musical lives. During his time at PVAMU, he found success in many of the schools’ musical functions including the famed Marching Storm. He has become a musical inspiration by receiving a music publishing deal, releasing two smooth jazz albums and providing the score for the newest PVAMU recruitment video.

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Photo by C. Texada

♥

PROuD

“He (A.I. Thomas ) was counting on me to come back to Prairie View not just to be a professor, but to be an example in the lives of the students who came from backgrounds like mine and who looked like me,” said Kelley who, graduated with honors and began a career in the military.

When Kelley gained a faculty position, his wife landed a role as the campus’ hospital administrator and a science instructor. She doesn’t work here now, she is an extension of the staff, often serving as an ambassador and a recruiter.

“So much of who we are is connected to Prairie View,” said Janice Kelley who is a medical doctor that practices in the Houston area. “We were prepared academically and socially to take on the world.”

the love continues While only one of their children actually

graduated from Prairie View - Natalie - in 1999, they all have spent time on the campus. Erika, a recent Johns Hopkins graduate attended a summer school session here and their son Mark, who is a bassist for Jimmy Fallon’s house band, hip-hop artists The Roots, did his fair share of walking the campus. Their oldest daughter Lauren Kelley Oliver serves as art curator overseeing the Library’s Fourth Floor Art Gallery.

“Some of my fondest memories are of when both my mom and my dad taught. I used to sit in on some of my mom’s biology classes and made friends with many of her Afro wearing students,” said Kelley-Oliver.

There is an obvious connection to Prairie View throughout the entire family that is sure to be felt by future generations of students.

“It is hard to think about being at home as a retiree and not doing the work of Prairie View. There is still so much to be done,” said Kelley.

S. Reed

Necia Desiree Harkless ’42, is a true Prairie View legacy. Not only is she a graduate, but her mother and two aunts attended the University in the early 1900s. She is considered to be one of Prairie View A&M University’s oldest alumni at the age of 92.

A woman of many talents, she has completed work as an educator, writer, pianist, painter and is also an anthropologist. Harkless is the author of “Nubian Pharaohs and Meroitick Kings- the Kingdom of Kush” in which she uncovers the history of dark skinned people in the Middle East and the kingdoms of Kush as they are mentioned in the Bible. She is now in the process of writing an autobiography which will discuss her time at Georgetown College, University of Kentucky and Wayne State University.

She continues to study, play the organ and write chants for her church choir.

favorite food? Eggs, toast and bacon

three Words to describe you? A Renaissance Woman

favorite sport? Tennis

What channel did you leave your television on? The History Channel

if you were an animal, which would you be? A Lion

you are banished to a deserted island, who is the one person you are taking? No one. I only need my music and my books.

most unforgettable PV moment? Being the premier actress for “Black on White” the play by Charles Lamp

departments of Music and Theatre, Biology, Chemistry, Languages and Communications, Mathematics, Physics, and the division of Social Work, Behavioral and Political Science. The unit also includes both the Army and Navy ROTC programs and the Solar Observatory.

He served as professor and department head in the department of Music and Drama from 1997-2004. In 2004, Kelley became the first person without a science background to lead the academic unit.

“Working for PVAMU is a great privilege that I don’t think can truly be put into words or surpassed by much more,” he said.

Kelley is the only PVAMU graduate to currently hold the rank of dean.

“I have received opportunities that others can’t say they have had including performing with the Houston Symphony Orchestra, attending the Rose Bowl with the Marching Storm in 2009 to simply working with truly outstanding students and faculty,” said Kelley, a nationally-recognized pianist.

paying it forward Their interactions as student leaders with

then President A.I. Thomas helped them gain a mentor for life and afforded him the opportunity to attend graduate school at The Peabody Institute of the Johns Hopkins University and her at Wayne State University and later the University of Maryland Medical School.

6

The story sounds much like a fairytale. Two people meet, marry and live happily ever after. “I knew when I saw her, that she was the one,” said Danny R. Kelley, ’69 who serves as Dean

of the Marvin D. and June Samuel Brailsford College of Arts and Sciences. “Nearly 41 years of marriage later and I still feel the same way.”

Kelley and family share connection to pVamu

love at first glanceThe two officially met during freshman

orientation and later ended up in the same English class at Prairie View. They studied together, often competing as they were both stand out students, but Danny settled in easily, while Janice Criner Kelley ‘68 took a little longer to get comfortable.

“Everyone raved and raved about how he was such a great musician and star student. He won all of the awards, performed at all of the events and was very well known, she said. “It took me a little while to get settled in.”

As one of the first in her immediate family to attend college, she had to learn to adjust. In fact, at some point she called it quits,

packed her stuff and went home. A town matriarch helped her to understand the

opportunity she had on campus and drove her right back to Prairie View.

Once she was back on campus, their relationship blossomed.

a family affair The presence of Danny’s older siblings on

campus helped him to fit in at Prairie View a little faster.

His sister, Constance Kelley Ward ’65 and brothers, Marvin Wayne ’75, Harmon ’67 and David ’71 Kelley all graduated from Prairie View. It just so happens they all met their spouses at Prairie View as well.

That connection brought Kelley back to his alma mater to serve as a faculty member in 1978 and what keeps him going as the Dean of the university’s largest college, with nearly 1600 students. He has oversight of the

98

PROu

D While specialty plates have always been popular, a recent change allows Texas motorists to sport cooler, fancier personalized plates. The 6’X12’ plate can be personalized to support athletic teams, environmental causes or simply match the color of the car. Offered by MyPlates.com, driver’s including, Prairie View A&M supporters, can show their spirit for anywhere between $55 and $195.

To date, nearly 75 alumni and friends of PVAMU have purchased a set of plates and are some of the most interesting letter combinations on the road. The stories behind the letters are as diverse as the University’s student body and academic offerings.

In LuV When PVAMU alumnae Pamela Owens-Freeman ’92 heard about the new plates last year, she saw an opportunity to display her admiration for a place that means so much to her.

Her plates sport, “LUVU4U” and is based on her unwavering love of the University.

“I don’t know where I’d be without Prairie View,” said Owens-Freeman whose family roots can be traced through Texas history. She has served as an assistant director of recruitment and marketing, and an employee of the university for nearly 26 years.

One NATN Melvin Wilson-Miller ‘05/07 is a two-time graduate of Prairie View who decided the best way to support Prairie View was to buy a license plate. The formula was simple to him. His plate sports the newly birthed nickname of the school, “PV NATN.”

As a recruiter for PVAMU he’s been all across the state and seen the plates of all the other colleges. According to MyPlates there are 140 options including 60 different college choices. The University of Texas has 3,187 plates on the road, making it the most popular choice in this category.

“The small fee you pay to get a personalized license plate is nothing compared to the publicity the University gets. It’s multiplied, doubled even tripled,” said Wilson-Miller. “I can display my own distinct pride, respect and admiration for this institution that has given me so much.”

Up to 10% of the annual fee comes back to the University and is awarded as scholarships for students. Prairie View has identified a portion that goes toward building the sports complex.

“When you see a PV plate, you know they love Prairie View. You know they get it, “he said. J. Peevy

Jazzed UpPV Co-eds Help

Make HistoryIf someone is asked to think of the “greats” of jazz music, chances are

the names Duke Ellington, Count Basie, Cab Calloway and other male musicians spring to mind.

But during the era when jazz music was the defining music of the time. A group of women came from Prairie View College and made their mark on the music world in the early 1940s.

In the time preceding World War II, the Prairie View Collegians were the school’s all-male dance band that entertained the masses, even troops serving in the armed forces. Ironically, the Collegians were hit hard by the draft, with many being called to serve in the war.

It wasn’t long before Will Henry Bennett, the Prairie View College band director, began forming an all-female dance band named the Prairie View Co-eds. Led by saxophonist Bert Etta Davis, the band filled the void left by the Collegians and gained an impressive following thanks to their undeniable talent.

Izola Collins ‘44, was 14-years old when she came to Prairie View College from Galveston. The young trumpet player was trained by her high school band director Fleming Smizer Huff.

“I was in the music building practicing my trumpet. Somebody saw me in there and asked me to audition,” Collins said.

The audition was successful and in September 1944, she made second trumpet for the Co-Eds. The year she spent with them was, by her admission, one of the best. She and her band mates traveled throughout the country. One of the most memorable stints Collins remembers is playing in New York.

“The Apollo Theater was our ace,” she said. “The Apollo Theater had five movies with five live theater shows in between. So, if you came to see a movie, you’d see a show. We played five shows every day for a week. It was hard because they were a tough group.”

With stints played at the famous Savoy Ballroom in New York City, the Eldorado in Houston and the shows for segregated troops, the Co-eds were an undoubted success. “Most people thought we were just window dressing. But that wasn’t so. We were really good,” Collins said.

Over 60 years later, the Co-eds are part of a documentary that reminds the world of the contribution of women instrumentalists.

“The Girls in the Band” is an award-winning documentary that chronicles the talent of female musicians spanning generations. Although they were talented and leaders in their own right, the film explores the challenges these women faced ranging from racism to sexism.

Frank D. Jackson, Prairie View A&M University governmental relations officer and university historian, said the women of the Prairie View Co-eds are heroines.

“Once they were accepted as good musicians, they showed that this thing called equality needed to be respected. They were pioneers on social and cultural fronts,” Jackson said.

For Collins, the message in the Co-eds experience is simple: women have always played music well. There’s still gender prejudice,” Collins said. “You lose a lot of people because of prejudice, who can play well.”

C. Landry

While the Panther football team wasn't successful on the field during the game against the Lamar Cardinals on Sept. 8, the pre-game tailgate was a hit. Sponsored by the Office of Alumni Relations the event featured food prepared by "PitMaster Jermaine 'Big J' Jackson" games, dancing and lots of fun.Photos by C. Walker

Pinned to PRAiRie VieW Starting with graduating class of spring 2012, freshly minted alumni

of PVAMU now have more than just a degree to mark their time as students. The Alumni Initiation was started as a small ceremony that recognizes graduating seniors with a

small token of appreciation – an pin inscribed with the University seal and the word “alumni.” The hope is that the event evolves into a unwavering grand tradition that stands the test of time.

“We want the program to seve as a bridge from student to alumnus,” said Isis McCraw ‘02/’06, Office of Special Programs and Cultural Series, who organizes the event which is held the Thursday before each graduation ceremony. “The pinning ceremony offers a sense of pride and connection to the University,”

Each ceremony is marked with the welcoming of the new alumni into the PVAMU National Alumni Association by the current president. The seniors also learn the

importance of continuing their support of the University long after they cross the stage and are reminded of the importance of giving back through volunteering and donating.

Former Miss Prairie View A&M University Lorie Freeman and former Student Government Association President Andre Evans have both addressed the graduating classes, imparting their knowledge and wisdom. C. Landry

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Jackson joins Prairie View A&M Foundation as Trustee

Incorporation State of Texas, June 2009

Tax Exemption 501(c)3, Public Foundation, Charity, June 2009

State Tax Exemption February 2009 *Any gift to the PVAM Foundation is tax deductible

Recent Financial Audit McConnell Jones, November 2010 – Passed *Can be found online at www.pvamf.org

MeThods oF GiVinGMAIl check payable to: Prairie View A&M Foundation 6436 Fannin Street, Room 112 Houston, TX 77030

ONlINE by credit card, debit card or E-check: www.pvamf.org

GiVinG FrequencyOne-time, annually, quarterly or monthly

TyPes oF GiFTsClass Gift – By YearUnrestricted Gifts – FoundationUnrestricted Gifts – UniversityCapital Projects – Sports ComplexStudent ScholarshipsEndowmentsEndowed ScholarshipsEndowed Professor AppointmentsFacilities Enhancements and ImprovementsTraining Equipment and SuppliesProgram and Curriculum Development

GiFT BeneFiciAriesCollege of Agriculture and Human SciencesMarvin D. and June Samuel Brailsford College of Arts and ScienceSchool of ArchitectureCollege of BusinessWhitlowe R. Green College of EducationRoy G. Perry College of EngineeringCollege of NursingCollege of Juvenile Justice and Psychology Graduate SchoolUndergraduate Medical AcademyAthleticsStudent Life Enrichment Programs

The Prairie View A&M Foundation recently appointed Carl Jackson ‘63/’75 as its newest trustee.

While at Prairie View he earned a reputation as an outstanding athlete garnering a variety of honors including being twice named an all-conference quarterback and first team academic all-American. He was also named PVAMU’s Outstanding Athlete in 1961. He placed third in the long jump at the NAIA national track meet in 1961 and second in 1962.

Jackson coached high school in the Texas ranks for nearly 14 years (1963-76) prior to becoming the running backs coach at North Texas State from 1976-78. He was a member of the University of Iowa coaching staff from 1979-91 serving as Hawkeye’s offensive coordinator from 1989-91.

In 1992, Jackson joined the staff of the National Football League’s San Francisco 49’ers as offensive backfield coach. The 49’ers made the NFL playoffs all five of Jackson’s seasons in San Francisco (1992-96), winning the Super Bowl in 1995. He also coached two NFL Pro Bowl games in 1993 and 1994. In 1997, Jackson moved to the University of Texas, serving as offensive backfield coach. In 1998, he returned to the high school level as a coach at Lincoln High School in Port Arthur, Texas before returning to the University of Iowa in 1999.

He and his wife, Doris, have two children, Carl, Jr. and Cheryl, and two grandchildren, Cara and Aaron Jackson.

Alumni Voice

As I enter the final year of my tenure I

would like to thank all of those alumni

who have embraced the changes that

we have instituted over the last three

years and helped us grow the National Alumni

Association. This year’s convention in Fort Worth

was a testimony of how alumni from all decades

can work together to present a product for all

to enjoy. Graduates from 1939 to 2009 gathered

together to fellowship, to get informed, and to

help develop our plans for the coming year.

During 2012–2013 fiscal year the three M’s will

continue to be our focus.

Membership

We are striving for a minimum of 500 new

annual members. With nearly 50,000 alumni, this

represents only 1% of the alumni base. Annual

membership dues are only $60. We also plan to

concentrate on Associate Membership growth

with annual dues only $30. Supporting of the NAA

can be a family venture with this new membership

level.

Mentorship

Our work and involvement with Pre-Alumni

Association and the Student Government

Association must continue to grow. In May, the

University instituted a pinning ceremony and

the NAA has been proud to participate. We also

plan to grow the mentoring of students who were

awarded scholarships.

Management

The increased usage of electronic

communication has proven to be an asset

and cost saver. We plan to continue offering

monthly newsletters. Past issues are available

on our website. Also, we must continue

to maintain financial stability. In addition

to the full implementation of our Financial

Administrative Management System (FAMS)

document, we are moving toward being a

process-driven organization and not a people-

driven one.

If you are a member then you can help get

additional members. If you are not a member,

then it is time to join. Please visit our website

at www.pvualumni.org to see all the new

changes we are making or donate to your NAA.

Sincerely,

Lynn Morris ’78

President, PVAMU NAA

P.S. 39th NAA Convention:

June 26-29, 2013

Atlanta, Georgia

Mark your calendars!

S TAT E O F T H E

National Alumni Association

10

PROu

DCEnTuRY CluB aWaRd $250 to $499 Donation to NAA

Ramona E. Davis

Ferias E. Ferguson

Clarence Miller

Lynn and Gladys Morris

Gwendolyn Wills

Franklin D. Wesley, Jr.

alTa VISTa aWaRd $500 to $999 Donation to NAA

Benny Lockett

Laura Pinkney

Caesar & Delores Roy

Cameron Wells, Jr.

Mary Bragg Wells

HIllTOPPER aWaRd $1000 and Above Donation to NAA

Ervin and Martha Grice

Marvin and Caroline Howard

Sherman H. Jackson, Jr.

Clever and Sammie Lewis

Grover W. Martin

Mae Francis White

Clarence and Artiemesie Wright

PRESIdEnT’S CluB aWaRd $1901 Donation to NAA

June Samuel Brailsford

Billy C. Heath

Bettye Sinegal

3

M’s

The Three M’s

support our mission statement and provide

measurable outcomes to assess our

organization’s growth.

Membership

is paramount for the sustainability of the

association. Currently, the NAA consists of

more than 30 chapters, each of which has

been challenged to recruit and reactivate

national members. Our goal is to increase

membership by a minimum

of 1,901 new annual members.

Mentorship

of students and serving the community

where alumni chapters are established is

important to maintain a visible presence

in the community throughout the year.

We have been consistent with awarding

scholarships, however, we need to develop

long-term relationships with our students.

Management supports improved management of the

financial assets and resources of the NAA.

Mail $60 Annual Membership to P.O. Box 2875 Prairie View, Texas 77446 or join and pay online at www.pvualumni.org

Join today!

Convention brings together generations of graduates

The recent alumni convention brought together many generations of proud Prairie View graduates. These 2012 winners were honored for their dedication to the organization’s mission.

PROMETHEuS aWaRd Dr. Mattie Scott Londow ’48

aluMnuS OF THE YEaR Kimberly Runnels ’96

CHaPTER OF THE YEaR aWaRd 1st TIER Houston Alumni Chapter (see photo), Wilbur McConico ’68, President

MOST SEnIOR FEMalE GRaduaTE aWaRd Evelyn Kuykendahl Carter ’39

MOST SEnIOR MalE GRaduaTE aWaRd James S. Walker ’41

PRESIdEnT’S 3M aWaRd LaShonda Williams’ 97

YOunGEST GRaduaTE aWaRd Sherill Morris ’09

lIFETIME aCHIEVEMEnT aWaRd Harvey Dickerson, Jesse Fontenette, Dr. Frank T. Hawkins and Lois Moore

A Whole New World

13

For junior DeMario Lowe, a globe or a map of the world is more than just an inanimate object. It represents a world of possibilities and adventures.

The management and information systems major is hoping to expand his cultural horizons through international travel while in college. As his and other students’ sights shift to global aspirations, so too does the focus of Prairie View A&M University.

It’s no secret that PVAMU has a strong track record when it comes to producing a high volume of engineers, teachers and nurses. But in last five years, the University’s focus has shifted to a broader one with the goal of creating a generation of students who are more competitive on a global level.

With international opportunities making their way to the forefront of PVAMU’s plan for the future, several key initiatives have been enacted–all with the goal of preparing students to excel internationally and creating worldwide linkages.

“PVAMU has a long history of engaging our students to think globally,” said Dr. James Wilson, associate vice provost for Academic Affairs and director of the Honors Program. “the College of Agriculture developed the Goat Research Lab to work with the Ethiopian government nearly 30 years ago.”

He believes that the student body has become more international and uses the Honors program as a platform to increase the engagement of students in

PVAMU Shifting to a Global Focus

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global issues. In 2009, the

Honors program was resurrected and restructured to expose students to a wealth of international opportunity. Students in the program

have traveled to China, Kenya and Ethiopia. Classes like Mandarin

Chinese and Arabic have expanded the curriculum specifically for the University’s global perspective.

Lowe, a member of the United States Army, decided to enroll in Arabic courses to prepare him for a possible deployment to Afghanistan or Iraq. “A language is hard to learn. But once you become passionate about it, it becomes fun,” he said. He became so engrossed in learning the language that he was sent to an eight-week program at Middlebury College where he studied advanced Arabic. Lowe was only allowed to speak Arabic during his stay. The program ranks as one of the top foreign language schools in the world.

The University continues to take steps in this area. Lisa Fields was added as the international affairs coordinator this fall and is tasked with organizing more opportunities for students.

“One of my goals in leading the Office of International Affairs is to work in a collaborative fashion to develop and implement a comprehensive strategy that accelerates and strengthens internationalization of our university,” said Fields.

A key step will be creating a strong foundation that will define internationalization, according to Fields. Activities must be prioritized

Photo by Alecea Rush ’08

and a cohesive plan must be created to expand upon existing opportunities. “We will engage all sectors of the University’s constituency to assist in the internationalization process.”

Fields is clear that building an impressive focus is not just a job for her, faculty and administration, but an job for all who are invested in PVAMU.

“Alumni participation is a key component. Prairie View A&M University has many distinguished graduates who will be of great assistance in the international arena,” she said. “Working together we can really put Prairie View A&M University at the forefront of internationalization.”

With so many advances being made to bolster the University’s international aspirations, there is much more at stake than overseas trips. Successful growth of international opportunities could open new doors for the University.

“Our faculty and students will attract more students interested in the integration of their academic interests as it relates to globalization,” Wilson said. “If we continue to broaden the curriculum and prepare our students to see the world as an open market for future global leaders— we will produce students who can work anywhere in the world.”

For a student like Lowe, the push for global learning is right on time. Until last month, Lowe had never traveled outside of the United States, but last month he traveled with the College of Business to South Korea. He’s slated to attend an international leadership conference in Santiago, Chile in the coming year. All of these excursions will prepare him for his ultimate dream of backpacking through Europe and ultimately visiting every continent.

“I hope to strengthen the foundation that I’m building now. My goal is to become an international leader,” Lowe said. “I’m excited because I know I’m not alone in this push for an international education.”

At a Glance ChinA: resulted in

the development of a partnership with Xi’an International Studies

University to aid in the formation of a Confucius Institute at PVAMU

itAly: immersion trip that allowed Architecture students to study Rome’s ancient architecture

EthiopiA: the Ethiopia Sheep and Goat Productivity Improvement Plan improves

productivity and carcass yield of sheep and goats in the country

KEnyA: nursing mission that put nursing faculty and students on the ground in the country for about 10

days creating a clinic at a local orphanage

South AfriCA: to establish trade mission as a part of the United Negro College Fund Special

Programs partnership

EGypt: Engineering faculty members presented before the international scientific community at Ain

Shams University and the Egyptian Academy of Science

South KorEA: a partnernship with Hankuk University of Foreign Studies allowed participants

to Korean culture and get a glimpse into Korean business practices

MExiCo: Center for International Business Education (CIBE) organized a trip to Mexico to enhance

the experiential learning opportunities in our international business program

GhAnA: immersion trip that allows students to exam both the educational and social structures of

the country while participating in informative orientations and classroom lectures

With an eye toward increasing international relations and linkages, students, faculty and staff have traveled around the world to learn new cultures while enhancing their curriculum. Here is just a sampling of the countries where PVAMU has been represented in the past five years:

Dr. Cristal C. Truscott, Assistant Professor and Director of the PVAMU Theatre Program and Charles Gilpin Players, was AWARded the neW enGlAnd foundAtion foR the ARts nAtionAl theAtRe Pilot GRAnt to write, develop and tour an original theatrical play. The Burnin’ will preview at the Under the Radar Festival in

New York City in January 2013 and begin a national tour in Fall 2013.

Director of Career Services Glenda Jones ’87 WAs seleCted As one of 30 PARtiCiPAnts foR the next ClAss of leAdeRshiP noRth houston. The program is

a leadership development course organized by several chambers of commerce and LoneStar College System. She joins the likes of PVAMU administrators Sheleah D. Reed ’01, Michael L. McFrazier, Christi A. Landry and Denise Simmons ’07 who are graduates of the program.

Carolyn Simington Davis ’96 is the neWest edition to the ColleGe of Business. As assistant dean, her role makes her responsible for student retention and recruitment.

The year 2012 marked the 30th AnniVeRsARy of PRAiRie VieW A&m uniVeRsity’s RenoWned inteRnAtionAl GoAt ReseARCh CenteR. More than 200 goat producers, farmers and ranchers attended an event on campus in May to commemorate the impact the Center has on agriculture.

the iReAd PRoGRAm ReCeiVed the 2012 outstAndinG PosteR AWARd at the Lily Conference on College and University

Teaching in DC. iRead, which is aimed at first generation college students, seeks to engage students in “meaningful societal participation” as well as prepare them for entry into the workforce.

Karen Stewart ’83 joined the CenteR foR ACAdemiC suPPoRt As the neW CooRdinAtoR of tutoRinG seRViCes. Stewart brings 15 years of higher education experience to the position and has already planned a rigorous tutoring and workshop calendar.

undeR ARmoR set out to redefine the female athlete in their “What’s Beautiful” national campaign and PVAMU’s Dr. Amber Johnson, an assistant professor in Languages and Communications, took the challenge and won. Not only did Johnson crush the competition, but she met her goal of running a triathlon in August then beat her time in October.

Dr. Dennis Daniels, director of the Undergraduate Medical Academy, WAs nAmed AssoCiAte ViCe PResident foR ReseARCh And AssoCiAte deAn of the GRAduAte sChool. His presence bolters efforts to expand research initiatives, strengthen degree programs and increasing the number of students.

this AuGust, Rodney Moore WAs nAmed Chief infoRmAtion offiCeR. His responsibilities include maintaining a secure and integrated IT system that supports the needs of the University community. IT services include management of the campus data network, computer systems and servers, computer labs and desktop support.

ReAChinG out to students Who ARe in dAnGeR of fAilinG oR dRoPPinG out hAs BeCome A PAssion of Dr. Ruby Stevens-Morgan, assistant director of the Office of Institutional Research and Effectiveness. As the founder of non-profit, Achievers by Choice, she services students in Bryan, College Station, and Navasota. The organization has been highlighted by several media outlets for its success.

Women’s Basketball coach Toyelle Wilson, seRVed As the keynote sPeAkeR foR the 2012 nCAA BlACk CoAChes And AdministRAtoRs AChieVinG exCellenCe PRoGRAm. Wilson offered insight on her road to becoming a head coach and the challenges she occurred during her first two seasons.

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Making Herstory

earning the distinction of Prairie View A&M University’s first female engineering Ph.D. recipient, and being among the one percent of all black female doctoral engineering degree recipients could be pretty overwhelming for some, but CaLynna Sorrells ’12 seems to be taking it all in stride. The Pine Bluff, Arkansas native made it look easy as she walked

across the stage during PVAMU’s August commencement convocation.

Dr. Tamara L. Brown is thrilled about her new role as dean of the College of Juvenile Justice and Psychology, all of the great things happening at PVAMU and the wonderful things her students are doing.

“I’m committed to student development. I am committed to success. I’ve been in higher education for a very long time, but it does warm my heart to be in a context where I can see the difference that I am making with so many students of color.”

Brown, who holds a Ph. D in clinical psychology, has been on the job since Aug. 1. The graduate of Longwood University and

“That week was crazy. I was preparing to move, I had family coming into town, and I wanted to make sure everything was just right,, I was interviewing, wrapping up my research, plus I was celebrating my.”

All that ‘craziness’ led her to jokingly dub it as “CaLynna Week.”A strong student throughout the early years, she was prompted by

her high school teachers to explore the sciences post graduation. The summer after high school, she entered into a pre-engineering summer program at Tuskegee University, which offered an in-depth insight into the world of engineering and ultimately served as the spark that would pique her interest.

Upon receipt of both a bachelor’s and master’s degree from Tuskegee University in engineering, she set her sights on PVAMU.

“I was referred through a grant that offered financial assistance to minority students who showed interest in acquiring a doctoral degree,” Sorrells said. “I visited several other [research] centers at other schools but made the choice to attend PVAMU.”

According to her, a myriad of factors made it an opportunity she couldn’t refuse. “With hundreds of alumni in the industry, as well as research funding opportunities, and coupled with the eagerness of our faculty to work with me, it was a pretty obvious choice.”

In spite of her academic prowess, Sorrells shared that being a black female within a white male dominated industry isn’t exactly a cake walk.

“It’s two-fold. On one hand, it’s a great opportunity because

there aren’t many minority female engineers. On the other hand, you do have to work harder, letting everyone know that you’re strong, tough and smart.” she said. “Sometimes people tend to think you’re not as capable if you’re a woman.”

Her presence in the industry is crucial, as women are vastly underrepresented. The U.S. Department of Commerce reports that women hold less than 25 percent of positions in the science or engineering field although they account for more than half of the workforce.

While her week of celebrating is over, she is still moving forward. She accepted a position with Intel Corporation in Hillsboro, Oregon

which is 25 miles outside of Portland. J. Peevy

Sorrells becomes first female engineering doctoral degree recipient

the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign also served on the faculty of the University of Kentucky for 13 years.

Within a couple of months, Brown charted and began execution of a plan of action, meeting with faculty, staff and students to share thoughts and ideas. The initial portion of the plan calls for creating a culture of open communication throughout the college.

Student involvement and building community partnerships is also atop the new dean’s list.

“It’s a good challenge to think about how to improve student success and how to expand the reach of the college so that more people are aware of and experience the good stuff we are doing,” she said.

Historic opportunityThe celebrated College of Agriculture and

Human Sciences also received a new leader recently. Effective, Nov. 2, Dr. Alton B. Johnson

was named dean. He is also the director of the Cooperative Agricultural Research Center and administrator of the Cooperative Extension Program.

A native of Monrovia, Liberia, Dr. Johnson came from Alcorn State University where he served as interim assistant dean of research, interim research director, chief research officer and associate professor of agriculture.

“It is exciting to lead a program steeped in history,” said Johnson, who served as associate dean, associate research director and Extension administrator since October 1, 2011.

“I welcome the unique opportunity that our College has to enhance the economic opportunity, foster academic excellence and improve the health and well-being of individuals through the delivery of programs in agriculture and science.”

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academic programs get new leadership

Photo by C. Walker

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PVAMU included in $100 million research initiative

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A grant from the National Science Foundation is helping the PVAMU and Texas A&M University assist female faculty in their professional endeavors.

PVAMU received an $850,000 grant to fund an ADVANCE-PAID project with the goal of creating a program aimed at assisting female faculty in navigating and

advancing through the professoriate ranks and entering into academic administration at Historically Black College and Universities (HBCU) in Colleges or Schools of Engineering and Technology.

Fourteen HBCUs, including Jackson State University, Norfolk State University, Howard University, are participating in the program. The faculty members selected are exposed to professional development, leadership workshops, mentoring, professional coaches, seed grants and a female faculty repository.

“The project has impacted more than 49 participants in one or more of the slated activities, which represents about 81% of potential participants,” said Dr. Felecia Nave, associate provost and associate vice president for Academic Affairs. Nave is also the principal investigator of the project, which is the first at an HBCU.

“When the project was awarded, there were 55 women faculty ranked at the assistant, associate and full professor ranks. This totaled about 8% of the total faculty at the targeted institutions. Over the past 3 years, we have experienced a modest increase to 60 women faculty, who have moved to assistant, associate or full professor roles,” Nave continued.

At the start of the summer, the PVAMU/TAMU ADVANCE-PAID Professional Development Workshop

was held in Houston. The conference programming sought to assist female faculty in their professional development and growth. The slate of presenters and facilitators included internationally renowned scholars in their respective fields of expertise.

The project is funded through 2014. C. Landry

Congresswoman Sheila Jackson Lee and Houston City Council member Jerry Davis (R) are briefed about the partnership by United Healthcare Community Plan of Texas president Don Langer (C) and Joe Icet, founder of The Last Organic Outpost while United Healthcare’s mascot Dr. Health E. Hound participates in healthy gardening activities with children and parents.

Grant to Assist Women Faculty Awarded to PVAMU

UnitedHealthcare Awards $30,000 to Cooperative Extension

to Promote Healthy Living

The Texas A&M University Board of Regents recently approved the creation of the Chancellor’s Research Initiative (CRI), which will provide one-time funds to Texas A&M University and Prairie View A&M University for the recruitment and hiring of faculty members.

The CRI will provide $33 million each year for FY 2013 and FY 2014, and $34 million for FY 2015. Funding for the initiative is slated to come from the annual Available University Fund (AUF) distribution.

“The funding we will receive from the Chancellor’s Research Initiative will allow us to find ways to bring to life the benefits of the cutting-edge work done at PVAMU,” President George C. Wright said.

Prairie View has plans to develop more opportunities for both undergraduate and graduate students to engage with faculty to solve some of society’s most pressing issues. With 14 research centers on campus there is also room to grow faculty and research positions.

According to Willie F. Trotty, vice president for research and dean of the graduate school, the addition of new faculty expertise in nanotechnology, health disparities, alternative and renewable energy, biotechnology and radiation research affords PVAMU the chance to offer robust research opportunities.

Texas 4-H through Prairie View A&M University’s Cooperative Extension Program and UnitedHealthcare announced a new partnership to promote healthy living and empower youth to help fight the nation’s obesity epidemic.

Representatives from UnitedHealthcare presented a $30,000 check to Cooperative Extension and 4-H youth to launch the program.

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This summer, A. Jan Taylor, conductor of PVAMU’s University Concert Chorale, led more than just the melodic voices here on “The Hill.” She served as a national conductor for the 105 Voices of History Choir HBCU National Concert Choir.

Taylor will serve as one of the choir’s three conductors as they travel throughout the country for a number of prestigious performances, including appearances at the Congressional Black Caucus Week, the Grand Ole Opry and the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts.

The choir is the nation’s first and only choir composed of talent from historically black colleges and universities.

The partnership, called Eat4-Health, is activating thousands of 4-H youth ambassadors to make healthy choices for themselves and encourage friends, families and people in their communities to make positive changes through training, creative programs and educational events. It currently spans 10 states, including Texas.

“Establishing healthy habits is a step toward healthy lifestyles,” Texas Agriculture Commissioner Todd Staples said. “Private-sector partnerships like Eat4-Health are great examples of how we can help reverse the escalating trend toward obesity and the costly effect it is having on our nation. I commend the Eat4-Health partnership for empowering our youth to make healthy living a priority.

Eat4-Health builds on UnitedHealthcare’s successful partnership with National 4-H Council that began last year in Florida, Mississippi and Texas. The campaign is expanding to Arizona, Louisiana, Nebraska, New York, Pennsylvania, South Carolina and Tennessee. G. Mosby

leading the massesTaylor leads national HbCu choir

GoinG for the Gold

19

Woodard has eyes set on olympic Dreams

During the 2012 Olympics, athletes from around the world gathered to demonstrate great athletic prowess with hopes of capturing the coveted gold, bronze or silver medal home for their home country.

PVAMus place in the Olympic Games

As a true freshman, he began his career with a second place finish at the Indoor SWAC championship meet. He continued his success by gaining a rank of 1st in the conference by winning the first outdoor track meet in the triple jump with a jump of 50 feet 2 inches. Because of that jump he also earned a spot in the famed Texas Relays track meet. There, he placed 2nd with a jump of 51’2.5”, which catapulted him in the top 25 in the nation. The fame didn’t end there. He shined at the outdoor SWAC meet, breaking his own record.

During his sophomore year he continued his reign, winning each of his indoor meets. Not only did he break the indoor SWAC triple jump record but he placed 9th in the national meet with a jump of 51’10”. He continued his winning streak in outdoor events, earning 9th in the national meet. This landed him the prestigious SWAC field MVP and the MVP of African American field performers in the nation.

Preston was also the only athlete from Prairie View to go to the indoor and outdoor national competition in the last two decades. He is also prided with being the first to receive All- American honors in both indoor and outdoor events.

This list of accolades continues to grow, but according to him, there is only one thing that he has his eyes on – the 2016 Olympics.

“The Olympics are a dream that I now know is possible.” He said. “I believe I can get to the world’s biggest track meet, but other people expect me to compete for my country and bring home the gold.” D. Johnson, student intern

Preston “Q” Woodard is a 20 –year old Sweeny, TX native has taken the sport of track and field to an entirely new level.

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giving in time of need

The week before Election Day in America is usually buzzing with candidates’ last pushes to get votes; however, this time was different. Instead, news headlines illustrated the devastation of Hurricane Sandy. Rather than idly watching the reports, a group of PVAMU students spent the week packing clothing, diapers, non-perishable food and other supplies that will be sent to the hurricane-ravaged area.

The Undergraduate Medical Academy, an academic program with specialized focus on assisting students gain access to medical school, collected items and shipped them to one of the hardest hit places, Newark, New Jersey.

“There are a number of needs that seem to be obvious, as people are without power, some are without food and do not have a clean change of clothing,” said Dr. Dennis Daniels, director of the Undergraduate Medical Academy.

According to XXXX XXXX, president of the organization, the supplies sent by the UMA will compliment the hurricane relief efforts already underway. Joy Woods, Student Contributor

The Olympics, no ordinary feat, requires years of strenuous physical and mental training and dedication from athletes who have already risen through the ranks in their particular sport. Throughout the years, Prairie View has groomed some of the most amazing student athletes; many who have assisted in securing countless championships and titles even representing their home country in one of the most respected athletic competitions. In the 1972 and 1976 Olympics, four students from PVAMU represented not only the university but their respective countries. Fred Newhouse was the first Prairie View athlete to secure a gold medal. In 1976, he was a member of the first place 4x400 team.

Even further, in 1992, renowned PVAMU professor, coach and former athletic director Barbara Jacket joined the ranks of PVAMU Olympians

by serving as coach of the U.S. Olympics Women’s Track and Field team. Jacket made history being the second African-American woman to hold the position, going on to coach one of the most memorable women’s track and field Olympic teams in history. The team, which included the famed Jackie Joyner-Kersee, Gail Devers, Gwen Torrance and Evelyn Ashford brought home four gold medals, three silver medals and three bronze medals.

Carol Cummings ‘76, Jamaica 1972 Munich & 1976 Montréal games Event: 100 meters, 200 meters and 4x100, 4x400 meters relay Place: 4th

Dr. Andrea Bruce, Jamaica 1972 Munich & 1976 Montréal games Event: Women’s High Jump & Women’s Pentathlon Montreal Place: 4th

Debra Sapenter, USA 1976 Montréal games Event: Women’s 400 meters and 4 x 400 meter relay Place: Silver Medal: 4 x 400 meter relay

Fred Newhouse, USA 1976 Montréal games Event: Men’s 400 meters and 4 x 400 meter relay Place: Silver Medal: 400 meters,Gold Medal: 4x400 meter relay

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SSummer Bridge Program 1st step in retention efforts

College started early for Aaron Carlton. The future math teacher along with 143 other first-year students was part of Panther Pride’s inaugural class this summer.

The summer bridge program facilitated by the Student Academic Success Center was an intense five-week summer program designed to help incoming freshmen jump start their college career.

Students were enrolled in six hours of course work (speech, math or art) and balanced school assignments with social enhancement activities including learning about the plethora of student organizations and attending academic and social enhancement workshops.

A student chapter of the Association of General Contractors

has officially been chartered at PVAMU. Brandon Citizen, who serves as president, led the

charge after consulting with executive members of the national organization. The group consists of 20 students

and they have already been active. They have spearheaded a voter registration drive and started a shadowing program.

“They had been trying to get it here for eight years, Citizen said. “This will help students become more prepared to get

in the industry. It opens avenues for students that didn’t exist before.”

For Dr. Sherril Morris, assistant dean of the College of Juvenile Justice and Psychology, the Lion’s Club is more than a community service organization. It is THE community service organization and to her surprise PVAMU lacked a chapter.

She set out to change that last year. With her assistance, Prairie View A&M University was approved and appointed an official Lions Club Charter in late 2011. Since then, the organization has managed to begin volunteer services around campus including gathering donations of eye glasses for the Texas Eye Bank, that will be cleaned, repaired and then distributed to those in need.

This is in line with the organization’s overall mission. The Lions Club,

LionS CLub CreAted For StudentS SeriouS About ServiCe

which formed in Chicago in 1917, officially adopted the cause of sight preservation in 1925, when Helen Keller addressed the

club.Established in 1917, with over 46,000 clubs in over 207

countries, the Lions Club is the world’s largest service club organization. The Lions Club is known for their various volunteer works for many different kinds of community

projects, including that of the environment, the elderly, the disabled, the hungry, and most effectively, the blind.

The campus organization has grown to more than 25 members and is looking to expand. The CyFair Lions Club is the guiding lion of the PV Lions Club. Many of the events and service projects are done in conjunction with the local civic group.

new orgAnizAtion tAkeS oFF

“If you look at any other institution, PVAMU is right at the front of the pack in terms of housing options, quality and service for our undergraduate residents and this next step is designed to add those same options to our graduate student population as well as support for military families.”

Phase VII will have a variety of floor plans including two bedroom and three bedroom options that are equipped with in unit laundry machines. The community center will feature 5000 square feet of residential amenities. A computer lab, fitness center and coffee bar are in the preliminary plans.

The new addition which is managed by American Campus Community (ACC), will bring PVAMU’s on-campus housing total to 3,870 beds.

W ork has gotten underway on a new 336-bed housing

community on the eastside of campus. Located, near the Nathelyne Archie Kennedy Architecture Building, the facility is geared toward upperclassmen and graduate students. The groundbreaking was held on Nov. 12 and the project will wrap up in time for fall 2013 occupancy.

According to Fred Washington, vice president for administration and auxiliary services, state-of-the art housing is a significant component of what makes PVAMU attractive to students.

Ground Broken for New Student Housing

The student body will soon welcome a new publication. After a year and a half of planning and research, Etched

Magazine is “etched in stone.” The student- developed magazine will be produced in place of a yearbook. A Prairie View A&M yearbook has not been developed since the 2010-2011 school year and was not issued for 11 years prior to that.

Content will stem from the magazine’s slogan, “The Life in Purple, Etched in Gold.”

Readers can expect the stories that discuss entertainment, fashion, campus lifestyles, campus events and a variety of global and local news.

The publication is scheduled to print once per semester and Editor-in-Chief Lloyd Johnson is confident that after reading the first issue, the anticipation of the next issue will generate more readers.

Johnson said, “My expectations for the magazine are to change the way students view themselves while giving them another channel for content.”

“Because students produce the magazine, the intended student audience will be able to connect on a more personal level, “he said. “Although other publications are being produced such as The Panther, and 1876 (The Magazine) which focus on alumni; Etched Magazine can produce edgier content specially for students.

Students interested in contributing stories or submitting pictures are offered an opportunity to do so by providing weekly assignments that will develop into stories for future issues. Additionally, some ad space will be for local businesses and departments on campus to promote events and activities.

The distribution of the first fall edition will be in late December.

Robert Walker, student contributor

Prairie view welcomes student magazine

Etched Magazinee “I wasn’t sure it was going to be worth losing some of my summer to

go to school, but in the end it was great. Not only did I meet some great friends but I was able to get some classes out of the way,” said Carlton.

The University covered the cost of the tuition, fees, housing, and meals. Participants also received a $100 book voucher to offset the cost of required textbooks.

According to Josette Bradford, director of student success, this is only one part of a big picture that helps students remove any barriers that would cause them not to continue their education.

“This group excelled academically. We averaged a 3.8 gpa and XXXX XXXXXXX axXXXXXX, ” said Bradford who began last spring. Her data is trending above the national average of first-year students. “During the first year of college, students are challenged with learning the campus, developing study skills and adjusting socially. The Panther Pride program allowed them to do that in a student centered environment. “

Panther Pride is part of a larger student success initiative – COMPASS, Center for the Oversight and Management of Personalized Academic Student Success, which is designed to help Prairie View students in their second year. The initiatives include academic advisement and academic counseling, assistance for students who ‘stop-out’ tutorial services and academic and life enhancing workshops.

By the NumBers 147 students participated

110 A’s were received

More than 600 hours were spent in the classroom

University issued almost $150,000 through book vouchers

University College not only serves as a freshman housing complex, but extends past that function and provides academic counseling and advising. Through programming and staff it is able to ease the transition between high school and college life.

After leaving the UC, students begin to struggle with balancing school work, social activities and navigating through the college experience. Many become unengaged and don’t attend campus activities.

In an effort to aid in this transition, the Panther Ambassadors and the Office of Special Programs and Cultural Series created the One Down Summit. Held Nov. 9-10, the summit gave sophomores a roadmap to a successful college experience.

“Overall, we accomplished what we wanted,” said special programs coordinator Isis McCraw. “We found that many sophomore students weren’t excited about college anymore, so we wanted to focus on them and let them see that there is so much more to college than academics.”

The summit consisted of four student lead sessions: “Other Pieces,” “It’s Not Cheating if its Right There,” “Do Wrongs Make a Right?,” and “Cloudy Days,” which touched on utilizing resources on campus, the importance of mentors, getting involved and maintaining a positive image.

“Students should take advantage of opportunities that are right in front of them such as speaking to someone who has ‘been there and done that,’” said McCraw. “Looking back on my college experience even I could have been more involved. I wish I would have done more.”

This summit addressed her very own wishes. Through various panels and speakers students were able to obtain firsthand knowledge from their peers and recent graduates about the skills it takes to survive. Speakers spoke about campus organizations, upcoming events and talked about their own challenges.

There was also an administrative panel where students’ questions about financial aid, housing and academics were answered by administrators from the various areas.

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Photo by C. Walker

lady panthers up for success

The team struggled to find its mark offensively in the beginning, finding itself in the bottom half of the conference in kill percentages due to hitting errors, but it showed gradual improvement. The Lady Panthers found chemistry with each other in the thick of a brutal non-conference schedule which included the likes of USC, TCU, Nevada-Las Vegas, North Texas, and HBU. Despite starting the season 3-13 Espinosa and the offense got better each week.

During her stretch of Newcomer Of The Week awards, Espinosa tallied 11 games with 27 or more assists and that included seven games with 35 or more assists. Espinosa’s streak at consecutive awards stopped on Oct. 10, but it doesn’t bother her. Since the awards stopped rolling in, Prairie View A&M picked up their play as a whole and finished 8-5 with a 6-1 record.

Her production didn’t drop off either; she averaged 36.625 assists per match and 9.4 assists per game. She eventually picked up the final-two Newcomer of the Week awards of the regular season en route to the Lady Panthers clinching the No. 1 seed on their side of the SWAC Tournament and Prairie View A&M’s third-consecutive SWAC West championship. Prairie View A&M finished with a 7-1 SWAC record.

The Lady Panthers proved to be one of the most dangerous squads in the SWAC thanks to team work and guidance from the coaching staff. And the dream of bringing Prairie View A&M the SWAC Tournament Championship wasn’t that far away.

espinosa

Mimes Minister Through Performance

Founded in 2004 and established as an official campus organization in 2006, the award-winning PV Mimes seek to minister through moving visual performances. Their hard work and artistry recently gave them opportunity to participate in a nationwide dance battle showcase November 10, 2012.

This summer, group members Mikel Willie, Willie Rhodes, Kevin Wilson, Ivan Butler, Dariante Edwards and Mike Preston, participated in the Move to Greatness Praise Dance Showcase hosted by Communities in Schools of Baytown. The mimes took

first place honors in the showcase, earning $500 and a spot to compete in the Move Something Inspired 2 Dance Battle. The winner of the inspirational competition receives $10,000 in cash and prizes.

The prize money will allow them to start a scholarship fund and get the ministry off the ground.

“We work hard ministering to our peers what has been revealed to us and will use whatever opportunities given to us to accomplish that mandate, whether it is a our weekly bible study, a community service project or mentoring,” said Ivan Butler.

According to him, the performances are just a vehicle to spread their message.

The group has performed at several notable events on the PVAMU campus including the annual homecoming gospel explosion and has hosted their own spring concert for the past nine years. They have also traveled the country and appeared several churches, at the NAACP Civil Rights Advocacy Meeting in Oklahoma, a minister’s conference in Orlando, and the 1000 Men Empowerment Market.

s he grew up in the suburb of Pflugerville just outside of Austin, so it was only natural to admire the powerhouse volleyball program of the Texas Longhorns. Kelsey Espinosa always dreamed she’d play there one day.

The Prairie View A&M junior setter thinks about it every now and then, but that dream has been replaced with a new one - winning a Southwestern Athletic Conference Championship and competing against the likes of UT in the NCAA Tournament. En route to that goal Espinosa accomplished something that hadn’t

been done in Prairie View A&M program history when she won five-consecutive SWAC Newcomer of The Week awards from Sept. 6 through Oct. 6. She then garnered her sixth overall award on Oct. 30 and won her seventh a week later.

“I’m really happy where I ended up,” Espinosa said. “It was a good transition for me coming from my junior college. I’m glad that I’m here, and I’m glad that I’ve been able to accomplish the things on the court that I have so far.”

Espinosa transferred from North Central Texas Junior College and quickly solidified her position as the team’s starter this season. Her competitive drive and willingness to work was displayed on the court during matches, as the Lady Panthers floor general she was given the task of orchestrating an offense that had five newcomers and just two seniors at its disposal.

“I wanted to do the best I could to lead the team to the best direction and the farthest it could go. I knew that my experience was going to be critical on the court so that we could compete at our best on our side of the SWAC,” Espinosa said.

Idan Receives CASE Fellowship

Junior biology major Edna Idan was named a 2012 Jupiter Fellow by the Council for Advancement and Support of Education this summer. Her assignment afforded her an internship in PVAMU’s Office of Development where she worked this fall.

Idan is no stranger to the world of development at PVAMU. For two years, she has been active in the annual Phon-A-Thon and assist in the creation of the student development initiative.

As part of its commitment to help diversify the advancement profession, CASE offers the Clarence J. Jupiter Fellowship in Institutional Advancement to students. Jupiter fellows are introduced to a community of advancement professionals who can serve as helpful resources and mentors. They also receive membership to the organization and complimentary attendance at conference.

Event created to Support

2nd YearStudents

Noteworthy

This is a celebration you won’t want to miss.As we play tribute to our founders, applaud

the achievements of our alumni and showcase the evolution of our prestigious university during the annual Founders Day program we would like to invite you to a full day of events and happenings.

The full itinerary is still taking shape; however, mark your calendars for Wednesday, April 29.

24 25

2013 Basketball schedule jAnuARy Women’s/Men’s

Wed. 2 at Alcorn State 5:30/7:30 p.m. Fri. 4 at Southern 5:30/7:30 p.m. Sun. 6 vs. Texas Southern 5:00/7:00 p.m. Sat. 12 vs. Grambling State 3:00/5:00 p.m. Mon. 14 vs. Jackson State 5:30/7:30 p.m. Sat. 19 at Mississippi Valley 3:00/5:00 p.m. Mon. 21 at Arkansas-Pine Bluff 5:30/7:30 p.m. Sat. 26 vs. Alabama State 3:00/5:00 p.m. Mon. 28 vs. Alabama A&M 5:30/7:30 p.m.

feBRuARy

Sat. 2 at Texas Southern 6:00/8:00 p.m. Sat. 9 at Grambling State 3:00/5:00 p.m. Mon. 11 at Jackson State 5:30/7:30 p.m. Sat. 16 vs. Mississippi Valley 3:00/5:00 p.m. Mon. 18 vs. Arkansas-Pine Bluff 5:30/7:30 p.m. Sat. 23 at Alabama State 3:30/5:30 p.m. Mon. 25 at Alabama A&M 5:30/7:30 p.m. Thu. 28 vs. Alcorn State 5:30/7:30 p.m.

mARCh Sat. 2 vs. Southern 5:00 p.m. Tue.-Sat. SWAC Tournament TBA 12-16 Garland, Texas

development Launches Planned giving websiteA new web site, www.pvamu.edu/plannedgiving, was launched

to assist with estate planning. The interactive and user friendly site

is designed to educate those interested in including the University in their estate.

From the simplest and most flexible option, a bequest, to the more complex gifts like charitable gift annuities and remainder trust, any questions can be answered.

There is also an option to request a free wills guide. The information details the information required for avoiding accidental disinheritance and outlines the steps in planning a gift.

For general questions regarding leaving a legacy to the university, contact Nelson Bowman in the PVAMU Office of Development at (936) 261-1550.

Students Attend

Leadership

Conference

T his fall, the Office of Recruitment gave the campus a brand new audience. Thorough a new

virtual tour, those interested in visiting campus, especially prospective students, can sit at a computer and see academic buildings, view landmarks and learn about the 1,440-acre historical campus.

Led by Paige, tourists are informed of the history of each building, details about academic programs and information about deadlines is also shared.

Ayana Mack ’03, local radio personality, is the voice of the tour.

Recruitment unveiled the tour in late August with updated content, 360-degree photographs and videos. Additional edits will continue to be made to incorporate new photos, additional information and details about the Northwest Houston Center and The College of Nursing located in the Texas Medical Center.

“This will enhance our out of state recruitment efforts,” said Pamela Freeman, assistant director of recruitment. “Those who are unfamiliar with our campus get to see a true imagery of our campus, its state-of-the-art buildings and landscape.

According to Freeman nearly 10,000 people visit campus each year through the Office of Recruitment.

Lights, Camera, Action. As an extension of the marketing campaign, Our Tradition. Your

Opportunity., two commercials as well as a companion video that

will be used in the University’s recruitment efforts were recently

developed. The commercials showcase the traditions, pride,

and historical characteristics of the University while highlighting

student life, classroom experience, research opportunities and the

beauty of campus. Directed by the Office of Public Relations the

commercials were produced by Pop Video Houston. Over the next few months, the commercials will be aired during

televised NCAA events and incorporated in advertising efforts

in the State of Texas. Here’s a behind the scenes look at what it

took to make the project a reality.

Did you know?

Many are aware of the University’s rich history dating back to our 1876 establishment, but are unsure of the connection to 1878. Alta Vista College for Colored Youths (PVAMU’s original name) opened its doors in 1878, as a result of the 1862 land-grant act and a Texas legislature mandate for separate higher education opportunities for African-Americans.

Continuing education Schedule Full of variety

The Office of Continuing Education is the non-credit continuing and professional education extension of PVAMU. Led by new director, Rebecca Faison, the department provides quality programs and services that meet the workforce, professional and lifelong learning needs of the surrounding community.

The spring 2013 offerings are robust and include a wine tasting class, website design and photo shop for both advanced and beginning users, financial management for

seniors, courses that lead to health and wellness certifications, police academy combat training, and violin lessons. All classes are open to the public.

For a complete list of offerings visit www.pvamu.edu/continuingeducation.

Mark your calendars for Alumni day 2013! recruitment unveils

virtual tourTake your own tour of campus at www.pvamu.edu/tours.

APRIl Wednesday

29Alumni

Day!

For more information contact the Office of Alumni Relations at 936-261-1566.

KNow a prospectivepvamu studeNt?If you know students who are interested in attending

simply email their names and contact information to

recruitment@pvamu.edu. We will do the rest.

JoyMay the special

of the season be yourstoday and always.

As you drive up university Drive approaching campus, it’s easy to see the changes that are enhancing the scenery of the PVAMU campus.New wrought-iron gates flank the border of campus and the brick wall was refurbished. An additional wall was added across University

Drive and welcomes visitors with, ‘Welcome to “The Hill. Just beyond the flag poles a retention pond complete with fountains and decorative lights (featured) sits in the open area. Down the path, Alumni Plaza houses the Eternal Flame. The flame was a gift from the Class of 1953 to recognize its silver anniversary in 1978.

These are first signs of the ten-year campus master plan which addresses the needs that accompany student growth.