wave magazine - spring 2007

Greetings JU Alumni and Friends,

I’m proud to say that Jacksonville University is

making a great deal of progress in key ways.

Innovative new programs are launching, existing

programs are expanding, contemporary residence

halls are being built – many improvements are

being made to benefit current students, alumni

and the JU community at large.

This transformation is now reflected in a new

look for our magazine. JU Magazine is now

called The Wave. With so many JU graduates

making waves in their own way, The Wave will

focus more attention on the accomplishments of

current and past students, while still telling the

stories of our faculty, and our dedicated benefactors.

Our expanded alumni coverage will include more detailed stories, as well as

an improved Class Notes section. JU organizes a number of gatherings across

the state and around the country as illustrated by the photos in our new

Alumni Events section. Look for an opportunity to reconnect with your alma

mater.

This magazine is about the JU community, I hope you enjoy it!

Sincerely,

Kerry Romesburg, President

President

Kerry Romesburg

A E R O N A U T I C S

REACHING NEW HEIGHTSDISCIPLINE & DEDICATIONCREW CELEBRATES 50 YEARS

BELL SIGNALS CHANGE FOR DOLPHINS FOOTBALL

SALUTING NROTC

VOLUME 32 SPRING 2007

J A C K S O N V I L L E U N I V E R S I T Y

THE WAVEA M A G A Z I N E F O R A L U M N I & F R I E N D S

Who Made anIMPACT

in Your Life?

Ken Hoover

Betty Winstead

Ted Allen

Marilyn Repsher

Terry Alexander

Joseph Haygood

www.ju.edu/giving

Make a gift to the Annual Fund in their honor and impact another student’s life.

THE WAVEA M A G A Z I N E F O R A L U M N I & F R I E N D S

VOLUME 10 • NUMBER 2

www.ju.edu

PUBLISHER Kerry D. Romesburg

EDITOR Traci Mysliwiec

ASSISTANT EDITORS Derek HallOlga Bayer

DESIGNER Christopher Layton

PUBLICATIONS MANAGER Robin Bangert-Lenard

CLASS NOTES Patricia Reeves

CONTRIBUTING lairdPHOTOGRAPHER

CONTRIBUTING Tonia KimbroughWRITERS Casey Hampton

Joel Lamp

CONTRIBUTING The Design LoungeDESIGNERS Robin Bangert-Lenard

MAIN NUMBER (904) 256-8000

ADMISSIONS (904) [email protected]

ALUMNI (904) [email protected]

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PUBLISHED SEMI-ANNUALLY BY University Marketing & Communications Office

CHANGE OF ADDRESS TO Institutional AdvancementJacksonville University2800 University Blvd. N.Jacksonville, FL 32211-3394

JACKSONVILLE UNIVERSITY BOARD OF TRUSTEES

All contents © COPYRIGHT 2007 Jacksonville University. All rights reserved.

John E. Anderson Ron A. Autrey, ’01 Walter P. BussellsMichael Cascone, Jr., ’65Kevin F. Delaney L. Buck Fowler Wayne GallowayJ. Phillip Garcia, ’90John M. GodfreyY. E. Hall John G. Harrison, ’67David C. Hodges, Jr., ’03Michael Howland, ’76Cyrus M. JollivetteMatt Kane, ’01Bruce KernTimothy Mann Raymond K. Mason, Jr., ’78

Michael J. McKenny F. Andrew Moran, ’78Victoria Mussallem, ’98 Anne P. NimnichtFrank Pace, ’73 Timothy D. Payne Gil Pomar, Jr. Fred G. Pruitt, ’69, ’85Kerry D. Romesburg John A. “Sandy” Semanik, ’72Mike Shad, ’85Linda Berry Stein, ’69Mary Virginia TerryKeith Watson, ’71Lisa Strange WeatherbyTerry L. Wilcox Carolyn Munro Wilson, ’69, ’77, ’89 Charles J. O. Wodehouse

contents

C O V E R

4 AERONAUTICS: Set for New Heights of SuccessBy Tonia Cook Kimbrough ¥Photos by laird

JU’s Aeronautics program isexpanding to give students evenmore options and better experienceto improve their positioning for jobsafter graduation. Working with theDelta Connection Academy, theprogram provides studentsopportunities to be among the mostqualified graduates in the industry.

F E AT U R E S

8 CREW AT JUUnparalleled Dedication & DisciplineBy Traci Mysliwiec ¥Photos by laird

11 PROFILES IN LEADERSHIPSaluting NROTC AlumsBy Olga Bayer

15 OTIS SMITH Q & AMoves Up Corporate LadderBut Remembers His Roots

35 COLLEGE OF FINE ARTSCelebrates 45th AnniversaryBy Casey Hampton ¥Photos by laird

D E PA R T M E N T S

17 NEWS

23 SPORTS

27 ALUMNI NEWS

30 ALUMNI EVENTS

32 CLASS NOTES

New Head Football CoachKerwin BellSee page 23

4 The Wave | Spring 2007

The Wave | Spring 2007 5

Michael Timmerman (top right) puthimself on course for successwhen he chose JacksonvilleUniversity’s aeronautics programfor his pilot training, and now

this senior’s career is ready to take flight.“I havebeen afforded opportunities that Inever thought possible,” he says,noting his current employmentpiloting a corporate aircraft for alocal law firm.“I was referred to thisjob by Captain Simon, an adjunctprofessor at JU, and am buildingvaluable experience in the corporateaviation world.Without therelationships and education JUprovided, I never would havedreamed I could be employed gettingpaid for something I enjoy so much.”

Timmerman’s experience is just a glimpse of whatJU’s program provides students. For a fuller picture, youmust first understand the scope of the curriculum. JU’sAeronautics Program in the Davis College of Businesshas been preparing students for careers in the aviationindustry for more than two decades. In 1996, JU

established a one-of-a-kind trainingpartnership with Delta ConnectionAcademy (DCA), a subsidiary of DeltaAir Lines, working with the trainingcenter to educate and train future airlinepilots. Students in the program earn afour-year business degree, FederalAviation Administration (FAA) certificatesand ratings and, for those who qualify, aguaranteed interview with a regionalairline. More than 98 percent of thosewho interview get hired by the airlines.

SET FOR NEW HEIGHTS OF SUCCESSB Y T O N I A C O O K K I M B R O U G H • P H O T O S B Y L A I R D

“Jacksonville

University

produces the

highest quality

professional

graduates in

the industry.”


What first attracted Timmerman to JU is theaffiliation with DCA, and the school’s reputation as aprivate college where teacher/student relationshipsare more personable.“I’ve benefited from thispartnership extensively by making some of the bestfriends I have ever had and professional contacts thatI will keep for life,”Timmerman said.“DeltaConnection has the reputation for producing some ofthe best professional pilots, and coupled with theknowledge and professional experience of theUniversity staff, they form an alliance that ultimatelyis the best education for the aspiring professionalpilot.”

Now the aeronautics program is positioned foreven greater successes since DCA announced thepurchase of 50 Cirrus SR20 aircraft (right) foruse at the flight school.The CirrusSR20 is the most technologicallyadvanced primary trainer aircraft inthe world, providing students a realistic,airline-style flight training environment.One of its main features is a fully-integrated electronic instrument displaysystem (better known as a “glass cockpit”)coupled with Global Positioning System(GPS) and autopilot capabilities.

To fully take advantage of the newtechnology, DCA is completely redesigning theFAA-approved flight training curriculum.At thecore of the new program will be FAA-approved“scenario-based” training to help students developbetter decision-making skills, in addition to basicpiloting skills. DCA is also adding state-of-the-artsimulators (top right).These are so realistic that theFAA, after proper approval, will allow the academy tosignificantly increase the use of simulators in theprogram, improving the efficiency and decreasing thecosts of training.

Because the new training devices require a lot ofspace, DCA is in the process of building a newfacility at Craig Airport.The new Cirrus airplanes,FITS curriculum, simulators and facility should be inplace by spring 2008.

Dr. Juan Merkt, director of the JU aeronauticsprogram (center top), can hardly contain hisexcitement when speaking of the change ahead. Hehas seen the relationship between DCA and JUflourish, yielding even more opportunities forstudents during his tenure as the program’s director.“It’s a match made in heaven,” he says, noting theprogram’s growth from a mere 15 students in themid-1990s to more than 200 majors and minorstoday.The success, he stresses, comes from theinnovative pairing of an aviation industry partnerwith an academic curriculum.

The JU and DCA partnership was the first of itskind within the airline industry.Today, there are onlya few similar programs in the United States.“It isbecoming the standard path for non-

engineering

careersin the aviation

industry.Airlines wantpilots with flying skills and

business communication skills as well as abroad-based education,” Merkt explains.“The factthat aviation is a part of the JU College of Businessis very important.A business background can help apilot move up in the ranks of a major carrier tobecome a check pilot or a chief pilot.”

Indeed, the partnership between JU and DCAproduces a program focused on the needs of theairline industry: on-time performance; high qualitysimulation, Crew Resource Management, LineOriented Flight Training, and glass cockpit trainingare just a few examples of current issues in the airtravel industry.


In today’s marketplace, a four-year degree istypically preferred for pilot candidates. In fact, it isan absolute requirement to be employed as a pilotby any of the major carriers. “JacksonvilleUniversity produces the highest quality professionalgraduates in the industry.The combination of thefour-year degree from JU and the DeltaConnection Academy training yields the mostqualified candidates in the industry,” says LarryWade, director of training at DCA.

It takes more than training, however, to be agood pilot.Wade also finds important, less tangiblequalities in JU graduates that make the partnership asuccess. He describes JU students as professional onand off the flight line, demonstrating a strong workethic and attention to detail. His opinion is shapedin large part from the positive feedback he receivesfrom the airlines who hire JU graduates.

Brent Knoblauch is a JU sophomore,earning a double major in aviation operations

and political science. He is exactly the kind ofstudent that gives Wade such confidence in JU.Knoblauch’s ultimate professional goal is to be aregional airline pilot.To that end, he is active innumerous extracurricular activities that relate tohis ambitions. He is the lead director of Aviation

Ambassadors at JU, an organization offlight students that gives

tours to prospectivestudents and their families

at the airport. He also holdsleadership positions on JU’s Flight

Team and in Alpha Omicron Alpha, anaeronautical honor society.

The chance to receive quality, professional flighttraining in conjunction with a strong liberal artseducation attracted Knoblauch to JU.“The idea thatI could earn all my pilot certifications, graduate witha bachelor’s degree in business and politics, and beguaranteed an interview with the airlines isincredible,” said Knoblauch.“Seeing those dreamscome to fruition is the best way I could think tospend my four years in college.”

Knoblauch illustrated how the opportunities forprofessional experience merge with education bydescribing the day he received his certification.“Acase in point actually occurred a few days ago whenI earned my Commercial Pilot Certificate.At 7a.m., I hopped in the plane with an FAA examinerand by 9 a.m. I was officially a commercial pilot.After receiving a few congratulations on my wayout the door, my instructor asked me, ‘What are yougoing to do to celebrate?’Without hesitation I said,‘I have a midterm in microeconomics in 50minutes, so I’ll probably study.”

Emilie Howland, a junior at JU, (top right) isworking on her certified flight instructor certificate.With a major in aviation management/flightoperations, and a minor in economics, she aims tokeep her professional options varied.“My ultimatecareer goal remains to be seen. I believe in keepingmy mind open to lots of professions that could branchoff of aviation,” she says.“I think that the studentswho come from JU are a bit different because theycome away with a more well-rounded education.Weget a business degree, and we go to a [liberal] artsschool that offers much more than aviation.We areable to balance a regular college atmosphere with anaeronautic major. I also believe that we have differenttraining simply because of the great personalities thatwe get to work with. Specifically, the professors at JUare real individuals, and their passion for flying – andtheir students – is hard to find. I think JU is able tooffer more diversity than many of the other aviationschools.”

Ever intent on staying abreast of what theaviation industry needs, JU is in the process ofseeking accreditation of its aviation undergraduateprogram and creating an aviation MBA program toprovide graduate level education for pilots andaviation managers. Increasingly, major airlines preferpilots with an MBA.Today approximately 25 to 30percent of pilots have completed graduate-levelstudies. It’s just another indication of the heights thisprogram aspires to achieve. Keep your eye on thefuture of JU Aeronautics.


Rising before the sun, a group ofstudent-athletes make their way to adock on the St. Johns River. Teamsof four and eight glide out into thepeaceful waterway in turn. The

quiet morning is broken only by the sound of oarsdipping into the water and the voices of the coxswains,who call out instructions to the crews and scan thewater for dolphins and shrimp boats.

Displaying extreme discipline and dedication, theseathletes practice six days a week, putting in 3000strokes a year.

Jacksonville University’s crew program is a clearexpression of what the University does best – inspiringstudents to reach within themselves to attain new levelsof excellence. JU has established a strong tradition thathas taken the University’s rowers to Egypt, Peru andeven to the famous Royal Henley Regatta in England.Since “Tiger”Tim Tyler brought rowing to JU in1956, the program has been a distinguished part of theUniversity’s history and heritage.

As JU commemorates the 50th anniversary of therowing program, what better way to celebrate andhonor that tradition than to build a new RowingCenter to help vault the entire program to the nextlevel.The building will also house the Brooks AdaptiveRowing program (see sidebar), the first city-assistedexercise facility for the disabled.

One of JU’s most distinguished rowers and a tirelessfundraiser for the program, Brad Negaard, ’75, recallshow the level of dedication and discipline required forcrew helped strengthen his character.

“Rowing creates a commitment to be your best. I cannever pay back what the program gave me in terms ofcharacter building,” said Negaard.“I want the studentscompeting in crew to experience what I did and ifthey can even get a fraction of that, then the wholeprogram is worth it.”

Rowing demands a tremendous amount of practicefor the individual rowers to learn to move as one unit.The high demand gives an extraordinary payoff in

UNPARALLED DEDICATION & DISCIPLINE:

CREW AT JUBY TRACI MYSLIWIEC


what Negaard calls “horsepower” in personality.“Ilearned about not giving up until I got it right – notjust in crew – but taking that attitude into business,marriage, life in general. Not settling for mediocre,”Negaard explained.“Horsepower in personality islearning how to handle more than you think you can.That’s what rowing teaches you.”

In each generation of students taking up the challengeof crew, the theme of dedication runs deep. LaurenCalhoun, ’05, was a crew athlete all four years at JU.She remembers what it was like to be part ofsomething bigger than just herself.“Everyone has towork as one on the water, one person not giving theirall or having a bad day hinders the whole boat,”Calhoun said. “As a product of this kind ofenvironment, I hold everyone accountable for theiractions...no one more so than myself.”

Audrey Sefton, a senior, is not only grateful for thevalues she’s learned, she’s also appreciative of the greatfriendships that developed.“Although getting upbefore sunrise six days a week was never what Iplanned for college, not only has being on crew taughtme discipline with rigorous daily practices beforedawn, but it’s also taught me the true value of ‘team,’cooperation and responsibility,” Sefton said.“I haveseen the results of hard work while having fun,traveling and making great memories and friends.”

Negaard notes that the determination instilled in thecrew is demonstrated by what they achieve off thewater.“There are three things crew gives the school.

The students that are part of crew stay all four yearsand graduate; they have the top GPAs in school as agroup, and they are the largest single group in givingback to JU,” said Negaard.

After learning about the sport in 1972 when Negaardcame to JU, he thought it looked relaxing and gavehimself two weeks to try it out.“Here I am 34 yearslater, it has meant that much to me.” Negaard is nowseeing his dream come true in the construction of anew boat house.

In 1956, the original home of crew at JU was littlemore than a shack and the only equipment they hadwas four wooden shells.The Russell Boat House, builtin 1966 to accommodate a men’s squad of roughly 30student-athletes, was designed to store 10 boats andonly featured a men’s locker room.

With the addition of the women’s team in 1972, theBoat House became home to more than 50 athleteswith the same minimal facilities.Always competitive,the squad has increased to more than 90 student-athletes in recent years. During this rapid growthperiod, the program has suffered some growing painsdue to the limitations of the current structure.

To support the successes of the men’s and women’sprograms, the community, JU and rowing supportersare coming together to build a new state-of-the-arttraining facility.This new center will alleviate thoselimitations and allow the program to become evenmore competitive and more attractive to prospective

student-athletes who want tocontinue their rowing careerat the collegiate level.

“The new rowing center willmake an exponentialdifference for the team. First,it will allow us to grow as aprogram, both in numbers andin competitiveness. It’s also agreat attraction for recruits,”said Jim Mitchell, head coachof rowing.“The rowing centeris being built with the rowersin mind. It will have moreboat space, office space andworkout space, along withstudy and leisure areas.”

The Rowing Center willprovide an opportunity foralumni to work out and rowon the equipment. Outfittedwith the latest technology, theheadquarters will be wirelessand include a practice video area so rowers can seehow they’re doing from a different perspective.Therewill also be a recreational lounge with ping-pong, pooland air hockey tables.

With the growth that has taken place during the fouryears Sefton has been rowing, workouts have becomeless efficient.“Our team has certainly outgrown thecurrent facility and the new additions will provide thenecessary room, allowing for more efficient practices

and the opportunity forfurther success on the water,”she said.“The new boathousewill provide the opportunityfor greater focus duringworkouts. The study areas andseparate locker rooms for menand women will also minimizethe rush to get off the waterto go home in order to studyand shower before morningclasses.”

The current crew has beenbuilding their own success,even working within thelimitations of the currentfacilities.“Last spring we won5 state championships, had 3boats medal at the SouthernIntercollegiate Championshipsand our Men’s Varsity 8 hadthe second highest finish everat Dad Vails in JU history (JUplaced 8th in 2006),” said

Mitchell.“This fall our Men’s Lightweight 8 won thesecond biggest fall race in the country - Head of theHooch.”

Recalling her favorite memory of her time as part ofcrew, Calhoun remembers the sound of the oars.“Noquestion about it,” she said.“As eight blades exit andenter the water together in perfect rhythm, there isnothing in the world that is as gratifying as thatsound.”

Brooks Adaptive Rowing Program

Those who have experienced a disablinginjury or illness will soon have a new athletic

outlet – adaptive rowing. BrooksRehabilitation is partnering with JU to

develop an adaptive rowing program oncampus in the new rowing center. Adaptive

rowing programs exist around the world, mostnotably in England, but only a few programsexist in the United States. This will be the

only adaptive program in the southeast UnitedStates and can serve as a training center for

the U.S. paralympics.It will provide people with disabilities theopportunity to experience rowing on the

beautiful St. Johns River. “Adaptive rowing isa unique source of physical activity that canbe beneficial in a rehabilitative, recreationalor competitive way for those with orthopedic

or sensory impairments,” said James Mitchell,head rowing coach at JU. “We are excited to

develop this program to be able to giveaccess to the city’s greatest natural resource,

the St. Johns River, to people who may nothave previously had access.”

The city of Jacksonville is also partneringwith JU and Brooks to develop this program.

Training activities for the adaptive rowingprogram will begin in the fall of 2007 with an

emphasis on spending time on the waterlearning and developing rowing skills.


ince the first Naval ReserveOfficer Training Corps(NROTC) graduating class at

Jacksonville University in 1975, theunit has turned out a significantnumber of military officers who haverisen through the ranks to assume topleadership positions all over the world.

These men and women have servedtheir country willingly and devotedly –often putting themselves in harm’s way.Besides a strong sense of patriotism,each possesses a great sense of humor, amoral compass based on mutual respectfor others, and a passion for theirchosen career.

PROFILES IN LEADERSHIP:

SALUTING NROTC ALUMSBY OLGA BAYER

S

Finding the BalanceAs the USS John C. Stennis steams over the deepest

spot on the planet – nearly seven miles to the ocean floorin the Philippine Sea – Capt. Bradley Johanson,commanding officer of the aircraft carrier, warns his crewof 3,000 men and women, “Now would not be a goodtime for a swim.”

With wit and wisdom, Johanson, BS ’80, has been takingthe lead since he graduated as a commissioned officerthrough NROTC at JU. In May 2006, Johanson tookcommand of the Stennis and was honored by what hecalled the “culminating point of my 30 years in the service.”

Johanson describes his Navy career as “fun, diverse,exciting and filled with opportunities.” First an aviator,then as a test pilot, he compared his job to riding everyride at Universal Studios. He was sent to Saudi Arabia asthe lead planner for Tomahawk cruise missiles during theGulf War, and orchestrated flight operations in Somaliaafter the Black Hawk Down incident.

On the Pentagon’s Crisis Action Team, Johansonbriefed Secretary Cheney and General Colin Powellduring Operation Desert Storm. The Navy then invitedhim to study nuclear engineering, and as commandingofficer of the USS Denver he hosted the king of Jordan.

Johanson left a larger university to come to JU. “Youcould say JU was the catapult shot that launched thisaircraft,” he said. “The small environment and professorsmade a huge difference. The officers in charge of theNROTC unit were approachable, wonderful mentors.”Johanson went on to receive his master’s degree,graduating with distinction from the Naval War College.

Johanson’s canon for life is all about finding the rightbalance. He speaks of sailors needing to balance their livesat home and at sea to avoid burnout; the delicate balance ofthe United States sowing global peace through strongdeterrence; balancing the individual missions of each crewmember within a competitive environment; andmaintaining a balanced and objective approach that defineshis management style as one of “empowerment and trust.”

Surpassing ExpectationsWhen Capt. Norma Lee Hackney came to JU in 1976,

she had two years of college under her belt, and was

thinking about “giving up” on school. But Hackney“refocused” on her education and enrolled for a semester atJU. She later applied for a two-year NROTC scholarshipand as Hackney, BS ’78, likes to say, “The rest is history.”

Hackney joined NROTC shortly after women wereallowed. She not only found her niche in the Navy, shemade history as the first woman to command a U.S. Navyamphibious assault ship, the USS Saipan, in a war zone.

Hackney’s proudest moments came as commandingofficer aboard the USS Willamette and USS Saipan. Inboth instances, facing insurmountable ship repairs, sherallied her crew and – against all odds – made criticaldeployments on schedule. “When the crew comestogether, great things happen,” said Hackney.

It’s no wonder Hackney’s crew continued to pull off theseemingly impossible time and again. She wrote herdoctoral dissertation on leadership and said, “It simply boilsdown to building relationships on trust and mutual respect.”

At JU Hackney was “treated like a person, not just anumber.” NROTC offered her a lot of one on oneattention. “It’s a great program that provided counselingand support,” she said. “It wasn’t just marching…we gotthe total picture. I did softball, glassblowing and pottery.NROTC provided the vehicle to do whatever we wantedto make us well-rounded.”

Serving with PassionRear Adm. John P. Cryer was JU’s first NROTC

graduate to attain the rank of flag officer – a ranknominated by the President and confirmed by the Senate.

Cryer, BS ’76, served 29 years in the Navy beforeretiring in 2005, and becoming the Director of Navy andMarine Corps Programs with Northrop GrummanCorporation. He manages the aviation programs, anddeals with the Pentagon, Office of the Secretary ofDefense and Capitol Hill on a daily basis.

Describing his military career as a “hoot,” Cryer said,“I’ve worked on the Joint Staff… briefed the VicePresident in the White House Situation Room…gone toWar College in D.C. and Rhode Island, flown in thePacific Northwest… and traveled all over. You know thesaying, ‘Join the Navy and see the world,’ well, it’s true.”

As deputy commander for the Joint Task ForceSouthwest Asia, Cryer conducted military operations in


Afghanistan right after 9/11. “I was very proud to havedirectly contributed to those combat operations and madea difference,” he said.

Cryer came to JU from Key West. “One of the mostpositive experiences in my life was the four years I spent atJU,” said Cryer. “The school is intimate, and I developedfriends who I stay close with to this day. I got the totalspectrum of education. I had to take physics and calculus,and they were quite rigorous. It wasn’t a piece of cake.”

Strengthening PartnershipsAnother flag officer and one of the highest naval

intelligence officers currently serving in the U.S. Navy isRear Adm. David J. “Jack” Dorsett, Director forIntelligence ( J2), Joint Staff. Dorsett, BS ’78, was born inNorth Carolina, raised in Virginia, and graduated from JUto begin his career as an exchange midshipman with theRoyal Navy.

After many tour duties, Dorsett’s subsequent operationassignments included sensitive, nationally taskedcombat and special operations, and command ofthe Joint Intelligence Center, U.S. CentralCommand.

Dorsett was the Director for Intelligence,U.S. Pacific Command, during thetsunami relief operations, and in thearticle, Tsunami! Information sharing inthe wake of destruction, he wrote, “Wemust continue to strengthenpartnerships across the nationalintelligence community with bothallies and nongovernmentalorganizations”

Dorsett is also a joint specialtyofficer, a specialist in joint andstrategic intelligence, and a qualifiedsurface warfare officer. He possessessignificant experience in national securityaffairs (Europe, the Middle East) and instrategic planning. He graduated withdistinction from the U.S. Naval WarCollege and Armed Forces Staff College,and was awarded a master’s degree fromthe Defense Intelligence College.

Keeping ConnectedCapt. Matthew W. Tuohy arrived from Brooklyn in the

fall of 1971 as a member of JU’s first NROTC class. Aftergraduating as an ensign, Tuohy, BS ’75, became a navalflight officer, and after numerous assignments, wasappointed commanding officer of the aircraft carrier, USSKitty Hawk.

Tuohy said the proudest moment of his career wasactually “giving up” command of the Kitty Hawk. “After 18months, I was very proud of the fact that the crew had doneabsolutely everything that was asked of us without anyserious accidents or injuries. It was about finishingwell…and it was very gratifying that I could participatewith a group of people who were so professional,” he said.

When Tuohy came to JU, the Viet Nam War waswinding down and many universities were closing theirNROTC units. He took a chance on JU – “it’s Florida, howbad can it be?” – and discovered after his first year that he’dmade a wise decision.

“Being in a liberal arts institution, I developed the skillsto be successful. The personal attention by Ph.D. professorswho know your progress – and whether you’re in class ornot – helps you develop responsibility,” said Tuohy.

Tuohy, a graduate of the College of Naval Commandand Staff and the Armed Forces Staff College, holds

three master’s degrees – from Salve ReginaUniversity, the Naval War College and

Jacksonville University.Retired from active duty, Tuohy maintains

his Navy connections through his job forDynamics Research Corporation, and as vicepresident for the Navy League JacksonvilleCouncil. He has close ties to JU, where he wasdirector of Aviation for nearly three years, andcurrently serves on the JU Alumni Board ofGovernors.

Tuohy was the fundraising chairman for theNROTC facility that opened in 2004, and said, “Forevery young American that raises a hand to enlist, weowe them good leaders. The best way to do that is tohave a properly trained officer corps and in my mindthe NROTC is as good as the Naval Academy –if not better.”



NROTC: DevelopingLeaders for Tomorrow

Capt. James Pendley, commanding officer ofJU’s NROTC, said the mission of a NROTCunit is to develop midshipmen and officercandidates mentally, morally and physically toserve as commissioned officers in the UnitedStates Navy and the United States MarineCorps.

NROTC at JU is no exception; however, theprogram does offer some exceptional benefits tostudents – namely, a challenging, well-roundededucation, a state-of-the-art NROTC facilitywith a new obstacle course, and mostimportantly, a great location in a receptive navalcommunity.

Maj. Timothy Kornacki, BS ’91, returned toJU as the marine officer instructor for the unit,and explained, “JU and NROTC are like acrossroads for the Navy and Marine Corps. Youhave Jacksonville Naval Air Station, Mayport,Blount Island and King’s Bay nearby.” Thatnaval proximity translates to more hands-onopportunities for NROTC students to tourships, visit the bases and see how active dutymembers operate on a day-to-day basis.

With a battalion ranging from 130 to 200students each year, the program continues toturn out future leaders. Kornacki said, “Theyaren’t leaders right here and now. We’re lookingfor demonstrated leadership potential. Everyoneneeds to have what we call ‘the fire within’… thedesire to serve. You start with that foundation,then what it really comes down to is beingwilling to be part of something much larger thanthemselves.”

The students take part in a rigorous programand are given an ever-increasing amount ofresponsibility. “The battalion leads itself, withminimum input from active duty staff here oncampus. That is how we develop leaders fortomorrow’s Navy and Marine Corps,” saidPendley. “We are very appreciative of the supportthat we receive from JU, and we are very proudof our service to our country, and of our oath tosupport and defend the constitution.”

Juggling SuccessCmdr. Becky Lince followed in her older sister’s footsteps to join

the Navy – just not in the same way. “I saw what my sister wentthrough at the Naval Academy in Annapolis and I said, ‘No way.’ Iwanted the college life, that’s why JU was right for me,” she said.

An active reservist, Lince, BS ’90, is currently earning hermaster’s degree at the Air War College at Maxwell Air Force Base.As an undergraduate from Wisconsin, she chose JU for its“excellent” marine science program, NROTC and for a “winterdown south.”

Lince most recently served as commander (operational supportofficer/total source program manger) at the Naval Meterology andOceanography Command at the Stennis Space Center inMississippi. But it was as a lieutenant commander in Rota, Spain,where she first learned about leadership.

Discounting the stereotypical belief that a woman has to be hardto prove she knows more, Lince said, “If you treat people withrespect, they will respect you. Gaining respect opens upcommunications and allows creativity to flow, and that makes for agood working environment.”

Unsure where her next assignment will be, Lince said movingconstantly has made her a more flexible person, a necessary traitwhen juggling a dual Navy career family with three daughters.“Bringing my family life and professional life together makes meproud,” said Lince, who met her husband, Cmdr. Matthew Lince,BS ’91, when they were both NROTC students at JU.

Lince keeps up with JU classmates and members from her “tightknit” NROTC unit. “I know it sounds corny but I grew up thereand I definitely learned how to be responsible,” she said. “I tried asorority, but I felt closer in NROTC. It was a family.”

Besides the intimate setting at JU, Lince liked the way studentsand staff interacted and worked together. “President Kinne wasjust so involved with the students,” she said. “It felt like you had amom looking over you if you needed help. To me, that wasfabulous.”

Photos - Page 11: (l-r) Rear Adm. Kevin Quinn, Capt. David H. Buss and Capt.Bradley Johanson render honors at USS Stennis change of command ceremony. U.S.Navy photo by Photographer’s Mate 3rd Class Ronald Reeves. Page 12: (left) Capt.Norma Lee Hackney; (center) Capt. Bradley Johanson launches from Stennis flightdeck in F/A-18F Super Hornet. U.S. Navy photo by Mass CommunicationSpecialist 3rd Class Jon Hyde; (right) Rear Adm. John P. Cryer. Page 13: (left) RearAdm. David J. “Jack” Dorsett. Dept. of Defense photo; (center) Flight operationsaboard Stennis. U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class JonHyde; (right) Capt. Matthew Tuohy in F-14. Page 14: Cmdr. Rebecca Lince. Photoby David Robertson Studio; (top right & sidebar) JU NROTC students.


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Otis SmithMoves UpCorporate Ladder

But RemembersHis Roots

Born and raised in Jacksonville, and a

1986 graduate of Jacksonville University,

Otis Smith has left his mark on the First

Coast. An athletics four-letter winner at

JU, Smith led the Dolphins to the Sun

Belt Conference title and the NCAA

tournament in 1986.

After his college days ended, Smith moved on to play in theNBA for Orlando, Denver and Golden State. He created afoundation in his name during his professional playing career,and continues to serve on the board of trustees.

Following his retirement from the NBA, Smith served ascommunity relations manager for the Orlando Magic for twoyears. During that time, the organization was presented thePro Team Community Award, given by the World SportsHumanitarian Hall of Fame. He was also vice president ofmarketing and community relations of the Boys and GirlsClub of Central Florida.

Smith spent the 2002-03 season as executive director ofbasketball operations for the Golden State Warriors. Duringthe previous two-plus seasons, Smith was director ofcommunity relations for the Warriors Foundation. On May 3,2006, Smith was promoted to general manager of theOrlando Magic. Smith was assistant general manager duringthe 2005-06 campaign, after serving as director of playerdevelopment for two seasons.

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Your professional basketball career got a big springboard fromyour collegiate career at JU, culminating in the Dolphins goingto the NCAA Tournament in 1986. You were a big part of therebuilding process in the early 80s that saw JU becomedominant again. Then, you made it to the pros and becamepart of a rebuilding process in Orlando. Were there a lot ofsimilarities to the situations?

The biggest thing is you have to start somewhere, regardlesswhere the team was the year before. In order to build something,you have to start with a foundation. When I was at Jacksonville, Iwas a part of the foundation. Here we’ve got Jameer (Nelson) andDwight (Howard) and we’re building around them.

You had a very long and successful career, spending most of itwith the Magic. What do you feel was the best moment of yourplaying career?

On the court, it would be scoring the game-winning bucketagainst Chicago at home. In general, you can’t put a price tag onthe people you meet in this business. I think that’s what theyoung players take for granted. For me, it’s more the people.

When I think back to high school and college, it was the coaches.In the pros, it was the coaches, players and teammates. ChrisMullin and Rod Higgins with the Warriors, those are guys that Istill remain friends with. I still talk to my college teammates andthose relationships mean more to me than anything thathappened on the court.

After your playing career, you moved to the management sidewith the Magic, working your way up to your current position asgeneral manager. Was it your goal to become the GM one day?

I believe in asking for what you want. I believe in writing it downand putting it in a place to see every day. I wanted to be the

Making a Differencein a Big Way

The Otis Smith Kids Foundation was founded in1989 as a means to improve the quality of life andoutlook for the future of deserving Northeast Floridaelementary school children. The foundation providesprograms and services to hundreds ofdisadvantaged children each year in the areas ofeducation, life skills development and personalgrowth. For nearly 18 years, the not-for-profitorganization has touched the lives of thousands ofJacksonville-area children, providing opportunitiesfor them to learn, grow and achieve.

In 2006, the foundation organized a fundraisingevent, Big Cats for Kids, replicating the wildlysuccessful Sea Cows for Kids project the foundationsponsored in 2004. More than 50 Big Cats weredecorated by participating First Coast artists. Thenearly nine-foot long Big Cats were installed inpublic places throughout Jacksonville and NortheastFlorida.

In a collaborative effort with The Stellar Group –a design, engineering and construction firm inJacksonville – faculty and students from JU’sCollege of Fine Arts, created a Big Cat for thefundraiser. Dana Chapman Tupa, chair of VisualArts, said more than 20 students helped with theconstruction worker theme that incorporated clay,paint and glass media on the fiberglass jaguar.

The Big Cats will eventually be auctioned off at anevent presented by Outback Steakhouse, with allproceeds benefiting education and life-skill initiativesfor disadvantaged children in Jacksonville.

For more information on the Foundation, please visit www.otissmithfoundation.com.

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general manager of an NBA franchise and worked every daytowards that goal.

I started on the business side of basketball and I’ve done justabout everything – from business to scouting, player personnelto community outreach – and developed a working knowledge ofeach area.

Since you’ve taken over as GM, you’ve revitalized the team andare in the midst of a tight race to make the playoffs thisseason. What has been the biggest difference moving overfrom assistant GM to GM?

The biggest difference is you’re responsible for everything. I workwith Dave Twardzik on scouting and Brian Hill on coaching, but itcomes back to me putting a team on the floor that the communitycan be proud of.

Understanding your role is key – I am the steward of an NBAteam that the community and ownership can be proud of. If youdo that, everything else will take care of itself.

When you evaluate players, do you draw from your pastexperience as a player?

The first thing I look at is do they play hard. Everything else youcan teach. If they come to work hard and play hard, you’ve got achance. You can’t teach guys to work hard. I like guys who comefrom winning programs and know how to win – they are going torise to the top.

I think we have to start talking about the word “championship” insports – that is what it is about, not me. It’s about being winners– let’s say it out loud. We just have to get our young guys to thinkabout that every day. I started talking about championships theday I got the job and I haven’t stopped. I don’t talk about makingthe playoffs, because to win the championship, you have to be inplayoffs.

Since you started the Otis Smith Foundation in 1989, you’vebeen able to reach out and help a lot of disadvantaged childrenin Northeast Florida. Now, some 18 years later, you’re still adriving force behind it and its outreach to thousands of kids.You’ve already been able to accomplish a lot of things, but nowwhat are your goals for the Foundation?

It started out with just wanting to help people and that remainsthe focus of the foundation today. To get people to help them-selves and get other people to help them. There are a lot of youngpeople in Jacksonville struggling to make it and we stepped in tohelp. Education is the key. We have to hang our hat on that. Thiswhole thing is bigger than me. (See sidebar)

Being a native of Jacksonville and a star player here at JU,how much does the University and the basketball programmean to you?

You want to see JU back on top, and JU alumni and fans to beback. You want to say that your team is the conference champand that they have had success after you left. The people inJacksonville deserve JU basketball to be at the top again.


After just eight months as the new deanof the School of Education, it’s evidentthat Dr. Christina Ramirez-Smith ismaking a positive impact as a leaderwith a vision for progress andexpansion. Ramirez-Smith, former deanof the College of Liberal Arts atChristopher Newport University(CNU) in Virginia, leads JU’s School ofEducation at a time when the shortageof First Coast teachers provides creativechallenges for recruiting and retainingstudents.

“JU’s School of Education can meet thechallenge of training much neededteachers. We’ve revitalized the SecondCareer as a Teacher program,” Ramirez-Smith said. “It has opportunities torecruit more education majors andgraduate students and to be more visiblein the community.” (See sidebar)

“We are extremely pleased to havesomeone with Dr. Ramirez-Smith’sbroad administrative experience andkeen knowledge of how to gain successin the midst of some of the mostdifficult issues facing K-12 education,”Dr. Lois Becker, senior vice presidentfor Academic Affairs said. “She ispassionate and energetic, and has aproven track record of collaborativeoutreach to all the stakeholders in theeducational process.”

During the past 25 years, Ramirez-Smith has worked as a schoolteacher,college professor and dean, educationaland fundraising consultant, andcorporate human resources director. Sheworked at CNU from 1992 to 2001 as a

professor of education, director ofstudent teaching and internships, anddean. She has also held teaching,research and administrative positions atMorgan State University in Maryland,Vermont College of NorwichUniversity, and the College of theBahamas. Most recently, she consultedon international education issues andworked with several community andcharitable organizations.

Ramirez-Smith, a native of theBahamas, has a bachelor of science inelementary and special education fromthe University of Idaho, a master ofscience in educational administrationfrom Morgan State University and anEd.D. degree from Boston University.

Changes in the School of Education:New Dean, Revitalized Program

Fast-Track CertificationCan Help Alleviate Shortage

JU resurrected a unique programto help address the criticalshortage of teachers. JU’s Schoolof Education, in collaboration withthe U.S. Navy and Duval CountyPublic Schools, established analternative route to teachercertification, the Second Careeras a Teacher (SCAAT) program.

“JU has a long reputation ofproviding outstanding teachereducation programs to meet theneeds of Duval and thesurrounding counties,” saidRamirez-Smith. “SCAAT is acutting-edge program fullyaccredited by the FloridaDepartment of Education.”

Classes began in October for thefirst SCAAT program students. JUoffers several options forprofessionals with bachelor’sdegrees. Depending on theteaching level chosen by incomingstudents, the program includes16-18 semester hours of course-work during five consecutive 8-week sessions plus aninternship for an additional sixsemester hours.

“What is unique about SCAAT isthat we take working professionalsand fast track them into teachingpositions,” said Ramirez-Smith.“SCAAT enables JU to provideteaching as a second careerchoice to people who alreadyhave full-time careers in otherfields as well as people looking to change or enter the teachingfield.”

Dr. Christina Ramirez-Smith



Sixteen years ago Dr. Ray Oldakowski, professor of Geography,left a high paying research job to teach at JacksonvilleUniversity. “Based on all the great students I’ve had over theyears, it certainly was worth it!” he said.

What turned out to be a good move for Oldakowski, has beeneven better for JU. Since he arrived in 1990, more than 120geography majors have graduated, and the vast majority – hestill keeps up with most of them – have productive andenjoyable careers. “I’m very fulfilled knowing I may have playeda role in helping them become successful,” he said.

In recognition for his outstanding contributions to geographiceducation, Oldakowski was selected for the National Councilfor Geographic Education’s Distinguished TeachingAchievement Award for 2006. He was one of eight universityprofessors chosen from across the United States and Canada.

Oldakowski revitalized the geography program at JU byimplementing engaged learning projects and productiveinternships. He supervises independent and advanced studies,recruits students to assist with the Florida State GeographicBee, leads Study Abroad trips, and takes students toprofessional geography conferences.

As the recipient of a National Geographic grant, Oldakowskiexpanded a successful pilot program with Duval Countyschools to teach children about their own communities by

using mapping techniques, field trips and GeographicInformation Systems. In 2006, he invited a Jacksonvillenewspaper columnist to join JU students on their AlternativeSpring Break to Ecuador, which resulted in a four-page spreadin The Florida Times-Union.

Recently Oldakowski was honored again as one of three facultymembers to receive JU’s Institutional Excellence Award forbringing regional and national recognition to JU. He currentlyserves as chair for the Division of Social Sciences.

Oldakowski Chosen for National Geography Award

JU student Tim Seketa and Oldakowski exploring the Andes mountainsduring the Alternative Spring Break trip to Ecuador.

The growth JU is experiencing willdirectly benefit students with theupgraded residential options oncampus. Oak Hall is scheduled to beready for the fall 2007 semester.

“This is really important for JU,” saidPresident Kerry Romesburg. “It willhelp us maintain the residential natureof our campus and allow us to grow.”

This fall, JU tore down a 250-bed dorm on the south end ofcampus to make room for this modern living quarters thatwill hold 500 beds. The new residence halls will provide amore independent approach to student living, including suite-style living space styled as two double-occupancy roomsconnected by a large, shared bathroom area. Each suite isapproximately 625-square feet and will feature airconditioning with individual temperature controls, high-speed Internet and cable television.

Common spaces on each floor willallow students the opportunity toimmerse themselves in campus life. Forthose late night study breaks, Oak Hallwill also feature a small dining facilityand an outdoor terrace with viewsoverlooking the St. Johns River and theJacksonville city skyline.

“Our goal in developing Oak Hall wasto provide a housing environment

which promoted a high degree of social interaction, while stilloffering the privacy and amenities that today’s collegestudents desire,” said Bryan Coker, dean of students.

An additional 300 parking spaces will be available in theadjoining parking structure, allowing all students – evenfreshmen – to bring a car with them to campus.

Uptown Living Coming to Campus this Fall

Oak Hall, JU’s newest residential complex.


Amid reports about the state of crisis in emergency patient care andrecommendations that additional staffingcan alleviate the problem, JacksonvilleUniversity is increasing the optionsavailable in advanced nursing degrees.The newest program for Family NursePractitioners (FNP) and EmergencyNurse Practitioners (ENP), starting fall2007, will be only the sixth of its kind inthe United States and the first in Florida.

When the Florida Hospital Associationorganized a task force in December 2005to examine an ongoing crisis inemergency care, the research revealed amajor lack of qualified staff. In June2006, the Institute of Medicine releasedthree reports on the status of emergencycare in the U.S. Their reports concludedthat the nation’s emergency care facilitiesare in crisis with regard to factors such asfragmented care and patient volume. TheCenter for Disease Control released itsown report in September 2006 whichdrew many of the same conclusions. JU’s program is designed tomeet future workforce needs for qualified staff by preparingFamily and Emergency Nurse Practitioners.

“This is a timely program with the recentfocus on emergency medicine and thevolume of patients being seen inemergency care facilities around thecountry,” said Dr. Leigh Hart, dean of theSchool of Nursing. “We’ve created newoptions in our graduate programs bydeveloping a FNP specialization with anENP sub-specialization.”

“The expansion of the role of nursepractitioners opens up a great deal moreopportunities for our graduates,” saidHart. ”Nurses who enter the program willbe able to achieve certification as an FNPand will also have a sub-specialization inENP which makes them prepared to workin acute emergency and urgent caresettings.”

Applicants are being sought for theinaugural class. “We’re looking for BSNnurses with at least one year of emergencynursing experience along with advancedcardiac life support certification,” said

Hart. “There are only 20 slots available a year. It’s a competitiveadmission process.” If you’re interested in learning more aboutthe program, please call 800-225-2027.

Nursing Program Expands to Include FNP/ENP Master'sOnly Five Programs in the U.S. Offer Same Sub-Specialization

Dr. J. Phillip Garcia, ’90, Operates theGarcia Institute, specializing in facialplastic surgery.

Y. E. “Chipper” Hall, Jr., President andchief executive officer of RexCorporation.

David C. Hodges, Jr. ’03, Executive vicepresident and chief operating officer ofthe Scott-McRae Group.

Bruce Kern, Chief executive officer ofFirst Coast Sales.

Raymond K. Mason, Jr., Chairman andpresident of CenterBank of Jacksonville,N.A.

F. Andrew Moran, ’78, President andchief executive officer of FAM Holdings,

Inc. He has served on the University’sAlumni Board of Governors.

Victoria Mussallem, ’98, Attorney,partner in Mussallem & Forbess.

Fred G. Pruitt, ’69, ’85, U. S. salesdirector for Rockall Technologies,headquartered in Dublin, Ireland.

John A. “Sandy” Semanik, ’72, Chiefexecutive officer of SEDA ConstructionCompany.

Terry L. Wilcox, Managing principal ofAon Risk Services Inc. A JU alumnus,he also serves as co-chair for theFinancial Services and Insurance TaskForce at the University’s Davis Collegeof Business.

Frank Pace, ’73, Producer of nearly 500episodes of network television, includingMurphy Brown, Suddenly Susan, and theEmmy Award-winning ABC biopicBabe Ruth. His work has received 16Emmy nominations and four awards.He currently produces the ABC hitcomedy George Lopez.

Pace has been a contributor to TheFlorida Times Union, Sports Illustrated,Emmy Magazine, and Soccer Journal,among others. A member of theDirector’s Guild of America and theNational Soccer Coaches Association ofAmerica, he is currently also the senioreditorial advisor at Hall of FameMagazine (HOFMAG.com).

Board of Trustees Welcomes New Members

Professor Cheryl Bergman (right) instructsnursing student Gissella Martinez onemergency care procedures.


After much planning and anticipation,the new Davis Student Commonsopened in October bringing anenergizing spark to student life at JU.The Commons provides a place wherestudents can workout, shoot a game ofpool, catch live entertainment, grab abite to eat, meet with various clubs andgroups, or just hang out with friendsbetween classes.

Designed by the students for thestudents, the Commons is truly a placethey can call their own. Dean ofStudents Bryan Coker said theplanning for the facility was acollaborative process, with studentsinvolved at every step. Coker said thatan undergraduate jokingly suggested aplaque on the building should read,“This building was not secretlydesigned by a bunch of old guys insuits and ties.” Although the commentwas tongue in cheek, Coker said the

sentiment was accurate, reflecting thelevel of students’ input throughout thetwo-year planning stage.

On the first floor, the Billie NimnichtJr. Fitness Center looks out over the

St. Johns River and offers a view of theJacksonville skyline.

On the second floor the BuccaneerGame Room buzzes with studentssocializing, playing pool, foosball, air

New Davis Student Commons Adds Spark to Student Life

Above: Students exercise using the new treadmills while they are able to watch flat-screen televisions and enjoy the view.Below: Enjoying the lounge areas, students meet to chat as well as to study.


hockey and popular video games (See sidebar). Nellie’s, abreezy diner with popular fare such as buffalo wings and realice cream milkshakes, will feature a patio for outdoor dining.In addition, there are multipurpose rooms for student events,plenty of spacious lounges, an information center, and high-definition flat screen televisions throughout the building.

Providing a central space for student activities, the third floorhouses JU 108 (campus radio station), Student GovernmentAssociation (SGA), Dolphin Productions, Intramurals, andFraternity and Sorority Life. Offices for Student Life,Campus Activities and Career Services allow students easyaccess to the programs and services they use most.

Justin Camputaro, director of Campus Activities and StudentCommons, spearheaded the building project. His main goalwas to organize student groups who were previously “strewnall over campus” and establish a self-sufficient operation. Tothat end, the Davis Student Commons is staffed and run bynearly 45 student workers, including five building managers.“They handle the operations, opening and closing, setting upfor meetings, and running the facility in the evenings and onweekends. Student development…that’s why we’re here. Thisis real life hands-on experience,” said Camputaro.

Former JU trustee A. Dano Davis, and current trustees AnneNimnicht and Carolyn Munro Wilson – donors who helpedmake the Student Commons a reality – were on hand at thededication ceremony for the new facility. After thanking thedonors, Coker said, “Throughout the entire design phase,students were told, ‘You are the architect.’ Now I can say youwere the architect, and this is your building. Enjoy it.”

Students across campus are indeed enjoying it. TutuAdeniran, SGA president, said the new building givesstudents a “wonderful opportunity to connect and interact.”She added, “Now that student government has a dedicatedspace, people know where to find us. We’re much moreaccessible and we get more accomplished.”

Michela Peterson, a junior who lives on campus and visits thefitness center often said, “The central location is much moreconvenient for me. And everything is so fresh and clean.”Ditto for Matt Sharman, a freshman who frequents thefitness center six times a week, and said, “It’s a good place tomeet people.”

Camputaro sees more and more students taking advantage ofthe facility each week, and continues to look for ways to addmore amenities. Wilson, who is also a JU alum, rememberswhen JU had Quonset huts on campus, and told the students,“This facility is just lovely. Treat it with kindness and respect.It is a wonderful thing.”

Story by Olga Bayer. Photos by laird.

Buccaneer Brothers Work Togetherto Equip Game RoomOne of the jewels in the new Davis Student Commons is theBuccaneer Game Room, made possible through donations bymembers of the Buccaneer Fraternity, a mainstay on the JUcampus in the late 1950s and through the 1960s.

Inspired by his fondest memories of days spent shooting poolon campus, Glenn Ross ’67 saw the perfect opportunity torally his Buccaneer Brothers around this worthy cause.

More than 50 brothers, including several of the founders,responded to Ross’ request, and together they raised in excessof $25,000 to outfit the room. “Hopefully, this will inspire otherorganizations to support JU with similar projects,” said Ross.

Last November, many of those Buccaneers returned tocampus for dinner in their new game room. Members traveledfrom as far as Kentucky and North Carolina to get reacquaintedwith fraternity brothers, some of whom had not seen eachother in 40 years.

“It’s a great thing to host events like this, where members of aparticular group can reconnect and build on friendships thatstarted long ago,” said Grady Jones, vice president forInstitutional Advancement. “As a University it’s what we’re allabout. We’re all part of the JU family and we look forward tocontinuing events such as this that reconnect our alums andimpact our students at the same time.”


On a daily basis, Jacksonville University employees strive tohelp students achieve their goals through instruction,mentoring and encouragement. They not only give their time,guidance and support, but also generously shared their ownfinancial resources through a campus wide initiative.

During the Campus Campaign this past September, employeesjoined to make a difference in the lives of JU students bymaking a pledge of support. Thirty-eight percent of employeesmade a gift to the University, raising thousands of dollars tosupport scholarships, technological advancements, facilityimprovements, extracurricular activities and library resources.

“The 135% increase in giving participation in this campaign isa reflection of the excitement and expectations for theUniversity,” said Grady Jones, vice president of InstitutionalAdvancement. “There is an energy that is spreading andgrowing every day with anticipation of all that can beaccomplished, and the power the education and experienceprovided by JU will have on its students and the community.”

The Athletic Department was recognized for the highestpercentage of participation in the campaign. However, students

were the real winners, as so many employees demonstratedtheir passion and commitment for education through financialsupport.

The generosity of JU employees not only directly helps theinstitution reach its goals, but serves as an example of theimportance of philanthropy for our students and alumni, nowand in the future. A community of giving begins at home, andon our campus it has already started.

Ask JU freshman Eric Luxwhat it is like to go fast and hisface lights up. “At age 11, I wasdriving go-karts at 65 mph.”He quickly rattles off otherspeed milestones in his youngracing career: 100 mph at 12;140 mph at 14; 195 mph at15, and when he was actuallyold enough to earn his driver’slicense he was racing cars thatcould easily exceed 200 mph.

The “need for speed” definesthe life of the businessmanagement major from Buffalo, N.Y.

“Right now I’m trying very hard tocomplete my business degree at JU,while I am also pursuing my racingcareer,” Lux said. “All the teachers haveworked closely with me to help meachieve all of my goals in racing and mybusiness degree. They’ve been great. ButI know racing is what I want to do.”

Lux currently drives for Tafel Racing inthe Grand American Rolex and GrandAmerican Cup Series.

Lux was raised in a racing family. Bothparents raced in the 1980s and hisinterest in going fast was evident at anearly age. His racing was not limited tothe track. He was a professionalsnowboarder who had more than 25top-three finishes in U.S.

Snowboarding competitions.Now that he lives in Florida,his love for snowboarding hastransitioned into a love forrecreational surfing. He nowfocuses his racing skills on thetrack.

By the time this semester endsin May, Lux will have raced infour different races in the 2007season, including the 24 hoursof Daytona, Mexico City,Homestead-Miami GrandPrix, Virginia International

Raceway and Laguna Seca California.

“I chose JU because I wanted to leavethe cold of the Northeast and needed acollege where I could get to know myprofessors personally,” said Lux. “Racingputs a strain on my school schedule, butwith extra effort, I am living my dreamof earning my degree and racingprofessionally.”

Freshman Racer Lux Knows Education is Key

Eric Lux (left) celebrates a win at Daytona with his team.

A Community of Giving Begins at Home


DOLPHINS MAKE BIG SPLASH HIRING KERWIN BELL

acksonville University footballtook a big step forward inJanuary by naming Kerwin Bell(pictured) the second head coachin the program’s history. Awinner at every level, Bell bringshis winning mentality to JU with

the goal of taking the program to newheights.

“Kerwin is a proven winner, a leaderand he has a vision for JU football thatwill allow our program to attainexcellence,” said Alan Verlander, JUdirector of Athletics. “We believe thecommunity of this great city will come outand support our efforts in building a top-rate football program.”

While it’s a quick rise to the collegiatelevel – Bell most recently coached a highlysuccessful high school team – he bringsstrong leadership qualities to a programstill in its infancy.

“After talking to Alan during theinterview process, I felt his energy andexcitement about taking JU football toanother level,” Bell said. “This programhas a lot of potential and once people seethe product we put out on the field, theywill want to jump on board as we buildsomething special for the entire city ofJacksonville to enjoy. With PresidentRomesburg’s and Alan’s vision of wherethis program can go, I think we have avery bright future ahead of us.”

Bell’s coaching career got off to a hotstart. After working as a graduateassistant under Steve Spurrier for a yearat Florida, he moved on to coaching highschool. Bell built the program at TrinityCatholic High School in Ocala, Fla., fromthe ground up in just five years,eventually winning the Class 2B statechampionship in 2005 and finishing as thestate runner-up in 2006.

Bell’s playing career has alsobeen filled with successes.

After joining the program atthe University of Florida as a

walk-on in 1984, Bellgraduated as the school’s all-time leading passer. He went

on to play in the CanadianFootball League and the NFL

for several years, with stopsin Tampa Bay, Atlanta

and Indianapolis.

J

t has been quite awhile since the fortunes of the Jacksonville University’s men’sand women’s basketball teams have been this promising.

On the men’s side, the starting lineup features only two upperclassmen that playmore than 10 minutes per game – with three freshmen in the starting lineup.With the influx of new talent, the Dolphins have put together one of the biggestsingle-season turnarounds in NCAA history.

The women’s team features the highest scoring duo in the Atlantic Sun Conference –with both returning to build upon their success. Supported by a consistent team effort,that duo has elevated the Dolphins into contention for the conference title.

A year ago, that wasn’t the case.Last season saw both programs suffer through growing pains as they developed an

influx of young talent. Now, JU is reaping the benefits of the dedication of head coachesCliff Warren (center right) and Jill Dunn.

Warren was nominated for two national “Coach of the Year” awards for his guidanceof the Dolphins from one win a year ago to the top half of the A-Sun.

His first full recruiting class came in and meshed with a group of veterans that havegrown into one of the most dangerous teams in the conference, led by sixth-year seniorJesse Kimbrough. Felled by injuries last season, Kimbrough battled back and received anextra year of eligibility from the NCAA and used it to his advantage. He leads theDolphins in scoring, assists and steals.

More importantly, Kimbrough has been a leader and example for the younger playerswho are just starting their collegiate careers.

Ben Smith (below), a freshman point guard, finished his firstseason by averaging 9.9 points per game and had 124 assists.He also ranked second in the A-Sun after hitting 82.4 percentof his free throws.

“This group has come a long way this season, but we’re stillnot where we want to be,”Warren said.“Everyone in theprogram is excited about working towards our goal of aconference championship.”

Dunn meanwhile has built a foundation for the women’sprogram to succeed for the next few years behindAshley Williams.Williams set the single-seasonschool record for points a year ago and is on paceto shatter that record this season.

Surrounding Williams is a talented group ofyoungsters, with three sophomores and afreshman in the starting lineup.

“We are still a young team that is learninghow to play together,” Dunnsaid. “They are soenthusiastic and have agreat passion for thegame, which comes outevery time they step onthe floor.”

BASKETBALL SURGES INTO SPOTLIGHTMen’s and Women’s Basketball Fortunes Turn Around

I

Ashley Williams

Head coach Cliff Warren

Virginia Gregoire

Ben Smith


hree wins in three days. That was all it took for the JU women’ssoccer team to claim the 2006 Atlantic Sun Conference women’ssoccer title. The Dolphins secured their first conference title since 2000and earned an automatic bid to the NCAA Tournament.

“I’m really happy with how our team represented JU andthemselves,” said JU head coach Chris Kouns. “They have beenworking on this all year long.”

Sophomore Keri Zwikker scored her 10th goal of the season, whilesenior goalie Michelle Kmiotek tallied her ninth shutout to help leadthe Dolphins to 1-0 victory over Stetson in the title game on Nov. 4in Kennesaw, Ga.

Kmiotek earned tournament MVP honors after making 37 stopsin three matches – including eight saves in the final to lead theDolphins defense. The final shutout was the 18th of her career,extending her school record.

Zwikker scored two goals to be named to the all-tournament team, whilesophomores Kirby Hutton (right) and Angela Hulse also earned all-tournamentaccolades.

In the semifinals, JU tied the match against regular-season champion KennesawState at one with less than two minutes remaining in regulation and then less than aminute into overtime; junior Emilie Howland hit the game-winning goal to send theDolphins to the final.

In the final, Zwikker’s goal at the 19-minute mark gave the Dolphins all theoffense they needed.

MAJOR LEAGUE SOCCER DRAFTSTOMMY KRIZANOVIC

U men’s soccer forward Tommy Krizanovic (left) was drafted by FCDallas in the fourth round of the 2007 Major LeagueSoccer SuperDraft.

Krizanovic, named Atlantic Sun Conference “Player ofthe Year” after a stellar senior campaign, was selected 43rd

overall to become the first player in JU and Atlantic Sun Conferencehistory selected in the MLS draft.

“Everything is different at this level,” Krizanovic said. “All of it is veryprofessional from the way we practice to the way the other players handlethemselves.”

Leading the A-Sun in scoring for three seasons en route to earning threeconsecutive first-team all-conference and National Soccer Coaches Association ofAmerica (NSCAA) All-South region honors, Krizanovic finished the regularseason leading the nation in goals (1.08) and points per game (2.46).In 2006, he scored a team-high 14 goals and 33 points to earn first team all-

conference and NSCAA/adidas All-South second team accolades after leading theDolphins to their second straight A-Sun Tournament and first berth in the conference

semifinals since 2002.He finished with 47 career goals which ranks third in school history and tallied 108

career points to finish fifth on the all-time list.

WOMEN’S SOCCER CLAIMS CONFERENCE TITLE

T


BASEBALL SET TO DEFEND CONFERENCE TITLEfter a Cinderella 2006 season, JU Dolphin baseball is ready toprove the achievement was not a fluke. And head coach TerryAlexander could not have scripted it any better.

The Dolphins won the second most games in the history ofthe program (43), earned their first Atlantic Sun Conferenceregular-season title and reached the NCAA Regionals for the11th time. Alexander, who racked up his 500th career win,

was named Atlantic Sun Conference “Coach of the Year” to go along with“Player of the Year” (Daniel Murphy) and “Pitcher of the Year” (MattDobbins, bottom right) accolades.

So what did the Dolphins do in the offseason? They made the squad evenbetter.

With the departure of the Dolphins’ two top hitters JU signed 12 student-athletes to ease the transition. Recognized by Collegiate Baseball as one ofthe top 40 recruitment classes in the nation, the Dolphins also havereturning star power with All-America pitcher Dobbins and first team all-conference outfielder Pete Clifford (top right).

Dobbins tied for the most wins in the nation (12) while also beingrecognized as a semifinalist for the Brooks Wallace College Baseball Playerof the Year Award. Clifford, who led the offense with 21 doubles, threetriples and 21 steals, also led the Santa Barbara Foresters to a 2006 NationalBaseball Congress National Championship over the summer.

With this balanced attack, the Dolphins hope to repeat the success of lastyear’s title campaign.

JU SENDS TWO DOLPHINS TO THE MINORSor two Dolphins, the 2006 season didn’t stop in Athens, Ga. at theNCAA Regionals. Gordie Gronkowski (left) and Daniel Murphy(right) saw their collegiate careers end and professional careersbegin as both were selected in the MLB Amateur Draft.

Murphy was selected in the 13th round by the NewYork Mets, while Gronkowski was picked by the Los Angeles

Angels of Anaheim in the 49th round.Both signed and immediately went to the minor

leagues. In three stops with the Gulf Coast Mets of theRookie League, the Kingsport Mets in the AppalachianLeague and the Brooklyn Cyclones in Class A ball, Murphyhit .213 with 17 hits, two home runs and 10 RBIs in 25games.

Meanwhile, Gronkowski played for the Orem Owlz inthe Pioneer League, hitting .282 with 11 hits, two doublesand three RBIs in 13 games.

“Both of these young men have a great opportunity topursue their dream of playing in the big leagues,” said JU

head coach Terry Alexander.“Daniel and Gordie bothhad impressive careers at JU and they will carrythemselves well in the professional ranks.”

A

F


N E W S

One by onestudents gingerly settheir ceramic vesselson a table for viewing.

“It’s not aboutdissing anyone,”explains art teacherMai Keisling, BFA’90/MAT ’91, as shehands out evaluationforms to students inher sculpture class atPaxon High Schoolfor Advanced Studies.“It’s about beingcandid, judging by the

criteria… not your emotions, not your friends. Evaluate thevases truthfully.”

Finding the truth in – and through – their art is animportant lesson she conveys to her students. “I evaluatetheir work in a nurturing way because I want them tobecome the best person they can be,” said Keisling, who as ateenager made a harrowing escape from Viet Nam to theUnited States and discovered art as “therapy”for coping with life in a new culture.

Keisling’s passion for teaching has ignitedstudents in Duval County schools for 15years. Recently, she was recognized asOutstanding High School Art Teacher of theYear by the Florida Art EducationAssociation. In addition, she was honored asone of six finalists for the Duval CountyTeacher of the Year, and was named 2006Educator of the Year by the JacksonvilleMayor’s Asian-American Advisory Board.She’s also been asked to serve on theJacksonville Cultural Council’s Art in PublicPlaces Committee.

Although Keisling loves math and scienceas much as art – she also studied engineeringfor two years at JU – it was an art scholarshipthat steered her toward an art degree. Today,there are no regrets for this dynamic

instructor who was raised in a traditional Asian family wheregirls are taught to be submissive. “The faculty at JU valuestudents and give them a sense of worth. Through art, Ilearned how to communicate. I found I could be vocalwithout being disrespectful. I learned you can be expressiveand have your own voice.”

Keisling tries to give her students a glimpse of the collegelife she experienced, and routinely plans field trips to JU forhands-on opportunities in computer arts, glassblowing,painting, sculpture and more. “I will forever be grateful tothe faculty at JU. They gave me the drive that really got megoing,” said Keisling.

Story by Olga Bayer

Keisling’s Journey into Art Inspires Students

Small in stature but big in determination, Keisling prepares her class for an art critique.

“I will forever be grateful to thefaculty at JU. They gave me thedrive that really got me going,”

– Mai Keisling


alumni


When you buy a JU specialty licenseplate, more than 90 percent of theproceeds come back to JU, and that’s asource of much-needed funding for

the University. Currently more than 1,000 friends, familyand alumni ofJU are sportingthe plate onvehiclesthroughoutFlorida. You cantoo! Just contactyour local taxcollector’s office.Join ChancellorEmeritus Dr.Fran Kinne byshowing yourtrue colors.

When you think about it, there are a lot of well-known brothers all over the map: The brothers Grimm,the Smothers Brothers, and Warner Bros., just to name afew. In Jacksonville, there are the Garcia Brothers. Theygrew up together, went to the same university – JU – fortheir undergraduate degree, and ended up workingtogether, fulfilling their dream to run their own plasticsurgery institute.

The Garcia brothers, better known as J. Phillip ’90 andRoberto ’94 to family and friends, founded the GarciaFacial Institute, the only specialized facial surgery centeron the First Coast and have been making a name forthemselves ever since.

According to Dr. Roberto Garcia, “Only 35 peoplegraduate nationwide each year in the facial/plastic surgeryexpertise.” Residents from all over the First Coast seekDrs. Garcia and Garcia for their extensive knowledge offacial plastic surgery. Specializing in one specific type ofsurgery has helped their business, and allows the doctorsto provide a more personal touch to their patients.

The word plastic comes from the Greek term plastikoswhich means to mold or shape, and Dr. Roberto Garciasaid that’s really what their practice accomplishes. “Toknow we are making people feel better about themselveswhen they look in the mirror is the best reward of ourpractice,” he said.

The Garcias are committed to their community, andproud to say they received all of their education on theFirst Coast. That, too, has helped their business thrive.“Anytime you stay local, you’re able to really give back tothe community, and we’ve always believed in the potentialof Jacksonville.”

With few surgery centers such as this on the FirstCoast, the Garcias have enjoyed unprecedentednationwide attention. But the brothers believe theirexperience at JU was instrumental in helping themachieve the community status they enjoy today. “We wereboth fortunate to train at the best places in the country,thanks to JU,” Roberto said.

When asked about the quality of education he receivedat Jacksonville University, Roberto mentions theindividualized instruction and small class sizes. Bothbrothers were encouraged to involve themselves in theircoursework and to participate in extracurricular activities.

Grateful for their educational experience, the Garciafamily continues to give back to the JU community. Thisyear, J. Phillip Garcia graciously accepted the opportunityto serve on the Board of Trustees.

Garcia Brothers ChangeFace of Plastic Surgery onFirst Coast

Talk about lost andfound. Paul Petraglia’93 remembers it well –the day he lost his JUclass ring – eventhough it was 11 yearsago. After washing hishands and walking outof a restroom in theAtlanta Airport, herealized he’d forgottenhis ring and watch. He

immediately returned to the scene only to find both itemsmissing.

Fast forward to January 2007. An employee from theLost and Found department at the airport noticed anenvelope in a file drawer, marked “1996.” It contained thering marked with a name, college and major. She called JUto find the ring’s rightful owner and the Alumni RelationsOffice began the search to find Petraglia.

“It wasn’t as easy as a quick phone call,” said KimMariani Hernandez, JU alumni director. “He had movedseveral times, but with a little digging and the help of Dr.Juan Merkt, director of the aeronautics program, we foundhim!”

Petraglia, who works for The Stellar Group inJacksonville, still can’t believe it. He says he never did getthe watch back, but the ring holds a lot more memories.

Long Lost Ring Found

Show Your Dolphin Spirit!


They say writers write about whatthey know, and Lindsay Moss, BFA’96, who recently launched her firstnovel You Made This Drink, You DrinkIt is living proof – no pun intended –of that truism. Moss, who works as aprofessional dancer for Disney MGMStudios in Orlando, commented aboutthe premise of her book, “The story isnot about a victim, but a survivor, avictor. I like to say I put the funny indysfunction.”

With wit and humor, and an extradose of spunk Moss chronicles thetrials of headstrong “tell-it-like-it-is”heroine Lexxie Parker, also aprofessional dancer, as she struggles toplan her wedding with help from alunatic mother who’s “ready for rehab.”

The book has received criticalacclaim, and has turned Moss into alocal celebrity – she’s been interviewedon television and radio, and invited tonumerous book signings and speakingengagements. At an agent’s request,Moss is currently adapting the bookinto a screenplay, and she was recentlyasked to pen her own column aboutsex and marriage for Orlando StyleMagazine.

Moss has been dancing since the ageof six, and keeping journals since agenine. In high school she spent moretime dancing than studying which tooka toll on her grades. However, afterearning a dance scholarship toJacksonville University, things changedfor the better. “I had my ownschedule… studied my butt off andwas on the dean’s list the whole time. Ireally focused,” she said.

“The Harvard of the south” is howMoss and friends referred to JU. “Wehad the beach. And the dance studiosoverlooking the valley were beautiful.

It felt like a finishing school,” she said.How apropos that Moss, who “lived atthe studio,” also remembers that one ofher favorite classes was a course aboutsex and marriage.

As a dance major and creativewriting minor, Moss is relishing thesuccess she has achieved in bothworlds. Her career has taken heraround the globe, including Japanwhere she did a seven month stint atTokyo Disneyland. She’s still in awethat she gets paid for doing what sheloves – dancing. And knowing that she“can’t dance forever” Moss said she caneasily transition from entertainer towriter – doing something else sheloves.

It’s tempting to say that talent – andchutzpah – landed Moss where she istoday. There’s no denying she has a tonof both, but on her website atwww.youmadethisdrink.com, Mosssaid, “I loved college and it forced meto go after my dreams and work hardfor what I wanted out of life.”

Moss’s hard work is definitely payingoff. She is happy to be where she istoday, and wouldn’t change a thing inher past. Now, she wants to reach outto others who can relate to her storyand laugh with her.

Story by Olga Bayer

Cheers! Author’s First Novel Getting Rave Reviews

Many Jacksonville University graduates go on to successfulcareers outside of Duval County, but newly elected CircuitJudge John Merrett ’81 is making an impact here at home.

When asked about the path to his success, Merrett creditshis experience at JU. “Going to JU gave me a big advantage toget where I am today,” Merrett said. With a double major inhistory and English, Merrett fondly attributes Dr. WalkerBlanton, a history professor, and Dr. Wayne Hamm, anEnglish professor, as early influences in his academic career.

“The vast amount of information a person can acquirebecause of the JU faculty helped me in my life goals,” Merrettrecalled.

Following JU, Merrett graduated with honors from FloridaState University Law school in 1986. Returning to Jacksonville,

he began his legal career by serving under then-Duval CountyState Attorney Ed Austin and later with current Duval CountyState Attorney Harry Shorstein. With stints in private practicein between, Merrett acquired the qualifications that helped himget elected to the circuit judge position by a 57 percent marginin November.

Though the job has been more exhausting than he initiallyexpected, Merrett is content on the bench and pleased with theexperience JU offered him more than 20 years ago.

“There are few things I can’t recall historically thanks to Dr.Blanton,” he said. “JU is the most underrated school in thenation with regard to my experience with bigger schools,”Merrett proudly stated.

New Judge Takes Memories of JU to the Bench


Mark ’85 and Linda Raymond

Joanna Christopher ’05,Tiger Tari ’00, Caitlin Johnson ’05and Anna Lunsford ’06

Joe Antone and Roger Strickland '63

Judy and PresidentKerry Romesburg and

Penny Waller ’76

Viveca Brown ’04, Laura Bittencourt ’95,Faye Ackerman ’04 and Janell Connor ’02

Randy Amos ’70 and Matthew Kampfe ’06

(Clockwise) Cheryl Mackey Smith ’76,Kay McCormick ’76, Karen Bowen ’76

Ellen Paige ’76, Dana Schufeldt McKay ’75

AlumniEVENTS

AugustJU Day at the

Jacksonville Suns

Atlanta ChapterLuncheon Meeting

Atlanta Chapter at theAtlanta Braves game

SeptemberYoung Alumni Happy Hour

at Ragtime

Washington, DC DolphinsHappy Hour

New York City Big AppleBrunch

Toast to JU Women

JU Football Tailgates

Fernandina Happy Hour

OctoberYoung Alumni Happy Hour

at Seven Bridges

Charlotte FootballPre-game Pizza Party

Homecoming Events

President’s WelcomeReception

Mock Rock

Alumni Crew Race

Barbecue Tailgate

Dolphin Dinner Bash

Return of the RAT

NovemberYoung Alumni Happy Hour

at The Grotto

Buccaneer Reunion

JU Football Tailgates

Jacksonville JaguarsTailgate

Scholarship Competition atthe Jacksonville Fair

JU vs. St. Leo BasketballReception

Holiday Party

JU at University of FloridaBasketball Happy Hour

DecemberSenior Reception and Toast

for Class of 2007

JanuaryAtlanta Happy Hour

St. Augustine Happy Hour

JU vs. UNF BasketballPre-game at Beef-o-Brady’s

JU at Kennesaw StateBasketball Pre-game Party

FebruaryYoung Alumni Happy Hourat Bonefish at the Beach

JU vs. UNF Basketball PepRally and Reception

Women’s Night Out at LindaCunningham

Philadelphia Luncheon andHappy Hour

South Jersey DolphinsHappy Hour


Tom Hack ’75, Marvin Harris and Rob Rice

Robert ’86 and Julie Leverock, with son Jacob

Marc Sanden ’03, Melissa Holland ’05, Stephanie Potts ’02, Matt Kane ’01,Matt Eckler ’96, Megan England ’02 and Addams England ’01

Royce ’75 and Nancy Duncan ’77,Mary Olasin DuBose ’76, and Linda Raymond

Natalie Hashey ’94, BarbaraStith, Jeannie Hardwick ’84,

Brian ’96, ’06 and Michale Dudley ’99 and

Terry Hashey ’94

Karen Hike ’76 and Ed Robinson ’64

AlumniEVENTS

CLASSNOTES1960sTerryMcFarlane,BS ’64,recentlyretired fromthe State ofFlorida and isenjoying hisretirement inPocahontas,Ark., with his wife, Vada. The couplehas five children and ninegrandchildren.

Joan O’Donnell Bennett, BA ’68,recently retired after 25 years as ahuman resources consultant forNorthern Trust Bank of Florida. Sheand her husband spend summers attheir home in Belfast, Maine, andwinters in Sarasota.

Beth Cowart,BA ’69, recentlyreceived anaward as one ofthe 25 mostinfluential peoplein the history ofResidence XII,an alcohol and drug treatmentfacility in Kirkland, Wash.

1970sJim Pound, BS ’72, lives inLongwood, Fla. Retired in January2005 from AT&T as director of thesoutheast region businessdevelopment, he now works forColdwell Banker.

Charlotte Etta Bushong, BS ’74,lives in New Jersey and is director ofcentral supply for Saint JamesHospital, which is part of the CathedralHealthcare System in Newark.

Bruce G. Roberts, BS ’75, lives inJacksonville and has joined RSMMcGladrey as practice leader forInformation Technology andManagement Consulting in thefirm’s Florida practice. He comes onboard as RSM McGladrey continuesits efforts to strengthen its presencein North Florida.

James C. Sawran, BS ’76, wasrecently appointed by The FloridaBar Board of Governors to serve atwo-year term, effective July, 2006,on The Florida Medical MalpracticeJoint Underwriting AssociationBoard of Governors. He is a partnerat the Fort Lauderdale based lawfirm of McIntosh, Sawran, Peltz &Cartaya, P.A.

Lee Schamberg, BS ’77, workedfor Huffman Koos for more than 23years as a furniture salesperson. Hecurrently works for ThomasvilleFurniture in East Hanover, N.J.,where he was recently named aMillion Dollar Writer.

1980sCharles Stanbery, BS ’83, iscurrently on active duty in Iraq.

Kathleen McKinney, BA ’84, wasappointed Deputy Director in theNational Labor Relations Boardregional office in New Orleans lastAugust. A career NLRB employee,she began her service in 1990 as anattorney in the New Orleans office.

David Opdycke, BA ’89, wasrecently promoted to associatedirector of Admissions at FlaglerCollege in St. Augustine, where hehas worked for six years.

(Back row, left to right): Ed Nelson,’82 and Dr. Quint White, dean of theCollege of Arts & Sciences, (frontrow) Jeff Bomber, BS ’82, PhilTaggert, BS ’83, Al Fenedick, BS’83, and Jim O’Keefe, BA ’83, tooka spring fishing trip to the RockwellSprings Trout Club in Ohio.

1990sMike Freed, BA ’90, lives inJacksonville and is the managingpartner with the Brennan, Manna &Diamond law firm. He was recentlyvoted to Florida Trend Magazine’slegal elite.

Tina Athans, BA ’91, is entering herthird year with the Corpus ChristiHooks Baseball Club as director ofstadium operations. Prior to joiningthe Hooks, she completed a 22-yearcareer in the U.S. Navy, serving asan enlisted air traffic controller and aline officer in duty stations in theUnited States and all over the world.

Wendy Demmond Grantz, BA ’91,lives in Palestine, Tex., and isexecutive director of the EastCentral Texas United Way.


Joanne Steele, BA ’93, is the golfcoach at the University of Montana.She was recently named the 2005-2006 Big Sky Conference GolfCoach of the Year. Joanne is in hertenth season there and recently ledthe Grizzlies to their first-ever BigSky Conference title.

Maureen “Moe” McGinty, BSN’96/MSN ’06, is a nursing professorat St. Johns River CommunityCollege in Orange Park.

ReginaViscogliosiVillanueva,BS ’96, ranthe DisneyHalf-Marathon fortheLeukemiaandLymphomaSociety andraised morethan $2,000.She ispictured with her daughter, Marnie,after finishing the 13.1 mile run.

Jodie RochaWerner, BS’96, lives inOrlando withher husband,Troy, andtheir twochildren,Chase andKailey(pictured).Jodie is theproperty manager for off-campushousing at UCF.

Rebecca “Becky” Bandy Bonfanti,BS ’98, is practicing law at theTallahassee firm of Powell & Mack,Attorneys at Law. She specializes infamily law and criminal defense.

Tracy Dugger Lamb, BS ’99, is avice president of Sheldrick,McGeHee & Kohler, LLC inJacksonville. She recently receiveddesignation as an accredited seniorappraiser from the American Societyof Appraisers.

2000sRachelAnneKieran, BA’01/ BS ’01,recentlycompletedherDoctorate ofClinicalPsychologyfrom the University of Denver. Sheis completing a post-doctoralfellowship at Georgia StateUniversity in Atlanta.

PeterCasella,MAT ’02,has beenappointedvisitingassistantprofessor ofCommun-ications atJU. Last spring, as a Roy H. ParkPh.D. Fellow at the University ofNorth Carolina-Chapel Hill, he washonored with the School ofJournalism’s Joseph L. MorrisonAward for Excellence in MassCommunication History.

Megan E. Libby, BS ’02, lives inAsia and is doing humanitarian workin Burma with the StudentCampaign for Burma and the Centerfor Peace Building Internationalwhile continuing her studies atAmerican University.

Lauren Asp, BA ’04, lives in SanDiego and works in the careerservices department at the ArtInstitute of California-San Diego.

Kay Creager, BA ’06, is teachingEnglish in Seoul, Korea. She hasalso visited Japan and is enjoyingher experience teaching abroad.

Bonnie Barnes, MBA ’06, is thenew executive director for St. JohnsVision Inc., a nonprofit organizationdesigned to help prioritize andidentify St. Johns County citizens’needs and concerns.

Show your Dolphin spirit andsupport: buy a JU specialtylicense plate! More than 90% ofthe proceeds come back to JU, andthat’s a source of much-neededfunding for the University. Currentlymore than 1,000 friends, family andalumni of JU are sporting the plateon vehicles throughout Florida. Youcan too! Just contact your local taxcollector’s office.

WeddingsJenniferDaniels,BS ’98,married BrianAmarnick onJuly 8, 2006.

Belinda Dell, BA ’03, married LeviAllen Wright on February 4, 2006.

Carissa Smith, BFA ’01, marriedAaron Jackson in Jacksonville inOctober 2006.


New ArrivalsStephanie Wilson Amacher, BA’93, and husband, Jody, becameproud parents of Schuyler James inJanuary 2006.

MichelleCampbellBrown, BS’95, andhusband,Brad, BA’94, becameproudparents ofRyanAndrew onApril 12, 2005. He is also welcomedby his sister, Hailey.

Erin DavisBurns, BS’01, andhusband,Rick, BS ’02,becameproudparents ofJillian NaomiBurns onJune 19, 2006.

StephanieComparetta,BS ’02, andJeffreyJohnsonbecameproudparents ofDominicAnthony onJune 5,2005.

ErinMcInerneyCullen, BS’99, andhusband,Matthew,becameproud parentsof MaximusAlexander onSeptember 1,2006.

AlaineWilliamsDucharmeBS ’93, andhusband,Rich,becameproudparents ofThomasWarren onMarch 31,2006. He isalso welcomed by his sister Jordanand brother Jake.

Andrew T.Hamilton,BS ’98, andwife, Carla,becameproudparents ofAveryThomas onJuly 31, 2006.

CharityJamesHudnut,BFA ’92, andhusband,Pete,becameproudparents ofLiliana Mae on June 9, 2006.

Elizabeth Lindstrom LaBarbera,BA ’00, and husband Toby becameproud parents of Brady Michael onDecember 1, 2006.

BrendaLameySchilling,BS ’88, andhusband,Bill, becameproudparents ofWilliamJames onFebruary 25,2006.

In MemoriamRandall Scott Amos, BS ’01/MBA’02, on October 28, 2006.

Rachael Lynn Athans, MBA ’05, onDecember 31, 2006.

Christina Sanders Brickner, BA’93, on August 5, 2006.

Robert “Randy” Iocco, Jr., MBA’02 on March 9, 2007.

Larry Parker, BS ’73, on July 15,2006.

Mark J. Roesser, BS ’84, on March6, 2007.

Catrina Seibert Wilkie, BSN ’07,on January 16, 2007.

Andrew Wayne Worster, BA ’00,on August 21, 2006.

Class Notes is compiled by your friends inthe Alumni Relations Office. If you've gotnews to share, let us know! We want tostay connected with you so e-mail your

information and photos to [email protected] do not send hard copy photos.


A Special Thanks to JU’s Fine Arts Anniversary Sponsors: The Florida Times-Union, W.W. Gay Mechanical Contractors, Inc., D.F. Miller Development, Mrs. Ruth Conley, Weaver Family Foundation and Bug-Out Services, Inc.

45C F A

C A

ith the recent opening of the newly renovated Swisher

Theatre at Jacksonville University and new programs being

initiated by Bill Hill, dean of the College of Fine Arts, the college is

experiencing a rebirth of sorts. With the emerging graphic design

program, esteemed glassblowing program, and critically-

acclaimed faculty, the college is looking back over its first 45 years

and honoring one of their own.

W

Top: Hill with Kinne.Center: Williams and Kinne in academic regalia

after he received an honorary degree.Bottom: (Left) Pace. (Right) Thomas.

The stars truly did come out for the 45th Anniversary of the College of Fine

Arts to honor JU Chancellor Emeritus Frances Bartlett Kinne, Ph.D., former

dean of Fine Arts and former president of JU. Past and present Jacksonville

politicians and notable people in the fine arts world paid special tribute to

Kinne, making the evening one to remember. Special guest Roger Williams,

one of the most popular pianists in America, performed during the program.

The event, held in the ballroom at the new Main Library in downtown

Jacksonville, was hosted by two JU alums who have close ties to Kinne –

Hollywood producer Frank Pace ’73 and actor Jay Thomas ’72. Pace com-

mented, “Dr. Kinne is the face of JU. Her legacy and love of the university is

something that everyone associated with JU should strive to honor.”

When Kinne first came to JU, she was hired as a part-time humanities

professor. She quickly won over the hearts and minds of students, faculty and

administration and said with a trademark smile on her face, “I could never say

‘no’ if someone needed something.”

With no intention to become Fine Arts dean, Kinne agreed to accept the

position on a six month trail basis. She grew to love the job and was

delighted to see progress, growth and development in the college. During her

tenure in the 1970s, the College of Fine Arts hosted celebrities such as Duke

Ellington, The Fifth Dimension, Linus Pauling and Bob Hope. “I didn’t have to

pay them a dime either,” quipped Kinne.

Kinne remembers a time when there was no dance major, and only a

fledgling music program. But today both programs are hallmarks of the

College of Fine Arts. Surrounded by friends, faculty, students, alumni and

celebrities alike on March 10, Kinne herself was honored as a “hallmark” of JU.

Story by Casey Hampton

RELIVE YOUR COLLEGE YEARS,MINUS THE RAMEN NOODLES

0646LF022107A

646_RamenAd_7.125x4.875 3/26/07 2:20 PM Page 1

Your JU memories. Their JU memories.

Make the Connection.Since your experience at JU was something you’ll never forget,we’re asking for referrals for future JU Dolphins! If you know someone, maybe it’s your son or daughter, please send us their contact information and as a special thank you, we will waive the $30 application fee!

Name: ______________________________________________________________________

Address: ___________________________________________________________________

City: __________________________________ State: __________ Zip: _____________

Phone: _____________________________________________________________________

E-mail: ______________________________________________________________________

Anticipated graduation year: ___________________

Freshman/Transfer: _____________________________

Possible Major: __________________________________

Return form to:Jacksonsonville University, Admission Offi ce2800 University Blvd. N., Jacksonville, Florida 32211

2800 University Boulevard NorthJacksonville, Florida 32211-3394

Nonprofit Org.U.S. POSTAGE

PAIDPermit No. 3160Jacksonville, FL

wave magazine - spring 2007

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