dr. ann stuart enters texas women’s hall of fame. ann stuart enters texas women’s hall of fame...
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A new era begins soon at Texas Woman’s
University with the appoint-ment of Dr. Carine M. Feyten as the university’s chancellor and president.
Dr. Feyten officially will begin her tenure as TWU’s sec-ond chancellor and 11th presi-dent on July 1. She succeeds Dr. Ann Stuart, who is retiring after 14 years as chancellor and president of the university.
“I am elated and humbled at this opportunity to collaborate with the talented faculty, students and staff at Texas Woman’s University who have already accomplished significant milestones in the areas of education, health care, liberal arts, the sciences, diversity, leadership and service,” said Dr. Feyten.
The TWU Board of Regents expressed confidence in Dr. Feyten and her ability to advance TWU to even greater heights in higher education in Texas.
Board Chair Sue S. Ban-croft said, “My fellow regents and I are certain Dr. Feyten has the vision and qualities to lead the university into the future. She will be a strong leader for
TWU, and we look forward to working with her.”
TWU Regent George Schrader, who led the national search for the new chancellor and president, praised
Dr. Feyten’s focus on the future of higher education.
“She understands what students need to know to become workforce ready and how to teach them. Dr. Feyten
thinks globally and has an international perspective,” he said.
Dr. Feyten joins TWU after serving as dean of the College of Education, Health and Society at Miami Uni-versity in Oxford, Ohio, since 2006. The university has an enrollment of 17,550 students on its main campus and a total of 23,390 students over three campuses.
“I appreciate the examples of leadership and collegiality I experienced at Miami Uni-versity. They will be a positive influence as I embrace the potential and pioneering spirit of TWU’s community,” Dr. Feyten said.
TEXAS Woman’s Uni-versity Chancellor
and President Ann Stuart has taken her place among the most prominent women of Texas with her induction into the Texas Women’s Hall of Fame.
The May induction cer-emony, held in the Senate Chamber of the Texas State Capitol, recognized Texas women who have made significant contributions in the arts, athletics, busi-ness, education, health and leadership.
Dr. Stuart, who is retiring after 14 years at TWU, was honored for her work in education.
“I feel privileged to have been a part of provid-ing opportunities to others through education,” Dr. Stuart said. “To be recog-nized for this work, and to
join this group of remark-able women, truly is an honor.”
Gov. Rick Perry, who hosted the ceremony, said Dr. Stuart has elevated TWU during her tenure, calling her “a profound leader (who has) helped uncounted Texans achieve their dreams.”
In the video accompa-nying her induction, Dr. Stuart notes that every major at TWU has a liberal arts component.
“I believe the reading of great works, knowing something about history and art and music, is a wonderful preparation for becoming a whole human being,” she said. “It raises aspirations. … we do things like that at TWU, and we’re immensely proud of it.”
Under Dr. Stuart’s leadership, enrollment has grown more than 80 percent, TWU has produced more than 20,000 graduates in critical fields, and the university has received national recognition for its quality, value and diversity.
She led the construction of new facilities that position TWU at the forefront of workplace development, including the TWU Institute of Health Sciences-Houston
Dr. Ann Stuart Enters Texas Women’s Hall of FameCenter, which was built at no cost to the state, the TWU T. Boone Pickens Institute of Health Sciences-Dallas Center and the Ann Stuart Science Complex in Denton.
Dr. Stuart also leaves a lasting legacy to education as a
private citizen. She has provided funding for scholarships to undergraduate students and for annual events that celebrate the wonders, truths and mysteries of science and bring exceptional alumni back to the university.
Both the scholarships and the science program bear the names of Dr. Stuart and her late husband, Ray R. Poliakoff. Both were first-generation graduates
of public higher education, and both often said it was their education that enabled them to pursue the opportunities that enriched their lives.
Also as a private citizen, Dr. Stuart has provided funding for a courtyard garden at the Dallas
Arboretum, a dog therapy pro-gram at Baylor Scott & White Health, an animal nutrition program at the Dallas Zoo and a pet adoption program at the Denton Animal Shelter.
The videos, biographies and photos of Dr. Stuart and the other inductees were added to the hall of fame permanent exhibit, located on TWU’s Denton campus, in June.
Dr. Carine M. Feyten
Continued on Page 7
“I am elated and humbled at this opportunity to collaborate with the talented faculty, students
and staff at Texas Woman’s University.” – Carine M. Feyten
Carine M. Feyten Named Chancellor and President
“I feel privileged to have been a part of providing opportunities to others through education.”
– Dr. Ann Stuart
www.twu.edu
INSIDE
New Student Regent 2
Celebration of Science 3
Honors Convocation 4
Alumni Relations 5
University Advancement 6
Administrators Retire 7 Chancellor on the Move 8
S P R I N G 2 0 1 4 I S S U E N O . 1
Stories by Karen Garcia and Amanda Simpson
Texas Woman’s University P.O. Box 425619Denton, TX 76204-5619
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During the recent induction ceremony in the state Capitol, Gov. Rick Perry gives Chancellor Stuart a crystal bowl commemorating her induction into the Texas Women’s Hall of Fame.
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Candace Henslee of Denton is the new student regent for Texas Woman’s University. Ms. Henslee, 21, is a junior government major with a focus on legal studies on the TWU Denton campus. She is a TWU Presidential Scholar, Honors Scholar and Leadership Scholar. A well-known student leader, she serves as president of the Mortar Board National College Senior Honor Society-Delphi Chapter and as co-chair of the TWU Student Service Fee Allocation Committee. She also serves as a member of the Athenian Honor Society’s Outreach Committee and has been a student representative for the TWU Student Code of Conduct Committee since 2011. “As student regent, my focus will be to make sure the student body’s needs are heard, and I couldn’t be more thankful for the opportunity,” Ms. Henslee said. Gov. Rick Perry appointed Ms. Henslee to a one-year term, which expires on May 31, 2015.
Candace Henslee Named New Student Regent
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Candace Henslee
HOLLY Williams, associate dean of
the University of Texas at Austin College of Fine Arts, professor of dance and for-mer chair of the UT Depart-ment of Theatre and Dance, is the 2014 recipient of the Texas Woman’s University Chancellor’s Alumni Excel-lence Award.
She is being honored for her distinguished career in dance and higher education.
“I am greatly honored by this award and particu-larly gratified that women artists in higher education are now being recognized on a wider scale,” said Ms. Williams, who earned her master of fine arts in dance from TWU in 1994.
Ms. Williams currently is completing her term as president of the American College Dance Festival Association. She also is internationally and nationally recognized for her choreography.
In 2011, Chancellor Ann Stuart donated $120,000 to fund a 20-year program to bring the recipient of the Chancellor’s Alumni Excellence Award to campus each year to share their experience and expertise with the TWU community.
FOR For the first time in TWU’s 113-year
history, the student body has elected a man president of the Student Government Association (SGA).
Landon Dickerson, 21, a junior biology/pre-med major from Houston, was elected SGA president for the Denton campus during elections held in the spring. He will serve as president for the 2014-2015 school year.
Mr. Dickerson wasn’t aware he was the first man
elected SGA president until after the election. “It never even entered my mind,” he said. “I wanted to be SGA president because I have a heart for people and a need to serve.”
Mr. Dickerson has been involved with TWU student government for two years. In his term as executive sec-retary of the TWU Student Senate, he presented budgets to the university’s Student Service Fee Allocation committee.
“My experience at TWU has been a turning point in developing my leadership capabilities,” he said. “I ran for SGA president to make a difference. I feel that I am the right person to address student’s needs with the ad-ministration and ensure our voices are heard as a new chancellor and president arrives at TWU.”
Mr. Dickerson trans-ferred to TWU from Xavier University of Louisana in 2012.
In addition to his student government service, Mr. Dickerson is a member of the university’s multicultural student network and a TWU Pioneer Ambassador.
“I tell potential students – including men – that TWU prepares you for the real world by having you work with people very different from you,” he said. “As a male student, you get to see what it is like to be in the minority and still succeed.”
Although Mr. Dickerson is the first man elected TWU SGA president, he is not the first male to serve in that position. Russell Mariott was appointed to complete the SGA president’s term during the 2004-2005 academic year.
Alumni Excellence Award First Man Elected Student Body President
Holly WilliamsLandon Dickerson
DR. Larry LeFlore stepped into a new
yet familiar role when he was named dean of the Texas Woman’s University Graduate School in late 2013, having served as in-terim dean for the previous year.
He was selected from more than 100 applicants nationwide to fill the posi-tion on a permanent basis.
“I believe I can make a difference in graduate educa-tion,” Dr. LeFlore said. “I welcome the opportunity to
influence or effect change.”One change he would
like to implement is in services to students. Many TWU graduate students are working parents, he said, and “graduate education and the way we provide it should take that into consideration.”
Another priority is giving a voice to graduate students, who make up 37 percent of TWU’s student population.
“They deserve a seat at the table when it comes to decisions being made,” he said.
The new graduate dean also has concerns about graduate faculty members
finding time to conduct their own research while teaching full course loads.
Dr. LeFlore began his career in higher education as an instructor. He worked in administration at The University of Southern Mis-sissippi and West Virginia
University before coming to TWU in 2005 as professor and chair of the Department of Family Sciences. He was selected interim dean of the Graduate School in 2012.
He sees many opportuni-ties ahead for the university.
“TWU has so much po-tential,” he said. “We haven’t really begun to tap into all we can do.”
THE Southern Association of Col-
leges and Schools (SACS) Commission on Colleges recently announced it has reaffirmed the accreditation of Texas Woman’s University for an additional 10 years.
To celebrate, TWU hosted “We Did It!” recep-tions on all three campuses to recognize the work by faculty and staff to demonstrate the university’s compliance with regional and national standards of excellence.
“This was a team effort, and I am proud of how the TWU community worked together for the good of the university,” said TWU Chancellor Ann Stuart. “This reaffirmation confirms our commitment to the highest standards of higher education and is a true indicator of the quality of teaching and learning that
take place at TWU.”Reaffirmation of accredi-
tation ensures that TWU is meeting or exceeding the academic standards set for higher education institutions in the U.S. It also deter-mines TWU’s eligibility for participation in federal and state financial aid and the acceptance and transfer of college credit. Having an undergraduate degree from an accredited university also is a prerequisite for entering most graduate programs in the U.S.
Dr. Larry LeFlore
LeFlore Leads Graduate School TWU Earns Reaffirmation of SACS Accreditation
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“TWU has so much potential. We haven’t really begun to tap into all we can do.”
– Dr. Larry LeFlore
www.twu.edu TWU Times Spring 2014 3 www.twu.edu
Dr. Phyllis Bridges greets patrons at a book signing for her latest work on the history of Texas Woman’s University. The event took place during the Homecoming Reunion celebration.
The latest chapter in TWU history was unveiled during Homecoming Reunion as Dr. Phyllis Bridges, Cornaro Professor of English, signed copies of her latest book, Marking New Trails: An Informal History of the Texas Woman’s University. Months of research are reflected in the book, which builds on the first history of the university, written in 1982 by Dr. Joyce Thompson, professor of English, and Dr. Bridges’ earlier book, published during the university’s centennial in 2001. Marking New Trails includes notable events and achievements from the founding of TWU through 2013. Highlights include the opening of new facilities in Denton, Dallas and Houston, and international and national honors awarded to faculty and staff. The TWU Former Students Association (FSA) is selling Marking New Trails for $20. Copies are available for sale through the FSA website.
University History Unveiled
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THE third annual Ann Stuart and Ray
R. Poliakoff Celebration of Science brought prominent scientists to TWU’s Denton campus this spring to talk about their research in biol-ogy and chemistry and dis-cuss the problems and major challenges ahead in the field of science.
Featured speakers for the event, which celebrates women in science, were Cynthia Burrows, Ph.D., Distinguished Professor and Thatcher Presidential Endowed Chair of Biological Chemistry at the Univer-sity of Utah; Jennifer Leeds, Ph.D., executive director of Antibacterial Discovery,
Infectious Diseases Area, at Novartis Institutes for Biomedical Research in Emeryville, Calif.; and Madeline Shea, Ph.D., professor of biochemistry at Carver College of Medicine at the University of Iowa.
The event included “Science for the Future: Problems and Major
Challenges,” a forum and panel discussion with students, and a symposium titled “Women in Science: Research at the Interface of Biology and Chemistry.”
The speakers also attended a luncheon with students and a reception following the symposium.
“The discipline of
science is central to the competitive future of our state and nation,” Chancellor Stuart said. “These respect-ed scientists at the forefront of their careers inspire and encourage our future scien-tists and science teachers as they embark upon their own journeys.”
Chancellor Stuart estab-lished the Ann Stuart and Ray R. Poliakoff Celebration of Science Series in 2011 with a $200,000 gift to the university. Through a com-mitment of two decades of funding, the Celebration of Science Series will provide the opportunity for the de-partments of biology and chemistry/biochemistry to develop a sustained program of promoting and celebrat-ing the wonders, truths and mysteries of science.
The series will continue annually through 2032.
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Top photo: Attendees view poster presentations by students and faculty. Bottom photo: Shown with Chancellor Ann Stuart are, from left, TWU Provost Dr. Robert Neely, guest speakers Dr. Jennifer Leeds and Dr. Madeline Shea, Dr. Richard Sheardy, professor and chair of the TWU Department of Chemistry/Biochemistry, and guest speaker Dr. Cynthia Burrows.
TWU Series Celebrates ‘Women in Science’
“The discipline of science is central to the competitive future of our state and nation.”
– Chancellor Ann Stuart
First Man Elected Student Body President
Dr. Ling Hwey Jeng
DR. Ling Hwey Jeng, director of the
TWU School of Library and Information Studies, is the recipient of the Association for Library and Information Science Education’s (ALISE) 2014 Award for Professional Contribution to Library and Information Science Education.
Criteria for the award include contributions that promote and enhance the status of library/information science education and evi-dence of leadership and ini-tiative in dealing with issues related to library/information
science education.In addition to ALISE,
Dr. Jeng has served in the Chinese American Librarians Association, the Asian Pacific American Library Associa-tion, the Association for Information Science and Technology, the Texas Library Association and the American Library Association.
Drs. Peggy Gleeson and Mary Thompson
DR. Peggy Gleeson, associate director of
the TWU School of Physical Therapy, Houston, and Dr. Mary Thompson, physical therapy professor, Dallas,
each have received the Lucy Blair Service Award from the American Physical Therapy Association (APTA).
The award honors mem-bers whose contributions have been of exceptional value.
Dr. Gleeson is completing four years of service as presi-dent of the Education Section of the ATPA. She has served that section in various capac-ities for a total of 12 years.
Dr. Thompson received the award for her work with the Academy of Geriatric Physical Therapy (formerly the Section on Geriatrics), American Board of PT Spe-cialties and the American Board of Physical Therapy
Residencies and Fellowship Education. Dr. Thompson recently completed a three- year term on the board of directors for the academy, and has served in numerous other roles in the academy for many years.
Jo Contreras
JO Contreras, a senior biology major, was
among a select few under-graduate students chosen to present research at the 2013 Annual Biomedical Research Conference for Minority Students.
Ms. Contreras presented her research on how a protein associated with the cell mem-brane affects neuron growth.
The Annual Biomedical Research Conference for Minority Students is the nation’s largest professional conference for minority students to pursue advance training in science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM). More than 3,300 individuals from 350 U.S. colleges and universities participate in the annual conference.
Crystal Westbrook
CRYSTAL Westbrook, a fall 2013 TWU
graduate with a bachelor’s degree in interdisciplinary studies, has been named an Exemplary Teacher Candidate by the Quest for Quality Teach-er Preparation in Texas project.
The project is a collabora-tion between the Center for Research Evaluation and Advancement (CREATE) and the Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board. The exemplary teacher candidate initiative is designed to identify outstanding junior, senior and post-baccalaureate teacher candidates from all Texas universities.
Faculty and Students Excel
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Recognition for Service, Research and Teaching
Crystal Westbrook
Jo Contreras
Drs. Mary Thompson and Peggy Gleeson
Dr. Ling Hwey Jeng
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TWU Earns Reaffirmation of SACS Accreditation
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Humphries Award – Dr. Don E. Edwards, professor and chair, department of math-ematics and computer science. The award recog-nizes dedication to TWU.
Mary Mason Lyon Award – Dr. Jacob M. Blosser, associ-ate professor of history; and Dr. Judi Moreillon, assistant professor of library science. The award is presented to junior faculty members who are developing
excellent records of teach-ing, research and service.
Distinction in Teaching – Dr. Sarah McMahan, assistant professor of teacher education. The award is presented to TWU faculty who have distinguished records of teaching and dedication to improving their teaching and the learning of their students.
Distinction in Distance Education – Dr. Molly Russ, assistant professor of management. The award recognizes faculty who have made outstanding contributions to e-learning through program or curriculum development.
Distinction in Service – Dr. Jack T. Gill, professor of chemistry. The award is presented to TWU faculty who have developed a distinguished record of service to their component, the university, their profes-sional field of study and/or the community.
Distinction in Scholarship –Dr. Ellina Grigorieva, professor of mathematics. The award is presented to a faculty member who has a distinguished record of scholarship and dedication to improving knowledge and understanding in their discipline.
HONORS CONVOCATIONFaculty, staff and students who exemplify the excellence for which Texas Woman’s University is known were recognized during Honors Convocation
From left: Dr. Don E. Edwards and Dr. Jacob M. Blosser.
The Texas Woman’s University Concert Choir recently gave invited performances in New York at the National Women’s Festival Chorus Concert at Lincoln Center and at The Church of St. Paul the Apostle in Manhattan. The TWU choir joined with other ensembles to sing under the direction of renowned conductor Sandra Peters. The choir also performed solo during the festival, which draws musicians from the international and U.S. music communities.
TWU Choir Takes Manhattan
From left: Dr. Molly Russ and Dr. Sarah McMahan.
From left: Chancellor Ann Stuart, Founders’ Awards Scholarship Luncheon keynote speaker Dr. Ron Davis, Charles W. “Chuck” Carpenter and Dr. Bettye B. Myers.
Charles W. “Chuck” Carpenter, Dr. Bettye B. Myers and – in a surprise announcement during the Founders’ Awards Scholarship Luncheon – TWU Chancellor Ann Stuart are the recipients of TWU’s 2014 Founders’ Awards. Mr. Carpenter has served as the president of the Denton Chamber of Commerce for more than 30 years and is a recognized civic leader in Denton. Dr. Myers is a TWU Cornaro Professor of Kinesiology, a TWU Distinguished Alumna and is well known for her community service to Denton and to TWU, where she has taught for more than 50 years. Chancellor Stuart has enhanced the reputation and visibility of TWU since becoming chancellor and president in 1999. Under her leadership enrollment has grown more than 80 percent, TWU has produced more than 20,000 graduates in critical fields and the university has received national recognition for its quality, value and diversity.
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Pauline Bishop Leman Memo-rial Award – Erin Bailey, a master of fine arts candidate in dance, from Columbia, S.C. The award recognizes outstanding artistic achievement.
Outstanding Senior Awards – Wen Yu (Wendy) Chong of Houston, a biology major; Bailey Vrazel of Danbury, a kinesiology and pre-physical therapy major; and Emma C. Zemler of Corinth, a mathematics and computer science major.
Graduate Council Award for Exceptional, Original Scholarship – Hannah Mills of Sheridan, Wyoming, a doctoral candidate in early childhood development and education; and Elizabeth Enochs of Fort Worth, a doctoral student in library science.
Faculty
From left: Dr. Jack T. Gill and Dr. Ellina Grigorieva.
TWU Award of Excellence – Karrie Fletcher, assistant director, Fitness and Recreation. The award is the highest recognition given to a staff member who exhibits loyalty, dedication, initiative and reliability.
Outstanding Achievement Awards – Janelle Davis, academic adviser, depart-ment of kinesiology; and Judy Franz, coordinator of education field experiences, College of Professional Education. The award recognizes the dedication of TWU staff.
From left: Karrie Fletcher, Judy Franz and Janelle Davis.
From left: Emma C. Zemler, Wen Yu (Wendy) Chong, Bailey Vrazel, Elizabeth Enochs, Erin Bailey and Hannah Mills.
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The TWU Concert Choir performed at The Church of St. Paul the Apostle in New York.
www.twu.edu TWU Times Spring 2014 5
Applause State Sen. Sylvia Garcia
LEADERSHIP and service always
have gone hand-in-hand for State Sen. Sylvia Garcia (D-Houston), a TWU Distinguished Alumna, beginning when she was a student at the university in the late 1960s and early ‘70s.
“My TWU education built on my family’s principles of service and taking care of your neigh-bor,” said Sen. Garcia, who received her bachelor’s degree in social work from TWU in 1972.
She has kept this credo throughout her career as a social worker, lawyer, city judge, Houston City Con-troller, the first Hispanic and first woman elected to the Harris County Com-missioner’s Court and her recent election to the Texas Senate.
“My student govern-ment activities gave me the opportunity to develop my leadership skills, which have brought me to where I am today.”
Sen. Garcia says being a TWU graduate means the world to her.
“My time at TWU impacted me tremendously,” she said. “My life is about helping people and mak-ing a difference in their lives, just as I was taught at TWU.”
To nominate an alumni for APPLAUSE, email [email protected].
Sylvia Garcia
THE 2014-2015 aca-demic year marks
the 100th anniversary of the TWU student newspaper, the Lasso, which is the oldest student-run activity at the university.
The first edition of the paper, then called the LASS-O, was published on November 7, 1914, when TWU was known as the College of Industrial Arts. One of the paper’s
first stories explains how the “College of Industrial Arts Raises Standards to that of Co-Eds” including Baylor University and Texas Christian University, which also started student newspapers in 1914.
Throughout the upcom-ing academic year, TWU will celebrate the history of the Lasso by hosting speakers and programs relating to the topic “Women in Media.”
The Lasso 100th Anniver-sary Planning Committee is looking for former Lasso and LASS-O reporters, editors and advisers to par-ticipate and attend centennial celebrations. Please send your contact information, along with details about your service to the student newspaper, to the TWU Office of Alumni Relations at [email protected].
Lasso Celebrates Centennial
Alumni Enjoy Homecoming Reunion Class songs, yells and stories of campus escapades resounded throughout Hubbard Hall as the TWU Class of 1964 returned to the Denton campus during Homecoming Reunion weekend in April. About 60 class members participated in the Chancellor’s Welcome Coffee, a Spirit Lunch and a memorial service for deceased classmates at the Little Chapel-in-the-Woods. At the Reunion Dinner, classmates received their 50-year pins, provided by the TWU Former Students Association, from Chancellor Ann Stuart and Dr. Bettye B. Myers, a favorite professor. The Class of ’64 now joins nearly 4,000 other alumnae as members of the True Pioneer Society, a designation for those who received their degrees from TWU at least 50 years ago.
Left: The first issue of the LASS-O was published on November 7, 1914. Right: A student reporter works in the LASS-O office in 1943.
Members of the Class of 1964 pose on the steps of Hubbard Hall for their class reunion photo.
Business2BusinessYou now can do business with other TWU Alumni through the TWU Alumni Business2Business online directory. This new ser-vice allows you to find businesses and services offered by fellow alumni or create a listing of your own. For more information or to join the online directory, visit www.twualumnib2b.org.
TWU Mobile AppDo you have the TWU Mobile App for your smartphone? This application allows you simple and direct access to essential web pages at TWU, including the alumni page. To access, just enter “TWU Mobile” in your device’s app store.
Alumni GroupsAlumni are invited and encouraged to join TWU Alumni Groups on LinkedIn and Facebook. For a list of available groups, visit www.twu.edu/alumni. If you know of a group that isn’t on the list, please let the Office of Alumni Relations know by emailing [email protected].
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TWU and the TWU Former Students
Association recognized alumni and student excellence at the TWU Accolades Awards Luncheon held dur-ing Homecoming Reunion.
Dr. Betty Bohon Alford, R.D./L.D., B.S. ’54, M.A. ’56, Ph.D. ’65, received the 2014 Distinguished Alumni Award – the highest honor given by the TWU FSA. Dr. Alford is a TWU Cornaro Professor Emerita and former dean of nutrition,
textiles and human develop-ment at the university. She was honored for her lifetime accomplishments, leadership and contributions to the field of nutrition.
The Hallmark Alumni Award salutes graduates who have had a significant, positive effect on their chosen profession or on their community. This year’s recipient is Jennifer Lee, CCP-SLP, M.S. ‘09, an inpatient speech therapist at Children’s Medical
Center– Dallas. She also volun-teers with Connective Link Among Special Needs
Programs (CLASP) Inter-national, a nonprofit health care and social service organization that seeks to improve the lives of children and adults with disabilities in developing countries.
Since the 1960s, the TWU FSA has honored select graduating students for their excellence in scholarship and service by naming them outstanding TWU students. Receiving awards for 2014 are Wen Yu (Wendy) Chong, a biology major; Bailey Vrazel, a kinesiology major; and Emma C. Zemler, a mathematics and computer science major at TWU also enrolled in the TWU/Uni-versity of North Texas dual degree program in math and engineering.
Luncheon Honors Alumni and Students
From left: Bailey Vrazel, Jennifer Lee, Dr. Betty Bohon Alford, Wen Yu (Wendy) Chong and Emma C. Zemler were honored at the Accolades Luncheon hosted by TWU and the TWU Former Students Association.
Left: The first issue of the Left: The first issue of the LASS-OLASS-ONovember 7, 1914. Right: A November 7, 1914. Right: A student reporter works in the student reporter works in the LASS-OLASS-O
www.twu.edu6 TWU Times Spring 2014
HERITAGE Health Solutions, Inc., a
medical services company based in Flower Mound, recently donated $25,000 to support TWU’s Project IN-VEST (Injured Veterans En-tering Sports Training) program.
Project INVEST offers opportunities for injured veterans to play Paralympic sports such as wheelchair basketball and volleyball during events held at TWU throughout the year. During these events, the families of the veterans also
are encouraged to join in the recreational activities offered. Graduate students in TWU’s Department of Kinesiology assist the veterans and their families in participating to-gether in these activities.
“The opportunity for in-jured veterans to play sports and have their families join them is priceless,” said Dr. Ron Davis, TWU professor of kinesiology, who leads Project INVEST. “Heritage’s generosity not only benefits TWU but also lifts up our entire community.”
The gift is part of Heritage’s “Help a Hero” program, whose goal is to improve veterans’ lives in communities near and far.
“We are committed to ensuring veterans and their families are reintegrated into their communities and are resilient,” said Tonya Clark, president and chief finan-cial officer of Heritage. “An adaptive sports program like Project INVEST is crucial to improving the lives of those men and women who have served and defended our great country.”
Heritage Health Solutions, Inc., is a business owned by a service disabled veteran and provides health care delivery and management, pharmacy services, medical cost con-tainment and telemedicine to federal, state, county and municipal agencies.
FRIENDS and former students of
Dr. Phyllis Bridges, Corn-aro Professor of English, have established a scholar-ship in honor of the long-time TWU educator.
In a letter announcing the fund-raising effort, committee co-chairs Dr. Carolyn Rozier, dean of the TWU School of Physical Therapy emerita, and Dr. Glenda Brock Simmons, vice president for student life emerita, lauded Dr. Bridges’ 50-year teaching career, including 42 years at TWU.
“Her inspired teach-ing … has touched and changed many lives,” the letter states. “It is time for all of us who know her to show our appreciation for all she has done in her career.”
By establishing the Dr. Phyllis Bridges Scholarship
Endowment, the commit-tee seeks to create a lasting tribute to her and provide continuing scholarships to benefit students at TWU.
Donations of all sizes are welcome. The endow-ment will be housed in the TWU Foundation and administered by the scholarship committee. For more information on contributing to the endowment, contact Patrice Frisby, development officer in the Office of University Advancement, at (940) 898-3863.
Project INVEST Receives Community Support
Phyllis Bridges Endowment
Jamisons’ Estate Gives $1.7 MillionTHE TWU Founda-
tion has received a $1.7 million gift from the estate of former State Rep. Alonzo W. Jamison, a long-time TWU faculty member, and his wife Elisabeth, an alumna of the university.
The gift will benefit the greatest needs of the university, including specific resources for the TWU Department of History and Government.
A lifelong resident of Denton, Mr. Jamison served seven consecutive terms
in the Texas Legislature starting in 1954. He left the legislature in 1968 to join the faculty of TWU. He became chair of the TWU Department of History and Government in 1981 and retired from the university in 1984.
He received a Bronze Star for his World War II service as an Army anti-aircraft artillery officer in North Africa, Sicily, Italy and Germany. He passed away in 2011.
In 1947, he married Elisabeth McCullar of Denton.
Mrs. Jamison received her bachelor’s degree in music from the Texas State College for Women, now TWU, in 1943. She died in 2009.
The Jamisons were longtime supporters of the university and members of TWU’s Old Main Society.
Old Main Society
Named after the first building on the Denton Campus, the Old Main Society recognizes alumni and friends who have included the TWU Foundation or TWU in their estate plans.
For information on how you can become a member, contact the TWU Office of University Advancement at 940-898-3863.
The gift will benefit the greatest needs of the university, including specific resources for the TWU Department of History and Government.
From left: Dr. Charlotte Sanborn, chair and professor of kinesiology; Dr. Robert Neely, provost; Dr. Ron Davis, leader of Project INVEST and professor of kinesiol-ogy; Tonya Clark, president and CFO of Heritage; Patti McCoy, director of marketing for Heritage; and Michelle Enos, kinesiology doctoral student.
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Dr. Phyllis Bridges
Endowment & Estate Gifts Received During Fiscal Year 2013-2014*
n Dr. Phyllis J. Bridges Scholarship Endowment
n Estelle O. Coleman Scholarship Fund in Nursing
n Houston J. and Florence A. Doswell Endowed Chair in Nursing for Teaching Excellence
n Houston J. and Florence A. Doswell Endowed Chair for Nursing Informatics
n Kennon S. Mofitt Scholarship in Nutrition and Food Sciences
n Agnes C. Talley Athletes Scholarship Fund
*As of 4/1/2014
ENDOWMENT GIFTS — THE FOLLOWING ENDOWMENTS HAVE MET THE MINIMUM INVESTMENT OF $10,000
nFrankie Bretherickn Vivian Dobbsn Maggie Geen Alonzo Jamisonn Paul D. & Margaret M.
McElroy Charitable Unitrustn Mary E. Muessen Bettie Joe Pendleton
n Donald T. Pendletonn Tom C. and Mary Bryan
Reitch Trustn Charles W. Sullivann Agnes C. Talleyn Ellie Whitmoren Mattie Maye Wilkinsonn Janice C. Williams
ESTATE GIFTS
FOR MORE INFORMATION PLEASE VISITWWW.TWU.EDU/FOUNDATION
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From left: Dr. Charlotte Sanborn, From left: Dr. Charlotte Sanborn,
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www.twu.edu TWU Times Spring 2014 7
Learning to Teach Goes Hi-TechTEXAS Woman’s
University is using the latest technology to prepare new teachers for the classroom.
TWU is the only university in Texas – and one of only 40 universities in the nation – to use TeachLivE™, an interactive computer-simulated classroom that allows teacher candidates to practice their skills on “virtual” children rather than actual students.
TWU’s TeachLivE™ lab, housed in Stoddard Hall, features a screen with five “students” seated at desks. The “students” are avatars controlled by human trainers and are made to ask and an-swer questions, sit quietly or
misbehave. Each avatar has a name and his or her own personality.
The technology, which was developed at the University of Central Florida, mirrors what teachers encounter in the classroom with their students, according to Dr. Heather Haynes-Smith, TWU assistant professor of education.
“Many times, early teaching experiences leave teachers feeling frustrated and unprepared,” she said. “These students (who use the lab) will be ready to go into the classroom.”
The feedback from stu-dents has been positive.
“They loved being in the lab,” said Maria Peter-
son, a TWU doctoral can-didate in teacher education and TeachLivE™ research coordinator for the univer-sity. “They’d go home and think about what they could have done differently, and they wanted to try again. Their confidence levels in-creased many times over.”
TWU also is using the lab to study professional development for practicing teachers.
The primary focus, however, is on integrating TeachLivE™ into its pre-service educator preparation program.
“We believe the use of this technology in teacher education programs could better equip educators for teaching in the inclusive
classroom, supporting di-verse groups of students,” Dr. Haynes-Smith said. “This could improve teacher retention and success in rural and urban schools.”
Dr. Richard Nicholas
AFTER more than 18 years at TWU, Dr.
Richard Nicholas, vice presi-dent for student life, retired in April to spend time with his grandchildren and travel with his wife, Anne.
Dr. Nicholas is credited with establishing the Office of Commuter and Non- Traditional Services; expanding and updating student facilities, including residence halls and the Student Health Center;
increasing scholarship support through the Terry Foundation Scholars and the TWU Scholars scholarship programs; and establishing the Student Life Develop-ment unit, which has raised more than $7 million for scholarships since its incep-tion in 2006.
What Dr. Nicholas is most proud of is his relationship with students.
“It was my greatest joy – working with student government officers, campus leaders, new students coming in and new families as they joined TWU,” he said. “That’s what working at a university is all about.”
John Lawhon
JOHN Lawhon, gen-eral counsel for Texas
Woman’s University, retired in late 2013 after more than 35 years with the university.
Mr. Lawhon was the only general counsel in TWU’s history. He also served the university as its ethics officer and public information officer. In addi-tion, he taught in the TWU Department of History and Government for 14 years, helping to establish the programs and curricula in paralegal studies and criminal justice.
“I have thoroughly enjoyed my time at TWU and appreciate the oppor-tunity to have served the university,” he said.
Harold Johnson
AFTER 13 years at TWU, Harold John-
son, associate vice president for facilities management and construction, retired from the university in June.
He was responsible for all major capital construc-tion and renovation projects during that time, including the new institutes of health sciences in Houston and Dallas, the Fitness and Rec-reation Center, the Lowry
Woods apartment-style resi-dence hall, the Ann Stuart Science Complex, the Red-bud Theater Complex, the new University House and several building renovations.
“I feel I have left an enduring signature at TWU in what you can see and, most importantly, what you can’t see,” said Mr. Johnson, referring to his efforts in making TWU a more en-vironmentally sustainable university.
These include the imple-mentation of design and construction standards that meet or exceed industry sustainability guidelines, using wind-generated energy to supply 40 percent of the university’s electric power and implementing single-stream recycling.
John Lawhon
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Three Left Their Marks on Student Life, University Legal Affairs and Campus Facilities
Longtime Administrators Retire from University
“My husband Chad and I are looking forward to contributing to the pioneer-ing spirit so prevalent in the great state of Texas.”
Dr. Feyten’s many ac-complishments at Miami University include:n Developing and launch-
ing a strategic plan fo-cused on a holistic and sustainable approach to all aspects of administra-tive, faculty and student well-being;
n Leading a capital cam-paign that has raised
more than $27 million, well above its goal of $15 million;
n Increasing enrollment and retention rates in the college, resulting in a 90 percent average reten-tion from freshman to sophomore;
n Significantly increasing external grant funding; and
n Leading multiple successful accreditation efforts.
Dr. Feyten earned a doc-torate from the University of South Florida, and an M.A.
in English, Dutch, Education and a B.A. in Germanic Philology, both from the Université Catholique Louvain in Belgium.
Carine M. Feyten Named Chancellor and President
TWU senior Lauren Whited practices her teaching skills on student avatars in the university’s TeachLivE™ lab.
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Top photo: During a recent visit to TWU, Dr. Feyten met with TWU student leaders including, from left, Sarah Gerken and Keri Anne Jones, both Terry Scholars, and Cassidy Lindsay, a Leadership Scholar. Bottom photo: TWU faculty get to know Dr. Feyten during a visit in the Blagg-Huey Library.
Continued From Page 1
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www.twu.edu8 TWU Times Spring 2014
…presented service and retirement awards to faculty and staff, and also received a crystal bowl etched with the university seal as a retiree herself, during the 2014 Service Awards and Retirement Recognition Program. Shown with Chancellor Stuart is Dr. Charles L. Riggs, professor of chemistry, who was recognized for his 40 years of service to TWU.
…assisted a team from Argyle Middle School in running their car down the ramp during the 16th annual Edible Car Contest. The purpose of the contest is to make math and engineering fun for students, especially female students. Shown with Chancellor Stuart are students Emily Given, left, and Jennie Knuppel.
…hosted a luncheon honoring the 2013-2014 Chancellor’s Student Research Scholars. The Chancellor’s Student Research Scholars program recognizes outstanding achieve-ment by undergraduate and graduate students in research and the creative arts.
…posed for a photo with students during the University Picnic held on the Pioneer Circle as part of TWU’s Honors Convocation. Shown with Chancellor Stuart are, from left: Nikki Gardner, Angelica Reyes, Kayvon Haj Heydari, Jordan Karnes and Jeff Dillard.
...attended the 2014 Virginia Chandler Dykes Luncheon at the Belo Mansion in Dallas. Shown with Chancellor Stuart are, from left: Bob White, Dallas marketing executive for the Bank of Texas; Mary Brinegar, president and CEO of the Dallas Arboretum and recipient of the 2014 Virginia Chandler Dykes Leadership Award; Virginia Chandler Dykes; and Norm Bagwell, CEO of Bank of Texas, sponsor of the luncheon.
…welcomed students, faculty and staff to the grand opening of the Pioneer Center for Student Excellence. Shown with Chancellor Stuart are, from left: Samnang Chang, a student assistant at the center; Dr. Joshua Adams, executive director of the center; Dr. Robert Neely, TWU provost; and student assistant Jahmeilla Hunter.
…is shown with Sarah Zemen, left, and Kim Ha, the first recipients of the Ann Stuart and Ray R. Poliakoff Scholarship. Chancellor Stuart and her late husband, attorney Ray R. Poliakoff, were first-generation graduates of public higher education. Both often said it was their education that enabled them to pursue the opportunities that enriched their lives.
… received an honorary class ring during the spring ring presentation ceremony. Also receiving an honorary class ring was Dr. Richard Nicholas, left, TWU vice president for student life, who retired in April. Chancellor Stuart and Dr. Nicholas are the first to receive honorary TWU class rings.