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Volume X 219 Rock Street, Bluefield, WV 24701 Number 3
March 2005
Jack Johnston is one of 13 BSCgraduates at ABB’s Bland, Virginiafacility, which produced $163 millionin sales last year (story on page 6).
A Message from the President
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As you read this, West
Virginia has just welcomed to
office its 34th governor, Joe
Manchin, and expanded stu-
dent housing moves daily
toward becoming a reality.
Certainly, these are exciting
times at this proud and pro-
gressive institution of higher
education.
Governor Manchin has
already expressed his interest
in, and support of, Bluefield State College. Several
months ago, he graciously invited me to Charleston, where
he discussed issues related to West Virginia. He also invit-
ed my input into how Bluefield State College could serve
as a key participant in the economic revitalization of the
state.
During the gubernatorial campaign last year, he visited
BSC’s Bluefield campus. Soon thereafter, he promoted
our College’s career-focused educational programs.
Shortly after the November election, he created an
education transition team designed to delineate how the
state’s public education systems could receive the support
and flexibility needed to thrive and thereby benefit our res-
idents and our business/industry sector.
Bluefield State College’s demonstrated excellence in
“making education possible” and developing graduates
ready for careers in technology-reliant fields has posi-
tioned BSC to fill a most important, timely role. We join
the Governor in looking forward to the future.
Additionally, this issue of the “Blue & Gold” contains
exciting news about an initiative that will provide expand-
ed opportunity for out-of-region residents to come to the
College. As we seek to grow and develop dynamic new
programs of study, the need to attract students from a
much broader region is vitally important. Very soon, our
students will have a variety of options for residing in hous-
ing near the College.
Your interest in BSC is invaluable as we move ahead.
Our success is realized only through your support. Thank
you very much!
Albert L. WalkerPresident
From the Bluefield State College Board of GovernorsJohn Barnes, Chairperson
As chairman of Bluefield State
College’s Board of Governors, I have
had the privilege of witnessing several
significant recent accomplishments of
the institution. All hold tremendous
promise for the future of the College.
On January 24, 2005 Dr. Felica
Blanks (chair of the accreditation
effort for New River Community and
Technical College) Interim President
of NRCTC, Carolyn Sizemore, Mr.
Ted Knight (chair of the NRCTC
Board of Advisors), and I traveled to
Chicago for a meeting with the
Higher Learning Commission of the
North Central Association of Colleges
and Schools. We were gratified to
obtain feedback from this accrediting
body regarding the NRCTC Self-
Study and the recommendations of the
HLC/NCA team that conducted a site
visit last November. Dr. Perkins (who
retired recently as President of
NRCTC), Dr. Blanks, each member of
the NRCTC Board of Advisors, staff
and student body, and members of the
Bluefield State College staff involved
in the accreditation effort are to be
commended for their outstanding
work. We have just received official
word on the NRCTC accreditation ini-
tiative from the Higher Learning
Commission.
On another positive note, the
Bluefield State College Research and
Development Corporation and the
City of Bluefield recently announced
that a 158-room student housing com-
plex will be available for occupancy
by BSC students entering or returning
to classes in the fall. This complex
and the housing that is currently avail-
able for BSC students throughout the
community can mean increased
enrollment, a much larger region from
which to recruit students, and eco-
nomic development opportunities for
the College and the area.
I am also encouraged by the will-
ingness of Bluefield State College to
make a positive difference in the com-
munities served by the College. BSC
students and accounting faculty are
currently providing volunteer income
tax assistance for area students, and
College employees assisted in raising
funds for tsunami victims, the Ronald
McDonald House, and Operation Iraqi
Freedom.
The future looks very promising for
Bluefield State College. I speak for
the entire Board when I say, “Thank
you for your support and interest. We
look forward to serving you in the
months and years to come.”
- 3 -
Campus life is in full swing for
the spring semester and students are
enrolled and attending classes. The
primary emphasis for Enrollment
Management continues to be recruit-
ing students for the next school year
and retaining the students that we cur-
rently have. Our changing mission
has created the need to revise our
Strategic Enrollment Plan and to focus
on a broader geographical area in our
recruiting.
In recruitment, the spring re-visits
to the area high schools are continu-
ing. The spring period is crucial in
gaining early commitments from
scholarship students, as numerous
schools are vying for the limited num-
ber who reside in our area. Our ability
to identify these students and to make
early offers is critical to this effort.
Retention efforts include review-
ing non-attendance reports for the
undecided students who are advised
through the Advising Center, counsel-
ing students who have personal or
financial problems that are interfering
with school, and other personal inter-
vention activities.
The final Fall 2004 enrollment of
1869 reflects a 6.8% increase over
Fall 2003 enrollment of 1750*.
The retention rate of first-time,
full-time students from the Fall 2003
semester to the Fall 2004 semester
was 64%.
Spring Semester Has Begun - Enrollment Management Update
John CardwellExecutive Director of
Enrollment Management
Enrollment - Bluefield State CollegeSpring 2004 and 2005 - Second Day of Classes
Campus
Bluefield
Beckley
Lewisburg
Nicholas County
Total
Final & Projected
Enrollments
Spring 2004
1512
90
88
3
1693
1793
Spring 2005
1558
112
84
9
1763
1875
Difference
+36
+22
-4
+6
+70
+82
Dr. Yvonne Thornton, a well
known physician and author, will be
the featured speaker at Bluefield State
College’s 108th Commencement
Exercises, May 14, 2005 at the
Brushfork Armory.
Dr. Thornton is a double-Board
Certified specialist in obstetrics, gyne-
cology, and maternal-fetal medicine
and a life member of the New York
Academy of Medicine.
Her book, “The Ditchdigger’s
Daughters” was nominated for a
Pulitzer Prize and is now in its 12th
printing. The book is a family biogra-
phy and tribute to her parents. It was
condensed in The Reader’s Digest and
adapted into a world premiere movie
that was nominated for the “Peabody
Award” and the “Cable AME Award
for Best Picture.” Her late mother
was a student at BSC (then known as
“Bluefield State Teachers College”).
“Bluefield State fomented my moth-
er’s love of education and teaching-a
love of learning that was instilled in
her daughters so that we could reach
the heights of academic excellence in
our own lives and the lives of her
grandchildren,” Dr. Thornton noted.
Dr. Thornton is a strong advo-
cate for women’s health issues, and is
a spokesperson for the American
College of Obstetricians and
Gynecologists, as well as the March
of Dimes. She has appeared on “The
Oprah Winfrey Show”, the “TODAY
Show”, and “Good Morning
America”.
Her academic appearances as a
keynote speaker have included The
Hockaday School, The Seven Hills
School, Edinboro University of
Pennsylvania, Texas Women’s
University, Berkeley College, and
Cornell and Harvard Universities.
Dr. Yvonne S. Thornton to Deliver BSC’s 2005 Commencement Address
Dr. Yvonne Thornton
- 4 -
The Bluefield State College
Board of Governors has selected Dr.
Felica B. Wooten Blanks to serve as
Interim President of New River
Community and Technical College.
Dr. Blanks, chair of the Self-Study
process to achieve initial accreditation
for NRCTC, accepted the appointment
during the BSC Board’s December
2004 meeting, following the retire-
ment of NRCTC President Dr. David
Perkins.
Blanks is co-founder and
President of the BSC Research and
Development Corporation, Executive
Director of Institutional Development
and Advancement at the College, and
Executive Director of the BSC
Foundation. She earned a Doctor of
Philosophy in Educational Leadership
and Policy Studies from Virginia
Tech, and she holds a Master’s
Degree in Education from Marshall
University.
“These are exciting times for
New River Community and Technical
College,” she observed. “The College
will continue to grow in the months
and years ahead to meet the need for
career-relevant, affordable higher edu-
cation throughout this region. By
serving as chair of the accreditation
Self-Study, I developed a true appreci-
ation for NRCTC, its mission, stu-
dents, employees, and the residents of
its service area.”
Blanks also expressed apprecia-
tion for the leadership provided by Dr.
Perkins, who served as Director, then
Provost of the Greenbrier Community
College Center and President of New
River Community and Technical
College. He echoed his endorsement
for her. In addressing NRCTC stu-
dents, employees, and supporters, he
said “Give your best to Interim
President Dr. Felica Blanks. She’s
knowledgeable, experienced, ener-
getic, and fully committed to the
College’s success. With your help,
she, all of you, and consequently the
College, will be successful. Aim
high, strive mightily, achieve greatly.”
Dr. Felica Wooten Blanks Named Interim President of New River Community and Technical College
Dr. Felica B. Wooten Blanks
BSC students and accounting faculty donated 517 hours and provided income tax preparation help for 345 area residents in 2004. The Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) program at BSC's Bluefield campus helped resi
dents complete 305 federal returns and 314 state returns. The VITA program has been offered through BSC for
more than 20 years.
BSC's Baccalaureate Nursing (BSN students and faculty) administered more than 1100 flu vaccinations, in con-junction with Bluefield Regional Medical Center, in one day.
BSN program participants conducted weekly health education classes at Mercer Health Right and the West Virginia Manor throughout the Fall 2004 Semester
During the Spring 2005 Semester, BSC BSN students will collaborate with School Nurses throughout the region to develop and implement health education classes for public school students, faculty, and parents.
BSC Radiologic Technology students (class of 2004) committed 440 hours of volunteer work during their final year in the program. Area agencies assisted include the American Red Cross, VA Medical Center, Bluefield
Regional Medical Center, Welch Community Hospital, Rainelle Volunteer Fire Department (flood clean up),
Assisted Living Homes (The Havens & Ridgeview, Brock Hughes Free Clinic (Wytheville) and the Monroe
County Health Center
In an initiative coordinated by the BSC Campus Corner Bookstore, College employees worked with the Bluefield Salvation Army, adopting 50 "angels" and providing Christmas gifts for each "adopted" child.
The BSC chapter of Phi Sigma Phi fraternity took part in numerous initiatives, including the Muscular Dystrophy Association Labor Day Telethon, the "Adopt a Highway" and "Toys for Tots" programs, the American Red Cross
Blood Drive, Operation Iraqi Freedom, the American Wildlife Foundation, and the fraternity's national charity-
Ronald McDonald House.
Bluefield State College’s Commitment toImproving Our Community, State, and Region
- 5 -
College Retirees HonoredDuring Special Ceremonies
In Memoriam
James W. Davis
Ruby S. Carlton
The Bluefield State College was deeply
saddened to learn of the deaths of James W.
Davis on January 8, 2005 and Ruby S. Carlton
on February 3, 2005.
Davis was an Associate Professor of
Technical Mathematics and Technical Physics at
Bluefield State College for many years and was
awarded the distinction of “faculty emeritus” by
the College. He also taught math and science
for 30 years at Matoaka High School and held
several offices with the Ruritan and Kiwanis
Clubs.
Additionally, Professor Davis was a past
president of the Lashmeet Public Service
District.
Ms. Ruby S. Carlton was the Secretary for
the Division of Humanities and Social Sciences
for several years.
Dr. David Perkins Kathy Epperly Vivian Sidote
During the past two months, three
Bluefield State College employees
have been honored on the occasion of
their retirements. Receptions and cer-
tificates of appreciation were present-
ed to Dr. David Perkins, Ms. Kathy
Epperly, and Ms. Vivian Sidote as
they completed their careers at BSC.
Dr. Perkins, the President of New
River Community and Technical
College, submitted his resignation at
the end of 2004. The popular
NRCTC leader compiled an impres-
sive and diverse portfolio, serving at
various times as Assistant Director,
then Director/Assistant Provost of the
Greenbrier Community College
Center, then Provost and President of
NRCTC.
Kathy Epperly arrived at BSC as
a Student Support Services counselor
in January 1993. Six months later,
she accepted the position of Student
Support Services Director and served
the College in that capacity for more
than 11 years. Additionally, she was
the College’s Interim Vice President
for Student Affairs for approximately
two years.
Vivian Sidote (BSC Class of
1994) marked 35 years as an employ-
ee in West Virginia higher education
in 2004, with the last 32 of those
years spent at BSC. She held a vari-
ety of positions, including Secretary,
Administrative Secretary, Executive
Secretary, and Administrative
Assistant to the President.
At each reception ceremony, the
College community expressed its
appreciation for the retirees’ dedica-
tion, service, and insight.
Eastern
Europe Trip
8 nights at $2299
July 18 - July 27, 2005
Deposit Deadline
May 1, 2005
Contact John White
(304) 327-4157
- 6 -
Less than 30 miles from
Bluefield in a small community nes-
tled in the southwest Appalachian
mountains of the Virginia’s, a “baker’s
dozen” Bluefield State College gradu-
ates filled key roles in helping their
operation generate more than $63 mil-
lion in shipments last year. ABB’s
local facility custom designs and man-
ufactures open wound, cast, and resi-
bloc transformers utilizing BSC
alumni in management, engineering,
marketing, drafting, hardware, and
software positions.
“Because of the degree programs
in engineering technology at Bluefield
State, ABB has been able to train its
technical leaders and support employ-
ment throughout the region,” noted
Jack Johnston, Senior Design
Engineer and a member of the BSC
class of 1989. “The 2-plus-2 arrange-
ment (where a student can earn a spe-
cific associate degree, then seamlessly
transfer credits into a four-year degree
program) made it possible for many
of us to complete bachelor’s degrees
from BSC.”
ABB operates in over 100 coun-
tries worldwide and approximately
20% all shipments from Bland,
Virginia are exported outside of US
borders. “It is not uncommon for me
to receive documentation in Spanish,
French, Chinese, or Korean,”
Johnston added. “Regardless of the
final destination, the physics of a
design remain the same. The BSC
Electrical Engineering Technology
program has the right combination of
classes for this type of work in the
electrical power industry.”
Noting that the BSC alumni in
ABB’s workforce cover a quarter-cen-
tury of graduating classes (1978-
2002), Rush Horton, Engineering
Manager (BSC Class of 1993)
stressed the consistently relevant edu-
cation and training that engineering
technology and computer science stu-
dents receive in the engineering tech-
nology programs at Bluefield State.
“It’s vitally important to have a well-
trained workforce, especially in an
industry like ours where things are
growing increasingly dependent upon
the latest developments in technolo-
gy,” Horton stated. “Bluefield State
provides a great opportunity for our
employees to get the training they
need to advance. I’m also confident
the College has developed a well
trained workforce for other businesses
throughout this area.”
In addition to Horton and
Johnston, BSC grads at ABB’s Bland,
Virginia facility include Tommy
Nunn (Marketing Strategic Leader),
Johnathan Wright (I.S. System
Hardware Manager), Senior Design
Engineers William Pauley, Rob
Brizendine, and Rickie Kinder,
Hobert Phillips (Design Engineer),
Todd Sigmon (Senior System
Manager), Senior Drafting
Technicians John Morgan and Chris
Adams, Joe Hassan (I.S. Analyst)
and Michael Mitchell (Marketing
Coordinator).
“Bluefield State College is this
facility’s leading provider for profes-
sional expertise,” Johnston noted.
“One-half of our design engineers and
computer experts are BSC graduates.
The College has a strong and proven
track record with ABB and the
College is one of the reasons we look
forward to a strong future.”
Cover: Jack Johnson stands beside
one of the transformers produced at
ABB’s Bland, Virginia facility.
BSC Graduates Play Key Role in Productivity of Regional Business
The chassis for “Scorpion-fox” (pictured right) the
Team CART at Bluefield State College robotic vehicle that
will compete in the Defense Advanced Research Project
Agency (DARPA) Grand Challenge in the Mojave Desert,
has been developed by Dwaine Jungen of Preferred Chassis
Fabrication, Inc.
Team CART is working to design a technology-packed
vehicle tough enough to endure the course’s rugged terrain
and smart enough to navigate without human assistance for
more than 140 miles.
CART’s “Scorpion-fox”Takes Shape
- 7 -
Omarosa Manigault Stallworth, a well-known participant in the popular NBC hit
show “The Apprentice,” spoke at Bluefield State College on February 2 in conjunction with
the College's celebration of Black History Month. Her lecture, “An Analysis of 'The
Apprentice,” attracted an audience of more than 200.
A capacity audience gathered at the Harris-Jefferson Student Center on February 5,
during a Minorities on the Move special function. The program recognized six regional
African-American leaders, Ms. Sandra Wade, Ms. Pauline Thornton, Ms. Harriette S. Wright,
Mr. Anthony “Tony” Webster, Jr., The Honorable Clif Moore, and Bishop Clarence E. Moore.
BSC Assistant Professor of English and Speech Dr. Tamara Meade was the featured
speaker during a February 15 Commemorative Stamp Ceremony honoring Marian Anderson,
after which the College community celebrated the 110th anniversary of the passage of Senate
Bill 122, the 1985 legislation that authorized the creation of BSC.
West Virginia State University administrator Don Gresby delivered the program, “Students’ Rights and
Responsibilities” during a February 16 program and on February 17 (11 a.m.), the BSC Associate Degree Nursing stu-
dents’ program “Black Nurses: Unknown Heroines”.
On February 22, regional author/speaker Joan Browning discussed “Whites’ Contribution to Black History,” on
February 23, singer/musician “Lea” presented a concert, and on February 27, a “Chitterling Strut/Soul Food Fest” was
held in the Hebert Gallery.
BSC Celebrates Black History Month
In February 2002, BSC under-
went evaluation for continued accredi-
tation by the Higher Learning
Commission (HLC) of the North
Central Association of Colleges and
Schools. After the evaluation, the
College was directed to submit a two-
year monitoring report on the assess-
ment of student learning in five pro-
grams: Humanities, Social Science,
Applied Science, Regents Bachelor of
Arts, and Liberal Studies.
As an indicator of its commit-
ment to assessment, the College hired
a full-time assessment director, Dr,
Mindy Maher, to work with faculty,
administrators, staff, and students to
increase understanding of assessment,
to plan and implement of assessment
activities, and to write BSC’s monitor-
ing report (in addition to other respon-
sibilities).
In January 2005, BSC received a
successful evaluation from the HLC
concerning its monitoring report. The
evaluation stated:
“While focusing its attention on
improvements in specific program
areas, as required by the Commission,
the evidence provided in the Report
suggests strongly that improvements
have been made in the overall assess-
ment program. There is evidence of
improved leadership and coordination
of assessment activities. … The
College’s revamped focus on assess-
ing student learning is impressive.
The evidence presented suggests that
a thorough reorganization has
occurred and that the entire campus
community is involved in the various
processes of assessment.”
As a result of this successful
evaluation, BSC is not required to
submit any additional reports and the
next comprehensive evaluation is
scheduled for 2012. For more infor-
mation on BSC’s assessment program
or to read our monitoring report,
please visit BSC’s assessment website
at www.bluefieldstate.edu/assess
ment/index.html.
Regional Accreditors Praise BSC's Assessment Program
Dr. Mindy MaherDirector of Institutional
Research and Assessment
Omarosa ManigaultStallworth
- 8 -
Bluefield State CollegeLithographs Set
- 9 -
Faculty and Staff AccomplishmentsFive Bluefield State College edu-
cators have been selected for inclu-
sion in the 2004 edition of Who’s
Who Among American’s Teachers.
BSC educators honored include
Carolyn Turner Kirby, Interim
Director/Student Support Services;
Dr. Tamara L. Meade, Associate
Professor of English; Dr. Patrick
Muldoon, Associate Professor of
Chemistry; Roger Owensby (Class of
1979), Assistant Professor and
Department Head of Mining
Engineering Technology, and; Dr.
Anthony Woart, Associate Professor
Sociology and Director of the
Minority Health Institute.
Dr. Thomas Blevins (Class of
1971), Dean of the Technology and
Virtual College, completed an accred-
itation visit to Gardner-Webb
University in November. He also
attended the Association for
Educational Communications and
Technology (AECT) national conven-
tion in Chicago where he served on
the Accreditation Committee and
received training in reviewing univer-
sity technology program folios for
NCATE/AECT national recognition.
Bluefield State College faculty
Dr. Steve Bourne (Class of 1974) and
Professor Shelia Hallman-Warner
presented one of the best-attended
workshops at the recent American
Correctional Association (ACA)
national conference in Chicago, IL.
The three-day conference attracted
more than 3000 corrections profes-
sionals, including wardens, superin-
tendents, and commissioners.
Dr. Bernadette Dragich,
Professor of Nursing, will be a partic-
ipant in a group presenting Asthma
101 for the WV Lung Association at
the 2005 Spring Continuing Education
Conference for social workers in
Charleston, West Virginia. She con-
ducted a program evaluation for the
NLNAC at Eastern Maine
Community College in Bangor,
Maine.
BSC School of Business faculty
members Susan Mann and Dr.
Elaine Scott attended a recent
“Professors Institute” seminar at
Georgetown University. The seminar
focused upon the expanding role of
interactive and direct marketing in
business, industry, and education.
Dr. Tamara Meade, Assistant
Professor of English and Speech at
Bluefield State College, conducted an
in-service sessions designed to help
faculty analyze and improve their
teaching methods and she worked as a
consultant for Paul D. Camp
Community College (Franklin,
Virginia) in January.
The article “Harvesting the Land,
Reaching the Sky,” written by Dr.
Garrett Olmsted, Professor of Social
Sciences, has been published in the
Fall 2004 issue of “Western New York
Heritage” magazine. The article doc-
uments the life of Dr. Olmsted’s
grandfather, Charles Morgan Olmsted,
one of the pioneers of aviation. Also,
Dr. Olmsted’s analysis of “Celtic
Religion” has been selected as the
exclusive source for information on
that subject at the website
“Answers.com”.
Deborrah A. Pittman, Professor
and Department Chair of Computer
Science, received the “Rehabilitant of
the Year” award for 2004 for the state
of West Virginia.
Dr. Elaine Scott, Visiting
Associate Professor of Business/
Bluefield State College and Bruce
Sneidman, Associate Professor of
Professional Office Systems
Technology/New River Community
and Technical College, collaborated to
produce an award-winning paper,
entitled “Analysis of Student
Satisfaction with Bluefield State
College” at an international educators’
conference in Las Vegas, Nevada in
November.
Carolyn Sizemore, completed an
Ed.S. degree in Leadership Studies
from Marshall University Graduate
School in December 2004. She is
writing her dissertation on the Effects
of Precollege Developmental
Education Programs on Student
Success and Retention Rates in
Community Colleges (in partial ful-
fillment toward an Ed.D. in Higher
Education Administration with a
minor cognate in College Training).
Dr. John Snead (Class of 1985),
Professor of Business, has been elect-
ed to the Board of Directors of
Princeton Community Hospital for a
five-year term.
An article written by Shelia
Hallman-Warner, Assistant
Professor of Criminal Justice
Administration/BSC was published in
a recent issue of “CPO Family,” a
quarterly publication of the
Correctional Police Officers
Foundation. The article “Forging a
Great Relationship--Bluefield State
Criminal Justice Club and CPOF”
detailed the collaborative process by
which the BSC student organization
became involved in CPOF initiatives
that assist families in times of crisis.
Sandy Wynn, Assistant Professor
of Nursing, was elected president of
the Women’s Ministries Department
of First Assembly of God in
Princeton, West Virginia for 2005.
BSC’sCommencement
Exercises
Saturday, May 14, 200510 a.m.
Brushfork Armory
- 10 -
An $825,000 grant from the
National Institute of Health (NIH) has
been awarded to Bluefield State
College will underwrite the establish-
ment of an EXPORT Center to reduce
the burden of health disparities expe-
rienced by racial minorities, particu-
larly the African-American popula-
tion, in West Virginia. The Center
will be an extension of the Minority
Health Institute at BSC.
Dr. Anthony Woart, Principal
Investigator for the grant and a mem-
ber of the BSC faculty, noted, “This
grant provides a comprehensive
approach for addressing the health
disparities experienced by minorities
living in this region. It includes out-
reach and information dissemination,
administrative, training and research
components.”
The three-year grant establishes
the following goals to address health
disparities of minorities, particularly
African-Americans, for the EXPORT
Center: 1) conducting basic and
behavioral/social science research to
facilitate health promotion and early
detection of diseases; 2) collecting
and disseminating information con-
cerning health status of minorities; 3)
collaborating with local organizations
as well as community leaders in oper-
ating projects designed to reduce the
burdens of health disparities among
the African-American populations of
West Virginia, and; 4) engaging in
outreach activities focused upon
improving access to health care
among West Virginia’s African-
American population. These goals are
consistent with the goals of the
Minority Health Institute.
The grant is a project of the
Bluefield State College Research and
Development Corporation. Dr.
Shekhar Pradhan, Professor and
Director/Sponsored Programs at BSC,
will serve as Director of Outreach
Core, working with the Principal
Investigator to ensure efficient opera-
tion of the Outreach and Information
Dissemination component of the
Center. Dr. Pradhan, Vice President
and Chief Operating Officer of the
BSC Research and Development
Corporation, will assist in developing
operational protocol and assessment
instruments for this component of the
Center.
The grant provides for a partner-
ship between BSC and Marshall
University. “There is strong institu-
tional and community backing for the
project,” Dr. Woart stated. “We are
grateful for this very significant
expression of support from the
National Institute of Health.”
$825K Grant Awarded to Bluefield State College Research andDevelopment Corporation to Address Health Disparities forRacial and Ethnic Minorities
In my years of being an advocate for multiculturalism, I have had several conversations
of intellectual exchange on the question, “Is it really necessary to teach diversity?”
Emphatically, it is necessary. Even when a school population has a predominance of stu-
dents, faculty, and staff belonging to one constituent group, discussing and analyzing the
benefits of diversity are needed. United States schools were created to perpetuate its culture
and society. In that sense, if schools are to function to help our society to continue to exist,
and simultaneously teach children the knowledge that has been cultivated in their country,
then it does not make a difference where students are or what their gender or ethnicity is.
Teachers are obligated to teach students multiculturalism because it is the foundation of
the United States. This country was created based on diversity; it exists based on diversity;
and even if it did not have any future at all, it is grounded in diversity. Our mainstream cul-
ture is a synergy of the contributions of multiple ethnic groups and cultures from the early
beginnings of this great country to today. It is why I am committed to teach Bluefield State
College students the multicultural truth about their legacy as citizens of the United States; multiculturalism has been a
part of United States’ life from its very conception; through diverse programs, lectures, and events, I will continue to
work to spread multicultural truth. Let us join together and participate in the various multicultural events that will be
held on campus months to come.
Is it Really Necessary to Teach Diversity?Dr. Raphael Heaggans, Director of Multicultural Affairs
Dr. Ralphael HeaggansDirector of
Multicultural Affairs
- 11 -
A Message from Doris J. PayneChairperson, BSC Alumni House Advisory Council
Bluefield State College Alumni Association, Inc.
Highlighting
Dr. Thomas Blevins, ’71Life Member, B.S.C.A.A., Inc.
Contributor of $1,000 to Hatter Hall
Purchases of an Hatter Hall Replica
Ad in the Alumni House Journal
Our Thanks toBSC Administrators, Faculty and Staff
10 Contributors = $2,76260 Active Chapter Members
Chapter Amount No.
Greater Kanawha Valley 14,000 5
**Greater Cleveland 6,250 10
**Metro-Detroit 4,470 6
Columbus 5,000 9
Philadelphia 4,450 9
Washington, D.C. 3,025 6
Mercer 2,450 5
Baltimore 1,600 3
Cincinnati 1,600 3
Roanoke 1,100 2
Dayton/Springfield 375 2
**Special Recognition is Given to These Two
Chapters for Gifts of an Additional $1,000 each.
Be Counted in Project 2000
Give Now! Give Now!
“A Dream Becomes A Reality”
The Spotlight is On
35 NATIONAL MEMBERS, B.S.C.A.A., INC.WHO CONTRIBUTED $13,940
AND 18 SUPPORTERS WHO GAVE $2,160TO ESTABLISH THE B.S.C. ALUMNI HOUSE
- 12 -
UPDATE: Replicas of Hatter Hall/Alumni HouseAn architectural miniature
Designed by - Hatter Hall Advisory CouncilBluefield State College Alumni Association, Inc.
Produced by - Shelia’s, Inc.Charleston, South Carolina
Project Director - Ruth Payne Brown, Ph.D.
COMMENTARY FROM REPLICA OWNERS
Fund-Raising Project Goal - 100 by April 15, 2005Two Names Added to the Owners Scroll
“When I looked at my replica, I thought of the beautiful days I spent at BSC. The historical information inscribed on the backwas great. I placed this with my other valuable collectibles, such as my ‘elephants’ representing Delta Sigma Theta.”
Argyle Pride Wade, Retired PrincipalDetroit, Michigan
“The replica of Hatter Hall is placed in a special place in my home. It represents the good times I had at Bluefield State. It bringsback my days on the basketball court, the race track and the gridiron.”
Frederick Parks, PresidentGreater Cleveland Chapter, B.S.C.A.A., Inc.
“I join the alumni in embracing the replica of Hatter Hall as a great memento of the heritage of this institution. It typifies theorigination of Bluefield State College. The restoration and the renovation serves to perpetuate the history. I am pleased to addthis architectural miniature to my collection.”
Mr. John Barnes, ChairBoard of Governors, Bluefield State College
“I was quite impressed with my replica of Hatter Hall. I was a guest at the Open House Celebration of the former presidents’home. I am also familiar with the artistry of Shelia’s Inc. The Hatter Hall Council designed an excellent representation of thebuilding. My plan is to share your replica with my alma mater’s (Morgan State University) Alumni Association as a fund-rais-er.”
Brenda Bowe Johnson, Ph.D.Adjunct Associate Professor, Johns Hopkins University
“The replica of Hatter Hall is a visual reminder of our college’s distinctive history and it gives me a feeling of satiety.”Dr. Raphael Heaggans
Director, Multicultural Affairs, Bluefield State College
“I’m excited, as an alumna, to be part of the restoration of Hatter Hall and to be a supporter of Hatter Hall’s contributions to thehistory of our institution. As I look at the Hatter Hall replica on my desk, I can reflect on my own efforts on our college campusto secure the best opportunities in higher education. I hope to give back to the Institution through the lives I touch as a staffmember and mentor.”
Joan Bange Buchanan, MS
‘Coordinator of Student Activities, Bluefield State College
FelecitationsArgyle Wade - Detroit, Michigan ---- James Ratcliff, Jr. - Bluefield, Virginia
Time is Running OutPlease mail your check ($100 contribution) made payable to “BSC Foundation/Alumni House”
and write “Replica of Hatter Hall” in the memo section and then mail to:
Ray Guy, Fiscal Manager, BSC Foundation, Bluefield State College, 219 Rock Street, Bluefield, WV 24701
Reverence for the Past Ensures the Future
- 13 -
Karen Rutherford (BSC class of 1993) was recently honored as Mercer
County’s “Teacher of the Year.” An English and reading teacher at Montcalm
High School, Rutherford expressed appreciation to BSC for its role in her success.
“Many of the faculty members at Bluefield State, particularly (the late) Dr.
Phyllis Thompson, went the extra mile to teach, support, and encourage me during
my time as a student,” she noted. “BSC and Montcalm are living proof that ‘big-
ger’ is not necessarily ‘better.’ It meant so much to me to win the 'Teacher of the
Year' award at the high school I had attended as a student several years earlier.”
Rutherford looks at her students as members of her extended family.
“Teaching is about relationships and relationships give meaning,” she explained.
“I treat these students as if they are mine. Their successes are my successes.”
Karen Rutherford, BSC Grad, Named Mercer County“Teacher of the Year”
BSC Selected to be Tom Joyner Foundation“College of the Month”
It is our pleasure to
inform you that The Tom
Joyner Foundation has select-
ed Bluefield State College as
the School of the Month for
May, 2005!
The School of the Month
Program exists to provide
support to historically black
colleges and universities
across the nation. Since its
creation, The Tom Joyner
Foundation has awarded
more than $5 million to
deserving students enrolled at
these institutions. As the
Tom Joyner School of the
Month, Bluefield State
College will derive the fol-
lowing benefits:
Gain national expo-sure, thereby enhancing our student
recruitment efforts.
Attract new corporate partnersthat will have a lasting financial
impact for BSC.
Provide critically needed schol-arship funds for our students.
HBCUs that have participated in
this program previously have benefit-
ed from support ranging anywhere
from $100,000 to $600,000. BSC’s
goal is to raise a minimum of
$300,000. With your assistance, we
can achieve positive results.
Over the years, Tom Joyner has
parlayed his Chicago-to-Dallas
daily “fly jock” radio show
into national syndication,
reaching an audience of more
than eight million listeners
weekly. The show can be
heard in more than 110 mar-
kets across the country and
overseas. We encourage you
to help us take advantage of
this wonderful opportunity to
showcase Big Blue Pride on a
national stage.
Make your checks
payable to: BSC/TJF-HBCU
of the Month and mail to:
Bluefield State College
Foundation, 219 Rock Street,
Bluefield, WV 24701
Attn: The Bluefield State
College/Tom Joyner
Foundation Campaign.
For more information, contact
Bluefield State College at 304-327-
4569. As always, we thank you for
your support of Bluefield State
College!
Tom Joyner (center) and BSC’s Dedrielle Taylor (left)and Deirdre Guyton, BSC Class of 1990, (right) dis-cuss scholarship opportunities that will result fromBSC’s selection as a Tom Joyner Foundation“College of the Month.”
Karen RutherfordBSC Class of 1993
- 14 -
1960sJulia Iona Green George (1964)
was selected for inclusion in the
eighth edition of Who’s Who Among
American Teachers, 2004. She is a
teacher at Mannheim American
Middle School in Germany.
King Harvey, Jr. (1961) was
honored at the 10th annual Dr. Martin
Luther King, Jr. Banquet of the
Southern Christian Leadership
Conference in Roanoke, Virginia.
The North Lake Community re-elect-
ed King to his tenth consecutive year
as their President and re-elected him
president of the North Lake Swim
Club, Inc. for the seventh consecu-
tive year. The Deacon and
Deaconess Auxiliary of the Virginia
State Baptist Convention re-elected
King as Treasurer. Also, the
Bluefield State College Alumni
Association elected King as the
treasurer for the National Office.
1970sJ. Franklin Long (1973)
received the “Living the Dream”
award from former West Virginia
Governor Bob Wise at the Dr. Martin
Luther King Jr., Holiday
Commission’s awards luncheon.
Elena Romeo (1975) is director
of Palm Springs Public Library in
Palm Springs, Florida. She earned a
Master of Science degree in Library
Science at the University of
Tennessee.
1980sSamantha Craig (1988) has
been selected as an Associated
Press Photographer of the Month for
November. She has had prints pub-
lished in “At the Yard”, “ESPN the
Magazine”, and “Baseball America”.
Brian Wetzel (1985) is the PGA
Golf Professional at Twin Falls
Resort State Park in Mullens, West
Virginia.
1990sKimberly M. Akers (1999) mar-
ried Matthew P. Collins (2002) on
July 17, 2004. She is employed by
St. Luke’s Hospital in the Health
Information Management
Department. He is employed by
Sears as an assistant store manager
in Beckley, West Virginia.
Robert Davis (1992) and his
wife, Angie, announce the birth of
twins, William Daniel and Bradley
Dare born December 30, 2004 at
Piedmont Women's Medical Center,
Rock Hill, South Carolina. He is
employed as District Manager for
Wal-Mart in Rock Hill, South
Carolina.
Jeffery B. Fields (1999) is the
new Assistant Dean at Patrick Henry
Community College in Martinsville,
Virginia.
James E. Hill (1996) is
employed by Pocahontas Land
Corporation as a GIS Technician.
Ryan “Cisco” Jackson (1998)
graduated from
the West
Virginia State
Police
Academy in
April 2004. He
is employed
with the
Princeton Detachment.
Dennis L. Jarvis II (1995) was
among 70 participants in the recent
Community Development Institute
East in Charleston, West Virginia and
was one of 20 to graduate from the
Institute. The initiative was sanc-
tioned by the International
Community Development Council to
enhance skill in “grassroots” econom-
ic development and capacity building.
Jarvis is Director of the Amherst
County (VA) Department of
Economic Development.
Jim Patton (1998) passed the
examination to become a Certified
Fraud Examiner. He was promoted
to Senior Associate at Brown
Edwards & Co. LLP in Bluefield,
West Virginia.
Elizabeth Rasi Toby (1999) and
Rick Toby announces the birth of
their daughter, Victoria Elaine, born
on November 16, 2004. She
received the President’s Club Award
for 2004 as the top pharmaceutical
sales representative in the nation for
Reliant.
2000sCorey D. Clark (2000) married
Melissa J. Hubbard on September 4,
2004. He is owner/operator of
Wheels LTD and X-treme Motor
Sports in Princeton, West Virginia.
Eric S. Collier (2000) married
Casey Marie Siner on November 13,
2004. He is employed by FKI
Logistex Industries Incorporated in
Cincinnati, Ohio, as a senior applica-
tions manager.
Kevin M. Gordon (2000)
received the President’s Service
Award in the Process Instruments
Division of Thermo Electron
Corporation. He is a Field Service
Engineer.
Matthew L. Harvey (2001) grad-
uated from the Appalachian School
of Law in May 2004. He is an asso-
ciate attorney at Brewster, Morhous,
Cameron, Caruth, Kersey & Stafford,
PLLC in Bluefield, West Virginia
Kimberly Long (2002) is the
assistant general manager and spe-
cialty leasing manager for Hanes
Mall in Winston-Salem, North
Carolina.
(continued on page 15)
Alumni UpdatesRequested
If you have received awards, pro-
motions, accomplishments, recog-
nition, have married or recently
welcomed an addition to your
family, please let us know.
Mail your news to
Karen Gordon
College and Media Relations
Bluefield State College
219 Rock Street
Bluefield, WV 24701
by FAX to 304-327-4581or by e-
mail to kgordon@bluefield
state.edu
Alumni Updates
- 15 -
The Reverend James H. Redd,Jr. (2003) married Teresa A. Smith on
November 6, 2004. He is employed
by Volvo in Dublin, Virginia and
serves as a pastor of Lovely Zion
Missionary Baptist Church in Kimball,
West Virginia.
Christopher S. Riffe (2004) mar-
ried Amanda M. Mitchem on
September 25, 2004. He is employed
by Frye Regional Medical Center in
Hickory, North Carolina.
Shannon "Smoove" Smith(2003) held his first art exhibit viewing
at the Hebert Gallery of the
Harris-Jefferson Student Center at
Bluefield State College from February
1-28. A special artist's reception was
held on February 9.
James R. “Bo” Stephenson(2001) married Rhyan B. Meade on
September 18, 2004. He is employed
as a department manager at Lowe’s
of Princeton, West Virginia.
Jennifer L. Villanueva (2003) is
employed by Pocahontas Land
Corporation as the Database
Administrator.
Christopher Watson (2000) is
current attending Trinity Law School in
Santana, California to continue his
graduate work.
Randa L. Wood (2004) married
Matthew L. Bowman on August 14,
2004. She is employed by Princeton
Community Hospital in Princeton,
West Virginia.
Former Big BluesAthletes
News Flash
Plans are being made for a
reunion of former Bluefield
State College student-athletes.
The reunion will be held at the
Ramada Inn, New Carrollton,
Maryland, June 24-26, 2005.
Additional information can be
obtained by contacting Frank
Parks (class of 1955), 4228
Kinmount Rd., Lanham, MD
20606 (phone 301-459-4509,
fax 301-459-7405).
In MemoriamEdna Motley Buchanan
Jerry Thomas Burton
Anthony Wallace Fine
Jerry Wayne Hall
Judith Ann Casey Jessee
Patricia Marie Prince
Garnett William Taylor
Vernon Leon Thompson
Kimberly Belcher Webb
Alumni Updates continued from page 14
From the Desk of Dr. Louis AikensPresident, Bluefield State College Alumni Association, Inc.
For many, many years, the Bluefield State College Alumni Association has opened
the door of educational opportunity at BSC by providing scholarships to deserving stu-
dents. In recent years, Alumni Association support has grown to a point where, during
the Fall 2004 Semester, a dozen scholars have entered into or continued their pursuit of a
college degree through BSCAA scholarships.
As I write this column, it is extremely gratifying to note that the 12 students who are
current recipients of Alumni Association scholarships compiled a composite academic
grade point average of 3.25 during the fall semester. Almost all have earned either
Dean’s List or President's List recognition for their achievement. Additionally, these stu-
dents’ majors span the breadth of Bluefield State College’s degree programs--from
Applied Sciences and Business to Civil Engineering Technology and Radiologic
Technology.
As you can see, the involvement of Bluefield State College graduates through the Alumni Association DOES
make a significant difference in the lives of the College’s current students and in the growth of our alma mater. To
the members of the Association, I express my heartfelt thanks for helping to make the academic goals of these stu-
dents a reality. To Bluefield State College graduates who have not yet joined the Association, Scholarship Committee
Chairman Ergie Smith and I extend a most sincere invitation to join YOUR College’s Alumni Association. In doing
so, you will make college possible for many, many students. At the same time, your insight, talent, and energy is
vitally needed and welcomed as the Alumni Association seeks to continue its role of service and support for our
College “on the terraced hills.”
Dr. Louis Aikens
219 Rock StreetBluefield, WV 24701
Address Service Requested
STD MAIL ANon-Profit Organization
U.S. Postage PaidPermit #139
Bluefield, WV 24701
www.bluefieldstate.edu
19th Annual Klingensmith Cup Invitational Golf TournamentThe 19th annual Klingensmith Cup Golf Tournament will be played on Monday May 16, 2005 at the Wolf Creek
Golf Course in Bastian, Virginia. This annual event is sponsored by Bluefield State College’s School of Engineering
Technology and Computer Science. All BSC faculty, students, and employees are invited to join in the fun with the
many BSC graduates who will participate in this event. This tournament allows participants to demonstrate their golf
skills and provides a unique setting to renew old acquaintances and to network with others having common interests.
The tournament format is set-up as a 4-golfer “captain’s choice” event and play begins with a shotgun start at 8
a.m. When play is completed, there will be a barbecue lunch and the awarding of prizes and trophies for the winners.
Most prizes are awarded through drawing numbers from a golf cap.
ENTRY DEADLINE IS MAY 9th
To enter, please send a check for $30, (students $10), and your PGA handicap or your estimated 18-hole score to:
Robert Faulds, Tournament Chair, HC 71, Box 416, Princeton, WV 24740.
The $30 entry fee is used to purchase prizes and to pay for lunch and drinks. Cart and greens fees are not includ-
ed in the entry fee and are to be paid directly to Wolf Creek Golf Club on tournament day. For this tournament, Wolf
Creek offers us a special low rate of $22 per person, covering cart and green fees charges. We encourage participants
to enter this tournament as four-golfer teams if possible. Singles will be grouped into teams of four as required to fit
the tournament format. If you are a single entrant but have playing partner preferences, please note when sending in
your entry fee.
Please respond to Robert Faulds by May 9th if you plan to participate. Guests are welcome. You can contact Mr.
Faulds via e-mail at: [email protected]
We are looking forward to another great tournament and hope to see you there.
