Southern Miss Marketing & PR http://www.usm.edu/pr/cms 2009-11-22T12:33:09+01:00 text/html 2009-11-20T16:06:26+01:00 http://www.usm.edu/pr/cms http://www.usm.edu/pr/cms/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=2983&Itemid=2 text/html 2009-11-20T16:01:40+01:00 http://www.usm.edu/pr/cms http://www.usm.edu/pr/cms/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=2982&Itemid=2 text/html 2009-11-20T12:16:16+01:00 http://www.usm.edu/pr/cms http://www.usm.edu/pr/cms/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=2981&Itemid=2 HATTIESBURG, Miss. – Renowned outdoors enthusiast Ben Willoughby shared his interest in Native American history during a visit with students at the University of Southern Mississippi’s DuBard School for Language Disorders on Friday. text/html 2009-11-20T10:21:41+01:00 http://www.usm.edu/pr/cms http://www.usm.edu/pr/cms/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=2980&Itemid=2 text/html 2009-11-19T16:47:20+01:00 http://www.usm.edu/pr/cms http://www.usm.edu/pr/cms/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=2979&Itemid=2 HATTIESBURG, Miss. – The School of Music at The University of Southern Mississippi and Parris Jewelers have come together to present the second Annual PRISM concert at 7 p.m. Thursday, Dec. 3 at the Lake Terrace Convention Center in Hattiesburg. The holiday PRISM concert serves as the main fundraiser for The Pride of Mississippi Marching Band and Dixie Darlings to support their trip to the 2010 Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade in text/html 2009-11-19T13:07:11+01:00 http://www.usm.edu/pr/cms http://www.usm.edu/pr/cms/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=2978&Itemid=2 The National Center for Spectator Sports Safety and Security (NCS4) at Southern Miss will conduct real-time testing and evaluation of surveillance technology in conjunction with the Golden Eagles’ home football game against the University of Tulsa on Saturday, Nov. 21 at M.M. Roberts Stadium. A total of 12 high-definition cameras will be positioned outside and inside the stadium complex to monitor fan activity. Two national surveillance companies – Avigilon and Pixel Velocity – have teamed up with the NCS4 to test the equipment and related procedures. This exercise serves as the launch of the national lab at NCS4 in which sophisticated testing of this nature will be conducted on a regular basis. “Video surveillance has surfaced as the top issue facing the security industry right now,” said Dr. Lou Marciani, NCS4 director. “The goal with our lab is to vet security solutions for sports at all levels, from college to professional. There is no one else right now doing what we are for collegiate venues through this lab.” Safety and security experts from across the country will serve as independent evaluators of the entire operation which includes a set of pre-arranged scenarios designed to mimic “suspicious” activities. The game-day test will begin with an initial scenario approximately 3½ hours before the 6:30 p.m. kickoff and continue until the final phase is completed during the first quarter. Jerry Surak, chief scientist with Science Applications International Corporation (SAIC), helped develop the scenarios that will be evaluated after spending more than a year working with NCS4 officials on the testing protocol. “What we have put together is so subtle that the average fan will probably not notice anything out of the ordinary,” said Surak. “However, if fans do see something suspicious and decide to report it, that would certainly be a good thing.” The lab test will also involve members of the Southern Miss Police Department as well as law enforcement representatives and emergency management officials from the surrounding area. University Police Chief Bob Hopkins said the surveillance test should not cause any game-day disruptions. “Our fans should be aware that this exercise will not interfere with their game-day experience,” said Hopkins. “As always we want them to be vigilant and to report anything suspicious or out of the ordinary to one of our uniformed officers or by calling 601.266.4986.” Fans who wish to report unruly behavior or related incidents may also use the text-messaging system already in place for Southern Miss home games. Fans can simply text “4153”, followed by “USM”, followed by a space, then a brief description of the incident and location. “There’s really a two-pronged payoff to what we’re doing with this lab experiment,” said Marciani. “On one hand we get to test the protocols and procedures we’ve been working on here at the National Center for the past two years. “But we’re also providing a test lab for these surveillance companies to determine whether or not their equipment can perform exactly as advertised.” Established in 2006, NCS4 is the only sports security training organization of its kind in the United States and remains the recognized leader in addressing potential threats and risks to the safety and security of sporting events. Through research, education and innovative solutions, the center continues to enhance the level of preparedness at sporting venues worldwide. About The University of Southern MississippiThe University of Southern Mississippi, founded in 1910, is a comprehensive doctoral and research-extensive university fulfilling its mission of being a leading university in engaging and empowering individuals to transform lives and communities. In a tradition of leadership for student development, Southern Miss is educating a 21st century work force providing intellectual capital, cultural enrichment and innovation to Mississippi and the world. Southern Miss is located in Hattiesburg, Miss., with an additional campus and teaching and research sites on the Mississippi Gulf Coast; further information is found at www.usm.edu (http://www.usm.edu/). text/html 2009-11-19T13:04:29+01:00 http://www.usm.edu/pr/cms http://www.usm.edu/pr/cms/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=2977&Itemid=2 The National Collegiate Athletic Association announced Wednesday, Nov. 18, its Graduation Success Rate (GSR) for student-athletes who were enrolled in school during the 1999 through 2002 academic years and The University of Southern Mississippi compiled a 85 percent Graduation Success Rate over a four-year term. The most recent national GSR data shows that 79 percent of freshmen student-athletes who entered college nationally in 2002 earned their four-year degrees. The NCAA also released the Department of Education’s Federal Graduation Rate data for the 2002-03 class. The Southern Miss athletes outperformed the general student body in the government report, the graduation rate for all students at Southern Miss was at 43 percent and the four-class average for that study was at 46 percent, compared to a 70 percent and 66 percent rate for Golden Eagle student-athletes, respectively. “It is a testament to the hard work our student-athletes, academic staff and faculty continue to put in each and every semester for our outstanding graduation rates,” said Southern Miss Athletics Director Richard Giannini. “Once again, we did very well across the board and for the second-straight year were 20 points higher than the general student body. “It shows that our athletes are students first and their earning a degree from Southern Miss is most important and a very high priority.” The sport of men’s tennis led the way for the men’s programs 100 percent GSR, while baseball was next at 90, following by football at 84 percent, golf at 80 percent and basketball at 61 percent. The men’s program also recently captured the 2009 David M. Halbrook Award for Academic Achievement among Athletes having the best graduation rate of any of the eight public universities in the state of Mississippi. On the women’s side, golf, softball, tennis and volleyball each tallied a GSR of 100 percent, while soccer was 90 percent, cross country/track at 79 percent and basketball 77 percent. About The University of Southern MississippiThe University of Southern Mississippi, founded in 1910, is a comprehensive doctoral and research-extensive university fulfilling its mission of being a leading university in engaging and empowering individuals to transform lives and communities. In a tradition of leadership for student development, Southern Miss is educating a 21st century work force providing intellectual capital, cultural enrichment and innovation to Mississippi and the world. Southern Miss is located in Hattiesburg, Miss., with an additional campus and teaching and research sites on the Mississippi Gulf Coast; further information is found at www.usm.edu (http://www.usm.edu/). text/html 2009-11-19T11:45:23+01:00 http://www.usm.edu/pr/cms http://www.usm.edu/pr/cms/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=2976&Itemid=2 text/html 2009-11-19T09:01:35+01:00 http://www.usm.edu/pr/cms http://www.usm.edu/pr/cms/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=2975&Itemid=2 This briefs package highlights timely news and events from The University of Southern Mississippi. For more information on any of the stories below or for assistance in arranging interviews, contact the Office of University Communications at 601.266.4491. Fair Housing Workshop Set for Ocean Springs JACKSON, Miss. – The Mississippi Development Authority, Disaster Recovery Division, in collaboration with The University of Southern Mississippi Institute for Disability Studies, will hold a workshop on fair housing law at 6 p.m. on Tuesday, Dec. 1 at the Holiday Inn Express at 7301 Washington Ave. in Ocean Springs, Miss. The Fair Housing Act protects citizens from housing discrimination on the basis of race, color, national origin, religion, sex, familial status or disability. Federal laws prohibit any organization, entity or government from violating fair housing laws. This workshop will provide information on fair housing as it pertains to homeowners, homebuyers, landlords, renters and the general public. For more information contact Cindy Griffin, fair housing coordinator at the Institute for Disability Studies Jackson office at 1-866-883-4474 or 601-432-6933 or by e-mail at cgriffin@ihl.state.ms.us (mailto:cgriffin@ihl.state.ms.us) Fans Encouraged to Bring Canned Goods to Football Game HATTIESBURG, Miss. – A week of festivities focused on fighting hunger in the Hattiesburg area will culminate Saturday, Nov. 21 with a canned goods drive in conjunction with the Southern Miss Golden Eagles’ home football game against Tulsa. The Student-Athlete Advisory Committee and Office of Community Service Learning have teamed up for the week-long initiative as part of Conference USA’s effort to unite all member institutions through community outreach programs. All fans are asked to bring canned goods to the drop-off location at the corner of Black and Gold Blvd. and Golden Eagle Ave. Collection will begin at 2:30 p.m. and end 30 minutes before the 6:30 p.m. kickoff. For more information contact Lauren Hillman at 601-266-5472 or Joshua Duplantis at 601-266-6467. About The University of Southern MississippiThe University of Southern Mississippi, founded in 1910, is a comprehensive doctoral and research-extensive university fulfilling its mission of being a leading university in engaging and empowering individuals to transform lives and communities. In a tradition of leadership for student development, Southern Miss is educating a 21st century work force providing intellectual capital, cultural enrichment and innovation to Mississippi and the world. Southern Miss is located in Hattiesburg, Miss., with an additional campus and teaching and research sites on the Mississippi Gulf Coast; further information is found at www.usm.edu (http://www.usm.edu/). text/html 2009-11-19T08:42:42+01:00 http://www.usm.edu/pr/cms http://www.usm.edu/pr/cms/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=2974&Itemid=2 Sounds of the season will reverberate throughout the sanctuary at Main Street Baptist Church in Hattiesburg as The University of Southern Mississippi Symphony Orchestra presents its Holiday Choral Spectacular at 7:30 p.m. on Tuesday, Dec. 1. In addition to the Symphony Orchestra, the special evening of music will also feature the combined voices of the Hattiesburg Choral Union and Meistersingers; Carillon hand bell choir and other choral ensembles. Tickets are $22 and a portion of the proceeds will benefit The Children’s Center for Communication and Development at Southern Miss. “Besides the obvious benefit of additional resources for our young students with disabilities, we are privileged and honored to be in the company of the Southern Miss Symphony Orchestra and choirs,” said Margaret Buttross-Brinegar, Children’s Center director. “Our partnership continues to shine the spotlight on all children this holiday season, but in particular our children who are challenged daily in their communication and development.” The holiday collaboration between the Symphony Orchestra and Children’s Center has turned into an annual event that provides a rewarding payoff for both parties. Jennifer Hart, marketing and educational outreach coordinator with the Symphony Orchestra, said the Holiday Choral Spectacular would serve as the ideal Christmas gift. “In this stressful economic time, I think it would be a great idea to give tickets to this event to friends and family so that those of us who have more than we need can help these children and their families,” Hart said. The Children’s Center, a United Way agency, is an early intervention program serving communicatively- and developmentally-delayed children from infancy through age 5. Direct services are provided to more than 70 children and their families from 18 counties in the state, while training university students in speech and hearing sciences and other allied health disciplines. For ticket information about the Holiday Choral Spectacular, call 601-266-5222 or visit www.usm.edu/childrenscenter (http://www.usm.edu/childrenscenter) About The University of Southern MississippiThe University of Southern Mississippi, founded in 1910, is a comprehensive doctoral and research-extensive university fulfilling its mission of being a leading university in engaging and empowering individuals to transform lives and communities. In a tradition of leadership for student development, Southern Miss is educating a 21st century work force providing intellectual capital, cultural enrichment and innovation to Mississippi and the world. Southern Miss is located in Hattiesburg, Miss., with an additional campus and teaching and research sites on the Mississippi Gulf Coast; further information is found at www.usm.edu (http://www.usm.edu/). text/html 2009-11-19T08:35:56+01:00 http://www.usm.edu/pr/cms http://www.usm.edu/pr/cms/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=2973&Itemid=2 The ¡Miércoles Gigante! Spanish Variety Show, presented by the University of Southern Mississippi Department of Foreign Languages and Literatures’ Spanish Program, drew students to the Power House restaurant Wednesday on the university’s Hattiesburg campus for a variety of talent acts in the Spanish language. The event was one of many activities held in conjunction with International Education Week. (Southern Miss photo by Steve Rouse) About The University of Southern MississippiThe University of Southern Mississippi, founded in 1910, is a comprehensive doctoral and research-extensive university fulfilling its mission of being a leading university in engaging and empowering individuals to transform lives and communities. In a tradition of leadership for student development, Southern Miss is educating a 21st century work force providing intellectual capital, cultural enrichment and innovation to Mississippi and the world. Southern Miss is located in Hattiesburg, Miss., with an additional campus and teaching and research sites on the Mississippi Gulf Coast; further information is found at www.usm.edu (http://www.usm.edu/). text/html 2009-11-19T08:08:55+01:00 http://www.usm.edu/pr/cms http://www.usm.edu/pr/cms/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=2972&Itemid=2 University of Southern Mississippi students, faculty and staff met Wednesday at the Thad Cochran Center on the Hattiesburg campus to discuss plans for The Big Event, a university-wide community service project set for April 10, 2010 designed to showcase the school’s commitment to Hattiesburg and surrounding areas through volunteerism. Details about the event were unveiled and members of the university community were informed about how they can be part of the historic event, which is part of the university’s year-long schedule of Centennial Celebration activities. Organizers hope what will become an annual event will draw more than 500 members of the Southern Miss family out into South Mississippi communities that day for a variety of service initiatives, from repairing homes to beautification projects. Southern Miss Student Government Association President J.R. Robinson addresses students, faculty and staff Wednesday at an organizational meeting to plan The Big Event, a a university-wide community service project set for April 10, 2010 to showcase the school’s commitment to Hattiesburg and surrounding areas through volunteerism. The Big Event is among the university’s Centennial Celebration activities. (Southern Miss photo by Steve Rouse) Southern Miss students sign up for volunteer assignments as part of The Big Event, a university-wide community service project set for April 10, 2010. The Big Event, part of the university’s year-long schedule of Centennial Celebration activities, offers members of the university family the opportunity to give back to Hattiesburg and surrounding communities through volunteerism. (Southern Miss photo by Steve Rouse) About The University of Southern MississippiThe University of Southern Mississippi, founded in 1910, is a comprehensive doctoral and research-extensive university fulfilling its mission of being a leading university in engaging and empowering individuals to transform lives and communities. In a tradition of leadership for student development, Southern Miss is educating a 21st century work force providing intellectual capital, cultural enrichment and innovation to Mississippi and the world. Southern Miss is located in Hattiesburg, Miss., with an additional campus and teaching and research sites on the Mississippi Gulf Coast; further information is found at www.usm.edu (http://www.usm.edu/). text/html 2009-11-18T13:49:02+01:00 http://www.usm.edu/pr/cms http://www.usm.edu/pr/cms/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=2971&Itemid=2 Twenty-five University of Southern Mississippi students will have the opportunity to participate in the university’s study abroad and exchange programs thanks to a generous gift from the Luckyday Foundation. The scholarships, worth $4,000 each, will aid students studying abroad in the program of their choice through the fall 2010 semester. It is the largest number of study abroad scholarships awarded by the foundation to Southern Miss students since the Luckyday Citizenship Scholars Program was established at the university in 2002. The Luckyday Citizenship Program promotes education both inside and outside of the traditional classroom experience, said Dr. Larry Sparkman, director of the Luckyday Citizenship Scholars program at Southern Miss. “The Luckyday Foundation has given generously to Southern Miss students, allowing them to dream new dreams through real life experiences abroad.” The scholarships were awarded by a review committee through a competitive scholarship competition that included sophomore, junior and senior Luckyday Citizenship Scholars. Students will study in programs such as the Caribbean Studies Program, the Abbey Program in Pontlevoy, France and the British Studies Program, among others. To date, the Luckyday Foundation has enabled more than 120 students from The University of Southern Mississippi to study abroad in the program of their choice. “We’re grateful for this generous gift from the Luckyday Foundation, and for its continued support of international education opportunities for our students,” said Dr. Susan Steen, director of Southern Miss International Education. Students selected and their hometowns include: Ross Baylis, Courtney Guess, Kimberly-Joy Lockley, Megan McPhail, Ashley Prine, and Britny West, Hattiesburg; Bonnie Lucas, Petal; Chelsea and Carlee Lewis, Brooklyn; Alicia Augustine, Gulfport; Kirsten Cooley, Katherine Love, Haley Massey and Chelsea Townsend, Brandon; Tamara Doyle, Biloxi; Jennifer Flint, Batesville; Weston Harwell, Poplarville; Alexia Heard, Tupelo; Monica Labit, Lucedale; Christopher Ladner, Picayune; Kayla Moorer, Laurel; Jordan Randall, Ocean Springs; Carlos Stallworth, Moss Point; Jordan Towne, Vicksburg; and Tonya Yancey, Jackson. Founded by the late Frank R. Day of Jackson, the Luckyday Foundation initiated funding for 400 scholarships annually worth $1.6 million at Southern Miss beginning in 2002 to assist Mississippi high school seniors who demonstrate leadership skills; academic potential; are involved in their communities; and demonstrate a need for financial assistance to pursue a degree at Southern Miss. In 2010 the scholarship will provide 100 entering freshmen with $4,000-per-year scholarships, with up to four years renewable. Each year, 100 freshman scholarships will be added and the previous scholarships renewed, provided recipients continue to meet eligibility criteria. To provide an extra incentive for recipients to excel, the program awards study abroad scholarships. Luckyday Scholars also receive support and encouragement to help assure their academic success through a Luckyday Citizenship seminar; a study skills course; designated housing assignments to encourage a living/learning community; community service learning requirements; and many other opportunities. For more information about the Luckday Program at Southern Miss, online visit www.usm.edu/luckyday/program (http://www.usm.edu/luckyday/program). For more information about Southern Miss International Education programs, online visit www.usm.edu/internationaledu (http://www.usm.edu/internationaledu) About The University of Southern MississippiThe University of Southern Mississippi, founded in 1910, is a comprehensive doctoral and research-extensive university fulfilling its mission of being a leading university in engaging and empowering individuals to transform lives and communities. In a tradition of leadership for student development, Southern Miss is educating a 21st century work force providing intellectual capital, cultural enrichment and innovation to Mississippi and the world. Southern Miss is located in Hattiesburg, Miss., with an additional campus and teaching and research sites on the Mississippi Gulf Coast; further information is found at www.usm.edu (http://www.usm.edu/). text/html 2009-11-18T13:43:09+01:00 http://www.usm.edu/pr/cms http://www.usm.edu/pr/cms/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=2970&Itemid=2 This briefs package highlights timely news and events from The University of Southern Mississippi. For more information on any of the stories below or for assistance in arranging interviews, contact the Office of University Communications at 601.266.4491. Army ROTC 5k Run/Walk to Benefit Wounded Warrior Project HATTIESBURG, Miss. – The Army ROTC program at The University of Southern Mississippi will host the 3rd Annual Purple Heart 5k Run/Walk Saturday, Nov. 21 at Pride Field on the Hattiesburg campus. Cadets and cadre coordinated this event to raise funds and awareness about the Wounded Warrior Project, which is a non-profit organization that provides tangible support for physically and mentally wounded veterans of the United States military. “This is the last Southern Miss home football game, and it is also the Military Appreciation game,” said Teresa Dalgleish, administrative assistant for Army ROTC. “What better way to start off such a day than by raising money for our nation’s heroes.” Registration begins at 7 a.m. and will end at 8:50 a.m. For more information, contact Teresa Dalgleish at 601.266.4456 or visit http://www.usm.edu/armyrotc (http://www.usm.edu/armyrotc). Art Professor Exhibits Work in Nationally Juried Competitions HATTIESBURG, Miss. -- Oil paintings by University of Southern Mississippi professor of art and design DeAnna Douglas were recently exhibited in two nationally juried competitions. “These juried competitions allow me to get feedback on my work and to represent Southern Miss on a national level,” said Douglas. Her painting “Illinois Coal Mine” was one of 79 pieces selected from a pool of 700 at the 38th annual Brand 38: Works on Paper exhibition presented by the Associates of the Brand Library Art Center in Glendale, California Sept. 19 – Oct. 23. She received an award of merit for another oil painting titled “Puzzle Piece” in the 13th Annual Rio Brazos Art Exhibition Oct. 11 in Granbury, Texas. Douglas teaches foundation and graphic design at Southern Miss. Spring Pottery and Art Sale Set for Dec. 4 and 5 HATTIESBURG, Miss. ¬-- Artwork for every style and taste will be on sale at the Annual Holiday Pottery and Art Sale sponsored by the 3D Arts area of the Department of Art and Design Dec. 4 from 1 p.m. – 6 p.m. and Dec. 5 from 9 a.m. – 1 p.m. Ceramic sculptures and other forms of creative expressions by students, faculty and staff will be on sale at the 3D Arts Building, 2905 West 4th Street on the Hattiesburg campus. A percentage of the proceeds will help purchase a clay mixer for students. “Last year’s Holiday Pottery and Art Sale was a great success and any folks took home some lovely objects for holiday gifts. Some serious collectors also walked away with quality ceramic works as well,” said Jennifer Torres, associate professor and area coordinator. Cash sales only, no checks or credit cards will be accepted. Mississippi sales tax is applicable to purchases. For more information, contact 601.266.4972 or email Jennifer Torres at Jennifer.Torres@usm.edu (mailto:Jennifer.Torres@usm.edu). About The University of Southern MississippiThe University of Southern Mississippi, founded in 1910, is a comprehensive doctoral and research-extensive university fulfilling its mission of being a leading university in engaging and empowering individuals to transform lives and communities. In a tradition of leadership for student development, Southern Miss is educating a 21st century work force providing intellectual capital, cultural enrichment and innovation to Mississippi and the world. Southern Miss is located in Hattiesburg, Miss., with an additional campus and teaching and research sites on the Mississippi Gulf Coast; further information is found at www.usm.edu (http://www.usm.edu/). text/html 2009-11-18T08:49:23+01:00 http://www.usm.edu/pr/cms http://www.usm.edu/pr/cms/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=2968&Itemid=2 Gregg Gillis, better known as Girl Talk, will headline The University of Southern Mississippi’s sixth annual Eaglepalooza set for Nov. 20 on Main Street in downtown Hattiesburg. The event, hosted by the Southern Miss Student Government Association and Brownstone’s Restaurant, kicks off at 6 p.m., and is free to the public. “We are looking forward to seeing new faces in the crowd and having Eaglepalooza veterans return to carry on the tradition,” said SGA president, J.R. Robinson. The event will be packed with live entertainment, starting off the night with Foulon Brothers from Picayune and Grupo Fantasma from Austin, Texas. S.M.A.A.S.H., who originated on the Southern Miss campus, will follow and lead into the Girl Talk performance. The Eaglepalooza performance schedule, along with the Southern Miss pep rally, includes the following: • 6 p.m.- Foulon Brothers • 7 p.m.- S.M.A.A.S.H • 8 p.m.- Grupo Fantasma• 9 p.m.- Southern Miss Pep Rally• 10 p.m.- Girl Talk Southern Miss will provide transportation to students, at no cost, to the event via a shuttle service from the university’s freshman quad to downtown Hattiesburg from 6 p.m.-12:30 a.m. The event is co sponsored by Southern Miss Activities Council, Caliente Grille, The Bottling Company, Hampton Inn, The Reserve at Park Place, Parkwest Apts., and Westover Apts. About The University of Southern MississippiThe University of Southern Mississippi, founded in 1910, is a comprehensive doctoral and research-extensive university fulfilling its mission of being a leading university in engaging and empowering individuals to transform lives and communities. In a tradition of leadership for student development, Southern Miss is educating a 21st century work force providing intellectual capital, cultural enrichment and innovation to Mississippi and the world. Southern Miss is located in Hattiesburg, Miss., with an additional campus and teaching and research sites on the Mississippi Gulf Coast; further information is found at www.usm.edu (http://www.usm.edu/). text/html 2009-11-18T08:35:23+01:00 http://www.usm.edu/pr/cms http://www.usm.edu/pr/cms/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=2967&Itemid=2 Dr. Jeannie Gillespie, associate dean for The University of Southern Mississippi College of Arts and Letters, talks to a student about Spanish culture at an information table hosted by the Department of Foreign Languages and Literatures as part of International Education Week Nov. 16-20. International Education Week is a campus-wide celebration of music, language, art and cultures of the world. (Southern Miss photo by Tearanny Street) About The University of Southern MississippiThe University of Southern Mississippi, founded in 1910, is a comprehensive doctoral and research-extensive university fulfilling its mission of being a leading university in engaging and empowering individuals to transform lives and communities. In a tradition of leadership for student development, Southern Miss is educating a 21st century work force providing intellectual capital, cultural enrichment and innovation to Mississippi and the world. Southern Miss is located in Hattiesburg, Miss., with an additional campus and teaching and research sites on the Mississippi Gulf Coast; further information is found at www.usm.edu (http://www.usm.edu/). text/html 2009-11-17T15:45:57+01:00 http://www.usm.edu/pr/cms http://www.usm.edu/pr/cms/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=2966&Itemid=2 text/html 2009-11-17T14:35:29+01:00 http://www.usm.edu/pr/cms http://www.usm.edu/pr/cms/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=2965&Itemid=2 text/html 2009-11-17T11:32:17+01:00 http://www.usm.edu/pr/cms http://www.usm.edu/pr/cms/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=2964&Itemid=2 Known worldwide for its natural and architectural beauty, Granada, Spain is one of the many study abroad destinations offered to students at The University of Southern Mississippi. This week Southern Miss is promoting those programs and the many international cultures represented at the university during International Education Week, which is a joint venture of the U.S. departments of State and Education designed as a celebration of international culture on university and college campuses worldwide. It also promotes the benefits of international study and exchange programs. For more information about international study abroad and exchange programs at the university, call 601.266.4344; online, visit www.usm.edu/internationaled (http://www.usm.edu/internationaled) About The University of Southern MississippiThe University of Southern Mississippi, founded in 1910, is a comprehensive doctoral and research-extensive university fulfilling its mission of being a leading university in engaging and empowering individuals to transform lives and communities. In a tradition of leadership for student development, Southern Miss is educating a 21st century work force providing intellectual capital, cultural enrichment and innovation to Mississippi and the world. Southern Miss is located in Hattiesburg, Miss., with an additional campus and teaching and research sites on the Mississippi Gulf Coast; further information is found at www.usm.edu (http://www.usm.edu/). text/html 2009-11-17T11:11:45+01:00 http://www.usm.edu/pr/cms http://www.usm.edu/pr/cms/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=2963&Itemid=2 From left, Dr. Susan Steen, director of International Education at The University of Southern Mississippi; Southern Miss President Martha Saunders; Ranjana Srevatsan, an international development doctoral student at the university from India; and Rachel Marlow of Virginia Beach, Va., a Southern Miss senior who has participated in the university’s study abroad programs, meet Monday to present Saunders with a decree recognizing and endorsing International Education Week for her signature. A joint effort between the U.S. departments of State and Education, International Education Week is designed as a celebration of international culture on university and college campuses worldwide. It also promotes the benefits of international study and exchange programs. (Southern Miss photo by David Tisdale) About The University of Southern MississippiThe University of Southern Mississippi, founded in 1910, is a comprehensive doctoral and research-extensive university fulfilling its mission of being a leading university in engaging and empowering individuals to transform lives and communities. In a tradition of leadership for student development, Southern Miss is educating a 21st century work force providing intellectual capital, cultural enrichment and innovation to Mississippi and the world. Southern Miss is located in Hattiesburg, Miss., with an additional campus and teaching and research sites on the Mississippi Gulf Coast; further information is found at www.usm.edu (http://www.usm.edu/). text/html 2009-11-17T09:38:22+01:00 http://www.usm.edu/pr/cms http://www.usm.edu/pr/cms/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=2962&Itemid=2 Stephanie McGrew’s love for fashion comes across the instant she begins discussing the subject. Recently the University of Southern Mississippi senior managed to parlay that deep-seated affection into a trip to New York City as part of Teen Vogue magazine’s Fashion University. McGrew, 21, was chosen along with several other college students from across the country for the four-day seminar (Oct. 21-24) after writing an essay about why fashion meant so much to her. “I’m a big fan of the magazine and I saw an ad in it a few months back about the essay contest,” said McGrew, a fashion merchandising major from Jackson, Miss. “I just answered a series of questions and completed the essay portion online and didn’t think much about it for a while. “Then I got a text on my BlackBerry one day saying I had been chosen and I just started screaming.” McGrew had to pay her own travel and lodging expenses but she considers the insight gained from the multi-faced seminar invaluable. “We had classes set up by experts in the industry and we got to meet a lot of designers,” she said. “Plus, there were editors from fashion magazines and other publications available to answer any questions. It was wonderful.” For more information about the Southern Miss Department of Marketing and Fashion Merchandising call 601-266-4659.Stephanie McGrew About The University of Southern MississippiThe University of Southern Mississippi, founded in 1910, is a comprehensive doctoral and research-extensive university fulfilling its mission of being a leading university in engaging and empowering individuals to transform lives and communities. In a tradition of leadership for student development, Southern Miss is educating a 21st century work force providing intellectual capital, cultural enrichment and innovation to Mississippi and the world. Southern Miss is located in Hattiesburg, Miss., with an additional campus and teaching and research sites on the Mississippi Gulf Coast; further information is found at www.usm.edu (http://www.usm.edu/). text/html 2009-11-16T16:49:39+01:00 http://www.usm.edu/pr/cms http://www.usm.edu/pr/cms/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=2961&Itemid=2 text/html 2009-11-16T16:12:23+01:00 http://www.usm.edu/pr/cms http://www.usm.edu/pr/cms/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=2960&Itemid=2 text/html 2009-11-16T15:44:11+01:00 http://www.usm.edu/pr/cms http://www.usm.edu/pr/cms/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=2959&Itemid=2 text/html 2009-11-16T10:10:23+01:00 http://www.usm.edu/pr/cms http://www.usm.edu/pr/cms/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=2957&Itemid=2 Three leading health experts from across the Southeast will help usher in the 2009-2010 University of Southern Mississippi College of Health Scholar Series sponsored by Hattiesburg Clinic. The six-part series kicks off Thursday, Nov. 19 from 2:30-4 p.m. in Room 210 of the Thad Cochran Center with a presentation by Dr. Thomas E. Dobbs, health officer with the Mississippi State Department of Health. Dobbs will discuss pandemic influenza and the H1N1 virus. “We are fortunate to have the support of Hattiesburg Clinic for sponsoring our speakers,” said Dr. Denise Brown, associate professor in the Department of Nutrition and Food Systems at Southern Miss. “The university and community will benefit from the information and experience provided by these experts in the various health disciplines.” Dr. Dobbs’ presentation is especially relevant given the widespread outbreak of the H1N1 virus (swine flu). As of Nov. 5, the Mississippi State Department of Health confirmed 1,237 cases of H1N1 influenza, including 10 deaths. The series continues Tuesday, Dec. 1 at the same time and location with a presentation by Dr. John Bolland, professor and endowed research chair in the College of Human Environmental Sciences at the University of Alabama. His speech is titled “Conducting Longitudinal Research on Underclass Adolescents: Prospects and Challenges.” On Tuesday, Jan. 26, also at the same time and location, Dr. James Kaput will deliver his presentation, “Improving Personal and Public Health: Community Based Participatory Nutrigenomics Research.” Kaput is director, Division of Personalized Nutrition and Medicine, FDA/National Center for Toxicological Research in Jefferson, Ark. Additional speakers and dates will be announced at a later time. All sessions are open to the general public free of charge. For more information call 601-266-5253 or visit www.usm.edu/coh/ (http://www.usm.edu/coh/) About The University of Southern MississippiThe University of Southern Mississippi, founded in 1910, is a comprehensive doctoral and research-extensive university fulfilling its mission of being a leading university in engaging and empowering individuals to transform lives and communities. In a tradition of leadership for student development, Southern Miss is educating a 21st century work force providing intellectual capital, cultural enrichment and innovation to Mississippi and the world. Southern Miss is located in Hattiesburg, Miss., with an additional campus and teaching and research sites on the Mississippi Gulf Coast; further information is found at www.usm.edu (http://www.usm.edu/). text/html 2009-11-16T09:16:57+01:00 http://www.usm.edu/pr/cms http://www.usm.edu/pr/cms/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=2956&Itemid=2 The Student-Athlete Advisory Committee (SAAC) and Office of Community Service Learning at The University of Southern Mississippi are spearheading a week of activities focused fighting hunger in the Hattiesburg area. Activities during Let’s SAAC Hunger Week Nov. 16-21, will be directed toward collecting canned goods to be donated to Christian Services and the Edwards Street Fellowship Center in Hattiesburg. The observance is part of the Conference-USA initiative to unite all member institutions through conference-wide community outreach. The winning institution will be determined by the weight of the canned goods donated. The Southern Miss effort is also supported by the Residence Hall Association, Greek Life and the Office of Student Activities and all student groups and community members are invited to participate. Listed below are dates and details for Let’s SAAC Hunger Week: • Monday - Friday, Nov. 16-21 –Faculty, staff and students are encouraged to bring canned goods during business hours to the Office of Community Service Learning, located in the Hub, Room 104. • Saturday, Nov. 21 – The effort will wrap up at the Southern Miss vs. Tulsa football game. All fans are encouraged to bring canned goods to the drop-off location at the corner of Black and Gold Blvd. and Golden Eagle Avenue. Collection will begin at 2:30 p.m. and end 30 minutes before kickoff. • Monday, Nov. 23 – The canned goods weigh-in begins at 1:30 p.m. Distribution to centers benefitting will begin immediately. For more information call Lauren Hillman at 601.266.5472 or Joshua Duplantis at 601.266,6467. Representatives from the Southern Miss Student-Athlete Advisory Committee, Office of Community Service Learning, Residence Hall Association and Greek Life met with Southern Miss President Martha Saunders Wednesday, as she signed a Proclamation designating the week of Nov. 16-21, 2009 as “Let’s SAAC Hunger” week. From left are Brandon Dobson, Greek Life graduate assistant; Kelley Rooney, SAAC president and cross country student-athlete; Terrance Pope, Southern Miss football player; Saunders, Kristen Chodrick, RHA director; and Greg Gandy, Student United Way president. (Southern Miss photo by Steve Rouse) About The University of Southern MississippiThe University of Southern Mississippi, founded in 1910, is a comprehensive doctoral and research-extensive university fulfilling its mission of being a leading university in engaging and empowering individuals to transform lives and communities. In a tradition of leadership for student development, Southern Miss is educating a 21st century work force providing intellectual capital, cultural enrichment and innovation to Mississippi and the world. Southern Miss is located in Hattiesburg, Miss., with an additional campus and teaching and research sites on the Mississippi Gulf Coast; further information is found at www.usm.edu (http://www.usm.edu/). text/html 2009-11-14T12:52:55+01:00 http://www.usm.edu/pr/cms http://www.usm.edu/pr/cms/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=2955&Itemid=2 text/html 2009-11-13T16:25:43+01:00 http://www.usm.edu/pr/cms http://www.usm.edu/pr/cms/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=2954&Itemid=2 text/html 2009-11-13T16:02:14+01:00 http://www.usm.edu/pr/cms http://www.usm.edu/pr/cms/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=2953&Itemid=2 text/html 2009-11-13T12:08:38+01:00 http://www.usm.edu/pr/cms http://www.usm.edu/pr/cms/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=2952&Itemid=2 text/html 2009-11-12T17:05:57+01:00 http://www.usm.edu/pr/cms http://www.usm.edu/pr/cms/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=2951&Itemid=2 text/html 2009-11-12T13:56:21+01:00 http://www.usm.edu/pr/cms http://www.usm.edu/pr/cms/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=2950&Itemid=2 For the second consecutive year, a University of Southern Mississippi faculty member has captured the Mississippi Society of CPA (MSCPA) Accounting Educator of the Year award. Dr. Stan Clark, a professor in the Southern Miss School of Accountancy, follows in the footsteps of colleague Rod Posey as the 2010 recipient. Since the award’s inception in 1987, this marks the first time that instructors from the same school have captured the honor in successive years. “This is certainly the biggest honor I’ve ever had in my career,” said Clark, who has been an instructor at Southern Miss since 1990. “You look at the names who have won this in the past, and it’s just incredible to think I’m included with them. “And it’s another great honor to follow one of my heroes in Rod Posey. I think having two in a row from our university win this award says a lot about the accountancy program we have here at Southern Miss.” Each fall the MSCPA Education Scholarships Committee solicits nominations from its 2,600 members for the Educator of the Year award presented to an instructor who has made significant contributions in the field of accounting. Clark, 49, will receive his award during the MSCPA Annual Business Meeting set for June 26, 2010 at Sandestin Golf Beach Resort in Destin, Fla. “Stan is a leader in accounting education in the state and has been very active in committee service and education programs of the Mississippi Society of CPAs,” said Jack Coppenbarger, executive director of the MSCPA. “For many years he has been a regular presenter in our Continuing Education Program leading seminars and presenting at conferences and at our chapters across the state.” Clark, a Decatur, Miss., native, earned his undergraduate and master’s degrees in accounting from Southern Miss before obtaining his doctorate at the University of Kentucky. He tries to instill in his accounting students the importance of critical thinking. “I try to guide them to learn to think through problems,” said Clark. “Accounting is about solving problems in a lot of cases, and I want students to not concentrate so much on memorization as thinking through a process to reach a solution.” Dr. K.E. “Skip” Hughes, director of the School of Accountancy at Southern Miss, said the award is a testament to Clark’s commitment as an educator. “Everyone who knows anything about Stan Clark, knows that he is the consummate teacher who wears his concern for student learning on his sleeve,” said Hughes. “He is an exemplar whom we fellow teachers continually aspire to emulate.”Dr. Stan Clark About The University of Southern MississippiThe University of Southern Mississippi, founded in 1910, is a comprehensive doctoral and research-extensive university fulfilling its mission of being a leading university in engaging and empowering individuals to transform lives and communities. In a tradition of leadership for student development, Southern Miss is educating a 21st century work force providing intellectual capital, cultural enrichment and innovation to Mississippi and the world. Southern Miss is located in Hattiesburg, Miss., with an additional campus and teaching and research sites on the Mississippi Gulf Coast; further information is found at www.usm.edu (http://www.usm.edu/). text/html 2009-11-12T13:27:54+01:00 http://www.usm.edu/pr/cms http://www.usm.edu/pr/cms/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=2949&Itemid=2 This briefs package highlights timely news and events from The University of Southern Mississippi. For more information on any of the stories below or for assistance in arranging interviews, contact the Department of Marketing and Public Relations at 228.865.4573. • Holiday Choral Spectacular Dec. 1 at Main Street Baptist• Bowling for Bow Wows Nov. 18• Walk a Mile in Her Shoes Nov. 19 at Shoemaker Square• McCain Online Exhibit Features State Anti-Communism Efforts• Kolin Articles on Emmett Till Published Holiday Choral Spectacular Benefiting Children’s Center Dec. 1 HATTIESBURG, Miss. – The University of Southern Mississippi Symphony Orchestra will perform in the Holiday Choral Spectacular Tuesday, Dec. 1 at 7:30 p.m. at Main Street Baptist Church in Hattiesburg. Tickets are $22 and a portion of the proceeds benefit the Children’s Center for Communication and Development at Southern Miss. Founded more than 35 years ago, the Children’s Center is an early intervention program serving infants, toddlers and preschoolers with communicative and developmental disabilities. It is a clinical division of the Department of Speech and Hearing Sciences and a United Way agency. For more information about this event or the Children’s Center, call 601.266.5222 or e-mail childrens.center@usm.edu (mailto:childrens.center@usm.edu).Bowling Tournament Fundraiser for Animal Shelter Nov. 18 HATTIESBURG, Miss. – Delta Tau Delta fraternity at the University of Southern Mississippi is co-sponsoring “Delta Bowling for Bow Wows,” a fundraiser to purchase dog houses for the Southern Pines Animal Shelter. The event is Wednesday, Nov. 18 from 5:30 – 9 p.m. at Champion Bowling Lanes in Hattiesburg. Other event sponsors include Animal Medical Center; Champion Lanes; Commercial Stationery; and Moore’s Bike Shop. The three-person team competition includes the following categories and times:• Faculty and Staff – 5:30 – 7 p.m.• Community (two categories: 14 and younger and age 15 and older) – 5:30 – 7 p.m.• Fraternity / Sorority – 7:15 – 9 p.m.• Independent student – 7:15 – 9 p.m. Entry fee is $15 per person and includes two games of bowling, shoes, a combo meal, and a $5 contribution to benefit the Southern Pines Animal Shelter. No more than three bowlers per team. First and second place prizes will be awarded in each category. Registration will be held on site. Bowlers are asked to arrive 15 minutes prior to team category session. For more information contact Sid Gonsoulin at 601.266.5767. Walk a Mile in Her Shoes set for Nov. 19 at Southern Miss HATTIESBURG, Miss. - The Shafer Center for Crisis Intervention will hold its annual “Walk a Mile in Her Shoes” event at Shoemaker Square on The University of Southern Mississippi Hattiesburg campus Thursday, Nov. 19 at noon. Shoemaker Square is located next to The Hub in the center of campus. Walk a Mile in Her Shoes is part of the International Men’s March to stop rape, sexual assault and gender violence. Participating men will show their support to end violence against women by marching in Shoemaker Square carrying messages of support and wearing women’s high heel shoes. This event will feature men from Southern Miss fraternities and athletics programs, and is sponsored by the University Police Department. Joining them will be members of the Hattiesburg Police Department, university students, staff and faculty and members of the Hattiesburg community. Women and children are invited to march alongside participants to raise awareness of these issues. The registration fee is $8 for those wanting a “I Walked a Mile in Her Shoes” t-shirt; otherwise, participation is free. For registration and additional information including where to buy shoes, contact Mark Ely with the Shafer Center at 601-264-7078; online visit www.walkamileinhershoes.org (http://www.walkamileinhershoes.org/) McCain Library Online Exhibit Spotlights State’s Anti-Communism Efforts HATTIESBURG, Miss. - The McCain Library and Archives at The University of Southern Mississippi is presenting an online exhibit featuring various aspects of anti-communism efforts in the state from 1944-1968. During and after World War II, the belief that communism would infiltrate the United States was a fear that overcame many Americans. Citizens and governmental groups, including in Mississippi, organized anti-communism efforts to inform the public about the possible communist activities on national and local levels. To access this online exhibit, go to http://www.lib.usm.edu/legacy/spcol/exhibitions/anti-comm/ (http://www.lib.usm.edu/legacy/spcol/exhibitions/anti-comm/). For more information about this exhibit or additional information on materials housed in McCain Library, contact Jennifer Brannock at Jennifer.Brannock@usm.edu (mailto:Jennifer.Brannock@usm.edu) or call 601.266.4347.Kolin Articles on Emmett Till Published HATTIESBURG, Miss. -- University of Southern Mississippi Distinguished Professor of English Dr. Philip C. Kolin has published two articles this fall on Emmett Till in music and song from 1955 through 2008. Till’s tragic murder in the Mississippi Delta in 1955 and the sham trial of his assailants helped trigger the Civil Rights Movement. Kolin’s “’Blues for Emmett Till’: The First Extant Song on the Murder of Emmett Till” was recently published in the African American Review and studies this important document, with lyrics written by Aaron Kramer and music by Clyde Appleton, in light of early civil rights marches and anti-lynching songs. Kolin’s second article, “Haunting America: Emmett Till in Music and Song,” appears in the Southern Cultures, a journal published by the University of North Carolina Press. Kolin argues that Till’s place in music is rooted in Southern musical traditions that range from “finger-pointin’” folk ballads to spirituals/gospel to blues to jazz to rap and hip hop. The songs Kolin analyzes illustrate how cultural memory works to shape and reshape history. Over the last half century, Till’s symbolic roles in music and song have changed from being portrayed as an innocent victim to becoming a mythic boy hero. Much of Kolin’s research came from interviewing composers and correlating their work with important historical documents about Till’s murder, the trial and the quest to seek justice in the case. About The University of Southern MississippiThe University of Southern Mississippi, founded in 1910, is a comprehensive doctoral and research-extensive university fulfilling its mission of being a leading university in engaging and empowering individuals to transform lives and communities. In a tradition of leadership for student development, Southern Miss is educating a 21st century work force providing intellectual capital, cultural enrichment and innovation to Mississippi and the world. Southern Miss is located in Hattiesburg, Miss., with an additional campus and teaching and research sites on the Mississippi Gulf Coast; further information is found at www.usm.edu (http://www.usm.edu/). text/html 2009-11-12T10:19:05+01:00 http://www.usm.edu/pr/cms http://www.usm.edu/pr/cms/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=2948&Itemid=2 A celebration of the music, language, arts and culture of the world will be the focus of activities scheduled for next week on The University of Southern Mississippi’s Hattiesburg campus in conjunction with International Education Week. International Education Week is a joint initiative of the departments of State and Education and is designed as a celebration of international culture on university and college campuses worldwide. It also promotes the benefits of international study and exchange programs. “Southern Miss has a proud tradition of commitment to international education and cultural exchange, and each year we look forward to this week,” said Dr. Susan Steen, director of Southern Miss International Education. The week’s schedule of events include: • Monday, Nov. 16: The Department of Foreign Languages and Literatures kicks off International Education Week with a showing of “Volver” at 5:30 p.m. at the Thad Cochran Center, room 210. Admission is free. • Tuesday, Nov. 17: Learn more about the Spanish language and its cultures as the Spanish Program in the Department of Foreign Languages and Literatures hosts an information table with music and cultural displays from 10 a.m. - 2 p.m. on the terrace of the Liberal Arts Building (rain site will be the LAB lobby). • Tuesday, Nov. 17: The Department of Foreign Languages and Literatures presents the movie “Nueve Reinas” at 5:30 p.m. in the International Center, room 101. Admission is free. • Wednesday, Nov. 18: The ¡Miércoles Gigante! Spanish Variety Show, presented by the Department of Foreign Languages and Literatures’ Spanish Program, will host a variety of talent acts in the Spanish language. This event will be held from noon - 3 p.m. at the Power House Courtyard (if weather is poor, the show will be moved inside The Powerhouse restaurant). • Wednesday, Nov. 18: The Department of Foreign Languages and Literatures presents the movie “Belle Epoque” at 5:30 p.m. at the International Center, room 101. Admission is free. • Thursday, Nov 19: International Programs presents a Study Abroad Fair from 10 a.m. – 3 p.m. in the Thad Cochran Center atrium. Students can stop by and learn about different Southern Miss study abroad programs; vote for a photo in the Cultural Perspectives Photo Contest; test their knowledge on global issues with a "Global Awareness Quiz"; and learn from former students and faculty about their experiences studying and teaching abroad. Entertainment will be provided by the Southern Miss Department of Music. • Thursday, Nov. 19: International Student Scholar Services will host a talent competition, “International Idol,” at 2 p.m. at the Baptist Student Union. Admission is free. • Thursday, Nov. 19: The Spanish Club will celebrate the Spanish language and its cultures with singing, dancing and tapas from 5 – 7 p.m. at RC’s Lounge in the R.C. Cook Student Union. Admission is free. For more information on International Education Week, call 601.266.4344; or to learn more about Southern Miss study abroad and exchange programs, online visit www.usm.edu/internationaledu/ (http://www.usm.edu/internationaledu/) About The University of Southern MississippiThe University of Southern Mississippi, founded in 1910, is a comprehensive doctoral and research-extensive university fulfilling its mission of being a leading university in engaging and empowering individuals to transform lives and communities. In a tradition of leadership for student development, Southern Miss is educating a 21st century work force providing intellectual capital, cultural enrichment and innovation to Mississippi and the world. Southern Miss is located in Hattiesburg, Miss., with an additional campus and teaching and research sites on the Mississippi Gulf Coast; further information is found at www.usm.edu (http://www.usm.edu/). text/html 2009-11-11T15:56:48+01:00 http://www.usm.edu/pr/cms http://www.usm.edu/pr/cms/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=2947&Itemid=2 text/html 2009-11-11T10:25:13+01:00 http://www.usm.edu/pr/cms http://www.usm.edu/pr/cms/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=2945&Itemid=2 Hayden Scanlon of Petal explains his artwork to Staff Sgt. Jimmy Fulton from the 154 ATI Army National Guard unit at Camp Shelby as part of a Veterans Day project contest held at the DuBard School for Language Disorders at The University of Southern Mississippi. The upper-level students chose a subject and book about that particular subject in September, then researched their topics and began work on a Veterans Day-themed project. The two-day contest (Nov. 10 11) was judged by DuBard Advisory Board member James Yelverton, retired U.S. Army veteran Jimmy Mordica, retired U.S. Army veteran and Advisory Board member David Muns and Fulton. (Office of University Communications photo by Van Arnold) About The University of Southern MississippiThe University of Southern Mississippi, founded in 1910, is a comprehensive doctoral and research-extensive university fulfilling its mission of being a leading university in engaging and empowering individuals to transform lives and communities. In a tradition of leadership for student development, Southern Miss is educating a 21st century work force providing intellectual capital, cultural enrichment and innovation to Mississippi and the world. Southern Miss is located in Hattiesburg, Miss., with an additional campus and teaching and research sites on the Mississippi Gulf Coast; further information is found at www.usm.edu (http://www.usm.edu/). text/html 2009-11-11T09:08:06+01:00 http://www.usm.edu/pr/cms http://www.usm.edu/pr/cms/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=2944&Itemid=2 The DuBard School for Language Disorders at The University of Southern Mississippi is offering a new service for children with challenges in reading, spelling and written language. The Language Enhancement and Achievement Program (LEAP) is an out-client service delivered in skill-based modules to groups of three or four students who will participate in three one-hour sessions per week. “LEAP allows us to reach additional students with challenges in reading, reading fluency and comprehension,” said Maureen Martin, DuBard School director. “With research indicating that 20 percent of the population has dyslexia, we must continue to seek ways of providing support to those who need it. Their success is a great reward.” The after-school program is designed specifically for children who:• Have difficulty rhyming, sounding out words, blending sounds into words, spelling or reading• May or may not have a diagnosis of dyslexia or specific learning disability in reading• Have average speech and oral language skills Smaller group sessions allow more individualized instruction from certified speech-language pathologists and paraprofessionals while also keeping costs lower than one-on-one therapy. The LEAP services are set to begin in January 2010. Registration deadline is Dec. 1, 2009. For more information about LEAP and the DuBard School, call 601-266-5223. About The University of Southern MississippiThe University of Southern Mississippi, founded in 1910, is a comprehensive doctoral and research-extensive university fulfilling its mission of being a leading university in engaging and empowering individuals to transform lives and communities. In a tradition of leadership for student development, Southern Miss is educating a 21st century work force providing intellectual capital, cultural enrichment and innovation to Mississippi and the world. Southern Miss is located in Hattiesburg, Miss., with an additional campus and teaching and research sites on the Mississippi Gulf Coast; further information is found at www.usm.edu (http://www.usm.edu/). text/html 2009-11-11T09:01:16+01:00 http://www.usm.edu/pr/cms http://www.usm.edu/pr/cms/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=2943&Itemid=2 In 2010 the University of Southern Mississippi will celebrate the 100th anniversary of its legislative founding. In celebration of this historic event, the university’s executive cabinet has approved plans to hold one, united commencement ceremony for students from all locations next May.Spring commencement ceremonies are slated for 9 a.m., Saturday, May 15, 2010, in M.M. Roberts Stadium on the Hattiesburg campus. Detailed plans for the May 2010 ceremony and related events are still being finalized, including securing a prominent keynote speaker. Planning is also underway by various colleges and departments to include separate, complementary events for students and their families.“Plans have been in the works for some time to distinguish the May ceremony in observance of our Centennial Celebration,” said Provost Bob Lyman. “We’ll have only one opportunity to celebrate our Centennial and by bringing everyone together, we hope to make it an historic event for graduates and their families.”University officials expect about 1,600 candidates for graduation to participate from all colleges and both campuses. The university typically holds two May ceremonies in Hattiesburg and one on the Gulf Coast while December graduates normally participate in one Hattiesburg ceremony. A Gulf Coast graduation ceremony will return to the schedule in May 2011. Students who have questions on eligibility and graduation deadlines should contact the following offices:• Hattiesburg registrar: by phone 601.266.5006, e-mail registrar@usm.edu (mailto:registrar@usm.edu), or go online to www.usm.edu/registrar/graduation (http://www.usm.edu/registrar/graduation) • Gulf Coast Student Services: by phone 228.865.4565, e-mail gcstudents@usm.edu (mailto:gcstudents@usm.edu).• Graduate School: by phone 601.266.4369, e-mail graduateschool@usm.edu (mailto:graduateschool@usm.edu), or go online to www.usm.edu/graduateschool (http://www.usm.edu/graduateschool) For more information on Southern Miss Centennial activities contact the Centennial Celebration office at 601.266.4095, e-mail to Centennial@usm.edu (mailto:Centennial@usm.edu), or go online to www.usm.edu/centennial (http://www.usm.edu/centennial). About The University of Southern MississippiThe University of Southern Mississippi, founded in 1910, is a comprehensive doctoral and research-extensive university fulfilling its mission of being a leading university in engaging and empowering individuals to transform lives and communities. In a tradition of leadership for student development, Southern Miss is educating a 21st century work force providing intellectual capital, cultural enrichment and innovation to Mississippi and the world. Southern Miss is located in Hattiesburg, Miss., with an additional campus and teaching and research sites on the Mississippi Gulf Coast; further information is found at www.usm.edu (http://www.usm.edu/). text/html 2009-11-11T08:27:49+01:00 http://www.usm.edu/pr/cms http://www.usm.edu/pr/cms/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=2942&Itemid=2 Eight University of Southern Mississippi students will compete for the crown of Miss University of Southern Mississippi this Friday and the opportunity to advance to the state pageant. Hosted and produced by the Student Government Association (SGA), the 64th annual Miss University of Southern Mississippi Pageant will be held at Bennett Auditorium Nov. 13 at 7 p.m. Admission is $7. The event is a preliminary to the Miss Mississippi Pageant and will be emceed by Miss Mississippi 2008 and current Southern Miss student Christine Kozlowski. Contestants will also be competing for $3,000 in scholarship funds, said Southern Miss Associate Dean of Students Brooks Moore, who is local director for the pageant and advisor to its student organizers. “The pageant is a unique program in that it truly provides women a forum for advancing a community service platform, exhibiting a refined talent, demonstrating poise and self confidence and being rewarded for their excellence in the classroom,” Moore said. This year’s pageant contestants include: • Lee Armstrong, a junior from Columbus, Miss. Armstrong is an exercise science major and a member of the Dixie Darlings, Luckyday Leadership Team and an ambassador for the College of Health. She is the daughter of Jim and Dorothy Armstrong. • Ashton Turberville, a junior from Mobile, Ala. Turberville is a dance performance and choreography major and a member of Pi Beta Phi sorority and Chi Tau Upsilon. She is the daughter of the Sonja and Tony Turberville. • Chataura Harper a senior from Laurel, Miss. Harper is a broadcast journalism major. She is the daughter of Carolyn Harper McLaurin, Robert McLauren, and Jimmie Harper. • Chelsea Fenton, a freshman from Mobile, Ala. Fenton is a nursing and Spanish double major, a student in the Honors College and a member of the Catholic Student Association and Chi Omega sorority. She is the daughter of Robin and Mark Fenton. • Kristen Benigno, a junior from Laurel, Miss. Benigno is a speech communication major and a member of Eagle Connection, Kappa Delta sorority and Lambda Sigma Honor Society. She is the daughter of Dr. Chuck and Gina Benigno. • Brittany Thomas, a senior from Hattiesburg. Thomas is a public relations major, Student Government Association Senator and a member of the Public Relations Student Society of America. She is the daughter of Chad and Kim Thomas. • Lyndsay Pleas, a sophomore from D'Lo, Miss. Pleas is a health policy and administration major and a member of Chi Omega sorority, the Student Government Association Judicial Board and the Diamond Darlings. She is the daughter of Christye Bryant and Alex Pleas. • Alex Parker, a freshman from Picayune, Miss. Parker is a broadcast journalism and musical theater double major and a member of the Southern Misses, The Legacy and Residence Hall Association. She is the daughter of Edna Parker and Ivan Parker. For more information about The Miss University of Southern Mississippi Pageant, contact the Southern Miss Dean of Students Office at 601.266.6028. Lee ArmstrongAshton TurbervilleChataura Harper Chelsea FentonKristen BenignoBrittany ThomasLyndsay PleasAlex Parker About The University of Southern MississippiThe University of Southern Mississippi, founded in 1910, is a comprehensive doctoral and research-extensive university fulfilling its mission of being a leading university in engaging and empowering individuals to transform lives and communities. In a tradition of leadership for student development, Southern Miss is educating a 21st century work force providing intellectual capital, cultural enrichment and innovation to Mississippi and the world. Southern Miss is located in Hattiesburg, Miss., with an additional campus and teaching and research sites on the Mississippi Gulf Coast; further information is found at www.usm.edu (http://www.usm.edu/). text/html 2009-11-10T15:36:57+01:00 http://www.usm.edu/pr/cms http://www.usm.edu/pr/cms/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=2941&Itemid=2 text/html 2009-11-10T15:25:27+01:00 http://www.usm.edu/pr/cms http://www.usm.edu/pr/cms/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=2940&Itemid=2 TO: News editors, directorsWHAT: text/html 2009-11-10T15:03:08+01:00 http://www.usm.edu/pr/cms http://www.usm.edu/pr/cms/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=2939&Itemid=2 TO: News editors, directorsWHAT: The text/html 2009-11-10T13:44:13+01:00 http://www.usm.edu/pr/cms http://www.usm.edu/pr/cms/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=2938&Itemid=2 The Wallace sisters usually cause a double-take whenever they travel together. But then again, so do the Poche sisters and Tyler siblings. The young women represent three sets of identical twins, but what makes them even more unique is the fact that all are students in The University of Southern Mississippi nursing program. Amy and Allison Tyler of Collins, Miss., are in their fourth semester of nursing school; Lauren and Emily Poche of Hammond, La., are in their third semester, while Kenitra and Keitra Wallace of Natchez, Miss., are in their second semester. National statistics show that the odds of having identical twins are 1 in 250. The odds of having three sets of identical twins enrolled at the same time out of 284 nursing students seem practically unthinkable. “What are the chances? Isn’t that amazing?” asked Dr. Lachel Story, assistant professor in the School of Nursing. Story knows all six students quite well having served as their instructor. She has come to appreciate how the bond between each set of twins fortifies their efforts in the nursing program. “This bond serves to support them as they progress through the rigorous nursing program – emotionally and academically,” said Story. “Support is crucial to success in any program and they have their own pre-existing support system. “It is impressive to watch them interact, holding each other accountable and motivating each other.” The Tyler twins Amy is six minutes older than Allison and definitely does most of the talking for the duo. “We don’t really compete for anything. She’s the one in charge,” said Allison.As one might expect, the sisters spend very little time apart. “We do everything together, every single thing,” said Amy. “And it helps having someone that close when it comes to studying or trying to get an opinion on something important.” As for the desire to become a nurse, Allison said she could not imagine taking any other career path. “I try to give the same honest answer every time somebody asks me why I want to be a nurse. I really feel like it is what God wants me to do,” said Allison. The Wallace twins The Wallace sisters are so identical that only one letter separates them from having the same name. “Most people can’t tell us apart,” said Kenitra, who is one minute older than Keitra. “Once you get used to us you can though because we’re really different in a lot of ways.” Such as: “Our friends say I’m a little meaner than her,” said Keitra. “We do argue all the time,” said Kenitra. The sisters became enamored with nursing after taking allied health courses in high school. “I just like the idea of helping people, taking care of people and making them feel better,” said Keitra. The Poche twins Emily, the oldest by five minutes, admits that she and Lauren have fooled a few teachers by swapping identities in the past, although the ruse “never really worked with boyfriends.” Lauren conceded that having a sister shadowing your every move gets bothersome at times, but the annoyance is always short-lived. “We can’t stay mad at each other for very long,” said Lauren. “It is really great to have a twin. I know that I can always count on her no matter what.” Their biggest difference? They joined different sororities as freshmen at Southern Miss where Lauren represents Delta Gamma and Emily serves in Phi Mu. “This helps those who cannot tell us apart by using the sorority name to tell the difference,” said Emily. Whether or not the sisters end up treating patients in the same clinical setting down the road remains to be seen. But it remains a pretty safe bet that where you’ll see one Poche twin, you’re likely to see the other. The same can be said for the Wallace and Tyler twins. Allison, left, and Amy TylerKenitra, left, and Keitra WallaceEmily, left, and Lauren Poche About The University of Southern MississippiThe University of Southern Mississippi, founded in 1910, is a comprehensive doctoral and research-extensive university fulfilling its mission of being a leading university in engaging and empowering individuals to transform lives and communities. In a tradition of leadership for student development, Southern Miss is educating a 21st century work force providing intellectual capital, cultural enrichment and innovation to Mississippi and the world. Southern Miss is located in Hattiesburg, Miss., with an additional campus and teaching and research sites on the Mississippi Gulf Coast; further information is found at www.usm.edu (http://www.usm.edu/). text/html 2009-11-10T11:43:06+01:00 http://www.usm.edu/pr/cms http://www.usm.edu/pr/cms/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=2936&Itemid=2 A University of Southern Mississippi student was found dead Sunday afternoon in Hattiesburg. Fredrick Isaac Taylor, a 20-year-old junior from Florence, was found at a residence on North 31st Ave. The Hattiesburg Police Department is investigating the incident, but foul play is not initially suspected. Southern Miss officials were notified and University Police Chief Bob Hopkins confirmed Taylor’s student status. Funeral arrangements are being coordinated by Chancellor Funeral Chapel in Florence. For more information regarding these arrangements, contact the Chapel at 601-845-4449. About The University of Southern MississippiThe University of Southern Mississippi, founded in 1910, is a comprehensive doctoral and research-extensive university fulfilling its mission of being a leading university in engaging and empowering individuals to transform lives and communities. In a tradition of leadership for student development, Southern Miss is educating a 21st century work force providing intellectual capital, cultural enrichment and innovation to Mississippi and the world. Southern Miss is located in Hattiesburg, Miss., with an additional campus and teaching and research sites on the Mississippi Gulf Coast; further information is found at www.usm.edu (http://www.usm.edu/). text/html 2009-11-09T17:29:03+01:00 http://www.usm.edu/pr/cms http://www.usm.edu/pr/cms/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=2935&Itemid=2 text/html 2009-11-09T15:54:35+01:00 http://www.usm.edu/pr/cms http://www.usm.edu/pr/cms/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=2934&Itemid=2 text/html 2009-11-09T13:24:13+01:00 http://www.usm.edu/pr/cms http://www.usm.edu/pr/cms/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=2933&Itemid=2 Ford Motor Company executive Randy Creel wanted to convey one message above all others during his recent lecture to students at The University of Southern Mississippi College of Business Honors House – “broaden your horizons.” Creel, a Jones County, Miss. native did just that with Ford by climbing to his current role as Director of Service Parts Purchasing, Customer Service Division in Shanghai, China. He served as a guest speaker to the Honors House residents on Oct. 28 as part of the fall semester curriculum. “I would encourage students to take the time to learn a foreign language and seek opportunities to work and study abroad,” said Creel, who moved to China in January of 2005. “You need to develop the ability to ‘see around corners.’ Anticipate what might happen and have a plan for it.” Creel, 49, has been with Ford for the past nine years. His team in China is responsible for regional sourcing, quality and distribution of Genuine Ford and Motorcraft repair parts. Creel earned his undergraduate degree at the University of Alabama-Birmingham before obtaining a Master of Business Administration at Wake Forest. He also has a Master of Public Administration degree from Harvard. Dr. Lance Nail, dean of the College of Business at Southern Miss, said having a professional of Creel’s stature visit the Honors House signifies part of a larger plan to “bring the world to Southern Miss.” “Randy’s experience in bringing Ford’s operations to Shanghai, witnessing the phenomenal growth of the service and industrial complex in the city and his expertise in global procurement and supply chain management are real-life, real-time global business experiences are invaluable lessons for our students,” said Nail. Other speakers during the Honors House fall lecture series have included: • Southern Miss President Martha Saunders, who kicked off the executive forum series by discussing the role of an administrator in higher education.• Mark Cumbest, owner of Cumbest Realty and Chairman of the Mississippi Real Estate Commission, who discussed real estate markets in the Gulf South region. During his Honors House visit, Creel also stressed the importance of job commitment. “Know what job you’re performing, and always do your best,” he said. “Make sure you treat that job as if it’s the most important one you’ll ever have. If, and when, you move on from that job, try to leave it in better shape than you found it.” The economic doldrums of the past 18 months threatened to bankrupt the United States auto industry. Government intervention helped stabilize the industry as the economy slowly began to rebound, and Creel remains optimistic that the turnaround will continue. “Though recent times have been tough, things are improving, and they will continue to improve as the economy strengthens,” he said. “All across the industry both auto manufacturers and suppliers alike have found innovative ways to do things during the tough times.” For more information about the College of Business Honors House, call 601.266.4659. University of Southern Mississippi junior Zach Mansell presents Ford Motor Company executive Randy Creel with a token of appreciation during Creel’s lecture at the College of Business Honors House on Oct. 28. (Submitted photo) About The University of Southern MississippiThe University of Southern Mississippi, founded in 1910, is a comprehensive doctoral and research-extensive university fulfilling its mission of being a leading university in engaging and empowering individuals to transform lives and communities. In a tradition of leadership for student development, Southern Miss is educating a 21st century work force providing intellectual capital, cultural enrichment and innovation to Mississippi and the world. Southern Miss is located in Hattiesburg, Miss., with an additional campus and teaching and research sites on the Mississippi Gulf Coast; further information is found at www.usm.edu (http://www.usm.edu/). text/html 2009-11-09T13:16:04+01:00 http://www.usm.edu/pr/cms http://www.usm.edu/pr/cms/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=2932&Itemid=2 All offices and classes at The University of Southern Mississippi Gulf Coast will close Monday, Nov. 9 at 2 p.m. and reopen Tuesday, Nov. 10 at noon in preparation for Tropical Storm Ida. Students and employees should monitor www.usm.edu/gulfcoast (http://www.usm.edu/gulfcoast) for updates. About The University of Southern MississippiThe University of Southern Mississippi, founded in 1910, is a comprehensive doctoral and research-extensive university fulfilling its mission of being a leading university in engaging and empowering individuals to transform lives and communities. In a tradition of leadership for student development, Southern Miss is educating a 21st century work force providing intellectual capital, cultural enrichment and innovation to Mississippi and the world. Southern Miss is located in Hattiesburg, Miss., with an additional campus and teaching and research sites on the Mississippi Gulf Coast; further information is found at www.usm.edu (http://www.usm.edu/). text/html 2009-11-09T11:55:06+01:00 http://www.usm.edu/pr/cms http://www.usm.edu/pr/cms/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=2931&Itemid=2 The new adaptation of Jane Austen’s classic novel “Pride and Prejudice” will be presented by the University of Southern Mississippi Department of Theatre and Dance at 7:30 p.m., Thursday, Nov. 12 in the Martha R. Tatum Theatre on the Hattiesburg campus. Directed by department Chair Louis Rackoff, this production will feature a talented student cast, period-themed costumes and original music by visiting guest artist and composer David Bishop. “His music is extraordinary, and it enlivens everything we’re doing on stage,” said Rackoff. Bishop currently serves as musical director and voice coach at The American Musical and Dramatic Academy in New York City. His music will provide the backdrop for the timeless romantic and comedic tale about five sisters caught in a web of courtship in English society. The sisters all have one common goal: finding good husbands and securing their futures. Their lives are turned upside down when two rich Englishmen come to town for the summer. Callie Stephens, a master’s student in theater from Atlanta, plays the role of the strong-willed Elizabeth Bennett, one of the five sisters. Elizabeth forms an instant dislike for the prideful character of Fitzwilliam Darcy, who is played by Sean Scrutchins, a master’s student in theater from Shawnee, Oklahoma. “The sisters have very different aspects to them. Elizabeth is described as critical and they’re very prejudiced,” said Stephens. “When she meets Darcy her first impression is that he is everything she despises about the upper class. So, the entire story is about them coming together and pulling apart kind of like magnets and then trying to overcome their stubbornness, pride and prejudice within themselves, until they fall in love.” Previously, this story was produced as an Emmy-nominated television miniseries in 2003 and a full-length movie in 2005. The Southern Miss production will continue Nov. 12 – 14 and 18 - 20 at 7:30 p.m. and Nov. 15 and 22 at 2 p.m.On Nov. 15, there will be a pre-show talk at 1 p.m. in Martha R. Tatum Theatre. “Pride and Prejudice” tickets are $12 for adults, $10 for faculty and staff and $6 for students. For more information about the play, visit http://www.usm.edu/arts (http://www.usm.edu/arts). To order tickets, visit http://www.southernmisstickets.com (http://www.southernmisstickets.com/) or 601.266.6541. About The University of Southern MississippiThe University of Southern Mississippi, founded in 1910, is a comprehensive doctoral and research-extensive university fulfilling its mission of being a leading university in engaging and empowering individuals to transform lives and communities. In a tradition of leadership for student development, Southern Miss is educating a 21st century work force providing intellectual capital, cultural enrichment and innovation to Mississippi and the world. Southern Miss is located in Hattiesburg, Miss., with an additional campus and teaching and research sites on the Mississippi Gulf Coast; further information is found at www.usm.edu (http://www.usm.edu/). text/html 2009-11-09T11:24:21+01:00 http://www.usm.edu/pr/cms http://www.usm.edu/pr/cms/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=2930&Itemid=2 As part of the ongoing fight to stop the spread of the H1N1 virus, Student Health Services at The University of Southern Mississippi is distributing 200 flu prevention kits. More than 2,500 of the goody bags have been distributed to Mississippi’s eight public universities through a State Institutions of Higher Learning initiative. The Mississippi Department of Health is funding the cooperative effort. The kit contains a hand sanitizer, pocket pack of tissues, door hanger with health tips and a pamphlet on the H1N1 virus. “We’ll distribute a lot of the bags to the residence halls on campus and then leave some here at the clinic for people to pick up on a first-come, first-serve basis,” said Jodi Tate, health educator/coordinator at Southern Miss. Dr. Virginia Crawford, director of Student Health Services, said the university has seen approximately 120 confirmed cases of H1N1 influenza. The campus clinic still offers the flu mist vaccine to students, faculty and staff. Crawford stressed the importance of taking this free preventive measure. “There’s been a lot of uncertainty about the mist because some people believe it will actually make them sick,” said Crawford. “But that’s not the case at all. Everybody on this campus should come by and take advantage of this vaccine while it’s still available. “What people need to understand is that by getting the flu mist vaccine they’re not only keeping themselves healthy but also helping us stop this from becoming more widespread on our campus and in the community.” Crawford said she hopes the clinic will have the N1N1 injection vaccine on hand in the near future. Student Health Services will administer the flu mist vaccine to the following groups only: • People between the age of 12-24• People who work in the health care field or live with an infant less than 6 months old For more information about the flu prevention kits or the flu mist vaccine, call 601-266-5390. Jodi Tate, health educator/coordinator at The University of Southern Mississippi, assembles flu prevention kits to be distributed throughout campus. (Office of University Communications photo by Van Arnold) About The University of Southern MississippiThe University of Southern Mississippi, founded in 1910, is a comprehensive doctoral and research-extensive university fulfilling its mission of being a leading university in engaging and empowering individuals to transform lives and communities. In a tradition of leadership for student development, Southern Miss is educating a 21st century work force providing intellectual capital, cultural enrichment and innovation to Mississippi and the world. Southern Miss is located in Hattiesburg, Miss., with an additional campus and teaching and research sites on the Mississippi Gulf Coast; further information is found at www.usm.edu (http://www.usm.edu/). text/html 2009-11-09T08:35:27+01:00 http://www.usm.edu/pr/cms http://www.usm.edu/pr/cms/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=2928&Itemid=2 Mississippi Home of Your Own (HOYO) will sponsor a free, one-day homebuyer education workshop Saturday, Nov. 14 for residents with and without disabilities in Hinds and surrounding counties. The workshop will be held from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. in the meeting room of the Hinds County Extension Office at 1735 Wilson Boulevard in Jackson. In its 12th year of service to Mississippians with disabilities and their families, HOYO is an award-winning program of The University of Southern Mississippi Institute for Disability Studies. HOYO was created to empower people with disabilities to reach their individual dreams of owning and maintaining their own homes. Since 1997, HOYO has assisted 317 people with disabilities and their families in 45 Mississippi counties in becoming homeowners. Grant funds of up to $15,000 are currently available to eligible borrowers with disabilities in designated areas through HOYO. More information about these grants will be available at the workshop. HOYO focuses on creating a support system that identifies potential homebuyers, analyzes their housing needs and financial capacity and prepares them for homeownership. Applicants of the HOYO program must attend homebuyer education seminars to be considered for financial assistance in purchasing a home. For more information or to pre-register call the Jackson office of the Institute for Disability Studies at 601-432-6876 or toll free at 1-866-883-4474. About The University of Southern MississippiThe University of Southern Mississippi, founded in 1910, is a comprehensive doctoral and research-extensive university fulfilling its mission of being a leading university in engaging and empowering individuals to transform lives and communities. In a tradition of leadership for student development, Southern Miss is educating a 21st century work force providing intellectual capital, cultural enrichment and innovation to Mississippi and the world. Southern Miss is located in Hattiesburg, Miss., with an additional campus and teaching and research sites on the Mississippi Gulf Coast; further information is found at www.usm.edu (http://www.usm.edu/). text/html 2009-11-06T15:04:54+01:00 http://www.usm.edu/pr/cms http://www.usm.edu/pr/cms/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=2927&Itemid=2 text/html 2009-11-06T13:07:29+01:00 http://www.usm.edu/pr/cms http://www.usm.edu/pr/cms/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=2926&Itemid=2 text/html 2009-11-06T12:51:00+01:00 http://www.usm.edu/pr/cms http://www.usm.edu/pr/cms/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=2925&Itemid=2 text/html 2009-11-05T14:57:34+01:00 http://www.usm.edu/pr/cms http://www.usm.edu/pr/cms/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=2924&Itemid=2 text/html 2009-11-05T13:40:44+01:00 http://www.usm.edu/pr/cms http://www.usm.edu/pr/cms/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=2923&Itemid=2 Preliminary design plans are taking shape for a new School of Nursing (SON) building at The University of Southern Mississippi. With $1.5 million in federal grant money already in hand, university officials have selected a site and architect for the proposed 52,000-square foot facility. The cost of completion is estimated at $22 million but no timeline has been established yet for construction and further funding for that portion of the project is yet to be determined. Dr. Katherine Nugent, director of the School of Nursing at Southern Miss, said a new facility would address two critical issues -- the need for more space in the SON department and the shortage of nurses on the state and national levels. “I am excited that we are in the design phase for the future SON building on the Hattiesburg campus,” said Nugent. “The current building is inadequate to accommodate the increased student undergraduate and graduate enrollment.” “There is a critical shortage of nurses across the country and we’re addressing that shortage at Southern Miss with new programs that were implemented in response to workforce needs in health care and the increased use of technology, such as patient simulators, in teaching. A new building would certainly enable us to better accommodate expanded enrollment in our program.” The current nursing building was constructed in 1977 and includes just over 37,000 square feet. “We have literally run out of space,” said Nugent. Funding for the design phase of the project was provided through the 2009 Labor, Health and Human Services Education Appropriations bill. Southern Miss received approval from the state Institutions of Higher Learning (IHL) board to proceed with the project in September. Discussions are underway with Allred Architect Group of Pascagoula about design options for the new building which will be located in the northwest quadrant of a parking lot on the corner of Ross Boulevard and Montague Street. Rusty Postlewate, Physical Plant director at Southern Miss, said that notification of the university’s intent to build was published in statewide newspapers for seven days (Oct. 22-28) in accordance with requirements attached to the grant. “As part of the grant application we had to give public notice to allow time for the gathering of any comments on our intention to build,” he said. Postlewate emphasized that his department would not become heavily involved in the project until the design concepts had been thoroughly vetted. “We’re in the very early stages of this process right now,” he said. “The timetable for construction is anybody’s guess right now because funding for that phase will no doubt come from multiple sources.” About The University of Southern MississippiThe University of Southern Mississippi, founded in 1910, is a comprehensive doctoral and research-extensive university fulfilling its mission of being a leading university in engaging and empowering individuals to transform lives and communities. In a tradition of leadership for student development, Southern Miss is educating a 21st century work force providing intellectual capital, cultural enrichment and innovation to Mississippi and the world. Southern Miss is located in Hattiesburg, Miss., with an additional campus and teaching and research sites on the Mississippi Gulf Coast; further information is found at www.usm.edu (http://www.usm.edu/). text/html 2009-11-05T12:55:56+01:00 http://www.usm.edu/pr/cms http://www.usm.edu/pr/cms/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=2922&Itemid=2 University of Southern Mississippi students, from left, Adam Weinacker of Mobile, Ala.; DeAnna Kleitz-Singleton of Biloxi, Miss.; and Dylan Harris of Hickory, Miss. visit outside of the Cable-Satellite Public Affairs Network (C-SPAN) Civic Bus Wednesday on the Hattiesburg campus with Tamara Robinson, marketing representative for C-SPAN. Robinson discussed media literacy, educational resources available through C-SPAN and internship opportunities at the network for students. According to the network, C-SPAN launched its Civics Bus program in 1993 as a way to bring the world of public affairs into schools and communities nationwide. Working with cable television partners across the nation, C-SPAN’s buses have visited students, teachers, and citizens in all 50 states to discuss media, public affairs and C-SPAN's programming and free educational resources. The buses are mobile multi-media demonstration centers equipped with TV production units that can be used as studios during live programs, such as C-SPAN's Washington Journal. Students, authors, journalists, and national leaders have been interviewed aboard the buses. For more information about the C-SPAN Civics Bus, online visit www.c-span.org/schoolbus/about.asp (http://www.c-span.org/schoolbus/about.asp). (Southern Miss photo by David Tisdale) About The University of Southern MississippiThe University of Southern Mississippi, founded in 1910, is a comprehensive doctoral and research-extensive university fulfilling its mission of being a leading university in engaging and empowering individuals to transform lives and communities. In a tradition of leadership for student development, Southern Miss is educating a 21st century work force providing intellectual capital, cultural enrichment and innovation to Mississippi and the world. Southern Miss is located in Hattiesburg, Miss., with an additional campus and teaching and research sites on the Mississippi Gulf Coast; further information is found at www.usm.edu (http://www.usm.edu/). text/html 2009-11-05T12:49:00+01:00 http://www.usm.edu/pr/cms http://www.usm.edu/pr/cms/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=2921&Itemid=2 Clifton Choctaw Tribe member and craftswoman Becky Walsh (center) shows Mary Garrett (left) and Kate Stuppy how to create a pine needle basket during a two-day workshop hosted by The University of Southern Mississippi’s Katrina Research Center in Long Beach. This is the first event hosted by Southern Miss Gulf Coast in conjunction with the university’s new American Indian Studies minor. (Southern Miss photo by Lori Brommer) About The University of Southern MississippiThe University of Southern Mississippi, founded in 1910, is a comprehensive doctoral and research-extensive university fulfilling its mission of being a leading university in engaging and empowering individuals to transform lives and communities. In a tradition of leadership for student development, Southern Miss is educating a 21st century work force providing intellectual capital, cultural enrichment and innovation to Mississippi and the world. Southern Miss is located in Hattiesburg, Miss., with an additional campus and teaching and research sites on the Mississippi Gulf Coast; further information is found at www.usm.edu/gulfcoast (http://www.usm.edu/gulfcoast) . text/html 2009-11-05T10:54:12+01:00 http://www.usm.edu/pr/cms http://www.usm.edu/pr/cms/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=2920&Itemid=2 Molly Peresich, foreground, a University of Southern Mississippi dance education major from Ocean Springs, leads a group of dancers preparing to teach hundreds of students coming to the Hattiesburg campus as part of High School Dance Day. This program is in conjunction with the Fall Dance Concert that opens to the public today in the university’s Mannoni Performing Arts Center. For more information, visit www.usm.edu/arts (http://www.usm.edu/arts). (Submitted photo) About The University of Southern MississippiThe University of Southern Mississippi, founded in 1910, is a comprehensive doctoral and research-extensive university fulfilling its mission of being a leading university in engaging and empowering individuals to transform lives and communities. In a tradition of leadership for student development, Southern Miss is educating a 21st century work force providing intellectual capital, cultural enrichment and innovation to Mississippi and the world. Southern Miss is located in Hattiesburg, Miss., with an additional campus and teaching and research sites on the Mississippi Gulf Coast; further information is found at www.usm.edu (http://www.usm.edu/). text/html 2009-11-05T10:42:02+01:00 http://www.usm.edu/pr/cms http://www.usm.edu/pr/cms/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=2919&Itemid=2 University of Southern Mississippi students board a new shuttle bus near Cook Library on the Hattiesburg Campus. The new bus, sponsored by the Department of Residence Life, is in response to a Student Government Association request to expand the shuttle service to provide more opportunities for students to conveniently access various areas of campus. The shuttle, currently running from the Hillcrest gravel lot to the Thad Cochran Center, will serve as a pilot for the goal of offering a route down Montague Boulevard before the end of the fall semester. For more information about this service, contact the Department of Residence Life at 601.266.4783. (Southern Miss photo by David Tisdale) About The University of Southern MississippiThe University of Southern Mississippi, founded in 1910, is a comprehensive doctoral and research-extensive university fulfilling its mission of being a leading university in engaging and empowering individuals to transform lives and communities. In a tradition of leadership for student development, Southern Miss is educating a 21st century work force providing intellectual capital, cultural enrichment and innovation to Mississippi and the world. Southern Miss is located in Hattiesburg, Miss., with an additional campus and teaching and research sites on the Mississippi Gulf Coast; further information is found at www.usm.edu (http://www.usm.edu/). text/html 2009-11-04T11:54:14+01:00 http://www.usm.edu/pr/cms http://www.usm.edu/pr/cms/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=2918&Itemid=2 The de Grummond Children’s Literature Collection at The University of Southern Mississippi will host a Children’s Book Preview Sunday, Nov. 15 from 1-5 p.m. and Monday, Nov. 16 from 9 a.m. – 6 p.m. in the de Grummond exhibit room, located on the second floor of Cook Library on the Hattiesburg campus. Each year the Children’s Book Preview offers a sneak preview of the latest in children’s literature with a display of hundreds of newly released and upcoming titles for the public to browse. “This is a great opportunity for teachers and librarians to get ideas for books for their classrooms and general collection development,” said Ellen Ruffin, curator of the de Grummond Collection. “It’s also an opportunity for parents to get ideas for books to purchase for holiday gift giving.” All visitors to the preview will receive a book list with publication and ordering information. For more information about the Children’s Book Preview, contact de Grummond Children’s Literature Collection Curator Ellen Ruffin at Ellen.Ruffin@usm.edu (mailto:Ellen.Ruffin@usm.edu) or 601.266.6543. About The University of Southern MississippiThe University of Southern Mississippi, founded in 1910, is a comprehensive doctoral and research-extensive university fulfilling its mission of being a leading university in engaging and empowering individuals to transform lives and communities. In a tradition of leadership for student development, Southern Miss is educating a 21st century work force providing intellectual capital, cultural enrichment and innovation to Mississippi and the world. Southern Miss is located in Hattiesburg, Miss., with an additional campus and teaching and research sites on the Mississippi Gulf Coast; further information is found at www.usm.edu (http://www.usm.edu/). text/html 2009-11-04T11:48:43+01:00 http://www.usm.edu/pr/cms http://www.usm.edu/pr/cms/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=2917&Itemid=2 Visiting from universities across the U.S., the Helen Keller Fellows, who are 10 graduate students working on degrees with emphasis in simultaneous vision and hearing impairment, met at The University of Southern Mississippi Gulf Park campus in October for orientation to their one-year experience. Funded by the U.S. Office of Special Education, the five-year Personnel Preparation project is in its second year. Dr. Linda McDowell, associate professor of special education at The University of Southern Mississippi, assisted in administrating a partnership with Western Oregon University, where the grant is based. Other partners in the Helen Keller Fellows project include faculty from more than 10 universities across the nation; each partner university nominates a fellow for the year. According to McDowell, Southern Miss is working collaboratively on leadership training with other universities, increasing the state’s capacity to better serve individuals with dual sensory impairment (deaf-blindness) and at the same time assisting in building the capacity of other states. “Families and service providers in Mississippi should feel encouraged by this growing number of leaders in the field learning skills to improve and increase the necessary supports for children and youth with deaf-blindness,” she said. As a Helen Keller Fellow, students participate in a variety of projects and events, including seminars, webinars and attending the national deaf-blind project seminar week. There are also internship opportunities that include planning, participating and assisting in leading technical assistance and hands-on activities with administrators, families, agencies, deaf-blind children and youth. The overall goal of the Helen Keller Fellows project is to increase leadership and networks across the nation to lessen the gap between children with simultaneous vision and hearing impairments, and the professional expertise required to meet their educational needs. For more information, contact either Toni Hollingsworth or Dr. Linda McDowell with the Mississippi Deaf-Blind Project at 800.264.5135. Visiting from universities across the U.S., the Helen Keller Fellows, 10 graduate students working on degrees with emphasis in simultaneous vision and hearing impairment, met at The University of Southern Mississippi Gulf Park campus in October for orientation to their one-year experience. The second cohort of Helen Keller Fellows are, from left to right, (front) Lianne Legaspi of Hunter College, New York; Bobbie Fletcher of the University of Alabama; Christel Williams of East Carolina University; Jody Steinhilber of Boston College; Emilie Mulholland of the University of Utah; (back) Tanya Derkash of San Francisco State University; Rachel Heuston of the University of Arizona; Ashle Wilson of Texas Tech University; Diane Dalsimer of Utah State University; and Judi Emerson of The University of Southern Mississippi. (Submitted photo) About The University of Southern MississippiThe University of Southern Mississippi, founded in 1910, is a comprehensive doctoral and research-extensive university fulfilling its mission of being a leading university in engaging and empowering individuals to transform lives and communities. In a tradition of leadership for student development, Southern Miss is educating a 21st century work force providing intellectual capital, cultural enrichment and innovation to Mississippi and the world. Southern Miss is located in Hattiesburg, Miss., with an additional campus and teaching and research sites on the Mississippi Gulf Coast; further information is found at www.usm.edu/gulfcoast (http://www.usm.edu/gulfcoast) . text/html 2009-11-04T11:14:39+01:00 http://www.usm.edu/pr/cms http://www.usm.edu/pr/cms/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=2916&Itemid=2 Writer: Lisa ParkerRenowned New York City advertising executive and Hattiesburg native Peter Rogers will return home Nov. 20 to be inducted into the University of Southern Mississippi School of Mass Communication and Journalism's annual Hall of Fame. Rogers, widely known for placing classic one-liners with luxury products such as Vidal Sassoon and Blackgama Mink, will be one of 12 outstanding Southern Miss graduates inducted for their distinguished work in advertising and public relations. Other inductees include a California-based entertainment producer, a former Coca-Cola executive, a former standout Mississippi Power executive and a former Southern Miss professor. “We’re thrilled to honor some of USM’s, and in fact some of the world’s, leaders in advertising and public relations," said Dr. Chris Campbell, director of the school. "There are so many accomplished professionals from the university in these fields, and we plan to recognize more in the future.” The Hall of Fame was created in 2006 as the highlight of the School of Mass Communication and Journalism's annual symposium to honor its most distinguished graduates, as well as other Mississippians who have contributed to the school or to the field of mass communication and journalism in Mississippi. This year’s symposium is titled “Universal. Strategic. Modern. Southern Miss' Leadership and Legacy in Advertising and Public Relations.” The morning session of the symposium will feature discussions with each of the graduates about their work and careers to be held in the Thad Cochran Center, room 216, from 9 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. The panel sessions are free and open to the public. The Hall of Fame luncheon will be at 11:30 a.m. in Cochran Center Ballroom I. Inductee Mart Martin will deliver the keynote address. Tickets for the luncheon are $35 and are available by contacting the School of Mass Communication and Journalism at 601.266.4258. Proceeds will benefit the Barbara Shoemake and Robert Gene Wiggins endowments, named for two prominent former Southern Miss faculty members and supporting scholarships and fellowships for deserving students in the School of Mass Communication and Journalism. Various round table discussions and question-and-answer panels with the inductees will take place in the afternoon session. Topics will include entrepreneurship, creative advertising strategies, non-profit and relationship-building public relations. Event sponsors include Cities West Publishing Inc., Mississippi Power, and the Pine Belt and Mississippi Beach Chapters of the Public Relations Association of Mississippi. The inductees include: • Rick and Beth Bice, '78 and '77, established Bice Advertising Inc., in 1978 aiming to provide creative advertising, graphic design and multimedia for clients. Their work spans more than 30 years and includes local clients such as Southern Miss, the City of Hattiesburg, the Area Development Partnership, South Mississippi Electric Power Association and Hattiesburg Clinic. The firm has won numerous awards and honors, including nods from the regional and district American Advertising Federation. Rick was named Graphic Designer of the Year in 2005. • Dr. John Forde, APR, '84 and '88, has led the Communications Department at Mississippi State University for 22 years and continues to teach online and in the classroom. In 1997, he served as the president of the four-state Southern Public Relations Federation (SPRF) and received its Professional Achievement Award. Forde has also been a member of the Public Relations Association of Mississippi (PRAM) as well as the Mississippi Speech Communication Association. In 1991, he received the Accredited in Public Relations (APR) designation through SPRF, and currently serves as a representative on the Universal Accreditation Board. • Reed Guice, '71, opened The Guice Agency in 2004 in Biloxi with the goal of building exceptional brands through advertising, consulting, and public relations services. His client list includes the Mississippi Sea Wolves of the East Coast Hockey League; the New Orleans Saints/Mississippi Region; Hard Rock and Boomtown Casinos; the Governor's Commission on Recovery; and the American Red Cross. He is the winner of the American Advertising Federation's highest commendation for professional achievement, the Silver Medal Award, as well as its highest creative honor, Best of Show. • Rex Kelly, '80, served as an executive for Mississippi Power, where he received the top spot in customer satisfaction and earned the Utility Communicator International’s (UCI) Communicator Award six times. Kelly is a past president of PRAM and is recipient of its Professional Achievement Award. The PRAM Mississippi Beach Chapter created the Rex E. Kelly Professional Achievement Award in his honor. He was also the director of the Southern Public Relations Federation and was named Senior Practitioner by the federation. Kelly has since retired and serves as the Senior Counselor with the Hawthorn Group in Alexandria, Va. • Mart Martin, '78, leads the creative division of Jackson Spalding in Atlanta. He served as the director of public relations for the 1985 United States Olympic Festival and the 1983 World Summer Games. As a 20-year veteran of the Coca-Cola Company and former director of public and media relations for its North America division, Martin led publicity efforts for brands such as Coca-Cola, Diet Coke and Sprite and has worked on major events like the Super Bowl, NASCAR, and the World Cup. He was the assistant director of communications for the Special Olympics International (SOI) and was the public relations liaison between SOI and the World Summer Games at Notre Dame in 1987. • Danny Mitchell, '70 and '71, joined GodwinGroup in 1983 and is now the senior partner and chairman of its board. Mitchell is a past president of PRAM as well as SPRF. He received the Silver Medal Award from the American Advertising Federation in Jackson in 2001 and was inducted into the Mississippi Business Hall of Fame in 2007. Additionally, Mitchell has been inducted into the Southern Miss Alumni Hall of Fame and the Mississippi Business Hall of Fame. • Lt. Col. Roger Steven Murray, '85, serves as the communications director for the Florida Department of Veterans' Affairs in Tallahassee, Fla. An award-winning public affairs professional, he has had more than two decades of success in directing extensive employee communications, media relations and community affairs programs both stateside and overseas while in the U.S. Air Force and with the state of Florida. In 2004, he deployed to Baghdad, Iraq, as chief of current operations for Combined Joint Task Force-Seven and received the Air Force Public Affairs Alumni Association's "Best of the Best" Award for Outstanding Air Force Public Affairs Professional. He received the Air Force Public Affairs Director's Award for Special Achievement in a Crisis Situation for his efforts in 2005 at Keesler Air Force Base in Biloxi, as part of Joint Task Force-Katrina. • Donna Ritchey, APR, '87, currently serves as partner and executive vice president of GodwinGroup in Jackson. She joined the agency in 1989 and has been a stockholder since 1995. Ritchey currently serves on the agency's eight-member executive committee, an entity formed to oversee agency operations. Ritchey is accredited in public relations and has been named a Senior Practitioner by SPRF. She also serves on the Mississippi Business Journal's Business Women's Advisory Board and as vice chairman of the board for the Boy and Girls Clubs of Central Mississippi. • Peter Rogers, '57, opened Peter Rogers Associates in New York City in 1974. The agency was known for positioning luxury products with simple graphics and one-liners: "If you don't look good, we don’t look good"; "Danskins are not just for dancing"' and "What becomes a legend most?" to name a few. Rogers' client list included famous names such as Vidal Sassoon, Pierre Cardin, Gloria Vanderbilt, David Webb and Elle Magazine. In addition to his campaigns, he has appeared editorially in various consumer magazines including Time, People, Vanity Fair, New York Magazine, Town and Country and others. After a highly successful advertising career spanning more than 50 years, Rogers closed Peter Rogers Associates and now resides in both Connecticut and New York City, where he is a founding member of "Fete de Swifty," the mayor's fund to advance New York City. • Barbara Shoemake, '82 and '85, joined the Southern Miss faculty in 1992. She was a founding member of the Pine Belt Chapter of PRAM and was named Practitioner of the Year by the organization in 1997. She was a member of the first local organizing committee of Camp Bluebird, a camp for cancer patients, near Hattiesburg. She received a doctorate in mass communication from the University of Alabama in 1995. After her death in 1998, the PRAM Pine Belt chapter established a scholarship for Southern Miss public relations students in her name to honor her life and work. • Cindy Smartt, '83 and '84, became the sole proprietor of San Diego-based Smartt Entertainment Inc. in 2002. Since then, the Signal Mountain, Tenn., native has become nationally and internationally recognized as a top producer of corporate events. She has booked and produced corporate entertainment for leading corporations such as PGA of America, Chevron and American Airlines. Smartt has also produced for Jay Leno, Bill Cosby, Diana Ross and the Goo Goo Dolls. Recent shows have featured Andrea Bocelli in Rome, Italy, Bon Jovi in Maui, Hawaii, and Keith Urban in Sydney, Australia. The Southern Miss School of Mass Communication and Journalism is one of the university’s largest, with more than 500 majors working toward undergraduate and graduate degrees in advertising, film, journalism, media production and public relations. For more information on this event, contact Mandy Nace, assistant to the director, School of Mass Communication and Journalism, at amanda.tilley@usm.edu (mailto:amanda.tilley@usm.edu) or 601.266.4196. Rick and Beth Bice Dr. John Forde Reed Guice Rex Kelly Mart Martin Danny MitchellLt. Col. Roger Steve Murray Donna RitcheyPeter RogersBarbara Shoemake Cindy Smartt About The University of Southern MississippiThe University of Southern Mississippi, founded in 1910, is a comprehensive doctoral and research-extensive university fulfilling its mission of being a leading university in engaging and empowering individuals to transform lives and communities. In a tradition of leadership for student development, Southern Miss is educating a 21st century work force providing intellectual capital, cultural enrichment and innovation to Mississippi and the world. Southern Miss is located in Hattiesburg, Miss., with an additional campus and teaching and research sites on the Mississippi Gulf Coast; further information is found at www.usm.edu (http://www.usm.edu/). text/html 2009-11-04T08:21:22+01:00 http://www.usm.edu/pr/cms http://www.usm.edu/pr/cms/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=2915&Itemid=2 This briefs package highlights timely news and events from The University of Southern Mississippi. For more information on any of the stories below or for assistance in arranging interviews, contact the Office of University Communications at 601.266.4491. War and Society Roundtable Set for Nov. 10 HATTIESBURG, Miss. – The University of Southern Mississippi’s Center for the Study of War and Society will host a roundtable discussion at 6:30 p.m. Tuesday, Nov. 10 at the Library of Hattiesburg, Petal and Forrest County in downtown Hattiesburg. War and society roundtable series focus on war fiction. The featured novel for November is “The Red Fighter Pilot” by Manfred von Richthofen. The discussion will be moderated by Dr. Jeff Bowersox, an assistant professor of history at Southern Miss. This autobiography gives the first-hand account of a German fighter pilot in World War I. Von Richthofen, also known as the “Red Baron,” was the most successful combat pilot of the Imperial German Army Air Service with 80 confirmed air combat victories. This novel was written shortly before his death in 1918. For more information contact Sean Ferrell at 601-584-3166 or Kyle Zelner at kyle.zelner@usm.edu (mailto:kyle.zelner@usm.edu) Homebuyers Workshop Set for Nov. 7 in Hattiesburg HATTIESBURG, Miss. – Mississippi Home of Your Own (HOYO) will sponsor a free, one-day homebuyer education workshop Saturday, Nov. 7 for residents with and without disabilities in Forrest, Lamar and surrounding counties. The workshop will be held from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. at Bancorp South at 6668 Highway 98 Suite F in Hattiesburg. In its 12th year of service to Mississippians with disabilities and their families, HOYO is an award-winning program of The University of Southern Mississippi Institute for Disability Studies. HOYO was created to empower people with disabilities to reach their individual dreams of owning and maintaining their own homes. For more information or to pre-register for the free seminar, call Heather Steele at 601-266-5163 or toll free at 1-888-671-0051. About The University of Southern MississippiThe University of Southern Mississippi, founded in 1910, is a comprehensive doctoral and research-extensive university fulfilling its mission of being a leading university in engaging and empowering individuals to transform lives and communities. In a tradition of leadership for student development, Southern Miss is educating a 21st century work force providing intellectual capital, cultural enrichment and innovation to Mississippi and the world. Southern Miss is located in Hattiesburg, Miss., with an additional campus and teaching and research sites on the Mississippi Gulf Coast; further information is found at www.usm.edu (http://www.usm.edu/). text/html 2009-11-04T08:14:57+01:00 http://www.usm.edu/pr/cms http://www.usm.edu/pr/cms/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=2914&Itemid=2 Dr. Sherita Johnson, assistant professor of English at The University of Southern Mississippi, will host a reception to discuss the publication of her new book from 6-9 p.m. Thursday, Nov. 5 at the African American Military Museum (Historic USO Club) at 305 E. 6th St. in Hattiesburg. Johnson’s book titled, “Black Women in New South Literature and Culture,” focuses on the impact racism had on the imagination of Southern writers like Frances Harper, George Washington Cable, Charles Chesnutt, and Anna Julia Cooper. At the reception, she will read excerpts from the book over desserts and coffee, as well as take questions from the audience. In the book, Johnson argues that black women served as agents of social change through fictional characterization and historical experiences during the early stages of Jim Crow. Specialists in 19th and 20th century American literature will find this book a necessary addition, as will scholars of African American literature and history, according to the publishers Routledge and the Taylor Francis Group. “I look at the roles of Southern black women and fictional characters because I believe they were often in a powerful position to negotiate race relations and therefore they shouldn’t be overlooked,” said Johnson. “Black women had important roles in the community and some challenged white authority through their writings or public speaking.” As a specialist in African American literature, Johnson studies the lives and literature of early black writers many of whom have been all but forgotten today. The first chapter of the book, for instance, focuses on the life and legacy of writer Frances Ellen Watkins Harper. An avid abolitionist, Harper created outspoken female characters who were often the center of their fictional communities. She wrote and published many of her own works before her death in 1911. “I started focusing on African American writers in the 19th century, but I soon became more interested in Frances Harper who was a black woman born free from slavery in 1825,” said Johnson. “I view Harper’s activism as included in her literature and poetry as a direct reflection of what was going on at that time. The experience of a freed and outspoken black woman is a fresh and new perspective on the South during that time.” The book reception is free and open to the public. Guests are encouraged to wear business attire. For more information, contact the Department of English at 601-266-4319. About The University of Southern MississippiThe University of Southern Mississippi, founded in 1910, is a comprehensive doctoral and research-extensive university fulfilling its mission of being a leading university in engaging and empowering individuals to transform lives and communities. In a tradition of leadership for student development, Southern Miss is educating a 21st century work force providing intellectual capital, cultural enrichment and innovation to Mississippi and the world. Southern Miss is located in Hattiesburg, Miss., with an additional campus and teaching and research sites on the Mississippi Gulf Coast; further information is found at www.usm.edu (http://www.usm.edu/). text/html 2009-11-03T11:37:48+01:00 http://www.usm.edu/pr/cms http://www.usm.edu/pr/cms/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=2913&Itemid=2 The University of Southern Mississippi will host the C-SPAN Civics bus Wednesday, Nov. 4, as part of its national tour with stops at the Hattiesburg Public Library and the University of Southern Mississippi on Wednesday, Nov. 4. During the stops, visitors will have the opportunity to tour the C-SPAN Civics Bus and learn about C-SPAN’s unique public affairs programming. The bus is slated to be open for visitors at the following times and locations in Hattiesburg: • Hattiesburg Public Library, 329 Hardy Street, Hattiesburg, MS 9:00 a.m.-Noon• University of Southern Mississippi, 31st avenue between Joseph Green Hall and the Liberal Arts Building – 1pm-3:30pm In 1993, C-SPAN launched its Bus program as a way to bring the world of public affairs into schools and communities nationwide. Working with cable television partners across the nation, C-SPAN’s bus program has visited students, teachers, and citizens in all 50 states to discuss public affairs and C-SPAN's programming and free educational resources. Visit www.c-span.org/bus (http://www.c-span.org/bus) for scheduling and other information on the C-SPAN Civics Bus. At each location C-SPAN personnel will also discuss C-SPAN’s 2010 StudentCam documentary film competition as well as other educational resources. StudentCam is an annual documentary competition that encourages students to create a short film about issues affecting their communities and nation. This year’s theme asks middle and high school students to address: “One of our country's greatest strengths” or “A challenge the country is facing.” A total of $50,000 will be awarded in cash prizes, which includes 75 student awards and 11 teacher awards. The Grand Prize winner with the best overall entry will be awarded $5,000, with multiple cash prize awards of $250, $500, $750, $1,500, and $3,000 to students in both middle and high school categories. The deadline for this year’s competition is January 20, 2010. Additional details can be found at www.studentcam.org (http://www.studentcam.org/). Two thousand nine marks the bus’s sixteenth year on the road. The C-SPAN Civics Bus and crew travel the country, producing programs, and bringing the world of public affairs of life. About C-SPANC-SPAN, celebrating 30 years as America’s political network of record, was created by America's cable companies as a public service in 1979. C-SPAN programs three public affairs television networks; C-SPAN Radio, a Washington, D.C. radio station distributed nationally by XM Satellite Radio; and a video-rich Web site. C-SPAN is available in over 95 million cable and satellite households. For more information, visit www.c-span.org (http://www.c-span.org/) About The University of Southern MississippiThe University of Southern Mississippi, founded in 1910, is a comprehensive doctoral and research-extensive university fulfilling its mission of being a leading university in engaging and empowering individuals to transform lives and communities. In a tradition of leadership for student development, Southern Miss is educating a 21st century work force providing intellectual capital, cultural enrichment and innovation to Mississippi and the world. Southern Miss is located in Hattiesburg, Miss., with an additional campus and teaching and research sites on the Mississippi Gulf Coast; further information is found at www.usm.edu (http://www.usm.edu/). text/html 2009-11-03T10:58:53+01:00 http://www.usm.edu/pr/cms http://www.usm.edu/pr/cms/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=2912&Itemid=2 University of Southern Mississippi student Zach Mansell, left, presents Ford Motor Company executive Randy Creel with a token of appreciation during Creel’s visit to the College of Business Honors House on Wednesday, Oct. 28. Creel, a Jones County native, is director of Supply Chain Management for Ford overseeing more than $1 billion in inventory. He served as a guest lecturer at the Honors House as part of the fall semester curriculum. (Submitted photo) About The University of Southern MississippiThe University of Southern Mississippi, founded in 1910, is a comprehensive doctoral and research-extensive university fulfilling its mission of being a leading university in engaging and empowering individuals to transform lives and communities. In a tradition of leadership for student development, Southern Miss is educating a 21st century work force providing intellectual capital, cultural enrichment and innovation to Mississippi and the world. Southern Miss is located in Hattiesburg, Miss., with an additional campus and teaching and research sites on the Mississippi Gulf Coast; further information is found at www.usm.edu (http://www.usm.edu/). text/html 2009-11-03T10:48:34+01:00 http://www.usm.edu/pr/cms http://www.usm.edu/pr/cms/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=2911&Itemid=2 The University of Southern Mississippi Gulf Coast recognized three staff members with the first Outstanding Staff Awards for their role in providing support to the university. The awards were presented Oct. 28 to Vernita Elsbeth Richard of Student Services; Lori Brommer of the College of Arts and Letters; and Kay Bruening of the Gulf Coast Research Laboratory. A seven-member selection committee chose award recipients who exhibit an exceptional commitment to teamwork; possess a superior commitment to continuous quality improvement; and make contributions beyond those expected and required. Qualified recipients must be full-time and have at least two full years of service; a nomination letter and two letters of support; and a current job description. For more information about the Southern Miss Gulf Coast Outstanding Staff Award, call 228.865.4573. Winners of the University of Southern Mississippi Gulf Coast Outstanding Staff Award are, from left, Vernita Elsbeth Richard; Lori Brommer; and Kay Bruening. (Southern Miss photo by Shelia White) About The University of Southern MississippiThe University of Southern Mississippi, founded in 1910, is a comprehensive doctoral and research-extensive university fulfilling its mission of being a leading university in engaging and empowering individuals to transform lives and communities. In a tradition of leadership for student development, Southern Miss is educating a 21st century work force providing intellectual capital, cultural enrichment and innovation to Mississippi and the world. Southern Miss is located in Hattiesburg, Miss., with an additional campus and teaching and research sites on the Mississippi Gulf Coast; further information is found at www.usm.edu/gulfcoast (http://www.usm.edu/gulfcoast) . text/html 2009-11-03T10:31:36+01:00 http://www.usm.edu/pr/cms http://www.usm.edu/pr/cms/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=2910&Itemid=2 This briefs package highlights timely news and events from The University of Southern Mississippi Gulf Coast. For more information on any of the stories below or for assistance in arranging interviews, contact the Southern Miss Gulf Coast Office of University Communications at 228.865.4573. • “Paint Out” set for Nov. 14 • Visions of NOLA Poetry Reading Nov. 17____________________________________________________________________________ OPA to Host Great Paint Out at Southern Miss Gulf Park Campus in Long Beach LONG BEACH, Miss. – The first Oil Painters of America Great Paint Out on the Mississippi Gulf Coast will be held Saturday, Nov. 14 from 10 a.m. – 4 p.m. in front of the Friendship Oak at The University of Southern Mississippi Gulf Park campus in Long Beach. Each fall, OPA members nationwide spend a day painting outdoors during the Great Paint Out. Members volunteer to coordinate paint-outs in their state so local artists have an opportunity to meet, paint, observe and learn from one another. The Great Paint Out, sponsored by Pat Walker, OPA and Sandy Shaver of Caboose Art Gallery, is free and open to the public. Guests can bring their own lunch or purchase a boxed lunch at the event. For more information, contact Sandy Shaver at sandyshaver@att.net (mailto:sandyshaver@att.net) or call 228.324.1697. Southern Miss Gulf Coast to Host ‘Visions of NOLA’ Poetry Reading Nov. 17 LONG BEACH, Miss. – The University of Southern Mississippi will host the fourth Poets at Gulf Park poetry reading of 2009 at 6 p.m. Tuesday, Nov. 17 at the Gulf Park campus in Long Beach. The theme for the reading is “Visions of NOLA” with New Orleans poets Dave Brinks and Bill Lavender presenting. The readings will be presented in Sahvannah’s Coffee House, located at the entrance of the library. An open microphone session for audience members who wish to share their own favorite poetry will begin after the scheduled readers. Open microphone participants must sign up at 5:45 p.m. for a designated five-minute time slot. This poetry reading is free and open to the public. It is sponsored by the Southern Miss English Department, the College of Arts and Letters, the Sigma Tau Delta English Honor Society and the Southern Miss Gulf Coast Library. For more information, contact Dr. Wil Watson at wil.watson@usm.edu (mailto:wil.watson@usm.edu) or call 228.214.3245. About The University of Southern MississippiThe University of Southern Mississippi, founded in 1910, is a comprehensive doctoral and research-extensive university fulfilling its mission of being a leading university in engaging and empowering individuals to transform lives and communities. In a tradition of leadership for student development, Southern Miss is educating a 21st century work force providing intellectual capital, cultural enrichment and innovation to Mississippi and the world. Southern Miss is located in Hattiesburg, Miss., with an additional campus and teaching and research sites on the Mississippi Gulf Coast; further information is found at www.usm.edu/gulfcoast (http://www.usm.edu/gulfcoast) text/html 2009-11-03T09:38:11+01:00 http://www.usm.edu/pr/cms http://www.usm.edu/pr/cms/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=2909&Itemid=2 Prospective students planning to pursue a career in music are invited to attend the University of Southern Mississippi School of Music Audition Day Nov. 13 on the Hattiesburg campus. These auditions are for instrumental, orchestral and choral scholarships in the form of service awards. Prospective students must still apply through the Office of Admissions to be accepted to the university. There will also be opportunities at this event for prospective students to meet with professors in their areas of interest. “We have a world-class faculty who provide quality instruction, conduct innovative research and perform regularly on national and international stages,” said Dr. Michael Miles, director of the School of Music. Students can also speak with representatives in the Office of Admissions and the Department of Residence Life, as well as hear a special performance by the choir or orchestra during their visit. A tour of campus will be given and lunch will be provided for participants. Audition Days for 2010 will be held Jan. 29 and March 5 on the Hattiesburg campus. The School of Music prepares students for a variety of music careers by offering an array of degree programs that are both comprehensive and challenging. With a diverse body of student musicians, the school creates opportunities for cultural integration and performances with some of the best musicians in the world. Regardless of a student’s interests, major or career pursuits, they will receive the highest level of music training for young musicians. To register for the first Audition Day, contact Student Services at 601.266.6855.For more information about the School of Music’s degree plans, faculty, scholarships and performance opportunities, online visit http://www.usm.edu/music (http://www.usm.edu/music) About The University of Southern MississippiThe University of Southern Mississippi, founded in 1910, is a comprehensive doctoral and research-extensive university fulfilling its mission of being a leading university in engaging and empowering individuals to transform lives and communities. In a tradition of leadership for student development, Southern Miss is educating a 21st century work force providing intellectual capital, cultural enrichment and innovation to Mississippi and the world. Southern Miss is located in Hattiesburg, Miss., with an additional campus and teaching and research sites on the Mississippi Gulf Coast; further information is found at www.usm.edu (http://www.usm.edu/). text/html 2009-11-03T09:09:30+01:00 http://www.usm.edu/pr/cms http://www.usm.edu/pr/cms/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=2908&Itemid=2 This briefs package highlights timely news and events from The University of Southern Mississippi. For more information on any of the stories below or for assistance in arranging interviews, contact the Office of University Communications at 601.266.4491. Training workshops set for childcare professionals HATTIESBURG, Miss. – The University of Southern Mississippi Institute for Disability Studies is sponsoring two Project PREPARE workshops for childcare professionals on opposite ends of the state Saturday, Nov. 7. One will be held from 8:30 a.m.-2 p.m. at the Itawamba Community College Multi-Purpose building in Tupelo and the other will be conducted from 8 a.m.-1 p.m. at the Southern Miss Gulf Park Advanced Education Center. Both workshops are free. Participants can earn four contact hours approved by the Mississippi State Department of Health. Project PREPARE, funded by the Mississippi Department of Human Services, provides professional development opportunities, support and resources to enable educational programs to better serve children with special needs and their families. For more information call 601-266-4471. ‘Right To Throw Away Day’ set for Saturday HATTIESBURG, Miss. – The University of Southern Mississippi is joining forces with the City of Hattiesburg, the City of Petal, Forrest and Lamar counties, the Mississippi Department of Environmental Quality and Mississippi Power for the “Right Way To Throw Away Day” on Saturday, Nov. 7 at the Bobby Chain Municipal Airport. Better known as “Amnesty Day,” the event will be held from 8 a.m.-2 p.m. This venture provides an opportunity for individuals to properly dispose of household items that typically cannot be placed in municipal or county pickups. Examples include electronics, pain, other hazardous chemicals, antifreeze, batteries, herbicide/insecticides, motor oil, pool chemicals, poisons, tires, etc. For more information contact Larry Lee at 601-266-5687. About The University of Southern MississippiThe University of Southern Mississippi, founded in 1910, is a comprehensive doctoral and research-extensive university fulfilling its mission of being a leading university in engaging and empowering individuals to transform lives and communities. In a tradition of leadership for student development, Southern Miss is educating a 21st century work force providing intellectual capital, cultural enrichment and innovation to Mississippi and the world. Southern Miss is located in Hattiesburg, Miss., with an additional campus and teaching and research sites on the Mississippi Gulf Coast; further information is found at www.usm.edu (http://www.usm.edu/). text/html 2009-11-02T11:07:04+01:00 http://www.usm.edu/pr/cms http://www.usm.edu/pr/cms/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=2907&Itemid=2 Dr. Frances Karnes, distinguished professor of curriculum, instruction and special education at the University of Southern Mississippi, and Dr. Suzanne Bean, professor emeritus of education at Mississippi University for Women, have revised their book “Leadership for Students: A Guide for Young Leaders.” The book includes positive ideas and activities to help students discover their leadership abilities through exploration of ideas and encourage critical thinking about leadership; including how to conduct a survey on the characteristics of being a good leader; organizing a debate on leadership; interviewing community leaders; and developing and implementing a plan for becoming a leader. Students will find guidance and advice that emphasize leadership skills in a variety of settings, including in the classroom, social activities and the community. It also has real-life stories about students taking on leadership positions. The book’s Leadership Action Journal allows students to record their thoughts and actions as they develop their leadership skills. Karnes has also co-authored a chapter for the International Handbook on Giftedness with her former student Dr. Kristen Stephens, an assistant professor of the practice program in education at Duke University, titled “Legal and the Gifted.” The chapter focuses on many areas involved in mediation, due process, and court cases within gifted education. For more information on these publications, contact the Karnes Center for Gifted Studies at 601.266.5236; for more information about the center and its programs, online visit www.usm.edu/gifted (http://www.usm.edu/gifted) About The University of Southern MississippiThe University of Southern Mississippi, founded in 1910, is a comprehensive doctoral and research-extensive university fulfilling its mission of being a leading university in engaging and empowering individuals to transform lives and communities. In a tradition of leadership for student development, Southern Miss is educating a 21st century work force providing intellectual capital, cultural enrichment and innovation to Mississippi and the world. Southern Miss is located in Hattiesburg, Miss., with an additional campus and teaching and research sites on the Mississippi Gulf Coast; further information is found at www.usm.edu (http://www.usm.edu/). text/html 2009-10-30T15:57:31+01:00 http://www.usm.edu/pr/cms http://www.usm.edu/pr/cms/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=2905&Itemid=2 text/html 2009-10-30T15:42:28+01:00 http://www.usm.edu/pr/cms http://www.usm.edu/pr/cms/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=2904&Itemid=2 text/html 2009-10-30T11:08:40+01:00 http://www.usm.edu/pr/cms http://www.usm.edu/pr/cms/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=2903&Itemid=2 text/html 2009-10-29T13:30:57+01:00 http://www.usm.edu/pr/cms http://www.usm.edu/pr/cms/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=2902&Itemid=2 Members of the Sertoma Club of Hattiesburg, from left to right: Pendleton Stovall, president, Jimmy Renfroe, John Bethea Jr., David Bounds, Morris Ames, Wayne Johnston and David Salters presented a check for $17,000 to the DuBard School for Language Disorders at the University of Southern Mississippi Thursday, Oct. 29. The local Sertoma Club has contributed approximately $94,000 to the DuBard School over the past 25 years. (Office of University Communications photo by Van Arnold) About The University of Southern MississippiThe University of Southern Mississippi, founded in 1910, is a comprehensive doctoral and research-extensive university fulfilling its mission of being a leading university in engaging and empowering individuals to transform lives and communities. In a tradition of leadership for student development, Southern Miss is educating a 21st century work force providing intellectual capital, cultural enrichment and innovation to Mississippi and the world. Southern Miss is located in Hattiesburg, Miss., with an additional campus and teaching and research sites on the Mississippi Gulf Coast; further information is found at www.usm.edu (http://www.usm.edu/). text/html 2009-10-29T13:11:56+01:00 http://www.usm.edu/pr/cms http://www.usm.edu/pr/cms/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=2901&Itemid=2 Associate professor Claire Hamilton, along with several University of Southern Mississippi interior design students, earned special recognition at the American Society of Interior Designers South Central Design (ASID) Conference Oct. 17 in Jackson, Miss. Hamilton, interim director of the Interior Design program at Southern Miss, received an ASID Service Award and Presidential Citation. She also collected the chapter level’s highest honor by taking home the Educator Medalist Award. “This Medalist Award represents my past 10 years of service in the ASID South Central Chapter, and it gives me great satisfaction knowing that my contributions are appreciated an recognized,” said Hamilton. “I am honored to receive this award and hope to continue participating in ASID for many years to come.” Southern Miss students took home the following awards: • Meagan Holly, 1st place, Beginning Studio; 1st place, Hand Rendering• Tiffany Tanner, 1st place, Residential Design• Kristi Wittmann, 1st place, Commercial Design; 2nd place Hospitality Design• Elizabeth Jones, 1st place, Hospitality Design; honorable mention, Residential Design• Amanda Campbell, 2nd place, Commercial Design The students received $100 for 1st place and $50 for 2nd place. All participants in the competition received an ASID certificate. “The students work many long hours producing their design projects, and they deserve to be recognized for the quality of their work,” said Hamilton. “It is an honor to be identified as a winner by the professional designers and architects that judge the competition. Their win is a win for our program, and I thank them for a job well done.” The design conference was a combined event for all ASID members in Louisiana, Mississippi and Arkansas. The South Central chapter includes more than 800 members (275 of which are students).Hamilton noted that in addition to the design competition, students participated in a best practices meeting with professional designers, discovering ways to network with the eight districts in the South Central Chapter. For more information about the Interior Design program at Southern Miss, call 601-266-5988. University of Southern Mississippi interior design students, from left to right: Meagan Holly, Tiffany Tanner, Elizabeth Jones and Amanda Campbell captured awards at the American Society of Interior Designers South Central Design Conference Oct. 17 in Jackson. Not pictured: Kristi Wittmann. (Submitted photo)Claire Hamilton About The University of Southern MississippiThe University of Southern Mississippi, founded in 1910, is a comprehensive doctoral and research-extensive university fulfilling its mission of being a leading university in engaging and empowering individuals to transform lives and communities. In a tradition of leadership for student development, Southern Miss is educating a 21st century work force providing intellectual capital, cultural enrichment and innovation to Mississippi and the world. Southern Miss is located in Hattiesburg, Miss., with an additional campus and teaching and research sites on the Mississippi Gulf Coast; further information is found at www.usm.edu (http://www.usm.edu/). text/html 2009-10-29T12:01:35+01:00 http://www.usm.edu/pr/cms http://www.usm.edu/pr/cms/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=2900&Itemid=2 Dr. Mike Forster, dean of the College of Health at The University of Southern Mississippi, hands out goodies to students from the Children’s Center for Communication and Development during their trick-or-treat visit Thursday, Oct. 29. The children spent part of Wednesday and Thursday trick-or-treating various offices on the Hattiesburg campus. (Office of University Communications photo by Van Arnold) Dr. Susan Burchell, associate dean of the College of Health, joined the festive Halloween mood while handing out treats to students from the Children’s Center for Communication and Development Thursday, Oct. 29. (Office of University Communications photo by Van Arnold) About The University of Southern MississippiThe University of Southern Mississippi, founded in 1910, is a comprehensive doctoral and research-extensive university fulfilling its mission of being a leading university in engaging and empowering individuals to transform lives and communities. In a tradition of leadership for student development, Southern Miss is educating a 21st century work force providing intellectual capital, cultural enrichment and innovation to Mississippi and the world. Southern Miss is located in Hattiesburg, Miss., with an additional campus and teaching and research sites on the Mississippi Gulf Coast; further information is found at www.usm.edu (http://www.usm.edu/). text/html 2009-10-28T15:40:02+01:00 http://www.usm.edu/pr/cms http://www.usm.edu/pr/cms/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=2899&Itemid=2 text/html 2009-10-28T15:11:53+01:00 http://www.usm.edu/pr/cms http://www.usm.edu/pr/cms/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=2898&Itemid=2 text/html 2009-10-28T09:46:10+01:00 http://www.usm.edu/pr/cms http://www.usm.edu/pr/cms/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=2897&Itemid=2 This briefs package highlights timely news and events from The University of Southern Mississippi. For more information on any of the stories below or for assistance in arranging interviews, contact the Office of University Communications at 601.266.4491. Chemistry Department Celebration Includes Medical Symposium HATTIESBURG, Miss. – The Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry at The University of Southern Mississippi will celebrate its 50th anniversary with a Medical Alumni Symposium on Thursday, Oct. 29 at the Thad Cochran Center. The day-long symposium, sponsored by Hattiesburg Clinic, will feature speeches from six department graduates who have built careers in areas such as veterinary medicine, cardiovascular research and forensic pathology. In 1959 the university’s Chemistry Department was established as a separate entity and began granting bachelor’s and master’s degrees at what was then Mississippi Southern College. In 1962 the doctoral program was approved by the state College Board. For more information about the symposium call 601-266-5910. Southern Miss Organization Hosts Haunted Halloween Trail HATTIESBURG, Miss. – The University of Southern Mississippi Roots N’ Shoots chapter is hosting the Haunted Halloween Biology Trail from 4-7 p.m. Friday, Oct. 30 in the Biological Sciences Center, located in the basement of Mississippi Hall. The event is free of charge and open to the community. The trail is designed for ages 4-12 but is appropriate for all ages and represents a revised version of the standard biology trail with unique, exciting and spooky twists. The trail was launched in 2005 to create a hands-on learning activity to engage Southern Miss students in getting children in the community excited about biology and science. For more information call 601-266-5910. About The University of Southern MississippiThe University of Southern Mississippi, founded in 1910, is a comprehensive doctoral and research-extensive university fulfilling its mission of being a leading university in engaging and empowering individuals to transform lives and communities. In a tradition of leadership for student development, Southern Miss is educating a 21st century work force providing intellectual capital, cultural enrichment and innovation to Mississippi and the world. Southern Miss is located in Hattiesburg, Miss., with an additional campus and teaching and research sites on the Mississippi Gulf Coast; further information is found at www.usm.edu (http://www.usm.edu/). text/html 2009-10-28T08:54:45+01:00 http://www.usm.edu/pr/cms http://www.usm.edu/pr/cms/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=2896&Itemid=2 WEDNESDAY, OCT. 28 WHEN: 6:30 p.m.WHERE: College of Business Honors House on Fraternity RowEVENT: Jones County native Randy Creel will discuss his career with the Ford company. Creel is a Harvard law graduate who studied at Oxford University in England. Today he lives in China and works as the Director of Supply Chain Management for Ford. For information call 601-596-4811. About The University of Southern MississippiThe University of Southern Mississippi, founded in 1910, is a comprehensive doctoral and research-extensive university fulfilling its mission of being a leading university in engaging and empowering individuals to transform lives and communities. In a tradition of leadership for student development, Southern Miss is educating a 21st century work force providing intellectual capital, cultural enrichment and innovation to Mississippi and the world. Southern Miss is located in Hattiesburg, Miss., with an additional campus and teaching and research sites on the Mississippi Gulf Coast; further information is found at www.usm.edu (http://www.usm.edu/). text/html 2009-10-27T13:55:39+01:00 http://www.usm.edu/pr/cms http://www.usm.edu/pr/cms/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=2895&Itemid=2 Speeches, tours and live entertainment will all be part of the grand opening celebration of the new Student Activities Hub on The University of Southern Mississippi’s Hattiesburg campus Thursday, Oct. 29. Located in what was once the university bookstore in The Hub, the renovated facility in the center of campus includes eight new offices – Southern Miss Activities Council (SMAC), African-American Student Organization (AASO), three for the Student Government Association (SGA), The Southerner, and two administrative offices. The tri-level Hub also features conference rooms and student work areas. “At Southern Miss we value the role of student leaders in moving us forward,” said Southern Miss Vice President for Student Affairs Dr. Joe Paul. “This space will allow our student leaders and organizations to further the cause, leaving Southern Miss better than they found it.” The grand opening gets underway at 9 a.m. with a ribbon-cutting ceremony. Guest speakers include Southern Miss President Martha Saunders, SGA President J.R. Robinson and Paul. Guided tours and refreshments will be available during the program which runs until 1 p.m. The university’s String Quartet will perform along with the Spirit of Southern men’s a capella group and members of the Chi Tau Epsilon dance ensemble. The new Hub also features a stunning piece of art work by former student Sharon Spell that hovers above the lobby area. The mural-like display once hung in the R.C. Cook Union but temporarily lost its home during renovation work there. “In the past the Union Advisory Board decided that through a collection of student art, our mission would be enhanced by cultivating interests and providing a medium to challenge and stimulate the thoughts of the students and university community,” said Barbara Ross, director of Union and Programs. “When Sharon Spell asked if we would be interested in hanging her thesis project in the union we were extremely excited. Now we know it has a permanent home in the Student Activities Hub which is the appropriate place for it to be hung. It will serve as a focal point in this open space.” For more information about the new Student Activities Hub, call 601-266-5486. The new Student Activities Hub at The University of Southern Mississippi includes two large general meeting spaces as well as two conference rooms. (Submitted photo) About The University of Southern MississippiThe University of Southern Mississippi, founded in 1910, is a comprehensive doctoral and research-extensive university fulfilling its mission of being a leading university in engaging and empowering individuals to transform lives and communities. In a tradition of leadership for student development, Southern Miss is educating a 21st century work force providing intellectual capital, cultural enrichment and innovation to Mississippi and the world. Southern Miss is located in Hattiesburg, Miss., with an additional campus and teaching and research sites on the Mississippi Gulf Coast; further information is found at www.usm.edu (http://www.usm.edu/). text/html 2009-10-27T13:35:56+01:00 http://www.usm.edu/pr/cms http://www.usm.edu/pr/cms/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=2894&Itemid=2 A U.S. Department of Education grant providing support for area school districts to advance elementary school students’ performance in mathematics is being administered through The University of Southern Mississippi’s Frances Karnes Center for Gifted Studies. Titled “Continuous Progress Curriculum Model for Elementary Schools in Math,” the project is designed to organize schools around the acceleration of students through their established elementary curricula. It provides training and technical support for elementary educators and administrators to establish an individualized plan for a continuous progress curriculum in mathematics, considered a critical academic need area in the state. Target areas to be served by the elementary component will be math instruction in kindergarten through third grade, said Dr. Frances Karnes, director of the Karnes Center for Gifted Studies, who is assisted by Southern Miss graduate students in coordination of the project. She hopes that, if successful, the project’s format can be followed throughout a school’s curricula. The project will be administered through May 2010. “These schools are provided a model in which their students’ progress is tracked through not only the established math curricula, but may be replicated in other subject areas and grade levels so that all students could benefit from moving through curricula at an accelerated rate,” she said. Following an orientation meeting for each superintendent, principal, and selected teacher leaders, each school was provided initial training by an educational consultant who visits each school at least once a month to provide technical assistance and guidance to establish a curriculum committee charged with creating the individualized plan for implementation. The project’s two-part focus is now underway, which began with the creation of multiple entry points in an instructional setting for students of any age or academic strength in order to advance their progress in the school’s mathematics curricula. This is followed by training and continued support for teacher leaders and administrators through periodic monitoring of student progress and data gathering and interpretation. A review of the students’ periodic progress is also facilitated by assisting teachers and administrators on scheduling methods and flexible instructional grouping scenarios. The elementary level project director and educational consultant assess the schools’ progress toward completion of the implementation plan monthly, assisting school personnel as needed. At the end of the school year, a viable plan will be created based on the data that is collected and analyzed. The project not only benefits teachers and students in local schools, but helps Southern Miss in its efforts to train future teachers, said Dr. David Daves, chairman of the Department of Curriculum, Instruction and Special Education. “It’s not only helping teachers help their students succeed in math, but helps us build partnerships between P-12 schools and the university,” he said. “That allows us to take what we do here and break it down to real field-based work that our teacher candidates can benefit from.” While the stated mission of the Center for Gifted Studies is to further the education of gifted students and those with leadership abilities, Karnes said she and her staff are also interested in the advancement of students at all academic levels and giving their teachers the tools to make that happen. The current project focusing on math follows a similar project undertaken last year by the center that dealt with reading curricula. “We’ve always been interested in the instruction progress of all children, including the gifted,” she said. “We hope this particular model puts each child at their instructional level, further increasing their chances for success in mathematics.” About The University of Southern MississippiThe University of Southern Mississippi, founded in 1910, is a comprehensive doctoral and research-extensive university fulfilling its mission of being a leading university in engaging and empowering individuals to transform lives and communities. In a tradition of leadership for student development, Southern Miss is educating a 21st century work force providing intellectual capital, cultural enrichment and innovation to Mississippi and the world. Southern Miss is located in Hattiesburg, Miss., with an additional campus and teaching and research sites on the Mississippi Gulf Coast; further information is found at www.usm.edu (http://www.usm.edu/). text/html 2009-10-27T13:20:56+01:00 http://www.usm.edu/pr/cms http://www.usm.edu/pr/cms/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=2893&Itemid=2 The University of Southern Mississippi School of Mass Communication and Journalism is accepting applications for the second year of the Southern Mississippi Photojournalism Project. Ten students will be selected to join the project and attend weekend workshops conducted by several of the world’s top photojournalists Jan. 5-8 and March 26-28, 2010. Mississippi high school juniors, seniors, as well as junior college and university students, are eligible to apply. The School of Mass Communication and Journalism received a $55,000 grant from the Ethics and Excellence in Journalism Foundation to support the project, which is headed by Clarence Williams, photojournalist in residence. Williams won the 1998 Pulitzer Prize for Feature Photography when he was a staff photographer at The Los Angeles Times. “This is an extraordinary opportunity for these students,” Dr. Chris Campbell, director of the School of Mass Communication and Journalism, said. “They’re getting some first-rate instruction, and they’ll be working on stories of real significance. What an excellent way to get a photojournalism career started.” The project brings members of the Iris Photo Collective to the Southern Miss campus to work with the students. The collective is made up of Williams and three other highly respected photographers: Andre Chung, a photographer who has worked for the Chicago Sun-Times, Baltimore Sun and won the George Polk and Robert F. Kennedy journalism awards; Carl Juste, a photographer for the Miami Herald and also a Kennedy award-winner; and Pablo Martinez Monsivais, a photographer for the Associated Press Washington Bureau, where he was part of a photography group that won the Pulitzer Prize for Feature Photography for coverage of the impeachment process during the Clinton administration. The project is designed to allow students to work on stories about social justice issues, including poverty, racism, inadequate public education and substance abuse. Students’ work is published on the project’s Web site, which can be viewed at: http://www.usm.edu/usmphotoproject/ (http://www.usm.edu/usmphotoproject/). “We formed the Iris Photo Collective because the four of us share a passion for social justice, and we believe that photojournalism has the potential to affect important societal changes,” Williams said. Applications and additional information about the project can be found on the School of Mass Communication and Journalism Web site at http://www.usm.edu/mcj (http://www.usm.edu/mcj). For more information, contact Dr. Campbell at christopher.campbell@usm.edu (mailto:christopher.campbell@usm.edu) or call 601-266-6283. Southern Miss photojournalism major Eli Bayliss works with Miami Herald photographer Andre Juste during the March 2009 Southern Mississippi Photojournalism Project workshop. (Submitted photo) About The University of Southern MississippiThe University of Southern Mississippi, founded in 1910, is a comprehensive doctoral and research-extensive university fulfilling its mission of being a leading university in engaging and empowering individuals to transform lives and communities. In a tradition of leadership for student development, Southern Miss is educating a 21st century work force providing intellectual capital, cultural enrichment and innovation to Mississippi and the world. Southern Miss is located in Hattiesburg, Miss., with an additional campus and teaching and research sites on the Mississippi Gulf Coast; further information is found at www.usm.edu (http://www.usm.edu/). text/html 2009-10-27T13:12:31+01:00 http://www.usm.edu/pr/cms http://www.usm.edu/pr/cms/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=2892&Itemid=2 Two journalists who were central to The Times-Picayune’s Pulitzer Prize-winning coverage of Hurricane Katrina will speak at the University of Southern Mississippi Thursday, Nov. 5 as part of the College of Arts and Letters’ World of Words lecture series. The lecture, “Counting on Catastrophe: Katrina’s Unlearned Lesson,” will be at 7 p.m. in Gonzales Auditorium in the Liberal Arts Building on the Hattiesburg campus. Jed Horne, distinguished visiting lecturer in the College of Arts and Letters and former Times-Picayune metro editor, is the author of the critically acclaimed “Breach of Faith: Hurricane Katrina and the Near Death of a Great American City.” He will be joined by Times-Picayune photographer and Southern Miss alum Ted Jackson. “Ted Jackson and Jed Horne were in the eye of Hurricane Katrina, and they did truly heroic journalistic work in coverage of the storm and its aftermath in New Orleans and on the Gulf Coast,” said Denise von Herrmann, dean of the College of Arts and Letters. “This will be an opportunity for the community to revisit Katrina and examine the Gulf Coast’s recovery.” Horne’s book addresses the impact of Katrina from a number of angles, including the ethical dilemma faced by Jackson, who was working as a photographer in New Orleans after the city flooded. At the height of the catastrophe, Jackson considered giving up his photography career so that he could aid flood victims. “I’ve heard both Ted and Jed discuss their experiences during and after Katrina. The lecture will be quite compelling – they were at the heart of one of America’s greatest tragedies,” said Chris Campbell, director of the Southern Miss School of Mass Communication and Journalism. “Jed’s book is considered by most folks to be the best of the Katrina books. Ted is one of the world’s finest photographers, and his Katrina pictures are powerful beyond words.” Horne’s “Breach of Faith” was named Book of the Year by the Louisiana Endowment for the Humanities and was one of six works of nonfiction nominated nationally for the 2007 Helen Bernstein Award. He says his presentation will address recovery efforts after Hurricanes Camille and Katrina and that one of his messages will be that “we need to learn how to exploit disaster – seize the momentum that comes with catastrophe – not just to dream up recovery visions but to make them happen before the sense of urgency is lost and we all fall back asleep.” Horne will be teaching a seminar about Hurricane Katrina during the Jan. 11-15 “mini-session” on the Southern Miss Gulf Coast campus. The course, which will include guest appearances by a number of Katrina experts, will meet from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Jan. 11-15. Undergraduate students have the opportunity to take the seminar as an interdisciplinary course, IDS 490, Interdisciplinary Seminar, or as MCJ 480, Seminar in Journalism. Master’s students can enroll in MCJ 580, Seminar in Journalism. More information about the January mini-session at Southern Miss is available at www.usm.edu/minisession (http://www.usm.edu/minisession). Ted Jackson, Southern Miss alumni and photographer for the Times-Picayune, will conduct a lecture with former Times-Picayune metro editor and Southern Miss distinguished visiting lecturer Jed Horne Nov. 5 on the university’s Hattiesburg campus. (Submitted photo) About The University of Southern MississippiThe University of Southern Mississippi, founded in 1910, is a comprehensive doctoral and research-extensive university fulfilling its mission of being a leading university in engaging and empowering individuals to transform lives and communities. In a tradition of leadership for student development, Southern Miss is educating a 21st century work force providing intellectual capital, cultural enrichment and innovation to Mississippi and the world. Southern Miss is located in Hattiesburg, Miss., with an additional campus and teaching and research sites on the Mississippi Gulf Coast; further information is found at www.usm.edu (http://www.usm.edu/). text/html 2009-10-27T13:04:32+01:00 http://www.usm.edu/pr/cms http://www.usm.edu/pr/cms/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=2891&Itemid=2 University of Southern Mississippi School of Nursing students Allyson Taylor, foreground, of Florence and Kim Burks of Laurel donate blood as part of the Student Nurses Association’s (SNA) blood and bone marrow drive Tuesday, Oct. 27 on the Hattiesburg campus. The blood drive, part of a community service project by the SNA, was held in conjunction with United Blood Services, while the bone marrow drive was affiliated with the Mississippi Organ Recovery Agency. (Office of University Communications photo by Steve Rouse) About The University of Southern MississippiThe University of Southern Mississippi, founded in 1910, is a comprehensive doctoral and research-extensive university fulfilling its mission of being a leading university in engaging and empowering individuals to transform lives and communities. In a tradition of leadership for student development, Southern Miss is educating a 21st century work force providing intellectual capital, cultural enrichment and innovation to Mississippi and the world. Southern Miss is located in Hattiesburg, Miss., with an additional campus and teaching and research sites on the Mississippi Gulf Coast; further information is found at www.usm.edu (http://www.usm.edu/). text/html 2009-10-27T09:57:07+01:00 http://www.usm.edu/pr/cms http://www.usm.edu/pr/cms/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=2890&Itemid=2 Despite battling cancer twice and rebuilding her Waveland home after Hurricane Katrina, University of Southern Mississippi Gulf Coast student Liz Zimmerman is optimistic as she works toward her goal of becoming a social worker. Communities along the Mississippi Gulf Coast recently participated in the Making Strides Against Breast Cancer walk, and Zimmerman is also raising awareness about the importance of maintaining good health during Breast Cancer Awareness Month. As she continues her undergraduate studies with graduation a little more than a year away, Zimmerman runs a support group for cancer patients in Bay St. Louis. “My message is I want to see women taking better care of themselves,” she said. “Younger women or older women, you need to know your family history.” During her battle with uterine cancer, Zimmerman vowed she would attend college if she survived. With her cancer in remission, she enrolled in the nursing program at Southern Miss Gulf Coast in 2005. But like other Mississippi Gulf Coast residents, Zimmerman was adversely affected by Hurricane Katrina at the beginning of the 2005 fall semester. Living one mile from the beach, she returned home after the storm to a flooded house and half of a roof. Even in remission and rebuilding after a hurricane, Zimmerman’s health challenges continued. While in her third year of remission from uterine cancer, a large mass was found in her breast. Along with chemotherapy, she decided to move forward with a double mastectomy. She has since decided becoming a chemotherapy nurse is not her path. Still wanting to help patients with cancer, Zimmerman decided to change her major to social work so she can still use her personal experience in a career to help others facing the disease. “Liz is an energetic and passionate social work student,” said Dr. Tom Osowski, assistant professor in the School of Social Work. “She is really dedicated to helping others and creating an empathetic response to those going through the same struggles she is.” It will be three more years before she is considered cancer-free, but until then she’s relying on her inner resolve and support from family and friends to win her battle. “You just have to find out what your strengths are and use them, ” she said. Liz Zimmerman, an undergraduate social work student at The University of Southern Mississippi, signs a large pink ribbon in honor of Breast Cancer Awareness Month. Zimmerman, who has survived cancer twice, has vowed to earn a degree so she can help cancer patients. (Southern Miss photo by Charmaine Schmermund) About The University of Southern MississippiThe University of Southern Mississippi, founded in 1910, is a comprehensive doctoral and research-extensive university fulfilling its mission of being a leading university in engaging and empowering individuals to transform lives and communities. In a tradition of leadership for student development, Southern Miss is educating a 21st century work force providing intellectual capital, cultural enrichment and innovation to Mississippi and the world. Southern Miss is located in Hattiesburg, Miss., with an additional campus and teaching and research sites on the Mississippi Gulf Coast; further information is found at www.usm.edu/gulfcoast (http://www.usm.edu/gulfcoast) . text/html 2009-10-27T09:20:11+01:00 http://www.usm.edu/pr/cms http://www.usm.edu/pr/cms/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=2889&Itemid=2 The College of Arts and Letters at The University of Southern Mississippi Gulf Coast is sponsoring the presentation, "The HyrdoPolitics of Palestine/Israel” by photographer Skip Schiel at 2 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 7, in room 103 of the Advanced Education Center on the Gulf Park campus in Long Beach. The Palestine-Israel region has scant water resources, and the current strife over water there is a dramatic mirror of power relationships in the region. Through an examination of water resources in various settings, Schiel’s presentation will look at small Palestinian villages and the Gaza strip, along with large cities shared by Israeli Jews and Arabs. For more information, contact Dr. Wil Watson at wil.watson@usm.edu (mailto:wil.watson@usm.edu) or 228.214.3245. About The University of Southern MississippiThe University of Southern Mississippi, founded in 1910, is a comprehensive doctoral and research-extensive university fulfilling its mission of being a leading university in engaging and empowering individuals to transform lives and communities. In a tradition of leadership for student development, Southern Miss is educating a 21st century work force providing intellectual capital, cultural enrichment and innovation to Mississippi and the world. Southern Miss is located in Hattiesburg, Miss., with an additional campus and teaching and research sites on the Mississippi Gulf Coast; further information is found at www.usm.edu/gulfcoast (http://www.usm.edu/gulfcoast) . text/html 2009-10-27T08:26:04+01:00 http://www.usm.edu/pr/cms http://www.usm.edu/pr/cms/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=2888&Itemid=2 Tina Smith of Hattiesburg reads a Halloween story to students from Oak Grove Middle School recently at the Barnes and Noble bookstore on The University of Southern Mississippi Hattiesburg campus, as bookstore manager Kathy Hayman, standing, looks on. The students visit campus periodically to experience the various educational, recreational and cultural opportunities offered at the university. (Southern Miss photo by Steve Rouse) About The University of Southern MississippiThe University of Southern Mississippi, founded in 1910, is a comprehensive doctoral and research-extensive university fulfilling its mission of being a leading university in engaging and empowering individuals to transform lives and communities. In a tradition of leadership for student development, Southern Miss is educating a 21st century work force providing intellectual capital, cultural enrichment and innovation to Mississippi and the world. Southern Miss is located in Hattiesburg, Miss., with an additional campus and teaching and research sites on the Mississippi Gulf Coast; further information is found at www.usm.edu (http://www.usm.edu/). text/html 2009-10-26T13:08:18+01:00 http://www.usm.edu/pr/cms http://www.usm.edu/pr/cms/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=2887&Itemid=2 The 14th annual Shell Finish Line Homecoming Golf Tournament held Oct. 23 at the Hattiesburg Country Club brought in $10,000 for scholarships at the University of Southern Mississippi. The event is part of the traditional lineup of events during homecoming week at the university. From left, Southern Miss Vice President for Advancement Dr. David Wolf and Bob Pierce, executive director of the Southern Miss Alumni Association, accept the contribution to the association’s Pierce Legacy Scholarship Fund from Shell Finish Line’s Will Martens and Hattiesburg Coca-Cola’s Brad Brian. Scholarships from the tournament fund are awarded each year to the children and grandchildren of Southern Miss alumni. (Southern Miss photo by Jerry DeFatta) About The University of Southern MississippiThe University of Southern Mississippi, founded in 1910, is a comprehensive doctoral and research-extensive university fulfilling its mission of being a leading university in engaging and empowering individuals to transform lives and communities. In a tradition of leadership for student development, Southern Miss is educating a 21st century work force providing intellectual capital, cultural enrichment and innovation to Mississippi and the world. Southern Miss is located in Hattiesburg, Miss., with an additional campus and teaching and research sites on the Mississippi Gulf Coast; further information is found at www.usm.edu (http://www.usm.edu/). text/html 2009-10-26T11:34:57+01:00 http://www.usm.edu/pr/cms http://www.usm.edu/pr/cms/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=2886&Itemid=2 For more than 60 years, the name Moran Pope has been synonymous with service to The University of Southern Mississippi and the Hattiesburg community. A name change to the Southern Miss Alumni Association’s highest honor for service to the university and the Alumni Association will help ensure that Pope’s efforts are easily remembered for the next 60 years and beyond. On Saturday, the Southern Miss Alumni Association announced that its Meritorious Service Award has been named in honor of Pope, a former Hattiesburg mayor and university volunteer who was instrumental in a number of landmark events in Southern Miss history. “The naming of the award after Moran Pope is an attempt to appropriately recognize a man who has given a lifetime of service to the university and to the Alumni Association,” said Bob Pierce, executive director of the Alumni Association. “No one is more deserving of this honor.” The award is presented each year to one Southern Miss alumnus or alumna, “who has continued to give of their time and talents throughout the years and to recognize outstanding alumni support, professional achievement, loyalty and service to the university.” The announcement was made on Saturday at the Association’s Annual Awards Brunch and Business Meeting, held each year as part of the University’s Homecoming celebration. This year’s recipient of the award is H. D. “Doc” Roberts of Hattiesburg. Roberts is a member of the Southern Miss Alumni Hall of Fame and the M-Club Hall of Fame, a former member of the USM Foundation’s board of directors and a member of the Circle of Champions, a giving level reserved for top donors to Southern Miss Athletics. Although Pope’s achievements are many, his work on behalf of Southern Miss has had a lasting, positive effect on the institution. Among other accomplishments, Pope was president of the Alumni Association when it was chartered in 1955 and was president of the USM Foundation when it was chartered in 1959. Pope served as the first president of the USM Foundation for a term of 20 years, remaining in office until $1 million had been raised by the organization. He was instrumental in the creation of the S. M. Educational Building Corporation, the organization used in the financing of many university structures including the President’s Home, residence halls and some of the athletic facilities. He is a charter member of the Alumni Hall of Fame and received the Association’s Meritorious Service Award in 1979. Among those who have been inspired by Pope’s service is his son, Randy, his partner in the law firm Pope Pope, P.A., and like his father, a past president of the Alumni Association and USM Foundation. “It seems like someone tells me almost every week how blessed I am to have been able to work and learn from my Dad—not only in our law practice but also in our work with the Alumni Association and the Foundation,” said Randy Pope, who currently serves as the Association’s president-elect. “I tell them thanks, and that I agree. One of the greatest joys I have had serving as president of both the USM Foundation and the Alumni Association is knowing my father was instrumental in creating both of those entities and that he also served as president of both of them. On behalf of our family, I thank the Alumni Association’s Board of Directors for their decision to name this award in honor of my dad.” Among the more lasting contributions of Moran Pope to the Hattiesburg community are his service on committees for the restoration and renovation of downtown Hattiesburg, the Forrest County Chancery Court Building and the Forrest County Courthouse. In addition, he was co-chairman with Dr. Fred Tatum of the Library Bond Issue Committee. In recognition of his many contributions to the city of Hattiesburg, he received the Hattiesburg Rotary Club’s Hannah Award for Outstanding Community Service and the Hub Award. As an active member of First Baptist Church in Hattiesburg for more than 50 years, Pope twice served as chairman of deacons and as chairman of two pastor search committees. He served as Sunday School superintendent, taught classes and was a member of many church committees. He has since become an active member of University Baptist Church in Hattiesburg. Pope and his wife, Yvonne, are the parents of two children, Moran III (Randy) and Melinda Pope DeRocker of New York City, a singer and music director. They are the grandparents of Lucy Pope Schultze and Valerie Pope Nicholson. In addition to the Moran Pope Meritorious Service Award, the Alumni Association handed out 15 additional honors on Saturday in the categories of Outstanding Service, Continuous Outstanding Service, Special Service, Outstanding Young Alumnus and Friend of Southern Miss. Honorees included: • Outstanding Service Award—Cynde Clark, Sumrall; Scott Kersh, Brandon; Jamie Loris, Mobile, Ala.; Susan Marquez, Madison; Lisa Palazzo, Biloxi; David Rimes, Hattiesburg; and Janet Walker, Pearl • Continuous Outstanding Service Award—John Cox, Hattiesburg; Herky Hardee, Waynesboro; Clymer Wright, Houston, Texas• Special Service Award—Bill Pace, Hattiesburg; Phillip Pitts, Petal; Patricia Sumrall, Sumrall• Outstanding Young Alumnus Award—Dave Estorge, Gulfport • Friend of Southern Miss Award—Luckyday Foundation Board of Managers, Jackson The Southern Miss Alumni Association’s Meritorious Service Award has been named in honor of Moran Pope, a former Hattiesburg mayor and University volunteer who was instrumental in a number of landmark events in Southern Miss history. Pictured from left are the award’s 2009 recipient H. D. “Doc” Roberts; Pope; and Alumni Association President Curt Hébert. (Southern Miss photo by Danny Rawls)About The University of Southern MississippiThe University of Southern Mississippi, founded in 1910, is a comprehensive doctoral and research-extensive university fulfilling its mission of being a leading university in engaging and empowering individuals to transform lives and communities. In a tradition of leadership for student development, Southern Miss is educating a 21st century work force providing intellectual capital, cultural enrichment and innovation to Mississippi and the world. Southern Miss is located in Hattiesburg, Miss., with an additional campus and teaching and research sites on the Mississippi Gulf Coast; further information is found at www.usm.edu (http://www.usm.edu/). text/html 2009-10-26T09:39:47+01:00 http://www.usm.edu/pr/cms http://www.usm.edu/pr/cms/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=2884&Itemid=2 Student Health Services on The University of Southern Mississippi’s Hattiesburg campus now has H1N1 flu vaccine mist available to students, faculty and staff. The vaccine is free to the campus community. Groups recommended to get the vaccine include people age 2-24 and 25-49, those who live with or care for infants younger than 6 months and area health care or emergency medical personnel. Those with asthma, cancer, HIV or pregnant women and those over age 49 are not eligible. The mist vaccine is administered by a squirt into the nose as the patient inhales. Anyone seeking the vaccine must present a photo ID. Jodi Tate, health education wellness promotion coordinator, said Student Health Services should have the H1N1 vaccine shot available next week. Office hours are 8 a.m.-5 p.m. Monday-Wednesday; 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Thursday and 8 a.m.-4:30 p.m. on Friday. For more information call 601-266-5390. About The University of Southern MississippiThe University of Southern Mississippi, founded in 1910, is a comprehensive doctoral and research-extensive university fulfilling its mission of being a leading university in engaging and empowering individuals to transform lives and communities. In a tradition of leadership for student development, Southern Miss is educating a 21st century work force providing intellectual capital, cultural enrichment and innovation to Mississippi and the world. Southern Miss is located in Hattiesburg, Miss., with an additional campus and teaching and research sites on the Mississippi Gulf Coast; further information is found at www.usm.edu (http://www.usm.edu/). text/html 2009-10-26T09:18:18+01:00 http://www.usm.edu/pr/cms http://www.usm.edu/pr/cms/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=2882&Itemid=2 Five University of Southern Mississippi students with sights on careers in tourism and casino management will have an opportunity to experience the industry firsthand as interns at the Global Gaming Expo (G2E) Nov. 16-19 in Las Vegas. The students – Emily Adams, Alison Cox, Audrey Feeney, Angela Ladner and Rachel McDowell -- were chosen based upon competitive essays that were reviewed by members of the G2E Conference Advisory Board and Directors from the University of Nevada Las Vegas’ International Gaming Institute. A total of 50 winners were selected to participate in the G2E “By the Industry, For the Industry” internship program. Considered the gaming industry’s premier trade show and conference, the G2E will provide the essay winners with significant rewards. Such as: • Free G2E four-day conference pass, including access to the exhibit floor and the Advanced Gaming Institute (worth $1,595)• Admission to a special student group session on gaming and hospitality career opportunities.• Opportunity to have resumes/CVs made available to G2E exhibitors and industry professional for potential internship opportunities.• See first-hand how the G2E conference is organized by participating with the logistics on-site for one full day “The G2E gaming summit is the largest in the world and attended by all casinos, suppliers, manufacturers and related industries,” said Dr. Catherine Price, chair of the Department of Casino, Hospitality Tourism Management at Southern Miss. “The opportunity to see and experience a trade show of this magnitude is in itself an amazing learning experience. And further, to have the opportunity to work with the staff who planned and managed it is well beyond what can be communicated in a classroom setting. Price added that the networking opportunities were immeasurable with Larry Gregory, executive director of the Mississippi Gaming Commission offering to introduce and mentor the students during the expo. Adams is a junior from Gulfport, Miss., majoring in tourism management. “I feel it’s my duty to seize any opportunity for personal and professional growth that crosses my path, so being chosen for this particular opportunity is such an honor,” she said. Cox is a junior from Hattiesburg, Miss., majoring in tourism management. “I am planning to be an event coordinator and working in this conference will be a great experience for me,” she said. Feeney is a senior from Long Beach, Miss., majoring in tourism management. “This will be a perfect chance for me to gain the industry experience and networking needed for my future,” she said. Ladner is a senior from Saucier, Miss., majoring in resort management. “I am excited about this opportunity to meet industry professionals and I hope this internship will broaden my knowledge of both the tourism and gaming industries,” she said. McDowell is a senior from Chicago, Ill., majoring in hospitality management. “I hope to gain an incredible amount of knowledge. I am taking this endeavor to make not only my professors proud, but my mother as well,” she said. The Department of Casino, Hospitality Tourism Management will fund the students’ travel and accommodation needs with money raised by the students in their annual “Passions for the Palette” fundraising event. For more information about the department, call 601-266-6762.Emily AdamsAlison CoxAudrey FeeneyAngela Ladner Rachel McDowell About The University of Southern MississippiThe University of Southern Mississippi, founded in 1910, is a comprehensive doctoral and research-extensive university fulfilling its mission of being a leading university in engaging and empowering individuals to transform lives and communities. In a tradition of leadership for student development, Southern Miss is educating a 21st century work force providing intellectual capital, cultural enrichment and innovation to Mississippi and the world. Southern Miss is located in Hattiesburg, Miss., with an additional campus and teaching and research sites on the Mississippi Gulf Coast; further information is found at www.usm.edu (http://www.usm.edu/). text/html 2009-10-26T09:07:19+01:00 http://www.usm.edu/pr/cms http://www.usm.edu/pr/cms/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=2881&Itemid=2 Lamar County Schools, in conjunction with The University of Southern Mississippi Institute for Disability Studies (IDS), received a $1,000 donation from Sam’s Club for Early Connections Learning Center, a pre-K early intervention program. Early Connections, a collaborative effort between Lamar County Schools and IDS, provides intensive development and pre-academic instruction for children six weeks to four years of age and serves as a model pre-K program for school districts across the state. Research is being conducted on factors that are most predictive of school readiness across a culturally diverse group of young children, including those with disabilities, said program director Dr. Jane Siders. Siders said the Sam’s Club contribution will be used to support literacy activities at the center. For more information about the program call 601-266-5163. Sam’s Club recently made a $1,000 donation to the Early Connections Learning Center program, a collaborative effort between Lamar County Schools and the Southern Miss IDS. Pictured from to left right: Anita Guinn, Sam’s marketing team leader; Becky Hurston, Parents as Teachers Coordinator with the Lamar County School District, and Ricky Atkinson, Sam’s Club membership manager. (Submitted photo) About The University of Southern MississippiThe University of Southern Mississippi, founded in 1910, is a comprehensive doctoral and research-extensive university fulfilling its mission of being a leading university in engaging and empowering individuals to transform lives and communities. In a tradition of leadership for student development, Southern Miss is educating a 21st century work force providing intellectual capital, cultural enrichment and innovation to Mississippi and the world. Southern Miss is located in Hattiesburg, Miss., with an additional campus and teaching and research sites on the Mississippi Gulf Coast; further information is found at www.usm.edu (http://www.usm.edu/). text/html 2009-10-26T08:53:15+01:00 http://www.usm.edu/pr/cms http://www.usm.edu/pr/cms/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=2880&Itemid=2 As part of a commitment to community service, the Student Nurse Association (SNA) at The University of Southern Mississippi is partnering with United Blood Services and the Mississippi Organ Recovery Agency for blood and bone marrow drives on Tuesday, Oct. 27. The drives will be held from 7 a.m.-4 p.m. in room 119 of the School of Nursing building on the Hattiesburg campus. The SNA has set a goal of 100 donors for the blood drive and 30 for the bone marrow drive. Sharon Easterling, an undergraduate instructor in the School of Nursing, said these drives are a means for the students to give back to the community by assisting local hospitals in keeping their shelves stocked with available blood for patient use. “So many advances in medicine have occurred just in the last 25 years that I have been a nurse,” said Easterling. “Still remaining, though, is the fact that nothing can take the place of blood.” All blood types are needed during the drive and donors must be 16 years of age or older and weigh at least 110 pounds. The blood donation process takes approximately one hour, while the bone marrow donation takes less than five minutes. A person may not donate under any of the following conditions: • Currently taking antibiotics• Have cold or flu symptoms or do not feel well• Had hepatitis after the age of 11• Ever had a positive hepatitis B or C test• At a risk of catching or spreading the AIDS virus Easterling knows firsthand the importance of blood donations. Her daughter, Kelli Ferris, was diagnosed with leukemia at age 4 and received numerous blood transfusions during three years of chemotherapy. She is now a freshman in the Department of Theatre and Dance at Southern Miss. “Many donors came forward to make sure Kelli received the blood that she needed, but it was the blood of the anonymous donor that had been given prior to Kelli’s diagnosis that saved her life,” said Easterling. “I will never know who that donor was, who so unselfishly gave his or her blood, but I will be forever thankful.” For more information about the upcoming blood and bone marrow drives, contact Easterling at 601-517-8358. About The University of Southern MississippiThe University of Southern Mississippi, founded in 1910, is a comprehensive doctoral and research-extensive university fulfilling its mission of being a leading university in engaging and empowering individuals to transform lives and communities. In a tradition of leadership for student development, Southern Miss is educating a 21st century work force providing intellectual capital, cultural enrichment and innovation to Mississippi and the world. Southern Miss is located in Hattiesburg, Miss., with an additional campus and teaching and research sites on the Mississippi Gulf Coast; further information is found at www.usm.edu (http://www.usm.edu/). text/html 2009-10-23T14:55:55+01:00 http://www.usm.edu/pr/cms http://www.usm.edu/pr/cms/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=2879&Itemid=2 text/html 2009-10-23T14:09:09+01:00 http://www.usm.edu/pr/cms http://www.usm.edu/pr/cms/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=2878&Itemid=2 text/html 2009-10-22T19:23:17+01:00 http://www.usm.edu/pr/cms http://www.usm.edu/pr/cms/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=2877&Itemid=2 Scientists at The University of Southern Mississippi’s Gulf Coast Research Laboratory (GCRL) in Ocean Springs are keeping their eyes peeled for Asian tiger shrimp, Penaeus monodon, in coastal waters and are asking local shrimpers to do the same. text/html 2009-10-22T16:32:36+01:00 http://www.usm.edu/pr/cms http://www.usm.edu/pr/cms/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=2876&Itemid=2