Blue Gold

Volume XI
and
August
No. 3 2006
 A Message from the President
Board of Governors As Bluefield State College prepares for the start of
Norris Kantor, Esq. its 112th academic year, I sincerely believe the institu-
Chair
tion is poised to achieve new milestones on a path of
Mr. Jeff Forlines
Vice Chair excellence. Our Board of Governors, students, faculty,
Dr. Louis Aikens staff, alumni, and friends have provided a synergy that
Mr. John E. "Jack" Caffrey has created confidence and a continuing belief in the
Ms. Anne Crowe College’s commitment to “Making Education Possible.”
Dr. Lyn Guy
Mr. Edward Knight, III Bluefield State College is proud of its recognition
The Reverend Garry D. Moore, Sr. for producing graduates who have become leaders in
Mr. James J. Palmer, III Albert L. Walker their chosen fields in the region, the nation, and the
Mr. Jack D. Stafford President
world. I am grateful for the commitment and dedica-
Dr. Norman Mirsky
tion of the faculty and staff. These traits are critically
Faculty Representative
Mr. Daniel L. Frost important components in achieving the College’s goals and objectives. In a state
Classified Staff Representative and national climate of increasing costs and diminished resources, it is the human
Mr. Eli Sharp capital of our faculty, staff, and administrators that makes the institution secure.
Student Representative As we look toward planning, implementing, and initiating new programs and
projects, the support of our alumni and friends will be invaluable. The commit-
Administrative Staff ment of resources and input from our alumni and friends demonstrates their will-
Dr. Albert Walker ingness to invest in Bluefield State’s promising future-sustaining our legacy of pro-
President
Dr. Don Smith ducing leaders.
Vice President for Within the pages of this publication are stories of successful graduates, aca-
Academic Affairs and Provost demic achievements, ambitious projects, and a belief in our future of continued
Ms. Shelia Johnson service to students and community. Thank you for your interest, consideration,
Vice President of Financial and
encouragement, and support.
Administrative Affairs
Mr. John Cardwell
Vice President of Student
Affairs Board of Governor’s News
Dr. Thomas E. Blevins
Dean of the Virtual College and
by Norris Kantor, Esq., Chair
Information Technology and the A barometer for the success enjoyed by Bluefield
School of Teacher Education; State College is contained in the pages of each edition
Professor, English/Education of the Blue and Gold. This issue is filled with new suc-
Dr. Felica Wooten Blanks
Executive Director of cesses and achievements, and it is particularly encour-
Institutional Development and aging for your Board to work with the students, faculty,
Advancement; Director staff, and administration of the College as it accepts
of Title III challenges and creates opportunities.
Dr. Tracey Anderson
Director of Institutional
Recently, you have read stories detailing BSC’s
Research and Effectiveness approval to add new academic degrees like the
Norris Kantor
Mr. David Lord
Chair
Bachelor of Science program in Radiologic Sciences.
Director of Human Resources Progress continues as the College moves toward the
Mr. Jim Nelson introduction of a Master’s Degree program in Business
Assistant to the President/
Director, Institutional/Media Administration.
Relations BSC’s students continue to achieve world class success in autonomous robot-
ics, exceed state and national averages on licensure examinations, and augment
their involvement in cutting edge research.
Blue and Gold Concurrent with these developments, Bluefield State College has invested in
A quarterly publication for alumni
and friends of Bluefield State its community. Thus summer, BSC has hosted a College Summit and has estab-
College. This project is underwritten lished a Student Success Center. Both initiatives are designed to help students
by the Federal Title III/BRACE enroll in college, then succeed once they have begun their collegiate experience.
Program. (continued on page 9)

2 JULY 2006 BLUE AND GOLD

More than 380 Students Received
Degrees During BSC's 2006 Commencement
Approximately 380 Bluefield honored as salutatorian. BSC senior
State College students received Heidi Bolden was selected to receive
degrees during Saturday’s 109th com- the “Brian Delp Service Leadership
mencement exercises at the Brushfork Award.”
Armory. Nearly 5000 people attended Five members of the BSC Class
the program. Former United States of 1956 returned to their alma mater
Secretary of Education Dr. Rod Paige to participate in the program on the
addressed the Class of 2006, as well golden anniversary of their gradua-
as their families and friends, BSC tion. Dr. Aikens also administered the
alumni, College representatives, and alumni oath to all members of the
other attendees. graduating class of 2006, providing
Dr. Paige encouraged the gradu- BSC senior Heidi Bolden (right) received each new graduate with a complemen-
ates to use their skills, talents, and the “Brian Delp Service Leadership tary membership to the Alumni
education to enhance the community Award” from Amanda Delp Williams Association for the year.
and the world. He was introduced by (left), sister of the late Brian Delp.
Dr. Albert Walker, BSC President.
The audience of family members and President Eli Sharp, Faculty Senate
friends of graduates and community President John White, and Staff Cover Photo: William Carl
residents also received greetings from Council President Carol Baldwin. VanStavern, BSC's valedictorian for
Dr. Walker, BSC Board of Governors’ William Carl VanStavern (4.0 grade 2005-06, was the bearer of the
chairman Norris Kantor, BSC Alumni point average) was recognized as the ceremonial mace at the College's
Association President Dr. Louis College’s 2006 valedictorian, and 2006 commencement exercises.
Aikens, BSC Student Government Janet Kay Shelton (3.92 GPA) was Photo by Samantha Craig

Sandra "Kay" Thompson Named BSC Foundation’s

“Outstanding Faculty Award” Recipient for 2006
Sandra “Kay” presentations at profes-
Thompson, assistant pro- sional conferences and
fessor of nursing at has been an active com-
Bluefield State College, munity volunteer.
has been named the She was previously cho-
recipient of the BSC sen to receive the “BSC
Foundation’s Outstanding Clinical
“Outstanding Faculty Faculty Award” by a vote
Award” for 2006. of students in the nursing
Thompson, who has program. Thompson has
been a member of the developed the course,
College’s nursing faculty “Introduction to
for 25 years, was chosen Community Health
by her peers to receive Nursing,” and she holds
the BSC Foundation membership in several
award, which was pre- professional organiza-
sented during the 2006 Sandra "Kay" Thompson (right), assistant professor of nursing, was tions including Sigma
recognized as the BSC Foundation's "Outstanding Faculty Award"
commencement exercis- recipient for 2006. Dr. Albert Walker, BSC President (left) made the Theta Tau International
es. She has made announcement during the College's commencement exercises. nursing honor society.
numerous health-related

BLUE AND GOLD JULY 2006 3

Spotlight on the BSC School of Engineering Technology
by Frank Hart, Dean, School of Engineering Technology
The School of Engineering enthusiasm of these faculty members contracts; improve technology trans-
Technology and Computer Science through industry-like assignments and fer, and; link applied scientific
offers learning opportunities in the care for their professional develop- research and technological advance-
following programs: Architectural ment. ments to economic development of
Engineering Technology, Civil Laboratories in the School are the State of West Virginia.
Engineering Technology, Electrical filled with state-of-the-art equipment
Engineering Technology, Mechanical and interfaced with computers. Some
Engineering Technology, Mining
Engineering Technology and
of these laboratories receive industry-
sponsored donations of equipment and
Justin
Computer Science (with Program- software that keep us abreast of the Shrewsbury
ming, Networking, and Information technology as it is developed. These
Technology options). Four of these donations are the result of confidence Recognized as
programs (Architectural Engineering found in the experiences the students Outstanding
Technology, Civil Engineering enjoy.
Technology, Electrical Engineering Employment opportunities are Freshman
Technology, and Mechanical plentiful, and our graduates are com-
Engineering Technology) enjoy fortable in the industry and business
national accreditation at both the environment. Placement records
associate and baccalaureate level by show our graduates are hired by
the Technology Accreditation national and regional employers.
Commission of the Accreditation Several continue their education in
Board for Engineering and graduate schools, and a good track
Technology. record exists with regional graduate
Our students enjoy a spirit of schools.
competition, and this spirit carries Justin Shrewsbury
through from classroom and laborato- CART
ry experiences to extra-curricular Justin Shrewsbury, from Lashmeet,
activities. They have won regional, The Bluefield State College West Virginia, has been selected as
national and international competi- Center for Applied Research and the outstanding freshman in the
tions against major universities while Technology, Inc. (CART) provides School of Engineering Technology
representing the School and Bluefield leadership in applied engineering and Computer Science at BSC for
State College. Many “real world” research and development. Such lead- 2006. He received the Claude B.
experiences are provided in their aca- ership serves to enhance research, Dalton Award in recognition of his
demic assignments. These furnish contract development, grant, and outstanding academic performance.
clear expectations of what is encoun- research contract administration serv- Justin is majoring in Mechanical
tered in industry. Employer and grad- ices for the Bluefield State College Engineering Technology.
uate surveys provide evidence of School of Engineering Technology Professor Dalton taught math-
acceptance in industry and of contin- and Computer Science. ematics to engineering technology
ued growth after employment. CART is a state-chartered not- and computer science students for
Our faculty members possess for-profit corporation serving over 20 years at Bluefield State
diverse backgrounds of education and Bluefield State College as an College. He was recognized for
experience. They average 10 years of approved cooperative organization. being able to reach a broad cross
industrial experience and 17 years of The Center serves to enhance the section of freshman in mathematics.
teaching experience. They hold competitive position of research and Graduates frequently attest to the
degrees from 28 different colleges and development; help promote the gener- fact that Professor Dalton made a
universities. They have received al economic development of the difference in their success in col-
numerous awards, both in industry region; expedite and simplify the lege.
and at BSC. Students recognize the acquisition and utilization of research

4 JULY 2006 - BLUE AND GOLD

Center for Applied Research & Technology at BSC
to Enter DARPA’s “Urban Challenge” in 2007
CART is getting ready for Director Bruce Mutter. “In the
another “Grand Challenge.” The past, we’ve lacked the financial
Center for Applied Research and resources of many DARPA
Technology (CART) at Bluefield teams, but we’ve still been able
State College will enter the to combine ingenuity and cre-
Defense Applied Research ativity to more than hold our
Projects Agency (DARPA) 2007 own with the best industrial and
grand challenge event. The U.S. academic organizations in the
Department of Defense-spon- Grand Challenge. Additionally,
sored competition named the the competition is an inspiring
“DARPA Urban Challenge,” will ‘real world’ applied research
feature autonomous ground The CART "Scorpion Fox" team is pictured
experience for our students and
vehicles executing simulated in Tucson, Arizona, with its autonomous helps them visualize the limit-
military supply missions safely ground vehicle, during qualifying activities less potential for their future
and effectively in a mock urban for the 2006 DARPA "Grand Challenge." careers in engineering technolo-
area. Challenge, a 200-mile race through a gy.”
A year ago, an autonomous rugged desert and mountain course DARPA will award prizes for the
ground vehicle (“Scorpion-fox”) out- that tested the vehicles’ ability to top three autonomous ground vehicles
fitted by Team CART of BSC, work- navigate themselves independently that compete in a final event where
ing alongside Preferred Chassis through and around a variety of ter- they must safely complete a 60-mile
Fabrication, Inc. of Tucson, Arizona, rain challenges. urban course in fewer than six hours.
moved through six rounds of qualify- The 2007 DARPA Urban First prize is $2 million. To succeed,
ing in the DARPA event, advancing Challenge will take place in a yet to vehicles must autonomously obey
from the original field of more than be disclosed metropolitan setting, traffic laws while merging into mov-
200 entrants, to reach the round of the adding another dimension to the ing traffic, navigating traffic circles,
final 48 teams, coming within one event. “We’re certainly looking for- negotiating busy intersections, and
round of earning a spot in the Grand ward to this new event,” noted CART avoiding obstacles.

More than 200 Scholar-Athletes Participate in BSC’s

Engineering Technology Olympics
Students in the Bluefield balsawood bridge building, a
State College School of great boat race, concrete cylin-
Engineering Technology under- der toss, digital logic, basketball,
stand that the school’s academ- softball, tug-of-war, field math,
ic requirements are demanding, horseshoes, and more. A mid-
but they recently found that the day cookout was included, as
experience can be fun, as well. well.
More than 100 area students, “The Engineering Technology
primarily from BSC, participat- Olympics gives our students a
ed in the 17th annual chance to relax, enjoy the com-
Engineering Technology petition, and see their faculty in
Olympics at the Bluefield City In the annual BSC Engineering Technology Olympics’ an outside-the-classroom set-
Park. softball competition at the Bluefield City Park, hitters ting,” noted Frank Hart, Dean of
The event combines aca- are required to run the bases in a counterclockwise the School of Engineering
direction. The “Olympics” helps area students in
demic and athletic competition, engineering and technology majors to relax and com-
Technology. “It’s a highlight of
with students vying for first pete in athletic and academic events. our semester every spring.”
place in categories including

BLUE AND GOLD JULY 2006 5

 Join Bluefield State College Foundation
Four-Day Bahamas Cruise - January 4-8, 2007
Aboard Carnival’s “Celebration”
Hosted by BSC’s President and First Lady,
Drs. Albert and Kulwinder Walker
This four-day cruise gives you a full weekend of excitement in both Freeport and Nassau. Not
only will you have lots of fun snorkeling, swimming, sightseeing and snapping up duty-free bar-
gains, but in Nassau you have time for some of the exciting Caribbean nightlife!

SHORE EXCURSION OPTIONS:

FREEPORT NASSAU

Bahamas Nordic Walking Blue Lagoon Island

Tranquility Shores Beach Glass Bottom Boat
Kayak and Snorkel Ardastra Zoo
Lucayan Country Club Garden and City Tour
Garden and City Tour Nassau Historical Highlights
Freeport Dolphin Encounter Athol Island Snorkel
Cable Beach Golf Club
Pearl Island Snorkeling
Powerboat to Blackbeard’s Cay with Stingrays

Deposit: $200 per person

Because availability is limited, contact AAA Travel as soon as possible.
Final payment: November 1, 2006

For Full Details Contact Your Cruise Professional:

AAA Travel
622 Commerce Street
Bluefield, WV 24701
304-327-8187 or 800-642-5878

6 JULY 2006 - BLUE AND GOLD

BSC Foundation Outstanding Classified Employees And
2006 Retirees Honored
gram at the College. Both Harrison,
the College’s Director of Career
Planning and Placement, and Rose,
the College’s point of contact for sev-
eral Enrollment Management pro-
grams, received plaques and BSC
Foundation monetary awards of $500
at the ceremony.
By a vote of their peers, BSC
retirees Clifford Neal and Darlene
BSC staff members Deidi Rose (left) Buchanan were awarded “Classified Pictured (left-to-right) are Dr. Alma
and Tom Harrison were selected to Emeritus” status, with all appropriate Bennett, Professor Alvin Lester, and
receive the Bluefield State College rights and privileges. Ms. Remona Finney, during a recent
Foundation's "Outstanding Classified retirement reception in their honor.
Bluefield State College held a
Employee Awards" for 2006. They served with distinction at BSC for
retirement reception recently to honor a combined total of nearly 70 years.
Alvin Lester (Professor and Depart-
ment Head/Civil Engineering
The Bluefield State College Technology), Remona Finney 70 years, as skilled and caring mem-
Foundation’s “Outstanding Classified (Assistant Registrar), and Dr. Alma bers of the College community, and
Employee” awards for 2006 were pre- Bennett (Assistant Professor/Speech). we extend our best wishes to both
sented to Tom Harrison and Deidi “These individuals have served this upon the occasion of their retire-
Rose during the annual “BSC institution with distinction and excel- ment,” BSC President Dr. Albert
Employees Appreciation Day” pro- lence for a combined total of nearly Walker noted.

BSC Office of Institutional Development & Advancement

Receives $15K NASA Grant Award
Advancement at BSC, submitted the from NASA that established an
proposal. Emerging Leaders Institute to offer a
According to Dr. Blanks, “BSC holistic approach for preparing
received this grant through our part- African-American students for future
nership with the NASA West Virginia opportunities in science, math, and
Space Grant Consortium. This grant technology-oriented fields. The pro-
will enhance our efforts to provide gram also provided a support system
leadership training opportunities as to address the academic, social, cul-
well as scholarships for students par- tural, and personal development needs
Dr. Felica Wooten Blanks ticipating in the program.” of African-American students who
Executive Director of Institutional “Additionally, the overall grant enroll in NASA-related programs at
Development and Advancement
will allow other state institutions, BSC.
The National Aeronautics and including West Virginia State “We are very pleased that NASA
Space Administration (NASA) has University and West Virginia continues to assist our leadership pro-
announced its approval of a $15,000 University, to launch initiatives to gram. With continued support, we will
grant proposal in support of the replicate our Emerging Leaders be able to foster a new generation of
Emerging Leaders Program at Program.” multicultural academicians within the
Bluefield State College. Dr. Felica Four years ago, the BSC Office of fields of science, technology, engi-
Blanks, Executive Director of Institutional Development and neering and mathematics,” Blanks
Institutional Development and Advancement received grant support said.

BLUE AND GOLD JULY 2006 7

Student Success Center Working Effectively
dinated activities have been initiated assigned to a mentor (faculty, staff, or
with a goal of improving the student) who will work closely them
College’s freshman-to-sophomore during their first semester of college.”
retention rate for first time, full-time Participating students learn about
students. financial aid and Student Support
“We have been able to implement Service opportunities, receive web
a wide range of activities to help these self-service module training, tour the
students,” noted John Cardwell, campus, and begin the college adjust-
BSC’s Vice President for Student ment process, he said.
John Cardwell
Vice President for Affairs. Approximately 300 freshmen “Additionally, faculty who take
Student Affairs and transfer students will take part in part in advising through the Student
the program over the summer months. Success Center can then share their
A creative, proactive approach “Students come to campus for a understanding with their peers, help-
designed to help students succeed as three-hour session, where they receive ing to augment the quality of advising
freshmen, then make a smooth transi- a more comprehensive advising expe- across the campus,” he observed.
tion into their sophomore year of col- rience,” he added. “Through this pro- “At the end of the summer, each
lege has taken flight at Bluefield State gram, participating faculty advisors freshman and transfer student going
College, and the response to the pro- have already received training that through this program will be brought
gram has been extremely encouraging. helps them evaluate students’ career back to the College for an orientation
A Student Success Center, under- goals, academic strengths and chal- session, Cardwell stated. “The
written by a $7500 mini-grant from lenges, and personal situations likely Student Success Center represents the
the West Virginia Higher Education to impact their academic success. expansion of a college-wide commit-
Policy Commission, has been estab- Students who look to be more ‘at risk’ ment to retention.”
lished at BSC, whereby several coor- after the advising session will be

BSC Establishes “Humanitarian Athletic Award”

in Memory of Former Student-Athlete Brian Delp
The Bluefield State College ath- must be nominated by a member of nominations/applications must be sub-
letic department recently announced the BSC Athletic Committee, and mitted by April 1.
the establishment of the “Humanitar-
ian Athletic Award,” a scholarship in
memory of the late Brian A. Delp, a
BSC student-athlete who lost his life
while assisting a stranded motorist
four years ago. Samuel and Carla
Delp, parents of the honoree, partici-
pated in a brief press conference at
the College, during which the scholar-
ship was announced.
“Brian was an exceptional per-
son,” noted BSC athletic director
Terry Brown. “He was a humanitari-
an, a leader, and an excellent student
athlete.” Scholarship applicants must
be BSC student-athletes, two-year let- Pictured (left-to-right) are BSC athletic director Terry Brown, Mrs. Carla Delp
ter winners, and they must maintain at and her husband, Mr. Samuel Delp, during a recent ceremony announcing
least a 2.5 grade point average, the establishment of the ‘Humanitarian Athletic Award,’ a scholarship
in memory of the Delps’ son, the late Brian Delp, a BSC student-athlete who
according to Brown. Student-athletes
lost his life four years ago while assisting a stranded motorist.

8 JULY 2006 - BLUE AND GOLD

“College Summit” Workshop at BSC Will Help
Approximately 40 West Virginia Students Enroll in College
About 40 students from selected one who will provide accurate infor-
high schools in southern West Virginia mation regarding access to college,”
participated in the second annual four- West Virginia College Summit is the
day “College Summit” workshop at capstone for the WVACHE program,
Bluefield State College, June 29-July helping those students who don’t
2. With an emphasis upon ensuring know they are college material to
that West Virginia high school stu- realize that they, too, can go to col-
dents who can succeed in college lege and be successful, she added.
actually make it to college, College College Summit is a comprehen-
Sarita Johns-Gattuso
Summit’s presentation at BSC was Executive Director/WVACHE sive college transition system that
one of a series conducted by the includes intensive summer workshops,
organization at West Virginia colleges resources, training, and encourage- a curriculum guide to lead students
and universities during the summer ment to strengthen the belief that they through the high school-to-life transi-
months. are “college capable.” tion, and on-line tools to help students
During their workshop, students “In West Virginia, we have so and educators manage the transition
were housed at the Upperclassman II much talent that remains uncovered,” process. “We’re grateful for the sup-
in Bluefield. They completed an on- commented Sarita A. Johns-Gattuso, port provided by the Upperclassman
line college application, received one- executive director of the West Virginia II, the participating high schools, col-
on-one college counseling, and wrote Access Center for Higher Education lege personnel, and College Summit
a personal statement they can utilize (WVACHE). “Our mid-tier students staff and administrators,” Johns-
for scholarships or as an entrance just need someone who cares, some- Gattuso observed.
essay for college. They also received one who believes in them, and some-

Board Chair’s
Column
continued from page 2
For the sixth consecutive year, sum-
mer recreational and sports camps
have given many disadvantaged chil-
dren the type of positive, productive
activities that are invaluable as they
grow and mature.
It is encouraging that the College
has also received a growing amount
of support from individuals within the
legislative and executive branches of
state government. Certainly, the
momentum exists for continued suc-
cess. Your interest, input, and support
are vital for continued growth. Your
Board sincerely appreciates your
Dr. Brian Noland (left), the new Chancellor/WV Higher Education interest and invites your involvement
Policy Commission, is pictured with BSC President Dr. Albert Walker, in helping to chart the future of
who welcomed the Chancellor during his recent visit to the campus. Bluefield State College.

BLUE AND GOLD NOVEMBER 2005 9

Five Regional Leaders and Four Bluefield State College
Student Leaders Honored at “Spirit of Bluefield Awards
Ceremony”
Often, leaders who make a posi- and promoting the their region and/or Institutional Development and Ad-
tive difference in their communities Bluefield State College,” noted vancement and Administrator, Title III
do so in a quiet, understated way. On Dedriell Taylor, BSC’s Director of - BRACE at BSC); Civic
May 22, nine of these unsung heroes Development/Research. Involvement-Mr. Blaine Braithwaite
were recognized during the first Bluefield attorney Norris Kantor (President, South Bluefield
“Spirit of Bluefield Awards received the “Spirit of Bluefield Neighborhood Association), and;
Ceremony,” sponsored by the BSC Award for Outstanding Leadership.” Volunteerism-Mrs. Sue Guyton
Foundation and the College’s Office Kantor is actively involved in numer- (retired educator).
of Institutional Development and ous civic endeavors and also serves as BSC students who were recog-
Advancement. chairman of the BSC Board of nized during the program included:
“The purpose of this event was to Governors. Government-Eli Sharp; Education-
recognize and honor members of the Other Community Award recipi- William Aliff; Civic Involvement-
Bluefield community who most fully ents included: Government-The Mychal Guyton, and; Volunteerism-
demonstrate the spirit of community Reverend Garry Moore (Mayor, City Weston Monk.
service by fostering a sense of of Bluefield, WV); Education-Dr.
‘belongingness’ as well as supporting Felica Blanks (Executive Director,

Cruise Nursing Conference Attracts Capacity Audience

Barb Bancroft’s kept them laugh- bananas and spinach, and you can be Dean/BSC School of Business, was
ing and learning. As a featured speak- vaccinated by eating a fruit or veg- also a featured speaker. Her topic was
er during the George M. Cruise etable,” she noted. “Ten Steps to Financial Security for
Nursing Conference, sponsored by Dr. Elaine Scott, Interim Health Care Providers.”
Bluefield State College’s
School of Nursing and Allied
Health, Bancroft’s presenta-
tion, “Shampoos, Tattoos, and
Barbecues,” provided a capaci-
ty audience of health care pro-
fessionals with an update on
current issues in infectious dis-
eases.
The executive director of a
Chicago-based continuing edu-
cation firm for health care pro-
fessionals, Bancroft covered
topics including global warm-
ing and travel, bioterrorism,
food-borne illnesses, and
infectious agents and their
relationship to acute and
chronic disease. She also dis- Barb Bancroft (center), a nationally recognized speaker on health care,
cussed innovations in vaccine addressed a capacity audience during the recent George M. Cruise
Nursing Conference in Princeton. She is pictured with Dr. Betty Rader
delivery. “Within ten years, (left), Interim Dean/Bluefield State College School of Nursing and Allied
vaccines can be grown in foods Health, and Dr. Bernadette Dragich (right), Professor of Nursing and the
like potatoes, tomatoes, "Cruise Endowed Chair Of Nursing" at BSC.

10 JULY 2006 - BLUE AND GOLD

BSC’s Faculty and Staff Accomplishments
John Cardwell has been elected Virginia. on a program that considered chil-
as the new state representative for the Marviene Johnson, Administra- dren’s use of websites for reference
West Virginia ACT state organization. tive Secretary Senior for the School purposes. The program, “Smokey the
Cardwell, Vice President for Student of Education, received an associate of Bear, Canine Heroes, and Ben’s
Affairs, was elected to a three-year science degree in general business Birthday: Collection Development
term. He will serve as the state orga- from New River Community and for Children’s Web-based Reference
nization’s primary point of contact Technical College in May 2006. Resources,” was a featured activity at
with institutions and/or organizations Dr. Patricia Mulvey, Professor the WVLA “Spring Fling” in
that elect to participate in its work, of History, was among 12 participants Flatwoods, West Virginia.
and he will be the designated recipi- from West Virginia colleges and uni- Dr. Jim Voelker, Associate
ent of information from, and assis- versities to attend the recent John A. Professor of Political Science, was
tance by, the state organization. Maxwell Scholar-Diplomat Program, honored for his work on several local
Dr. Bernadette Dragich, “The UN Today: Millennium Goals and international literacy projects,
Professor of Nursing, was one of the and Reform Agendas,” in Washington including the Books for Africa
co-authors for the instructor’s D.C. The three-day event was spon- Project, through which a number of
resource manual for Maternal and sored by the West Virginia Consor- BSC faculty donated new and used
Child Nursing (second edition), pub- tium for Faculty and Course Develop- textbooks. The Bluefield, Virginia
lished by Prentice Hall Health. She ment in International Studies Rotary Club named Voelker a Paul
has also contributed to the Ball and (FACDIS). Harris Fellow at its annual banquet in
Bindler (2003) Pediatric Nursing Lisa K. Neel, Purchasing June. A $1,000 donation by the local
Companion website for Prentice Hall. Assistant III, received a bachelor of club was made in his name to the
She will be presenting a workshop, science degree in applied science Rotary Foundation of Rotary
“Drug Endangered Children: What from Bluefield State College in May International to further the organiza-
the Pediatric Health Care Provider 2005. tion’s service and humanitarian
Needs to Know,” at the WV Annual At a recent West Virginia Library projects.
Statewide Prevention Conference in Association conference, Archivist
November in Charleston, West Peggy Turnbull was a co-presenter

New Year’s Eve

Excursion to Spain
Visit -- Seville, Costa Del Sol and Madrid
December 28, 2006 - January 6, 2007

Air Transportation -- $250 Deposit by September 1, 2006
British Airway to London Price is $2200.00 per person double occupancy
London to Seville - Iberia $350 single supplement

8 nights first class hotels Final Payment is due October 25, 2006

Breakfast Daily We are holding only 20 seats.

3 Dinners For information contact

John White

All Entrance Fees jwhite@bluefieldstate.edu
304-327-4157

BLUE AND GOLD JULY 2006 11

BSC Graduate John Hairston, Jr. Named
NASA Agency Administrator
munity that cared.” While attending a “I have thoroughly enjoyed the expe-
two-room elementary school with a rience.”
pot-bellied stove supplying heat in the He has received numerous
winter, Hairston was taught by Mrs. awards including NASA’s Exceptional
Leslie Robinson. “I remember that Achievement Medal and NASA’s
she often told me, ‘You’ll be a star.’” Medal for Outstanding Leadership.
Upon graduation from Gary District He was appointed to the Dr. Martin
High School, the 17-year old Hairston Luther King Ohio State Commission
seriously considered enlisting in the and was presented a Congressional
Marine Corps. His father, though, Record Commendation from
had other ideas. “My dad had been Congressman Louis Stokes.
John M. Hairston, Jr. wounded in the war, and the military “Bluefield State College alumni
NASA’s Assistant Administrator
was not what he wanted me to do,” are everywhere in the world, and
Hairston explained. they’re doing well,” he said.
John M. Hairston, Jr., NASA’s He enrolled at nearby Bluefield
new acting Assistant Administrator for State College. “The dietician at the
Education, has traveled many miles College had an extra room at her resi-
since the days of his youth when he
attended a two-room school in Wilcoe
dence, so I stayed there when I started
out at Bluefield State,” he said. His
Fall Semester
(WV). However, he credits the edu- memories of BSC are fond ones. “I
cational foundation he received in fell in love with the school and gradu- Registration
McDowell County public schools and ated in three-and-a-half years.
August 17 - 18, 2006
at Bluefield State College with pro- Bluefield State was a nurturing
viding a firm foundation for his career school--they didn’t throw you to the Classes Start
in education. wolves. I remember the faculty, peo- August 21, 2006
Hairston directs the external pro- ple like (the late) Mrs. (Othello
grams directorate at NASA’s Glenn Harris-Jefferson. They were very
Research Center. “My responsibilities hard, but fair.”
include designing, developing, and Hairston earned a master’s
initiating educational programs for K- degree from Cleveland State Full-time Tuition
12 and higher education,” he University, then completed several In-state -- $1,824*
explained during a phone interview on courses at Harvard’s John F. Kennedy
June 15, his first day in his new posi- School of Public Policy. “Actually, I Out-of-state -- $3,880*
tion. “Our course content should be found that my academic challenges at
relevant to academia and to NASA Cleveland State weren’t as difficult as
Metro Rate
career-related professions.” my undergraduate courses. Bluefield
(Counties Bordering West Virginia)
The career educator and admin- State had prepared me well,” he
$2,860*
istrator credits his parents--Fern observed.
Delores Hairston and the late John M. “The support I received from my
*per semester, plus lab fees
Hairston--with developing his appre- family and my teachers in McDowell
ciation for the importance of educa- County and at Bluefield State was
tion. “My parents said I’d be the first invaluable,” he summarized.
member of our family to graduate After 27 years as an educator For additional
from college,” he recalled. “They and administrator in the Cleveland
didn’t know how I’d do it, but they City School System, Hairston joined
information,
believed that I would.” NASA in 1991. “At 48 years of age, I call (304) 327-4065
“I grew up in Wilcoe, near decided to change careers. I prayed www.bluefieldstate.edu
Gary,” he continued. “It was a com- about it and made the move,” he said.

12 JULY 2006 - BLUE AND GOLD

From the Desk of Dr. Louis Aikens
President, Bluefield State College Alumni Association, Inc.
As this is being written, plans are proceeding at a rapid rate for the biennial Bluefield
State College Alumni Association reunion in Atlanta, GA. At each reunion, BSC gradu-
ates have the opportunity to get together, share memories, and enjoy the fellowship of oth-
ers with whom they have the common bond of a love for Bluefield State College. The
next edition of the Blue and Gold will provide a pictorial narrative of the highlights of the
Atlanta reunion.
Additionally, within the pages of this Blue and Gold, you will see the Bluefield State
College Alumni Association's scholarship recipients for the 2006-2007 year. Your Alumni
Association is justifiably proud of its role in helping these most deserving young men and
Dr. Louis Aikens
women realize their dream of a college education at BSC. In fact, one of the missions of
the Alumni Association involves fund raising (approximately $15,000 this year) for scholarships.
Obviously, the larger our membership, the greater the potential to increase our scholarship support. Thus,
once again I am inviting you to consider the benefits and opportunities of membership in the Bluefield State College
Alumni Association. You can enjoy many activities like our reunion and, at the same time, help many students attend
and graduate from our alma mater. Please consider completing the application below and joining your Alumni
Association.

Attention Graduates
Now is the time to join the Bluefield State College Alumni Association. Annual dues are $30 and
Life Membership is $300. Please complete the information below, detach, make checks payable to
BSCAA and mail to:
Mildred Washington, Chairperson
 450 W. Columbus St.
Pickerington, OH 43147

Name Class of

Address

Telephone

E-mail

BLUE AND GOLD JULY 2006 13

Alumni Updates
1960s Library Science in 1988 from the
University of Tennessee. She is
Alumni Updates Robert L. Hawthorne, II, (1965)
director of Palm Springs Public
Library in Palm Springs, Florida.
Requested retired as an educator after 38 years.
If you have received awards, pro- Thirty-four years were spent as a
motions, accomplishments, recog- central office 1980s
nition, have married or recently administrator
welcomed an addition to your and as an ele- E. Scott Browning (1982) was
family, please let us know. mentary school promoted to branch manager at the
principal. Bluefield office for First Community
Mail your news to: Through the Bank, N.A. He is a graduate of the
Karen Gordon Education West Virginia School of Banking and
College and Media Relations Policy works with various community organ-
Robert L. Fellowship izations.
Bluefield State College
Hawthorne Program, he
219 Rock Street
Bluefield, WV 24701 studied and vis- 1990s
or FAX to 304-327-4581or e-mail ited educators and students in nine
kgordon@bluefieldstate.edu countries. He is a member of the
Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity. Michael S. Bales, Jr. (1997)
serves as the Grants Accountant for
the Southwest Virginia Community
1970s College in Richlands (VA).
1950s Heather Diane Blackwell (1996)
Mitchell Estep (1979) was hon- married Dwayne A. Duncan (1994)
Orphus Taylor (1954) has been ored at the 2005 Iaeger High School on August 17, 2006. She is
named Assistant Mayor of the football banquet for 25 years of dedi- employed as an accountant with
Springfield (OH) City Commission. cation as the school’s head football Smith Services, Inc.
Taylor, who received a master's coach. Under his direction, the team Kevin DeWitt (1997 and 1989)
degree from Wright State University has advanced to ten playoff seasons, was appointed Assistant Area
and is retired with 168 wins and 105 losses. Engineer for construction of six coun-
from the Dayton CAPT Norm Holcomb, CHC, ties for the Department of
Public Schools USN (1972) has been retained on Transportation in Georgia.
as a school psy- active duty beyond his mandatory Frank (Chuck) Dorsey (1993)
chologist, was retirement date, following more than won an Ruth L. Kirschstein National
the top vote get- 30 years of military service. The Research Service Award from the
ter in the City Navy informed him that "an immedi- National Institute of Health. He
Commission ate need exists for your expertise." received a Ph.D. in molecular sci-
Orphus Taylor election. She In addition to holding a bachelor’s ence from the University of
also serves as degree from Bluefield State, CAPT. Tennessee. He is employed at the St.
liaison to the Holcomb has earned Masters Jude Children’s Hospital in Memphis,
Clark County Board of Health, degrees from Duke University, Tennessee where his research focus-
Transportation Coordinating University of the South, Eastern es on understanding the molecular
Committee, Human Relations Board, Connecticut State University, Salve mechanisms in cancer development
Coalition of Neighborhood Regina University, California State and treatment.
Associations, Mediation Board, and University, and Troy State University, Cassandra Martin (1992) is
Senior Advocacy Group and he has earned a doctorate from employed by the Salvation Army as
Empowerment. She is a past recipi- Vanderbilt University. He has the Divisional Accounting Manager.
ent of several awards including the received more than 30 military Richard Lee Toler, DO, (1992)
National Council of Negro Women awards and decorations and has graduated from the West Virginia
Playwright of the Year, Thomas served the United States through five School of Osteopathic Medicine with
Jefferson Democrat of the Year, wars/conflicts. the Degree of Doctor of Osteopathic
Democrat Hall of Fame, and Clark Elena Romeo (1975) has been Medicine, May 27, 2006.
County Democratic Party Chairman's elected President of the Palm Beach
Award. County (FL) Library Association. She (continued on page 15)
received a Master of Science in

14 JULY 2006 - BLUE AND GOLD

Alumni Updates
continued from page 14
Stacy Burress Tramel (1999) Associates, CPA in Princeton (WV). tion in many years. He is an elemen-
and her husband, Keith, announce the Ronnell Thompson (2005) made tary teacher at Sunrise Elementary in
birth of their second child, Braxton his debut with People’s Theatre in Orlando as a fourth grade teacher.
Cole, born June 12, 2006. Orlando (FL). Ronnell had the lead
role of Dap Dunlap in Spike Lee’s
stage version of “School Daze.” (Set
2000s in the late 1980’s, “School Daze”
examines the tensions, biases, and In Memoriam
Samantha Elise Burgess (2005) frustrations of middle-class black
married John Roman Vaught on April youth at a southern college campus. A
29, 2006. She is employed by politically aware student [Dap] and a Harry L. Hicks, Jr.
Concord University. popular fraternity leader have varying David “Crockett” Michael, II
Jessica L. Stone (2005) married views on their own identities.) Keisha Powell Vest
Edward S. Barrett on August 13, Ronnell also played the role of Hoke
2005. She is employed by Lively and Coleburn in “Driving Miss Daisy” for
Bluefield State’s first theatre produc-

BSC Alumni Association Scholarship Recipients

for 2006-2007 Announced
Bluefield State College Alumni Association
scholarship recipients for the 2006-2007 academic
year have been announced. Each of the 16 stu-
dents will receive a $1000 scholarship from the
Alumni Association. Recipients must be BSC stu-
dents, having passed at least 12 hours per semes-
ter while maintaining a grade point average of 2.0
or better.
Each year, the BSCAA awards $15,000-
$25,000 in scholarships through funds contributed
by 13 local Alumni Association chapters through-
out the United States. Since its establishment, the
BSCAA has contributed more than $1 million in
scholarship support.
The recipients of this year’s awards are
Olusolope Adenupe, Aaron Birchfield, Rashida
Front row (left-to-right): Velma Bradshaw, Virginia Hebert, Brenda
Martin, Jennifer Hornick, Toya Hairston, Brenda Wade, and Sue Dickerson, Mychal Guyton, Danny Dillow, Toya
Guyton. Second row (left-to-right): Ora Johnson, Catrice Robinson, Hairston, Jennifer Hornick, Marviene Johnson,
Shamatee Mitchell, Olusolope Adenupe, and Marviene Johnson. Brenda Martin, Abdul Nasiru, Shamatee Mitchell,
Third row (left-to-right): Rashida Dickerson, Stacy Nicholson, Saul Stacy Nicholson, Catrice Robinson, Kayla Rose,
Sarr, Abdul Nasiru, Danny Dillow and Mychal Guyton. Not pictured
are Aaron Birchfield and Kayla Rose.
Saul Sarr, and Brenda Wade.

B.S.C.A.A. scholarships are available each March

in the Office of Institutional Development and Advancement.
Additional information about the BSCAA scholarship program
can be obtained by contacting Ergie R. Smith, Jr.,
118 Ovenbird Circle, Princeton, WV 24740;
Phone: 304-487-6756.

BLUE AND GOLD JULY 2006 15

Six College Job Fair at BSC Attracts
Record Number of Participants
Recruiters from 62 employers spoke to 380 current and former students during the 18th annual Spring Job Fair at
Bluefield State College, April 13, 2006. The event is a collaborative project involving BSC, Concord University,
Bluefield College, New River Community and Technical College, Southwest Virginia Community College, and
Wytheville Community College. It is designed to provide an opportunity for students, recent graduates, and other
individuals pursuing career interests to meet and discuss options with potential future employers.
“This year’s event attracted a record number of job seekers, as well as the second highest number of employers
and recruiters in the 18-year history of the program,” noted Tom Harrison (Class of 1975) BSC’s Director of Career
Services. “The Job Fair brings employment opportunities to students approaching graduation, along with recent
graduates. It also provides a laboratory-type learning experience for freshmen, sophomores, and juniors who get to
meet and talk to prospective employers.”
Bluefield State College’s Student Support Services (SSS) program worked with the College’s Career Services
program to assist students from BSC and NRCTC to benefit more fully from the opportunities created by the Job
Fair. The SSS workshops “Life After Graduation” and “Job Search Strategies” preceded the Fair, and a “Career
Portfolio Development” program was offered shortly after the Job Fair. Each student taking part in the Job Fair
received a vendors’ map, noting the location of each recruiting organization, as well as the academic areas of empha-
sis sought by each recruiting organization.
Harrison observed that approximately a dozen students who met with prospective employers at prior Job Fairs
returned this year in the role of recruiters for the organizations with which they are now employed. He also
expressed special appreciation to each collaborating institution for its assistance. “Many people worked together to
make this event successful,” he said.

STD MAIL A
Non-Profit Organization
U.S. Postage Paid
Permit #139
Bluefield, WV 24701
219 Rock Street
Bluefield, WV 24701
Address Service Requested

www.bluefieldstate.edu