News & Announcements             Athens State to host Christmas Open House for the community Athens, ALA. - Dr. Robert Glenn, President of Athens State University, has announced plans for a Christmas Open House to be held Sunday, December 21 from 2:00 p.m. until 4:00 p.m. The event will be held in the parlor of Founders Hall on the Athens campus. “I am thankful for Athens State’s partnership with the community and welcome this opportunity for us to come together and celebrate during a wonderful time of year,” states Glenn. “We look forward to seeing all of our friends and showing off the parlor with the beautiful Christmas decorations arranged by the Alumni Association.” The event is free and open to the public. For more information please call 256-233-8126. Photo Caption: Dr. Glenn, Alumni Association President Anita Raby, and Louise Steele prepare the Christmas tree for the holiday season. Athens State Crowns 2008 Miss Merry Christmas Athens, Ala. - Dr. Robert Glenn, President of Athens State University, crowned this year's Miss Merry Christmas on Friday, November 21 in McCandless Hall. Miss Brittney Peppers, from Athens, is this year's Miss Merry Christmas. She is the daughter of Pam and Steve Peppers, and transferred from Calhoun Community College majoring in Early Childhood Education. First Alternate is Miss Lindsay Smith from Eva, the daughter of Larry and Janice Smith. Lindsay transferred from Wallace State Community College and is a junior majoring in Business Management. Miss Cate Hamilton from Madison is the Second Alternate. She is the daughter of Harry and Diane Hamilton and transferred from Calhoun Community College majoring in Secondary Education - English. The pageant is sponsored annually by the University's Athenian Hosts and Hostesses. Photo Caption: Left to Right: Cate Hamilton- 2nd Alternate, Brittany Peppers - Ms. Merry Christmas, Lindsay Smith- 1st Alternate. Athens State Announces Alumni Art Show Call for Art Work underway for exhibit opening January 12 Athens, Ala. - In preparation for the Athens State Alumni Art Exhibit entitled Full Chroma opening January 12 and running through February 6, we ask that any alumni who would like to present one of their art pieces, be it on canvas or sculptural, to participate. The Exhibit will be open to the public for viewing and will hang in the University’s Sandridge Student Center Art Gallery. If interested, please send an e-mail to Gary Anderson at garyandson@knology.net with your work's title, your name, the media, and price (if applicable) to be displayed with your work. Deadline for entries is December 15. Photo Caption: Students admiring works at last year’s Alumni Art Exhibit Athens State Community Band Christmas Concert announced Athens, Ala. - The Athens State University Community Band, under the direction of Dan Havely, is gearing up for two performances of their annual Christmas Concert. The Athens State Alumni Association and the Livingston Concert Lecture Series will co-sponsor the concerts. The Community Chorus, under the direction of Dixie Harrison, will once again join the band to provide vocals to some of the holiday favorites. Due to the popularity of this event, two concerts are scheduled. There will be a 3:00 pm performance on Sunday, December 7, and an additional 7:30 pm performance on Monday, December 8. Seating is limited and tickets are required for either performance. The admission price is $5 per person. To obtain tickets please call 233-8126. A reception, hosted by the Alumni Association, will be held following the Sunday afternoon performance in the Parlor of Founders Hall. Both concerts will be held in McCandless Hall on the Athens State campus. Athens State announces Founders Queen and Court Athens, ALA. - On Friday, October 31, Athens State President Bob Glenn crowned Jessica Aguirre as this year’s Founders Queen. Aguirre is from Fayetteville, Tennessee and transferred to Athens State from Motlow State Community College. She is a junior majoring in English/Secondary Education and was awarded the 2008-2009 Geraldine Whitt Alumni Scholarship. Members of this year’s Founders Court include, Brittany Benson from Huntsville, Holly Causey from Alex City, Alyssa Jones from Union Grove, and Lindsey Erin Stephenson from Warrior. Student representative Chris Dye presided over the crowning held in the Parlor of Founders Hall. Dye stated, “The student body chooses the Queen and her court, therefore each young lady should be extremely proud of this honor.” Athens State to Discuss The Origins of the Bible Belt Athens, ALA. - Athens State’s Department of Religious Studies will host a Table Topic Discussion on Tuesday, October 28 at noon in the Chapel on the second floor of Founders Hall. Assistant Professor Sean Busick will introduce the subject, "The Origins of the Bible Belt." Busick is an assistant professor of History at Athens State University. He earned his bachelor's degree from Purdue University, and his M.A. and Ph.D. from the University of South Carolina. Busick is President-Elect of the William Gilmore Simms Society and the author of A Sober Desire for History: William Gilmore Simms as Historian. He also wrote introductions for new editions of Simms's The Cassique of Kiawah, and Life of Francis Marion. His current projects include editing a scholarly edition of the "Patrick Henry" v. "Onslow" debate between John Quincy Adams and John C. Calhoun, writing a biography of Major Henry B. McClellan, and a social history of early American political barbecues. The Table Topic discussion is free and open to the public. For more information call 256-233-8126. Photo Caption: Dr. Sean Busick ASU Production of Jekyll and Hyde Set for Halloween Weekend Performance to include actors from the University and Community Athens, Ala. – Athens State University announces its second annual Halloween theatrical performance of Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde by T. R. Sullivan based upon the novel by Robert Louis Stevenson. Performances of the play will be offered on Thursday, October 30 and Friday, October 31 at 7:30 p.m. in the Griffin Auditorium of McCandless Hall. Tom McDougle will be directing the performances and the cast includes Athens State faculty, staff and students – as well as community members. Actors involved in the project are Mark Anderson, Yvette Bolen, Andy Coffield, John Gregg, Al Elmore, Mark Marek, Jo Murchy, Aletha Pardue, Zach Pardue and Ann Solby. Admission is $10 for adults, $7 for students, and group rates are available. Reservations may be made by calling 256-216-3319. Photo caption: Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde performers practice the play. Athens State Club to host Haunted Grounds on the University Campus Health and P.E. Club sponsoring ghoulish tour to celebrate Halloween Athens, Ala. - The grounds of Athens State University will soon be set for Halloween fun and filled with spooky characters. The Health and P.E. Club is sponsoring "Haunted Grounds" - an outdoor festival that will be assembled next to the University Library on Pryor Street. Free parking for the event is available in the gymnasium parking lot off of Hobbs Street. The Haunted Grounds will open at dark on October 17, 18, 24, 25, 30 and 31, and will stay open until the last scream can be heard. Professional DJ Jessica Brock will be providing music and concessions will be available. Admission is $10 per person with the proceeds benefiting the Health and P.E. Club, assisting students with funding to attend conferences. For a discount ticket coupon for groups of 4 or more, or for more information, please visit http://www.athens.edu/students/holloween/index.htm Haunted Grounds Coupon At Athens State University: Convention Crowns First Female "Fiddle Champ" Athens, Ala. – Jewelia Hartley was named “Fiddle Champion” at the 42nd annual Tennessee Valley Old Time Fiddlers Convention at Athens State University on Saturday night. Hartley is the first female to be crowned champ in the convention’s history. Hartley of Joelton, Tenn., won the title by winning the “fiddle off” which traditionally pits the top fiddlers from the junior and senior divisions. Roy Crawford of Cullman, finished runner-up. Hartley, who won the junior fiddle division, earned the convention’s top prize of $1,000. The 19-year-old plans to enroll at Belmont University next spring. The convention is sponsored by the Athens State University Foundation and the Greater Limestone County Chamber of Commerce. The convention has contributed more than $500,000 to Athens State to fund student scholarships and university projects. Fiddle Champ 2008 Fiddlers a feast for the ears and the palate The senses of taste and smell are also treated at yearly event Athens, Ala. - The University Cafeteria in the Sandridge Student Center will offer extended hours during the upcoming Tennessee Valley Old Time Fiddlers Convention. Paulette Young of Classic Catering who manages the university's food services states, "We will open our doors for our normal hours of operation at 11:00am on Friday - and keep them open until the last note is played and the last clogger has clogged!" Young adds, "But to be more specific we'll stay open Friday until 11:00 p.m. with our famous chicken and dumplings, country fried steak and homemade chicken salad. We will reopen for breakfast on Saturday at 7:00 a.m. and stay open until the event closes down that evening serving items from our grill." "We love to see our old friends return year after year - and we also love seeing new faces who have just discovered the convention and the home-cooking we provide." remarks Young who has managed the cafeteria year-round since 1996. There will also be many vendors set up on the lawn of Founders Hall offering quick bites or full meals. Rick Mould, Vice President of University Relations states, "Its always fun to choose vendors to assure that no one will go hungry. I hear constantly that the smells coming from our campus can be as much a draw for Fiddlers as the sounds of the event." Food vendor offerings will also include pizza, kettle korn, catfish, barbecue, steak sandwiches, hamburgers, hotdogs, funnel cakes, pork chop sandwiches, chicken-on-a-stick, and much more. Construction will restrict parking at this year's Fiddlers Convention Athens State's growing pains shouldn't hamper attendance at yearly event Athens, Ala. - Due to construction presently underway on the Athens State campus, a portion of the parking lot on the east side of Beasley Field will be unavailable. Fiddler Convention attendees are asked to find alternative parking when attending this year's event. Parking is available in all lots of the First Baptist Church and First Methodist Church's Beasley Center. In addition, Athens City lots on the corner of Hobbs and Monroe, and Bryan and Marion will be open for parking. The City Hall Annex lot on the corner of Market and Clinton will be open, as well as Chasteen Hall lot on the corner of Hobbs and Clinton. The University also has parking available at the Softball Field a few blocks north of campus on Elkton Street. "Fiddlers weekend draws thousands of spectators each year and we try to make their ease of attendance a priority," stated Rick Mould, Vice President of University Relations. "Although we regret any inconvenience our current construction projects may cause, parking should not be a problem thanks to the alternatives offered by our neighboring churches and the city." Fiddlers Convention to offer free workshop Renowned artists to share talents with those attending event Athens, Ala. - At this year's Tennessee Valley Old Time Fiddlers Convention at Athens State University, a free Fiddle and Guitar Workshop will be offered by Buddy Spicher and David Grier on Saturday, October 4 from 3:00 p.m. to 4:30 p.m. in McCandless Auditorium. Ace fiddler Buddy Spicher is one of the latest musicians honored by the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum’s on-gong Nashville Cats series. Born in Pennsylvania, Spicher toured in the bands of Patsy Cline, Faron Young, and Ray Price. As a session player, Spicher performed with nearly every country star of the 1960s and 1970s, including Country Music Hall of Fame members Waylon Jennings, George Jones, Loretta Lynn, Roger Miller, Charley Pride, Marty Robbins, Statler Brothers, Hank Thompson, and Bob Wills. For the past several years, David Grier has been voted Best Guitar Player of the Year by the members of the International Bluegrass Music Association. He has also appeared on two Grammy- winning recordings: "True Life Blues-A Tribute to Bill Monroe" and "The Great Dobro Sessions." David is also included in the book, "1,000 Great Guitarists." His inspiration to learn guitar came from exposure to Bill Monroe while his father, Lamar Grier, played banjo for the Blue Grass Boys in the middle 1960s. This workshop is offered free of charge and a reservation is not needed to participate - although seating is limited and participants are chosen on a first come basis. David Grier and Buddy Spicher Athens State student loan defaults remain among lowest in the U.S. Athens, Ala. – Once again, Athens State University students fare better than the national average on student loan repayments, according to recent U.S. Department of Education figures. U.S. Secretary of Education Margaret Spellings recently announced that according to the last fiscal year's figures, the national student loan cohort default rate remains historically low at 5.2 percent. But according to Athens State University's Director of Financial Aid Sarah McAbee, the default rate for Athens State's graduates was even less than half of the nation's low percentage - an impressive 2.5 percent. "Our alumni historically seem to be good credit risks for these federal loans," said McAbee. “An affordable tuition, the maturity of our students, and the university's commitment to assure a manageable debt upon graduation are all strong factors in the low default rate. I am always impressed in the manner in which our former students have fulfilled their financial responsibilities." To decrease the amount of debt incurred by their graduates, Athens State's Office of Financial Aid identifies federal, state, institutional and outside funding sources available to students, including both grant and loan programs. In addition, Athens State awards approximately 60 scholarships annually with the Athens State University Foundation and the University's Alumni Association providing more than 100 scholarships awarded each year. Athens State religious studies Department to sponsor noted speakers Calvin Miller and Kay Campbell to address two separate lunchtime audiences Athens, Ala. - The Department of Religious Studies at Athens State University will be hosting two separate lunchtime discussions next week in the Chapel on the second floor of Founders Hall. On Monday, September 22, noted theologian Calvin Miller will speak to students, faculty, staff and the community at 12:00 noon in the chapel. Miller, an Oklahoma native, is the author of more than forty books of popular theology and inspiration. His poems and free-lance articles have appeared in various journals and magazines such as Christianity Today, Campus Life, Leadership, and His. He has served as an inspirational speaker in various assemblies and religious convocations, both in his own denomination and other gatherings. On Thursday, September 25, Huntsville Times Religion Columnist Kay Campbell we address the noon gathering. The topic of Campbell's discussion will be Understanding Black Liberation Theology. Campbell is a journalist with a strong background in education. As a reporter for the Times, she reports on religious matters for the citizenry while showing strong human compassion. Campbell has over 20 years of reporting experience for various newspapers in Alabama and Tennessee. Both events are free and open to the public. For more information, call Dr. Robert White at 256-216-6641. Athens State announces art exhibit Heritage Art Exhibit to showcase Beaty Mason home Athens, Ala. - Athens State University is sponsoring its annual Heritage Art Exhibit that gathers works spotlighting one example of an important architectural building or feature located on campus. The Heritage Art Exhibit was founded in 2002, and this year the exhibit will feature works inspired by the University President's home, the historic Beaty Mason mansion located at 211 South Beaty Street. The works of art must be submitted by hand delivery on Friday, September 26 in room 16 of McCandless Hall between the hours of 11:00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m. Exhibit dates are from September 30 through October 30 in the Sandridge Student Center. An exhibit opening and awards presentation will be held at noon on September 30. The winning art piece will receive $150.00 and will become a part of the University's permanent collection, hanging on the campus of Athens State University along with the past winners. The winner will be chosen by Athens State's president, Dr. Robert Glenn. The exhibit is open to all North Alabama and Southern Tennessee artists who are at least 18 years old. Each artist may submit up to three entries at no charge in the following categories: acrylics, graphics, mixed media, oils, pastel, or watercolors. The works must be no larger than 50 inches in either direction and must be framed under plexiglass and fitted with eye screws for hanging. For more information or to receive a registration form call Pamela Keller at 233-8232. Attached Photo: The Beaty Mason Home Athens State marks a record enrollment for fall semester ATHENS, ALA. - The current semester at Athens State University represents the largest increase in enrollment in the University's history. With over 3,300 students registered for classes this fall, the upper division institution realized a 9 percent increase in the registered attendees over the figures for fall 2007. President Robert Glenn, states, "I am excited to see an extraordinary increase in enrollment for our current semester. What these numbers tell me is that we are continuing to reach our goals of effectively and efficiently providing our students with flexible scheduling, choosing the right blend of online and traditional coursework, and that we have assembled a faculty attuned to the needs of today's undergraduates. But this success does not mean we will be resting on our laurels - we really like breaking records!" Overall, students taking online offerings represented 51 percent of the total student body for the fall semester. The University offers at least one or more courses that can be taken online in each of the university's 33 majors, as well as traditional day, evening and weekend classes. Bartlett and McDonald honored by State Board of Education Dr. Jerry Bartlett, recently retired president of Athens State University, was honored by the Alabama Community College System (ACCS) in Montgomery on August 28. System Chancellor Bradley Byrne conferred the title of President Emeritus upon Bartlett who served as president of Athens State for 18 years before retiring at the end of July this year. According to state board policy, retiring presidents must have had at least ten years of honorable and distinguished service to the institution from which they are retiring to be eligible to be considered for the honor. Also, a positive vote of three-fourths of the members of the State Board of Education is required to confer the title. The chancellor may call upon a President Emeritus to provide counsel or to serve in various roles or capacities for the enhancement of The Alabama Community College System. Also honored by the ACCS was Nancy McDonald who retired from Athens State after 24 years as a Professor of Chemistry. Byrne conferred upon McDonald the title of Professor Emeritus for her exemplary service and years of committed loyalty. Dr. Denver Betts, Athens State's Vice President for Academic Affairs states, "The emeriti titles bestowed upon Drs. Bartlett and McDonald are a fitting honor and proof that their good works were recognized at a state level. I am proud of them and for them." Photo: Left to Right - Mary Jane Caylor, Jill Bartlett, Jerry Bartlett, Bradley Byrne Athens State to host Huntsville Time Editor at Constitution Day event Athens, Ala. – Mr. Kevin Wendt, the recently named editor of The Huntsville Times, will be the keynote speaker at Athens State University's Constitution Day program on Wednesday, September 17, at 2:00 p.m. in McCandless Hall. Wendt will speak on the changing nature of the American media as it tries to perform its critical role relating to the Constitution's First Amendment. The annual forum is open to the public and celebrates the freedoms bestowed upon all Americans through the signing of the famous statute. Wendt became editor of The Huntsville Times in July of this year. He was previously an Assistant Managing Editor at the San Jose Mercury News, a 200,000-circulation daily newspaper located in the heart of Silicon Valley. During his eight years at the Mercury News, Wendt oversaw many departments, including his most recent role where he supervised 60 employees in the Sports, Copy Desk and Design departments. Nationally, September 17th marks the anniversary of the 55 delegates to the Constitutional Convention who, at their final meeting, signed the Constitution of the United States in 1787. Across the country events celebrate the birth of a document which itself represents the nation's greatest expression of statesmanship and compromise. In its four hand-written pages, the Constitution gives us no less than the owners' manual to the greatest form of government the world has ever known. Athens State President, Dr. Robert Glenn, remarks, "Athens State is proud to host this yearly event commemorating an important date in our country's history that can often be overlooked. This will be my first Constitution Day, but I understand that it is well received by our campus family and we welcome the community to join in our celebration." Mr. Kevin Wendt Fiddler's Convention set for October 3-4 Bobby Osborne and the Rocky Top X-press to headline Athens, Ala. – Athens State University will host the 42nd annual Tennessee Valley Old Time Fiddlers Convention on Oct. 3-4 at the school's campus in Athens, Alabama. The musical competitions will be on the steps of historic Founders Hall. A total of $11,870 in prize money will be awarded. The convention is sponsored annually by the Athens State University Foundation and the Athens-Limestone Chamber of Commerce. Proceeds from the convention have funded over $500,000 toward student scholarships and other university projects. The convention has historically attracted more than 15,000 people for the two-day event, with more than 200 musicians participating in the musical competition. The coup de gras for the convention is the naming of the “Fiddle Champion.” Competition for the crown is always fierce and this year will be no different. Joel Whittinghill was named “Fiddle Champion” at last year’s convention. He won the “fiddle off” which traditionally pits the top fiddlers from the junior and senior divisions. This year’s fiddle champ will earn a total of $1,000 in cash and a trophy. This year's special guest will be Bobby Osborne and the Rocky Top X-press performing Friday, October 3 at 4:00pm and 6:00pm. A legendary giant in bluegrass music, Bobby Osborne continues to be on the cutting edge of the now enormously popular music form. His instantly recognizable, quality high lead and tenor voice and inventive mandolin stylings remain unsurpassed. Approximately 150 booths featuring old-fashioned arts and crafts are part of the convention. Convention goers will see everything from traditional artwork to coal-fired metal works. Food vendors will also be on hand to provide anything from a quick snack to a full meal. Contests begin at 7:00 p.m. following the Bobby Osborne concert on Friday, Oct. 3., and will resume on Saturday, Oct. 4 at 8:30 a.m. with the gates opening at 8:00 a.m. Cost is $8 for Friday, $10 for Saturday and $15 for both days. Children ages 12 and under are free with a parent. For more information visit http://www.athens.edu/fiddlers/ Senator Orr to address Athens State graduates Athens, Ala. –Alabama State Senator Arthur Orr will be the keynote speaker at Athens State University’s summer commencement on Saturday, August 23 at 9 a.m. Graduation exercises will be held on Athens State University’s campus in front of Founders Hall. Approximately 200 students are expected to graduate. Senator Orr is a Republican member of the Alabama Senate, representing the 3rd District since 2006. Orr has provided community service both locally, in the regions of Decatur, Morgan County and internationally. Internationally, he served in Nepal as a volunteer with the Peace Corps, in Bangladesh as a new country developer, and in the Pacific Ocean region of Asia with Habitat for Humanity International as staff attorney. Locally, Orr holds various positions on a number of boards. Orr is treasurer to the Chamber of Commerce and serves as president of the Community Foundation, the Decatur Rotary Club, Main Street Decatur and the Junior Chamber of Commerce. He is a the chairman of the Calhoun College Foundation, the City Beautification Board and the Volunteer Center. He also sits on the board of several non-profit organizations, including the Southern Growth Policies Board, TVA Advistory Board, State Water Commission, and the Community Free Clinic which he helped establish to assist the working poor. Orr is an alumnus of Wake Forest University, where he received a Bachelor of Arts, and the University of Alabama School of Law, where he receieved a Juris Doctor degree. Orr and his wife of 10 years, Amy, have one son, Jack. Athens State University offers coursework at the junior and senior level and is the baccalaureate degree granting institution of the Alabama Community College System. It provides affordable education in an environment that recognizes diversity and nurtures the discovery and application of knowledge. Athens State prepares students for professional careers, graduate school, lifelong learning, and enrichment. Athens State to host Dinner Piano Concert featuring Jason Guy September event sponsored by the Livingston Concert Lecture Series Athens, Ala. - Athens State University will be hosting a dinner piano concert featuring renowned pianist, Jason Guy. The event, sponsored by the Livingston Concert Lecture Series, will he held September 9 beginning at 6:30 pm in the Ballroom of the Sandridge Student Center. Admission to the event will be $25 per person. Reservations may be made before September 1 by calling 256-233-8126. Livingston Concert Lecture Chair, Kim Goedhart states, "This dinner concert kicks off the 2008/2009 season which I am sure will have something for everyone. We are thrilled to have Jason Guy as our first event - he is no stranger to performing at Athens State and we feel his music would be the perfect compliment to a romantic dinner setting." Jason Guy's repertoire includes jazz melodies, standards, light favorites, and a few Broadway compositions. Jason Guy Patriotic Play Presented at Athens State University "America's Town" recalls turn of the century life Athens State University presents a light and warmhearted children's play called "America's Town" on Friday and Saturday, July 18 and 19, at 7:30 PM in McCandless Theater. Tickets are $10 for adults and $5 for students and children and are available at the door. They may also be reserved by calling 216-3319. Directed by Dr. Al Elmore, "America's Town" features such audience sing-alongs as "Bicycle Built for Two," "America the Beautiful," and "The Star-Spangled Banner." One minute Gloria's group is leading the audience in "Dixie" while sporting Confederate uniforms. The next minute, Cecilia's groups is leading them in "Battle Hymn of the Republic," clad in Union blue. As the Fourth of July, 1900, approaches, the little town of Lincoln, Kentucky, has been selected "America's Town." Reporters from all over America will converge on this heartland town as the Mayor's children and their friends present patriotic songs and skits depicting the history of America in the city park. A burning question has divided the seven children in the home of Mayor Upchurch. Who will write these skits? Will it be the dominating oldest sister of the family, Gloria, or her rival and next in line, Cecilia? Gloria is a conservative, Cecilia a liberal. These sisters cannot—will not—work together. They even compete for the same boyfriend. Lindsey Martin and Logan Moore lead the female cast, while Cade Bolen, Jacob Johnston, and Tyler Gibson lead the boys. Darren Butler plays the Mayor. Also starring are Ciera Gilbert, Mary Frances Moore, Shelby Johnston, Grace Martin, Ross Pate, Collin Gooch, Holly Elmore, Shelby Elmore, Harriett Shelly, and Mitchell Shelly. An old bicycle built for two lent by Richard Martin reminds the audience of an older and simpler world. Dr. Yvette Bolen serves as choreographer and musical director. Tom McDougle is technical director. Athens State marks a record enrollment for summer semester Double-digit increases spurred by popular online offerings ATHENS, ALA. - The current semester at Athens State University represents the largest increase in enrollment for the summer academic term in the University's history. With over 2,500 students registered for classes this summer, the upper division institution realized an 11 percent increase in the registered attendees over the figures for summer 2007. Dr. Denver Betts, Vice President of Academic Affairs, states, "I believe that our commitment to provide access to the citizens of Alabama and beyond is having great success. We hope to continue to bring valuable academic baccalaureate programs to those determined to receive a quality degree without sacrificing professional or personal responsibilities." Enrollment in distance learning classes for the summer term has increased by 19 percent over the same period last year. Overall, students taking online offerings represented 62 percent of the total student body for the summer semester. To address this trend the University has made available at least one or more classes that can be taken online in almost all of the 33 majors. Reception planned to honor Jerry Bartlett Retiring Athens State President to be feted by peers and public Athens, Ala. - The Athens State University Foundation will host a reception to honor Dr. Jerry Bartlett upon his retirement as president of Athens State University. The public reception is Thursday, June 19 from 5:00 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. in the Ballroom of the Sandridge Student Center. Highlights will include the unveiling of the Jerry and Jill Bartlett Endowed Scholarship. Funds for the endowed scholarship honoring the Bartletts were raised through contributions by University faculty, staff, friends and the local community. Dr. Joe Brasher, Professor of Education at Athens State University, will provide the music. Bartlett, 66, will officially step down on Aug. 1 after 18 years at the helm. He will have served Athens State for 41 years beginning his academic career as an assistant business professor. Bartlett is one of the longest-serving presidents in the institution’s history. Photo caption: Retiring Athens State President Jerry Bartlett. Athens State Announces Its Annual Flag Day Ceremony Athens, Ala. - Athens State University will be hosting its annual Flag Day Ceremony sponsored by the Athens State Alumni Association on Friday, June 13 at 12:00 noon in the Sandridge Student Center Ballroom. This year's guest speaker is CW4 Jim Scala USA (Ret), who became associated with the Army in 1983. During his tour of duty, Scala was stationed in Korea, Germany, Kuwait and Iraq to name a few. He received a long list of awards including the Legion of Merit, Bronze Star, and the Meritorious Service Medal. Scala is currently employed by Dynetics to support the Aviation Engineering Directorate on Redstone Arsenal, supporting the Warfighters through engineering and analysis. Music for the event will be provided by the Athens State Community Band and the group "Clear Title." The public is invited to this yearly event and the ceremony is followed by a cookout. Lisa Payne, chairperson of the Flag Day Committee, once again reminds us of the words of Woodrow Wilson, "Flag Day is a day when we are to recall the things which we should do every day of our lives. There are no days of special patriotism." Picture Caption: Athens State Flag Day Committee, left to right: Tena Bullington, Chad Easterling, Janice Owen, Lisa Payne. Athens State's College of Education gets top marks from state agency Athens, Ala. - Dr. Debra Baird, of the College of Education at Athens State University, recently announced that her department received "all A's" on the 2006-2007 Alabama Teacher Preparation Program Performance Profile Report Card for Athens State University. Incredibly, they received this recognition in addition to their simultaneous preparations for the NCATE accreditation. Athens State's College of Education swept all categories with a total grade of 4.0 out of 4.0. The State itself scored a 3.70. Photo Caption: McCain Hall, home of the College of Education on Athens State's campus Athens State University Alumni Bridge Benefit to be held June 18th Athens, Ala. - Wednesday, June 18th marks the date for the Athens State University Alumni Bridge Benefit. Last year's event hosted more than 70 players and assisted in raising much-needed funds for the Alumni Scholarships. The event will be held from 10:00 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Trish DiLullo of Alumni Affairs, states, "There will be several door prizes provided by the Alumni Board of Directors from local merchants, plus special gifts for the high, 2nd high and low scorers." The Bridge Benefit is open to any interested players - not just alumni of Athens State. Table reservations for teams of four are $10 per person and include refreshments. June 16th is the deadline for registration and individuals or teams can do so by calling 256-216-3319 or visiting the Alumni Office in the Sandridge Student Center on the Athens State campus. Chancellor recommends Robert Glenn for Athens State Presidency Click Here to view article Presidential search panel narrows field to 5 finalists The search committee for a new Athens State president narrowed the list of 48 candidates to five with two alternates during an all-day session on April 25 at the school. The candidates, in alphabetical order, are: • Dr. Thomas Chesney - McKinney, Texas, district vice president of Academic Affairs, Collin College- Central Park Campus. • Mr. Jeffery A. Foshee - Las Vegas, Nev., vice president, Administrative Operations, Community College of Southern Nevada. • Dr. Robert K. Glenn - Murfreesboro, Tenn., vice president, provost, Middle Tennessee State University. • Dr. Ronald Hy - Kingsville, Texas, dean of the College of Arts and Sciences, Texas A&M University, Kingsville. • Dr. Hal Jenkins II - Columbus, Miss., dean and professor of education, Mississippi University for Women. Two alternates chosen in case any one or two of the five primary candidates withdraws from consideration: • Dr. Denver Betts - Huntsville, vice president for Academic Affairs, Athens State University. • Dr. Galan Janeksela - Charleston, W.V., assistant provost at West Virginia University Institute of Technology The public is invited to a reception on May 12 to meet the candidates. The candidates will be individually interviewed on campus on May 13. On May 14, Alabama College System Chancellor Bradley Byrne will interview the three finalists in Montgomery. Byrne is expected to make his recommendation by May 22 to the State Board of Education for approval. Athens State University Community Band Announces Spring Concert Athens, Ala. - The Athens State University Community Band will present a Spring Concert on Sunday, May 4th at 3:00pm and Monday, May 5th at 7:30pm in McCandless Hall on the Athens State campus. This concert will have a distinctively international flair including Spanish marches and European classics. Including traditional American music, the event will have something for everyone. Featured on the program will be Franz Von Suppe's "Morning, Noon and Night in Vienna," the Czech march, "Entry of the Gladiators," and most recognizably Rossini's theme and music from Disney movie classics. Dan Havely, the band's director states, "Added to the mix will be the music of Souza, Fillmore, LeRoy Anderson and W.C. Handy, making this the most gratifying concert in the band's five-year history. The Community Band, under the direction of Dan Havely, was founded in 2003 and is supported by Athens State University. In the beginning, the group was largely conceived as an outlet for graduates of the Athens High School band program, which Havely conducted for 34 years, to continue with their musical interests. Today the band meets weekly throughout the year to practice and welcomes any local musicians with an interest in good music, good fun, and community performances. Tickets for the event are $5.00 per person and reservations may be made by calling Guy McClure at 233-8126. Athens State Alumni Weekend Recognized Alumni and Supporters Athens, Ala. – Athens State University hosted its 101st Annual Alumni Banquet on Saturday, April 5th in the University’s Ballroom. The Alumni Weekend honored distinguished and outstanding alumnus and supporters and also included a reception at the President's Home on Friday, April 4th. Awards presented over the weekend included Stan Pylant as Distinguished Alumnus of the Year, Dwight Cooley as Outstanding Alumnus in Arts and Sciences, Mike Grisham as Outstanding Alumnus in Business, Sandra Davis as Outstanding Alumnus in Education, Lisa Rich as Outstanding Commitment to Teaching, Jerry Bradford as Distinguished Support Staff, and the Beasley Appreciation Award was awarded to Dan Havely. Photo Caption: Pictured left to right: Stan Pylant, Jerry Bradford, Sandra Davis, Dan Havely, and Lisa Rich Local Author, R. Garth, to speak at Athens State New Novel, "Tales from Blue Springs," to be discussed ATHENS, ALA. - The Friends of the Library of Athens State University will be hosting local author R. Garth to read from his recently published book, "Tales from Blue Springs: The Hatchet Woman." Mr. Garth will take the stage at McCandless Hall on Tuesday, April 15 at 7:00pm. Garth, an English teacher at Athens High School, was born in Athens and attended The McCallie School, Auburn University and Athens State. He received a master's degree in Education from the University of North Alabama. In 1979, he received Athens State's William Butler Yeats Award for Creative Writing. A few of his many life-lessons have included driving a taxi in Manhattan, teaching English in Australia and Colombia, and spending two years in the Blue Springs area of Limestone County where his story takes place. C.L. Rossman reviewed Garth's book through Armchair Interviews and commented, "The writing is like crystal; the story bounces around from one incident to another, from the way Sarah is now to how she became that way, and finally draws to an unexpectedly gentle end for the inhabitants of Blue Springs, and justice for the deprived." The April 15th event is free and open to the public. Copies of the book will be available for sale at the event, and are currently available at Pablo's on Market. For more information, call 256-233-8126. Athens State University hosting annual alumni recognition event Athens, Ala. – Athens State University will be hosting its 101st Annual Alumni Banquet honoring its Distinguished Alumnus of the Year. The event will be held at 6:00pm on Saturday, April 5th in the University’s Sandridge Center Ballroom on its Athens campus. The banquet will also include several other awards given to alumni and supporters of the school. “Our institution has certainly generated its share of success stories,” remarks Athens State Alumni Director Tena Bullington. “ I am glad we have this yearly opportunity to honor just a few and a chance spend time with old friends." This year’s award recipients are: Distinguished Alumnus of the Year- Stan Pylant Outstanding Alumnus in Arts and Sciences- Dwight Cooley Outstanding Alumnus in Business- Mike Grisham Outstanding Alumnus in Education- Sandra Davis Outstanding Commitment to Teaching- Lisa Rich Distinguished Support Staff Award- Jerry Bradford Beasley Appreciation Award- Dan Havely For reservations or information call 256-216-3319. Reservations are $20 per person and must be paid by Wednesday, April 2, 2008. Athens State to host local jazz musician Dr. Mary Crowell Athens, Ala. - Women's History Month at Athens State University will be wrapping up the 2008 celebration by hosting Dr. Mary Crowell, a jazz musician singer-songwriter and winner of the 2007 Pegasus Best Performer Award. The event will be held at 7:00 pm on Saturday March 29th in McCandless Hall. The performance is free and open to the public. Crowell, an Athens native, has taught piano and composition for nineteen years and currently teaches music appreciation, class piano, and private piano lessons at Calhoun Community College. In addition, she teaches yoga at the Athens-Limestone Wellness Center. She loves playing Rachmaninov, Chopin, Gershwin, and Bach; practicing yoga, gardening; and gaming with good friends. Dr. Susan Owen, Athens State Professor and Chairman of the Women's History Month Committee states, "Mary's music is both playful and sultry. Her diverse background and interests are well represented in her music. It is sure to be a relaxing and interesting performance." Photo caption: Dr. Mary Crowell Pulitzer Prize Winning Poet to Speak at Athens State University Athens, Ala. - Pulitzer Prize winning poet Natasha Tretheway will be speaking at Athens State University on Tuesday, April 1 at 1:00 pm and 7:00 pm. These events, sponsored by the Livingston Concert Lecture Series, will be held in McCandless Hall and will be offered free to the public. The 1:00 p.m. reading will feature a question and answer period. The 7:00 p.m. reading will be followed by a book signing and reception held in Founder's Hall Parlor. Trethaway was the winner of the 2007 Pulitzer Prize in Poetry for her book, Native Guard that is available in the Athens State Bookstore or at Pablo's on Market. Trethewey was born in Gulfport, Mississippi. Her first poetry collection, Domestic Work, won the inaugural 1999 Cave Canem poetry prize, a 2001 Mississippi Institute of Arts and Letters Book Prize, and the 2001 Lillian Smith Award for Poetry. Her second collection, Bellocq's Ophelia, received the 2003 Mississippi Institute of Arts and Letters Book Prize, was a finalist for both the Academy of American Poets' James Laughlin and Lenore Marshall prizes, and was named a 2003 Notable Book by the American Library Association. She has taught at Auburn University, the University of North Carolina--Chapel Hill, and Duke University where she was the 2005-2006 Lehman Brady Joint Chair Professor of Documentary and American Studies. She is currently a Professor of Poetry at Emory University. Mr. and Ms. Athens State University Recognized Athens, Ala. - Athens State University recognized the 2008 Mr. and Ms. Athens State University on Friday, February 29th in the Parlor of Founders Hall. President Jerry Bartlett introduced this year’s recipients at a morning reception for the University’s faculty and staff. Mr. Athens State is Christopher Dye from Athens. He is a junior majoring in Secondary Education-Social Science and transferred from Calhoun Community College. Dye has received the Leadership Scholarship, is involved with the Student Government Association, is a member of the Wesley Fellowship and currently serves as an Athenian Host and work-study in Chasteen Hall. He is also very involved in his church as an Intern of Youth Ministry. His hobbies include anything outdoors, reading, and playing the guitar. Ms. Athens State is Cynthia Buzonowski from Elkmont. She is a junior majoring in Behavioral Science and minoring in Human Resource Management. She transferred from Calhoun Community College. In the future, she hopes to obtain her masters degree in a related field and work in mental health. Cynthia is a work-study at Chasteen Hall, a member of the 2007-2008 Student Government Association, and was crowned Ms. Merry Christmas in November 2007. Her hobbies include spending time with family and friends, playing the piano and guitar, and traveling. Photo Caption: Left to Right, ASU President Jerry Bartlett, Mr. ASU Christopher Dye, Ms ASU Cynthia Buzonowski Harry and Suzanne Joiner Endowed Scholarship established at Athens State University Athens, Ala. – Athens State University faculty member Dr. Harry Joiner and his wife, Athens College alumna Suzanne Joiner, have created an endowed scholarship to assist students studying at the University. The Harry and Suzanne Joiner Endowed Scholarship will be established through the Athens State University Foundation. Earnings from the endowment will provide annual scholarships to one or more students earning a degree in political science, social science, or mathematics. The recipient(s) must be in good academic standing, demonstrate financial need, and have a 3.0 grade point average. Dr. Joiner has been a faculty member at Athens State for 38 years. He founded the Department of Political Science at Athens State in 1969 and served as its chair for 35 years. He has been the coordinator of the social science major at ASU for over 30 years. Mrs. Joiner was a faculty member at Calhoun Community College for 25 before retiring. She earned her B.A. degree from Athens College when it was still a private Methodist college. She currently teaches math as an adjunct professor for the University. “Scholarships are vital for our students,” said Athens State President Jerry Bartlett. “I appreciate the kindness Harry and Suzanne have shown by establishing this scholarship. They have a true love and interest in our students.” This year, the Athens State University Foundation awarded more than 100 scholarships to deserving students at Athens State. The scholarships are annual or endowed scholarships donated corporately or by individuals to the Foundation. Criteria vary for each scholarship but typically include one or more of the following: the student’s grade point average, field of study, student involvement, and financial need. Athens State and Madison County Schools Partners on Pilot Education Program Athens, Ala. – Faculty from Athens State University and the Madison County School System are entering a collaborative effort that will lead to a greater understanding of student learning styles and how this can be used in classroom teaching. The partnership will create Professional Development Schools (PDS) at four different sites within the Madison County School System. Professional Development Schools are innovative institutions formed through partnerships between a professional education program and pre-kindergarten through 12th grade schools. While Sparkman High School served as the test site for the past year, the University’s College of Education will partner with four schools – Sparkman High School, Sparkman Ninth Grade, Sparkman Middle School, and Madison Cross Roads Elementary – creating the first cluster PDS schools for Athens State. “Professional Development Schools embrace the concept that certain kinds of learning occur best in the context of real-world practice,” said Dr. Rosemary Hodges, associate professor of education at Athens State. “Teaching candidates learn about teaching and what to teach in the university. They learn to teach in schools. However, some aspects of student learning are best achieved by doing. Professional Development Schools are grounded in this concept and designed to support this kind of learning." The agreement will allow for real exchange between university faculty, school faculty, and prospective teachers, according to Hodges. University professors will teach their classes at two of the schools while the county system will provide the classroom environment for a true teaching and learning experience. Hodges believes the agreement will allow for a collaboration that will increase an understanding of diverse student learning styles and the use of best teaching practices to increase the value of student education at each site. “We need more partnerships like these that foster cooperation and a sharing of knowledge,” said Athens State University President Jerry Bartlett. “This effort will open doors that will eventually help elementary through high school students to be better learners. That is our goal.” The University and school system will kick-off its first cluster orientation on Monday, March 3 at 8 a.m. at the Sparkman Ninth Grade School on Jeff Road. Scholarships to honor Jessica Elkins and Hunter Bauer Athens, Ala. – Two separate scholarships are being created that will honor the memory of Jessica Elkins and Hunter Bauer. Bill and Susan Ming and their children, William, Elizabeth, and Sarah will endow two scholarships in the memory of the two students. Two scholarships - The Hunter Bauer Endowed Scholarship and the Jessica Elkins Endowed Scholarship - will be created through the Athens State University Foundation. The scholarships will be awarded to Athens State University students. “Our family believes this is a way that anyone who knew Hunter, Jessica or their families could contribute and allow a worthy student to pursue a college degree in their memory,” said Bill Ming. Checks and contributions can be sent to the Athens State University Foundation, P.O. Box 70, Athens, AL 35611. Checks should be clearly marked for either Hunter or Jessica. Credit card contributions may be made by calling the Foundation office at 256-233-8215. Contributions to the scholarship are tax deductible. The Elkins Scholarship will be available to all Athens State University students regardless of major and financial need. The Bauer Scholarship will be awarded to a local Athens State student. “Scholarships are vital for our students,” said Athens State President Jerry Bartlett. “We truly appreciate Bill, Susan and the family for setting into motion two scholarships that will allow us to remember the lives of Hunter and Jessica.” Jessica died in December after a sudden illness. A ninth grader at Athens High School, Jessica was a caring friend. She was an active junior varsity cheerleader, enjoyed participating in theater and SADD, and was member of First Baptist Church, Athens. Athens High School plans to establish Jessica Michelle Elkins Love, Live and Laugh Memorial Scholarship. Hunter always loved being outdoors. He enjoyed hunting, fishing, playing golf, baseball, and football. Football was his passion and he dreamed of one day playing professionally. Hunter died on December 20, 2004 at the age of 14 years from complications of MRSA. He was a member of First Baptist Church, Athens, and an eighth grade student at Athens Middle School. He was a true Golden Eagle. This year, the Athens State University Foundation awarded more than 100 scholarships to deserving students at Athens State. For further information contact Rick Mould at 256-233-8215 or rmould@athens.edu Athens State University announces events for African American History Month Athens, Ala. – February is Black History Month and Athens State University is sponsoring three separate events to celebrate and acknowledge the accomplishments of African Americans and their impact on our national culture. Laura Caldwell Anderson will present a lecture entitled, "Mother’s Day, 1961: The Freedom Rides in Alabama" at 2:00pm on Tuesday, February 12th in McCandless Hall. A Table Topics panel discussion of The Status of Dr. King's Dream will be held at noon on Tuesday, February 5th in the Chapel of Founders Hall. This event is sponsored by the University's Department of Religion and Ethics and the Livingston Concert Lecture Series. Ramona Hyman, PhD will present a lecture titled "Montgomery Bus Boycott: The Literariness of a Political Movement" on Thursday, February 21st at 7:00pm in McCandless Hall. Both Anderson and Hyman's visits are sponsored by The Alabama Humanities Foundation, the state affiliate of the National Endowment for the Humanities. All events are free and open to the public. Restone Arsenal Commander to speak at Athens State University Athens, Ala. - Athens State University will be hosting Colonel John A. Olshefski, Commander U.S. Army Garrison, Redstone Arsenal, to discuss North Alabama's role in the war in Iraq. The event will be held on Tuesday, February 12th at 7pm in McCandless Hall on the Athens Campus. This is Olshefski's second visit to the University after serving as the keynote speaker for their Flag Day celebration in June of last year. Olshefski is a graduate of the Signal Officer Basic Course, Ordnance Advanced Course, Combined Arms Services Staff School, Logistics Executive Development Course, Command and General Staff College, Central Michigan, and Industrial College of Armed Forces. His awards and decorations include the Bronze Star, Legion of Merit, Joint Meritorious Service Medal, Meritorious Service Medal with four Oak Leaf Clusters, Army Commendation Medal with three Oak Leaf Clusters, Army Achievement Medal and the Saudi Arabia and Kuwait Liberation Medal. Olshefski will address various issues including Redstone Arsenal's impact as it relates to current wartime achievements along with what would be required of the Arsenal post-war. The event is sponsored by the Livingston Concert Lecture Series and is free and open to the public. For more information call 256-233-8126. Bradley Byrne to visit Athens State University Campus Athens, Ala. - Bradley Byrne, Chancellor of the Alabama Department of Postsecondary Education, will visit Athens State's campus to discuss the search process to identify a new president for the University. The meeting is Tuesday, Jan. 22 at 3 p.m. in the University’s Student Center Ballroom and is open to the public. Athens State President Jerry Bartlett will retire effective Aug. 1. Athens State University is an upper division University providing the junior and senior level courses toward the baccalaureate degree. Chancellor to address Athens State graduates Athens, Ala. – Bradley Byrne, Chancellor of the Alabama College System, will be the keynote speaker at Athens State University’s summer commencement on Saturday, August 25 at 9 a.m. Graduation exercises will be held on Athens State University’s campus in front of Founders Hall. Approximately 170 students are expected to graduate. Byrne was born and raised in Mobile where he attended University Military School. He received his undergraduate degree from Duke University, magna cum laude, and his law degree from the University of Alabama School of Law. He practiced law in Mobile for over 25 years, primarily in the areas of business and employment litigation. From 1994 to 2002, he was a member of the Alabama State Board of Education. From 2002 to 2007, he represented District 32 (Baldwin County) in the Alabama State Senate where he served on the Education Committee, the Education Budget Committee, and the Judiciary Committee, and chaired the Joint Oversight Committee on State Parks. Byrne has worked for over 20 years to improve education in Alabama and has served on numerous boards and committees to this end. He has received numerous awards for his championing of education including the Phi Delta Phi Outstanding Lay Person Award in 1998, the Alabama Association of School Boards’ Champion for Children Award in 2004, the Council for Leaders in Alabama Schools Legislative Leadership Award in 2004, and the South Alabama Literacy Champion Award in 2006. Byrne is also committed to conservation and won the Legislator of the Year Award from the Alabama Wildlife Federation in 2005. He is a member of Leadership Alabama, the Alabama State Bar, and an Honorary Life Member of the Alabama PTA. Byrne was appointed by the Alabama State Board of Education in May of this year to serve as Chancellor of the Alabama Department of Postsecondary Education, in which role he serves as the chief executive officer of Alabama’s two-year college system. The Alabama College System includes 22 community colleges, four technical colleges, Athens State University, the Alabama Industrial Development Training Institute, and the Alabama Technology Network. With a budget of nearly $700 million, the Alabama College System served more than 300,000 people in the 2005-06 academic year. He is married to the former Rebecca Dukes of Montgomery, and they are the parents of four children: Patrick, Kathleen, Laura, and Colin. Byrne lives in Fairhope where he attends St. James Episcopal Church. Bradley Byrne Athens State Art Show highlights campus architecture Athens, Ala. - The Art Department of Athens State University will be hosting its 5th Annual Heritage Art Show to run from October 3 until November 1 with artwork displayed in the Sandridge Student Center Gallery. The Heritage Art Show celebrates the University's rich and diverse architectural styles on campus. This year the focus of the artwork will be depictions of the New Classroom Building located on Pryor Street across from the Library. This state-of-the-art building houses classroom space and faculty offices, and is the home to the North Alabama Teleconferencing Center. This annual show is kicked-off prior to the University hosted Tennessee Valley Old Times Fiddler's Convention which spans the weekend of October 5 and 6. The show is free of charge and open to the public except during the Fiddlers Convention when gallery access is limited to Fiddler's ticket holders. The show is open to any regional artist over the age of 18. The art works may be of any medium but must be representational of the New Classroom Building. University President Jerry Bartlett will judge this year's submissions. For further information please contact Professors of Art Pamela Keller at 256-233-8232 or Gail Bergeron at 256-233-8149. Athens State announces Founders Queen and Court Athens, Ala. - Athens State University President Jerry Bartlett recently crowned Courtney Henderson, a senior from Holly Pond, as this year's Founder's Queen. Henderson is the daughter of Robin and Janna Henderson. She matriculated to Athens State from Wallace State Community College and is a senior majoring in Elementary Education. Henderson served as last year's Junior Class President, was named 1st Runner-up in the 2006 Ms. Merry Christmas Pageant, and also served as an attendant on last year's Founders Court. Henderson has received the Athens State University Academic Scholarship, Leadership Scholarship and Alumni Scholarship. She was also this year's recipient of an Alumni Golf Scholarship. This year's Founders Court included Holly Causey from Alex City, Alyssa Jones from Union Grove, Keri Rodgers from Hartselle, and Aquarius Wiggins from Decatur. Holly Causey is from Alexander City, Alabama and is the daughter of Laine and Ricky Causey. She is a junior majoring in Secondary Education- Social Studies. Alyssa Jones is from Union Grove, Alabama and is the daughter of Roger and Suzette Jones. She is currently a junior majoring in Elementary Education. Keri Rodgers is from Hartselle, Alabama and is the daughter of Patsy Rodgers. She transferred from Calhoun Community College and is a senior majoring in Elementary Education. Aquarius Wiggins is from Decatur, Alabama and is the daughter of Emma Dawson. She transferred from Calhoun Community College and is majoring in Special Education (6-12). Courtney Henderson Noted Sociologist to explore immigration issues at Athens State Athens, Ala. - Two lectures highlighting important and timely local issues are planned for the Athens State campus on September 27. The Livingston Concert Lecture Series will host Dr. Stephanie Bohon, Associate Professor of Sociology at the University of Tennessee discussing current Latino immigration struggles. At 7pm in McCandless Hall, Bohon will present "Making Sense of the Dixie Diaspora: Latino Migration in the New South" Bohon states, "Unfortunately, although there has been considerable speculation about the answers to these questions, and the alarmist rhetoric surrounding this demographic change has escalated, few facts support these speculations and rhetoric. In my talk, I will explore how changes in policy and the economy in the nineties resulted in a rapidly changing Southern landscape, and how these changes created a momentum that has carried through into the twenty-first century. I will also address the impact of these newcomers on states and localities in the Southeast and speculate on future trends." Earlier that day at noon in the ballroom of the Sandridge Student Center, Bohon will present, "You can't get there from here: Transportation and immigrant adjustment in the deep South." "Many people complain that new immigrants are not assimilating fast enough," states Bohon, "…but the reality is that many immigrants are stuck in co-ethnic communities working in jobs with other immigrants. Not being able to move around freely in the larger society means that their ability to get better jobs and better homes, participate in their children’s school activities, and even learn English is limited." Stephanie Bohon Athens State Athens, Ala. - Athens State University's Student Government Association officers for the current academic year were introduced to the faculty and staff at a reception held September 17. Vice President for Student Affairs John Wayne King presented the newly elected President Fallon Pirtle, Vice President Jimmy Kennedy, and Secretary Jenna O'Neal to the crowd gathered in the parlor of Founders Hall. Fallon Pirtle of Decatur will serve as the President for the 2007-2008 academic year. Pirtle transferred to Athens State University from Calhoun Community College and is a junior majoring in Biology. She served on the Student Government Association and as an Athenians during the previous academic year. Jimmy Kennedy of Athens will hold the post of Vice President. The junior, majoring in Justice Studies, transferred to Athens State University from Calhoun Community College. Previously, Kennedy has served on the Student Government Association, Tau Kappa Epsilon, Pre-Law Society and Athenians. Jenna O’Neal of Hazel Green will serve as the Secretary for the academic year. O'Neal transferred to Athens State University from Motlow State Community College. She is a senior majoring in Mathematics and Computer Science. Last year, she participated in the Student Government Association, Math and Computer Science Club, and Athenians. As a whole, the officers have a goal to increase involvement student activities, to bring the "fun" back to the education process, and to serve the SGA to the best of their abilities. Photo caption: Left to Right, Athens State President Jerry Bartlett, SGA Secretary Jenna O'Neal, SGA Vice President Jimmy Kennedy, SGA President Fallon Pirtle. Dr. Denver Betts named Athens State University Vice President Athens, Ala. - Dr. Denver Betts has been named the new Vice President of Academic Affairs at Athens State University. He begins his duties immediately. The announcement was made by Athens State President Dr. Jerry Bartlett. "After a nation-wide search, we narrowed our selection to three very qualified candidates," said Bartlett. "Due to his exemplary service in the position as the interim, it became clear that the appointment of Dr. Betts was the right choice for Athens State." Prior to his appointment, Betts served as the Interim Vice President for Academic Affairs, Assistant Professor of Business at Athens State University, and also the Special Assistant to the President for Minority Relations. Betts is a native of Louisville, Kentucky, and received a Bachelor of Science degree in Commerce from the University of Louisville, a Master of Arts degree in Business from Central Michigan University, and a Doctorate of Education in Organizational Leadership from Nova Southeastern University in Ft. Lauderdale, Florida. Betts was commissioned in the Air Force through the Reserve Officer Training Corps program. During his military career, he served as a Management Engineering Officer, and later served as an Organizational Studies Manager, Program Manager, Executive Assistant to a General Officer, Personnel Staff Manager, and as a Management Engineering Unit Commander. He retired after achieving the rank of Lieutenant Colonel. In academia, Betts has served as a Human Resources Administrator, Physical Plant Director, Guest Lecturer in the College Business and Urban Planning, University Extension Director, Student Support Services Administrator, and as Assistant to the Vice President for Academic Affairs and Director for University Centers. Betts is affiliated with many social and civic organizations. He is the President of the Board of Directors for the North Alabama Center for Educational Excellence, serves as a board member for the Greater Limestone County Boys and Girls Club, a board member for the Athens Rotary Club, a board member and chairman-elect for the Athens Chamber of Commerce and a board member for the Spirit of Athens Organization. Dr. Denver Betts Athens State student to display artwork at senior exhibit Athens, Alabama - Joel Birdwell, a senior at Athens State University graduating in December, will display his artwork in a show entitled "Expressions of an Idea." The senior exhibit will be held in the art gallery located on the second floor of the Sandridge Student Center. An opening reception will be held on November 15 at noon, and an evening reception at 6:00 p.m. Birdwell is a native of Muscle Shoals, Alabama and transferred to Athens State from Northwest Shoals Community College. The exhibit and receptions are at no charge and open to the public. Picture caption: Joel Birdwell with his painting titled "Moonlight Horizon." Joel Birdwell Athens State University: Whittinghill named "Fiddle Champ" Athens, Ala. – Joel Whittinghill was named “Fiddle Champion” at the 41st annual Tennessee Valley Old Time Fiddlers Convention at Athens State University on Saturday night. Whittinghill of Bowling Green, Ky., won the title by winning the “fiddle off” which traditionally pits the top fiddlers from the junior and senior divisions. Roy Crawford of Cullman, finished runner-up. Whittinghill, who won the junior fiddle division, earned the convention’s top prize of $1,000. It was Whittinghill’s second convention championship. He won the title in 2004. T