Fort Valley State University

Blog has moved

2008-08-27T13:08:00.000-07:00

The Fort Valley State University blog has moved to http://blog.fvsu.edu
Please visit us there!

Financial aid maze, part II

2008-08-27T08:14:00.000-07:00

The economy is forcing parents of college students to find ways to pay for tuition, books and housing. FVSU’s marketing and communications office scans Web sites daily looking for information to help our students and their parents. Shonda Lewis came across an ABC news online story about scholarship competitions which fund awards for women and students of color, but aren’t well publicized. Visit GoCollege.com and CollegeScholarships.org. Apparently, the founders of the site don’t advertise. Information about it is traveling by word-of-mouth. A free scholarship search site will be launched January, 2009. Lewis is a member of HBCUconnect.com. She received an email about scholarships for working moms. HBCU Connect partners with www.elearners.com to offer information.

Students and parents should also visit CollegeNET.com. According the ABC story, the site is the source of $16,000 in scholarships monthly. Through corporate sponsorships, the founders hope to increase that amount to $150,000 a month. Students who have tutoring skills can actually make extra money at another site, StudentofFortune.com. The company pays students to help other students with homework. Check our blog for other tidbits of information we receive.

The mother who posted a response to yesterday’s blog about financial aid should contact Dr. Canter Brown at brownc@fvsu.edu for assistance.

--Vickie Oldham is the director of Marketing and Communications at Fort Valley State University

Last-minute applications and financial aid heroics

2008-08-26T10:18:00.000-07:00

An Atlanta Journal Constitution reporter called me for assistance in identifying students and parents for a story about “drop offs” - students brought to campus to register just before fall semester begins without securing housing, financial aid, or taking any of the necessary steps to begin school on the right foot. For a moment, I wanted no part of this assignment, but as I honed in on the premise, I saw an opportunity to tell the real story behind what HBCUs like FVSU do to usher students into college.

FVSU meets a need that major institutions don’t – one that they don’t have patience to deliver: personal, individualized service to first-generation college students trying to navigate the maze of the financial aid process, most times without the help of parents. This week I’ve seen the patience and true character of the financial aid staff and FVSU family as they walked students from one office to the next, helping them complete FAFSA forms and loan applications.

I talked to freshman Sekema Tannahill, who shared her story. Admittedly she missed the deadlines for filing paperwork and arrived on campus a week before the start of school. Her mother walked the student through the process the first semester but refused to do it the second time around, after she didn’t make acceptable grades.

For every student who dragged his or her feet in submitting verification forms, FAFSAs and the required tax documents from parents, others filed on time. However in some cases, parents didn’t qualify for loans or couldn’t pick up the slack where financial aid left off. Anticipating the money gap, FVSU’s Office of External Affairs, directed by the president, mailed 12,000 letters to alumni asking for donations to help students pay tuition, living expenses and books.

I received a call from a parent trying to reach the financial aid office. Four people live in the household on a meager sum. The mother was making sure she signed all the paperwork to get financial aid for her son, who is now on campus. Attending college is his one-way ticket out of the cycle of poverty.

Scholarship funds from community groups and alumni are trickling in. Flint Energies Foundation gave $5,000. The Peach County Development Authority wrote a check for $8,000. Zellner’s Chapel, a small, under-50-member church located across from the campus’s main entrance donated $24,000 to help students like this.

From showing students how to properly fill out forms and offering advice about classes to digging, scratching, fighting and finagling for scholarship funds, I am amazed at the miracles worked every day on this campus to get students into school. I have a renewed appreciation for FVSU as it seeks to fulfill its mission.

The Atlanta Journal Constitution decided not to go ahead with the story. Even so, I’m glad the reporter asked for my help. I got the chance to step away from the hustle and bustle of my office to witness firsthand the nurturing work that occurs in Wildcat Country. Not every student our counselors reach out to help can cut it in college, but for every one who does, God bless ‘em - the effort is well worth it.

Vickie Oldham is Director of Marketing & Communications at Fort Valley State University.

Care packages for students

2008-08-25T06:09:00.001-07:00

Guest blogger: What's your net worth?

2008-08-22T10:37:00.000-07:00

T. Harv Eker, author of "Secrets of the Millionaire Mind," explains that wealthy people understand that net worth is the true measure of wealth, not working income. Four areas determine net worth: income, savings, investments, and simplification.
Income can be classified as working or passive. Working income involves your own time and sweat; passive income is made without you physically working: for example, rental property income. Income enables us to address the other three net worth factors.
Once money is made, we can then save it. Remember, what you keep is more important than what you make.
“Once you’ve begun saving a decent portion of your income, then you can move to the next stage and make your money grow through investing,” says Eker. He explains that wealthy people take the time to educate themselves about investing and investments, while poor-minded people do the opposite.
Simplification is about living below your means. This increases your savings, which then increase the amount for investing.
Think of the four factors of net worth as four tires on a car.
“Poor and most middle-class people play the money game on one wheel only. They believe that the only way to get rich is to earn a lot of money. They don’t understand Parkinson’s Law, which states, ‘Expenses will always rise in direct proportion to income,’” says Eker.
Income alone will never produce wealth. By tracking your net worth, you will increase your wealth.
So how do you calculate your net worth?
“List all your assets, then list all your liabilities—all the money you owe, including credit card debt and mortgages. Your net worth is your total assets minus your total liabilities,” says Barbara O’Neill, PhD, CFP, and author of Saving on a Shoestring: How to Cut Expenses, Reduce Debt, Stash More Cash.
A net worth statement, listing your assets and liabilities, serves as a prepared financial statement. For instance, it is a good estimate of available emergency money when applying for a loan. Check your net worth every quarter.
“Where attention goes, energy flows, and results show,” says Eker.

--Edward Morrow is a senior business major at Fort Valley State University

Saggy pants and the law

2008-08-21T06:26:00.000-07:00

My girl friends and I were at lunch the other day and we were discussing the new law that was passed by the mayor and the Warner Robins City Council on Tuesday. The law says thos who wear sagging pants are guilty of indecent exposure. Punishment is no more than $500 and confinement in a county jail for up to 6 months. Sagging pants have been banned from schools, malls, restaurants and now streets. City councilman John Williams said: “They are using those sagging pants to shoplift!” Some people may agree that saggy pants are indecent exposure, others object and feel targeted, specifically the black community.
FVSU President Larry Rivers has voiced his opinion on the matter, and you can hear it on Georgia Public Radio. The Telegraph is running an editorial on the law today.
What do you think? Click on "comments" below to share your opinion. Keep it clean, no name-calling.

--Apple Jones works for the Office of Marketing and Communications at Fort Valley State University

A student's perspective: Freshman induction

2008-08-20T06:16:00.000-07:00

On the evening of the New Wildcat Induction Ceremony, I vividly remember changing outfits at least three times. Upon entering the doors of the HPE Complex, I realized that I was not the only freshman excited about the evening’s events. Once I acquired my seat, I began to feel sorry for the influx of students who arrived later than I, and were instructed to take a seat in the bleachers. However, true to Fort Valley form, the administration and Student Ambassadors came together to get more seats and tables, so that all the students and families could have a place to sit and partake in their meals.
While listening to the various speakers, seeing the enthusiasm of the upperclassmen and the unity of my fellow freshmen, something came over me, and I fell in mad love with the Fort Valley State University. The keynote speaker, Mr. Keith Brown, caught my attention by being clothed in a blue robe and pacing about the floor of the gym during his introduction. Almost simultaneously, he sparked my laughter and woke me up with his dance/rap number to the beat of "Everyday I’m Hustlin’" by rapper Rick Ross. His deep and wise insight, paired with attention grabbing, youth-oriented delivery, vehemently fought his case as perhaps the greatest motivational speaker I have ever encountered. Also, as a minister, I found it very touching that his ending number would be "Never Would Have Made It" by gospel powerhouse Marvin Sapp. Seeing the reaction of my fellow classmates, I was comforted by the thought that I was not alone in my love for and gratitude toward the Lord.
All points considered—negative and positive—I thoroughly enjoyed myself on the evening of the New Wildcat Induction Ceremony. I thank the Lord Almighty for affording me the opportunity to be a member of the Fort Valley State University family, and I look forward to attending many more programs hosted by my school.
There truly is no place like the Valley.

--Dominique Vidal Nichols is a Presidential Scholar at Fort Valley State University. Presidential scholarships are automatically awarded to qualified applicants to the school.

Communiversity

2008-08-19T05:53:00.000-07:00

This week's events

2008-08-18T08:55:00.000-07:00

It's the first day of classes. So here are the "extras" on FVSU's campus this week:

August 18: 5 p.m. Orientation for Students Enrolled in an Online Course, Blanchet CTM Auditorium
August 19: 11 a.m. Memorial service for Dr. Kenneth Chatman, longtime Fort Valley State University administrator, in the C.W. Pettigrew Center auditorium.
August 21: 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Welcome to the Valley business expo for students. Get to know the businesses in the area, their opportunities for internships and how to get involved with the Fort Valley community.
August 21: Wildcat Battalion Welcome Back picnic
August 23: Wildcat football. First game of the season, against Valdosta State, in Valdosta.

Best representations

2008-08-14T06:11:00.000-07:00

Meet Miss FVSU, Shanoria Morgan, and Mr. FVSU, Alexander Little. These two have been amazing ambassadors for thier beloved school this week, and before.
The royals were part of FVSU's recruitment efforts, talking to potential student, the media, and anyone who would listen. They believe in their school, which is possibly the best reference we can offer.
So watch for them on campus. Listen for them on the radio. And hear what they have to say. FVSU is the place to be and they are shouting the message from the roof tops.
And if you're looking to see what kind of students FVSU produces, take a good look at these two. Dedicated, polished and articulate, they are training those who are coming in after them.

Welcome, Wildcats

2008-08-12T11:19:00.000-07:00

There’s something special about the fall semester at Fort Valley State University, especially Wildcat Welcome Week. Orientation activities are held for freshmen the week before the upper classmen arrive. On Sunday, the FVSU family opened its arms wide to help the pride of new Wildcats. The new students met their surrogate family - student ambassadors and representatives in housing, financial aid, admissions, plant operations and volunteers who shuttled them in golf carts and buses to help with their move. It’s such a nice touch. My grandmother and sister helped me move into the dorms at UF many moons ago. I can’t remember ever seeing administrators help anyone lift a box.

When I arrived at the orientation’s location at the HPE Complex, the parking lot was packed with cars and a huge blue and gold tent. At noon, the District 2 FVSU Alumni Association, led by the Warner Robins chapter, grilled and served hot dogs, hamburgers and drinks to a thousand students and their families for free. When I say families, I mean not only immediate family – but aunts, uncles, grandparents, and cousins.

Waves of campus guests poured out of the gym after the convocation ceremony that featured speeches by Miss FVSU, Mr. FVSU, the Student Government Association President and President Larry E. Rivers. The Blue Machine Marching Band and Dancing Dolls added high energy to an already charged atmosphere. Instinctively, feeling my journalism mojo kick in, I pulled out a notepad to interview parents. I couldn’t help myself. Every parent I met gave the president’s speech a thumbs up.

I interviewed several students and mused about the months and months of work the entire FVSU family spent beating the bushes to recruit them. Georgia is a competitive market in higher education. We’re in a battle to win and retain every student interested in matriculating here.

For the marketing department’s part, we embraced a “by any means necessary” approach to selling the school to potential students. We designed print and billboard ads, placed them in publications; wrote radio and tv spots and loads of press releases, then distributed these to the media throughout the state. We helped produce editorials in daily newspapers and produced a television show called the Wildcat Report. Free time was booked on any public access station that agreed to air the show. Then there were endless calls made to book interviews on tv and radio stations throughout Georgia to discuss our victories and challenges. We opened an account on Facebook and MySpace for Dr. Rivers to give students more access to the president and placed video blogs on You Tube.

So far, our efforts are paying off. As students pour in this week to register, I’m counting each one and celebrating. FVSU’s enrollment increase isn’t one department’s accomplishment. It’s a unified, collaborative effort that the entire FVSU family can be proud of.

--Vickie Oldham is the Director of Marketing and Communications at Fort Valley State University

please, thank you and the lost art of courtesy

2008-08-11T05:25:00.000-07:00

I am always pleased when I hear my child use the words "please" and "thank you." And I am always pleasantly surprised when I hear someone else using common courtesy. Because in our fast-paced world, I wonder sometimes if simple human courtesy is getting lost.
I'm always careful to be especially courteous to people who are in customer-service jobs. Waiters and waitresses, fast-food establishment employees, retail clerks, bank tellers and receptionists. They encounter hundreds of people a day, and they have a job I don't think I could do.
This week, we are welcoming the new freshman class on campus. It is my hope that their encounters are pleasant and successful; that FVSU employees bend over backwards to meet their needs and answer their questions. And if we encounter someone having a bad day, that we will remember the difference courtesy can make. I have learned, if nothing else, that if I can't help someone myself, that being nice and going the extra step of directing them to someone who can help leaves a very positive impression. They don't always remember that I couldn't help, but they do remember that I was kind and courteous.

--Misty Cline works for the Office of Marketing and Communications at Fort Valley State University

Welcoming new freshmen

2008-08-08T08:37:00.000-07:00

Having freshmen arrive a week early and take part in a host of activities designed to acclimate them to college life just seems smart. After all, for most this will be the first time they stretch their wings away from momma's protective eye. So here at FVSU, we bring them in, help them get to know their classmates, teach them to take care of themselves and each other. Here's an idea of their agenda:
Sunday, August 10
6 a.m. :Early Bird Move-In, Wildcat Commons
8 a.m.: Check-In/Registration Residence Halls Open for New Students
HPE Complex
3 p.m. : The Official Wildcat Welcome Orientation, HPE Complex
5-7 p.m.: Dinner, Food Service Center
8:30 p.m.: New Scholars Orientation, Wildcat Commons Clubhouse

Monday, August 11 -Getting Connected with FVSU
7 p.m. : New Student Induction Ceremony, HPE Complex
Cost: $10 for non students
7 – 8 a.m.: Breakfast, Food Service Center
3:30 – 4:00 p.m.: Student Ambassador Session
7 p.m.: Freshman Induction Banquet, HPE Complex
Cost non-students: $10

Tuesday, August 12 - Getting Connected with Resources to Success
7 a.m. – 8:30 a.m.: Breakfast, Food Service Center
9 a.m. : Placement Testing
4:30 – 7p.m.: Dinner, Food Service Center
7 p.m.: Magician, Woodward Gymnasium
8 p.m.: Wildcats to Wally World (shuttle bus to Wal-Mart), Health and P.E. Complex

Wednesday, August 13 - Wildcat Relationships Day
7 – 8:30 a.m.: Breakfast, Food Service Center
9 a.m.: New Student Registration, Health and Physical Education Complex
2:15 – 3:30 p.m.: Mr. FVSU & Miss FVSU Heart to Heart, C.W. Pettigrew Center & Founders Halls
4-7 p.m.: Dinner, Food Service Center
6:15 p.m.: Freshman Leadership: Being a Freshman Class Officer
7 p.m.: AKA Mentor Family Fellowship Program, Pettigrew Center Auditorium
9 p.m. – midnight: The First Freshman Jam, George N. Woodward Gymnasium

Thursday, August 14 - Wildcat Health and Wellness Day
7 a.m.: Breakfast, Food Service Center
9 a.m. – 7 p.m.: New Student Registration, HPE Complex
Noon – 2 p.m.: Lunch, Food Service Center
3:30 p.m.: Student Ambassador Session III
4:30 – 7 p.m.: Dinner, Food Service Center
7 p.m.: Cancer Awareness and Facts, Woodward Gymnasium

Friday, August 15
7 – 8:30 a.m.: Breakfast, Food Service Center
9 a.m.: Placement Testing, Horace Mann Building
9 a.m. – 5 p.m.: Student Ambassador Sessions
7 p.m.: Wildcat Luau, Wildcat Commons Courtyard

Saturday, August 16
10:30 – noon: Brunch, Food Service Center
Trip to Macon Mall, HPE Complex
7 p.m.: Blue Fever Talent Display, George N. Woodward Gymnasium

all events are tentative and subject to change

Judicial Committee Mythbusters

2008-08-07T05:56:00.000-07:00

“The students are coming, the students are coming…”and just as frantically as Paul Revere traveled on his midnight ride many years ago, so are we the faculty, staff and administration of Fort Valley State University preparing for an arrival. While our students' arrival will be met with a much friendlier attitude that that of the Americans meeting the British in Revere's day, there are, nonetheless, preparations to be made.

As part of my efforts to aid the students that are coming our way, I would like to discuss a topic that many students skim over or tune out during Freshman Orientation; the function of the Judicial Committee here at FVSU. Hopefully students will read through our blog when they get settled here and be introduced to how this committee functions and maybe even have a few myths dispelled along the way.

The Judicial Committee operates under the supervision and guidance of the Vice-President for Student Affairs, Dr. Terrence Smith. The members of the committee are chosen to serve a one-year term and approved by our President, Dr. Larry Rivers. The committee consists of two Co-Chairpersons and 10 to 12 members. The committee hears cases twice a month; each Co-chair presides once monthly over cases that range from fighting to electronic harassment to partying and everything in between and may number anywhere from five to sixteen cases in each session.

So how does one end up in front of the committee (by now you should be hearing strains of the theme music from the Godfather in your head)? The way that a student ends up in Judicial is quite simple: they break rules, ignore regulations and commit infractions against the university, another student, or a faculty, staff or member of the administration. This generally involves campus security, or as in some cases recently, the Fort Valley Police Department.

Now let’s dispel the first myth that you may have heard: “Campus security are not real cops, they can’t do anything.” Folks this is false and dangerous myth. The security at FVSU is made up of state-mandated law enforcement officers who are trained to function in the same manner and with the same legal rights as those protecting our cities and highways. They are “real” cops and they CAN and WILL do something if they see you misbehaving.

Now for the second myth: "If I go before the judicial committee, it ain’t that big of a deal.” Wrong again. If you appear before judicial, you will be asked how you plead and your case will be heard. You will be allowed to present witnesses, your mother, father or anyone else can come sit in the courtroom with you. But you will ultimately decide your own fate by your behavior. The judicial committee will consider all evidence and then render a judgment of guilty or innocent. If the judgment is innocent, you will receive a letter to that effect and that is the end of the story. However, receive a guilty verdict and the committee will also decide on your punishment, based on the seriousness of the infraction. The committee then sends a recommendation to the Vice President of Student Affairs and, with his approval (he seldom disapproves committee recommendations), a letter will be sent to you.

The ball is now in your court and so comes Myth # 3. “The sanctions imposed by the judicial committee ain’t nothing to worry about; just pay a fine.” Wrong again. If you receive fines, community service or other sanctions such as probation or expulsion and fail to complete the terms in the manner set forth by the committee, a hold will be put on your grades, your financial aid and the ability to register or pre-register for classes for the next term. The only way to get these holds off is to complete the terms of your hearing, and no, you cannot work off 100 hours of community service two weeks before registration.

And finally perhaps the biggest myth of all, “Drugs and alcohol are no big deal at FVSU, it is a PARTY SCHOOL, and besides if I get caught, my parents lawyer will get me off." Oops,wrong again. FVSU has a ZERO TOLERANCE policy against drugs, alcohol and weapons regardless of who brings it on campus. If you are caught with drugs or alcohol in your room, your car or on your person, you most probably are going to face EXPULSION. Oh and by the way, because this is a university judicial committee, your parents' lawyer has absolutely no jurisdiction here. He can come and hold your hand or confer with you on what to say, but he or she is not going to argue your case or protect you.

Finally and most important, when you are tempted to stray off the path because of temptations, envision you mother sitting behind you in the hearing, tears streaking down her face as she frets over the day missed from work to come and support you, while you sit in front row center trying to explain why it was a good idea to get down and dirty with security over the drugs that you didn’t have that fell out of your pocket. My heart goes out to each and every parent that I meet in this manner; it is embarrassing for them, it is awkward for me and the rest of the committee and as soon as you leave the hearing, as the old saying goes, “ain't nobody going to be happy if Mamma ain’t happy..."

--Oreta Samples is the lead veterinary technician for the Department of Veterinary Science at Fort Valley State Univeristy

2008-08-06T05:51:00.000-07:00

The 2008-2009 school year is fast approaching here in the Valley and with it come droves of new freshman students who are anxious to experience college life away from home and all which that life entails. Speaking for the entire Fort Valley State University Family of faculty, staff and administrators, I want to say “Welcome, we are glad you are here.” This university offers a variety of opportunities for you to learn, have fun and grow into the productive adults that we are so proud to call our own.

As you begin your educational journey, there are many opportunities and yet there are some pitfalls that you will want to avoid in order to make the most of your experiences. First and foremost, your goal and the reason that your parents have entrusted you to Fort Valley State University is to get an education; got it? Good, now having said that, this entails going to class every day from the first day to the last, meaning that on August 18th, you need to be sitting at the front of the room in the classroom where each and every one of your classes are held at the designated time they are to meet. I realize that there are only about eight to ten rows of desks in most classrooms, so when the front row fills up because you were a few minutes late getting there, go to the second row.

It is expected and encouraged that you are going to meet new friends and hopefully forge relationships that last a lifetime. Make sure that those relationships are healthy and good for you. As the Co-Chair of the Judicial Committee for Students here at FVSU, I am asking - no I am begging - you to make healthy choices. Just as young ladies who worry about their weight constantly are seen at the salad bar in the cafe while turning their noses up at pizza and French fries, I want you to likewise be seen in the company of students who, like yourself, are here to get educated. Therefore seek out like-minded individuals to study with and spend time with while walking away from (and yes even turning your nose up at) those individuals who would invite you into the world of alcohol, drugs and all-night parties. A good way to gauge whether or not the people you hang with are conductive to your educational pursuits is this: If you see campus security walking along the path towards you and either you or your companion feel the need to turn off and go the other way, YOU ARE NOT HANGING WITH A FRIEND !!!

The Judicial Committee sees far too many cases which take up an extraordinary amount of time to address the following: behavior because of drugs, behavior because of alcohol, behavior because of out-of-control associations. Notice all of these cases involve “behavior.” If your behavior is unacceptable, you will (sooner or later) end up in front of the judicial committee, crying and trying to justify your actions. And the judicial committee will fairly and impartially listen to your story and then decide what to do with you. So as you enter the new school year, strive to do well, have fun and above all…BEHAVE!

--Oreta Samples is the lead veterinary technician for the Department of Veterinary Scicences at Fort Valley State University

Last call: vacations and such

2008-08-05T05:42:00.000-07:00

With the recent reminder of the upcoming Faculty-Staff Institute, today marks the end of the lazy, hazy, down-right hot days of summer for most of us. Hopefully everyone has had a chance to do something fun that recharged them, both mentally and physically, for the upcoming school year. While summertime for people in academia (both students and instructors) is the prime time for vacations, Continuing Education opportunities and travel; it is oftentimes not the prime time for others who might like to accompany them on a jaunt to the South Pacific or just down the road to Disney World.

For many who work in the field of agriculture, spring and summer are the prime time for growing, followed up by a fall harvest (fat chance of fitting a romantic trip with your tractor-driving honey in at that time). No, just about the time that instructors are pulling out grade books and stocking up on writing utensils during the tax free weekend, the tractor stops grinding and the plants seemingly give permission for a few days of blissful, non-damaging neglect in order to “go away.” For those who are in retail, the return to school signals a brief respite for retailers before heading into 80-hour workweeks preparing for the Christmas rush, which seems to start earlier every year and doesn’t really end until after the first of the year when all the returns roll in. And for those without children and whose spouses fill the administrative job market, you have suffered through their good intentions of acquiescing to the last slot on the list in terms of requested vacation time in order for those with children to make the mad dash to Disney World before school starts.

So now, its time for Faculty Staff Institute and your spouse is looking at you with that far-away, get-me-the-heck-out-of-Dodge look. What to do?

For starters, take advantage of every opportunity that allows for rest and relaxation. The beginning of the school year always seems to be the most hectic time of the entire year in terms of organization and time management with classes beginning, new students needing direction and a never-ending amount of committee work to be done. Although it may seem a monumental task, planning ahead to literally “get outta Dodge” for the weekend is a guaranteed stress-buster if for no other reason than the change of scenery. With the wide availability of wireless internet connection in practically every hotel, motel and camping ground around, there is no reason that one cannot surf the 'net under a pine tree in a Georgia state park or on a beach next to the Holiday Inn®.

If you can’t off the top of your head think of the ultimate stress busting place that takes you away, think of your significant other. What are the hobbies and stress-busting activities that they never get to do? Fly fishing? Book a cabin for weekend on a fast-moving stream. Photography? Head on up to Calloway Gardens and watch em’ stalk butterflies through the fauna. Trust me, sometimes your most enjoyable times are spent when you give of yourself to others; it’s a win-win situation.

--Oreta Samples is the lead veterinary technician for the Department of Veterinary Science at Fort Valley State University

The class of when?

2008-08-04T06:31:00.000-07:00

I dropped my child off for his first day of first grade this morning. I was fine, until I looked at the banners the school had hanging from the hallway ceilings. "Class of 2024," read the on on his hall.
Oh, my. Twelve years of grade school, then four years of college. 2024. All of a sudden that doesn't seem so far away.

--Misty Cline works in the Office of Marketing and Communications at Fort Valley State University.

Wildcat Commons Phase III

2008-08-01T08:27:00.001-07:00

Images from this morning's ceremony, celebrating the two new Wildcat Commons buildings under construction.

The new dorms are visible in the background as shovels and hard hats wait for the ceremonial dirt toss.
Fort Valley State University officials and dignitaries from local and state government line up to break the ground.
A small gust of wind blew the dirt back on to some shovel-wielding officials.

Dr. Melody Carter officiated over the groundbreaking ceremony.
Miss FVSU, Shanoria Morgan, speaks with housing director Hosea Lewis after the ceremony.

More financial aid on its way

2008-07-30T05:54:00.000-07:00

Fort Valley State University students wanting a college diploma will have more financial aid options possible. The U.S. Department of Education has increased the amount available for unsubsidized student loans effective this month.

According to Eula Solomon, FVSU’s director of financial aid, the increase is in response to the rising costs of tuition and living expenses across the board.

“Last year, the university depleted its budgetary resources and Wildcat loans to help students stay in school,” said Solomon. “The university also had to turn students away because of lack of money.”

Last year, the federal government only allowed FVSU students a base borrowing amount: freshmen could receive $3,500; sophomores, $4,500; juniors and upperclassmen, $5,500. Dependent students – excluding students whose parents cannot borrow the Parent Loan for Undergraduate Students (PLUS) – will now have an additional $2,000. Independent students and dependents who are freshman and sophomores parents cannot borrow PLUS funds will be eligible for an additional $6,000; and $7,000 is the cap amount for juniors and seniors.

--Christina Milton writes for the Office of Marketing and Communications at Fort Valley State University

Growing by leaps and bounds

2008-07-29T05:21:00.000-07:00

In 2007, FVSU topped the University System of Georgia with a 17.7 percent increase in students. So far, more than 5,270 potential Wildcats have applied for fall 2008 – a 58.3 percent rise since the same time last year.

“Based upon prior enrollment projections, we are anticipating 1,200 to 1,500 new students for the fall semester 2008,” said Dr. Terrance Smith, FVSU’s vice president for student affairs and enrollment management. “The new students will assist us in reaching an anticipated historic high enrollment of 3,200 to 3,500 students. The entire FVSU family and the Board of Regents is very excited about this anticipated growth, which should exceed the highest enrollment at FVSU: approximately 3,100 students in 1996.”

“This is only the beginning for FVSU,” said Smith. “Wildcat Country will continue to grow by leaps and bounds to reach an enrollment goal of 5,000 students in the very near future.”

Pet peeve

2008-07-25T05:15:00.000-07:00

We held local elections here last week. And though the results are in and the winners are back to work, the campaign yard signs remain. Oh, a few have "thank you" stickers plastered across them, but the majority are just left like so much litter along the highway. Do you think they'll be picked up - or just replaced with November election signs?

Paying it forward

2008-07-24T06:50:00.000-07:00

I went to college with a plan to pay for it. I would up with a plesant surprise: a scholarship in the second half of my freshman year. Oh, I still worked, but that scholarship made it about $1,000 easier each year.
FVSU is getting ready to shatter another incoming-class record. About 1,500 Fall 2008 freshmen are packing their bags and saying "see you soon" to their families. And for some of them, it will be "see you sooner."
Because without an infusion of scholarship money, some of those students will be going home before the end of August. Projections indicate that FVSU will need about $250,000 more than what we already have to help students this fall. And time is running out as school starts in three weeks.
So visit the FVSU Web site: www.fvsu.edu
Help a student stay in school.

Politics and pride

2008-07-23T09:37:00.000-07:00

A wise man once said: “never discuss politics or religion over dinner; it spoils the digestion.” Folks, I intend to break both of those rules over the next few weeks, so hold on to your biscuits…

We are spectators currently in the midst of the most exciting political run for the Presidency of the United States that this country has seen in quite a few years. It started with the bid for the Democratic nomination featuring a well-educated, familiar, and politically savvy woman squaring off against a newcomer to the national arena in the form of the well-educated, politically active African American man. Both brought to the table much insight, compassion, and the desire to serve their country in the highest office of the land. And I think it is safe to say that regardless of your political affiliation, it was an interesting and thought provoking race - one that the drafters of the Constitution quite possibly could never have imagined coming to pass: a political race between the last two groups of individuals to be granted the right to vote within this country.

Now the Democrats have made their choice and the race for the Presidency has taken on a new fervor. The next few months stand to be pretty exciting.

Frankly I am reminded at this point in the race of the long-gone television show, Mutual of Omaha’s Wild Kingdom, which featured an older distinct Marlon Perkins who narrated from the safety of the studio while his co-host Jim Fowler (who, by the way, is a native of Albany, Ga.) wrestled crocodiles in the Nile and Anacondas in the Amazon Basin or sometimes just tried to outrun a cheetah or gazelle on the Serengeti Plains. If you are over forty you remember these scenes with Marlon in the background saying something entertaining like: “Look out Jim, Nile crocodiles have enough force in their jaws when closing to snap a man’s spine.” This narration likely took place as the younger Jim was thrashing around, legs wrapped around the croc, prying its mouth open as the creature attempted some fantastic death roll. The most stunning and visually disturbing episode I remember watching as a child was the special on lions. There was the grizzled male lion guarding the pride, when out of nowhere a young male lion in the throes of “lion-hood” attempted to take over. The catfight that ensued was magnificent with claws swiping this way and that, rendering flesh open while tails swished and guttural growls filled the air. Soon the fight was over and (depending on the show) the young male took off, tail tucked between his legs growling over his shoulder in a vow to fight another day. Or... the fight was over and the older lion - bloodied and limping - sidled out of the cameras view into the high grass and collapsed, utterly defeated.

Just as with the lion pride, the candidates are also racing against one another to be the ultimate representative of America’s “pride.” While both men have much to offer in the way of leadership and fresh ideas about the direction in which the country needs to turn, in the end only one can stay, watching the defeated walk proudly (no limping allowed) into the sunset to run another day. And while it would be nice (if not entertaining) to have a grandfatherly Perkins to narrate this race with calm insightful phrases such as: “Lookout Jim, those polls, when closed, will guarantee a result to be lived with for at least the next four years,” I am afraid we are on our own, folks.

So I ask that as you go forth in the near future to cast your ballot, be mindful of the sacrifices and service that the old lion has given both on native soil and foreign. Be considerate of the young lion who is beginning what we can only hope is years of public service. Both lions are deserving of the pride's consideration, and prayers as they make this run for the top.

God Bless the USA

--Oreta Samples is the lead veterinary tech in the Department of Veterinary Science.

The art of training

2008-07-21T06:50:00.000-07:00

FVSU is in the middle of a customer service training blitz. Every staff member will be receiving a day and a half of instruction on how best to interact with and help callers and visitors to campus. In a world where communication is often limited to text messaging and e-mails, it's nice to know that face-to-face interaction is still being studied and perfected. It's also nice to know that FVSU cares enough to want to make sure every student and parent is treated with kindness and respect, that callers are helped as effectively as possible, or passed to a more knowledgeable resource with efficiency.
Job training is usually reserved for either new employees or bright stars in the corporate world. In nine years in a communications field, I was sent for training once, and that only when I told my bosses I was willing to take my vacation time and pay my own way to a conference three hours from home. In the year I've been at FVSU, I've been to two in-house training sessions, with one more scheduled, and was allowed - no, encouraged - to plan and execute a series of computer training sessions for my office and any others interested in attending. Cool.

--Misty Cline works for the Office of Marketing and Communications at Fort Valley State University

Summer Orientation for New Students

2008-07-18T15:43:00.000-07:00

Fort Valley State University held its new student orientation today in the C.W. Pettigrew Center and it was packed: more than 217 students attended Friday’s event that introduced new students to professors, faculty and administrators at the university. It’s the fourth in a series of summer orientations for students. So far, all of the event contained overflow crowds.

During orientation, I talked to many parents who were sincerely happy about the summer information sessions. One mother told me that she felt as if her child was in good hands at FVSU, “I have another daughter in school in Atlanta,” she said. “They didn’t hold summer orientation sessions like this one. Fort Valley State University’s customer service makes me feel as if my daughter will be safe.”

I remember when I was a skinny, eighteen year old entering college as a freshman. Leaving parents for the first time is scary and exciting: for the first time, you’re free of the restrictions that adults impose. But, it’s nice to know how to navigate the waters of a college campus before you get there. The universities and colleges I attended – like University of Missouri, Columbia -- never had summer sessions like the ones at FVSU that ease the process of transitioning from high school. There were no administrators there to hold students’ hands or to walk them through the process. When a student arrived on campus – they had to sink or swim. You were given a campus map, a printed copy of your class schedule and told “good luck.”

Many schools I attended lacked the personal touch that an institution like FVSU has. There wasn’t electronic registration for financial aid, nor were there professors or administrators willing to meet you to advise you. You navigated the process of financial aid, advising and finding your classes on your own. This isn’t the case at FVSU, whose administrators truly seem to care about students’ lives, welfare and future.

-Christina Milton

Answers, part 4

2008-07-18T05:26:00.000-07:00

10. The college infirmary built in 1934 was dedicated to Mrs. Florence Hunt, wife of FVHIS principal Henry A. Hunt. The structure was demolished in the early '70s, and the current building completed by 1975 (research dates conflict). The Hunts are entombed on campus and their resting site is a focal point for Founders Day events each November.

11. Dr. Walter W. Sullivan was appointed acting president in June 1982 following the sudden death of Cleveland W. Pettigrew, president since 1973. Dr. Melvin E. Walker was named acting president October 1, 1988, following the departure of Dr. Luther Burse.

12. The Anderson House was built by F.W. Gano and named in memory of professor Benjamin S. Anderson. The main exhibit and displays come from the collection of Alfonso Biggs, a historian and chef to three U.S. presidents.

Get to know FVSU, Part 4

2008-07-17T06:20:00.000-07:00

Last section, for now....

10. The original infirmary was erected in 1934 and dedicated to
a. Mr. Florence Hunt
b. Miss Sophie Moore
c. Miss Catherine Hardy *bonus question: who is Catherine Hardy?

11. The following served as interim president
a. Dr. W.W.E Blanchet
b. Dr. Walter W. Sullivan
c. Dr. Melvin Walker
d. A. and C.
e. B. and C.
f. A. and B.

12. The Anderson House was constructed in the mid-1800s by
a. Henry A. Hunt
b. John W. Davidson
c. F.W. Gano
d. Benjamin S. Anderson

Check your answers tomorrow!

Answers, Part 3

2008-07-15T06:56:00.000-07:00

7. The second president of FVSC was Dr. C.V. Troup. The current administration building is named for him.

8. The current football stadium was constructed in 1957. It is scheduled for demolition following the 2008 football season, and a new stadium and student amenities building will be built in its place. Go Wildcats!

9. Mr. Samuel Henry Bishop donated the funds for the dining hall in 1932. The remodeled building now serves as the Mass Communications building.

*Expanded answers are researched using "Light in the Valley," by Donnie D. Bellamy

Get to know FVSU, part 3

2008-07-14T06:49:00.000-07:00

More questions from the Anderson House Museum quiz. Enjoy!

7. Upon the resignation of Dr. Horace Mann Bond in 1945, the second president appointed was
a. Dr. Cleveland W. Pettigrew
b. Dr. C.V. Troup
c. Dr. Oscar Prater

8. The current football stadium was constructed in
a. 1895
b. 1905
c. 1957
d. 1987

9. Mr. Samuel Henry Bishop donated the funds for construction of
a. the student union building in 1967
b. the agricultural building in 1954
c. the dining hall in 1932
d. the men's dormitory in 1939

Answers to come tomorrow!

Answers to part 2

2008-07-11T05:55:00.000-07:00

4. Mr. William Merida Hubbard founded the State Teachers and Agricultural College of Forsyth in May 1903. That college merged with FVHIS in 1939 to become Fort Valley State College.

5. Henry Alexander Hunt was the second principal of FVHIS, appointed in 1904.

6. Dr. Horace Mann Bond was the first president of Fort Valley State College. He served from 1939 to 1945.

More to come!

Get to know FVSU - part 2

2008-07-10T07:49:00.000-07:00

Continuing our quiz -

4. The State Teachers and Agricultural College of Forsyth was founded in May 1903 by

a. Dr. C.V. Troup

b. Mr. William Merida Hubbard

c. Horace Mann Bond

5. The second principal appointed to FVHIS was

a. Anna T. Jeans

b. Colis P. Huntington

c. Henry Alexander Hunt

6. The first president of Fort Valley State College was

a. Dr. C.V. Troup

b. Dr. Horace Mann Bond

c. Dr. W. W. E. Blanchet

2008-07-09T07:01:00.000-07:00

What do rattlesnakes, Delta Airlines and a Samuel Adams Brewery have in common?

They all play a part in my travels to Orlando, Fla. this past weekend to attend the 2008 Summer Institute for Nova Southeastern University; my last appearance before the good folks of NSU prior to graduation in September. I am writing this blog entry as I sit waiting the compelling and constantly changing saga which I have, named simply: “Where’s Orlando?”

The moral of this story…well I’ll get to that a little later. Many of you who know me know that I have been excitedly awaiting my final trip down to Orlando for my last class before being awarded a Doctorate of Health Sciences from Nova Southeastern University; after which I will hopefully land the job of my dreams … somewhere. I did everything right in order to avoid the normal disasters that happen when I travel alone. I made the plane reservation six months ahead of time in order to get the best price. The hotel reservation was made three months ahead of time to get a good room and I managed to turn in my leave request a month early to ensure that everyone who needed to know knew I would be gone. I even took two days off the week before I had to leave to make sure I was packed, rested and ready to conquer this last hurdle with finesse - therefore proving my worthiness to be addressed as a “Dr.” This massive long term planning should guarantee smooth sailing, right? Right. Those of you who have traveled with me in the past already know this is not the way the story ends. For those of you who have never traveled with me, take heart, your turn's a-comin'.

I got up bright and early the day of the trip (actually that is Oreta-speak for 9-ish) and was about to sit down and relax when someone reminded me I had to leave by 11 if I was going to be on Groome Transportation at 12 sharp. So I meandered around until I was showered, changed, fed and ready to go - all that remained was to put on my shoes … that’s when it happened. I was apprised that at the exact moment I was readying myself to drag my luggage out the door there was a baby rattlesnake under my roommate’s truck. Regarding myself an amateur snake handler of sorts (okay, okay, I got bit a few weeks back, but hey, it happens) I couldn’t pass up the opportunity to see the baby snake up close and personal. Suffice to say after a discussion over snake relocation methods that involved among other things, a shovel, a sack, a loaded pistol and a piece of pipe, it was decided to attempt to pick up the snake with a six-foot piece of irrigation tube and a small piece of wood and transfer it to a sack for relocation. The snake was not thrilled with the relocation efforts, squiggling this way and that as two people tried to pick it up while it rattled away and struck at everything that moved. While a one-foot or smaller rattlesnake is not something that strikes fear in my heart, I figured the good folks of Nova Southeastern would not cotton to an excused absence from Summer Institute due to stupidity and a snakebite. So I tried to help, stay out of the way, and see everything all at once. Suffice to say that we finally got the snake in a bag, tied the top and stored him in a bucket until he could be … well, relocated.

I loaded up, drove to Groome in Macon, missed the noon bus and finally arrived at Atlanta Hartsfield-Jackson International Airport at 2:15. Undaunted, I was heading for the terminal when my cell phone rang and a canned voice announced that my flight was not leaving at 3:50, but rather 4:50. Back on schedule, I found a good cup of coffee and gamely made my way at a more sedate pace through the crowds. Upon my arrival at the terminal, I was told the flight had been delayed again and was now going to leave at 5:17. At this point the departure time of the flight to Orlando was changing faster than a stock market tip on crude oil. As I write this I now have an “approximate” departure time of 6:50 … but that may change according to the Delta official manning the new gate, where I accidentally realized my flight had been transferred to. I am sure they announced it, but of course my hearing problem is a problem when Ican’t read lips from thirty feet away; the closest seat to the boarding area.

Oh well, it is 6:30, I think I will head on down to the terminal and check out the latest departure time. Surely it has had time to change, and it is getting on towards supper time. I sure hope Orlando is still there when I get there - oh and did I mention I may be in the market for a “personal assistant?” The requirements include experience in rattlesnake roundups, bat-like sonar hearing and the ability to locate a fresh cup of coffee in all situations …. Have a great week everybody.

--Oreta Samples is the lead veterinary tech in the Department of Veterinary Science.

How well do you know FVSU? Answers

2008-07-08T08:38:00.000-07:00

1. The First Morrill Act refers to the Land-Grant Act of 1862. FVSU is a Land-Grant Act of 1890 institution. Named for Representative Justin Smith Morrill of Vermont, the Act encourages colleges to teach agriculture and the mechanic arts in order to promote the liberal and practical education of the industrial classes in the several pursuits and professions in life. (Reworded from the Act)

2. John W. Davison was the first principal of Fort Valley High and Industrial School and leader of the founders of FVSU. He and others started planning the school in October of 1895 and on November 6, 1895 eighteen men petitioned the Superior Court of Houston County for a charter to legalize the school "for the higher mental and manual education of the youths and children of Georgia, also to elect teachers and have general control of all matters connected with teh carrying out of said school."

3. "People" are consistently emphasized in the mission statement through the years.

How well do you know FVSU?

2008-07-07T08:32:00.000-07:00

Many thanks to Anderson House Museum Director Berry Jordan, as he's developed the "quiz" I'll be sharing with you this week. Think you know a lot about FVSU? Then these should be easy:
1. The First Morrill Act refers to:
a. The Land-Grant of 1890
b. The Civil Rights Act of 1964
c. The LAnd-Grant Act of 1862
d. None of the above

2. John W. Davidson was
a. The first president of FVSU
b. The first principal of Fort Valley High and Industrial School
c. The first mayor of Fort Valley
d. A professor in the history department

3. One thing that has been consistently emphasized in the mission statement of FVSU since its inception has been:
a. students
b. community
c. administration
d. people

Answers to follow tomorrow!

Patriotism all the year 'round

2008-07-03T06:28:00.000-07:00

One of the most moving events I have ever witnessed is the Commissioning Ceremony of ROTC cadets at the Fort Valley State University Commencement exercises. I always get choked up. And I know I am not the only one, for as I look around the hall. I can see women ducking heads to dab at wet eyes, or men pulling handkerchiefs from pockets to wipe their faces.

I am not sure why everyone else is getting so emotional, but I know why I am. I am witnessing one of the most selfless acts of courage that man or woman has ever made. I am watching young people who have the rest of their adult lives ahead of them make a decision to postpone a “normal” life for military service. I am watching young men and women who have exhibited leadership on our campus accept the challenge to be leaders in a wartime military. Those young people have tremendous courage to accept the challenges that lie ahead, especially when there are some people who would deny them that right.

Each of those young men and women who is commissioned during college graduation is representative of the thousands of men and women who previously accepted the call to duty. So many individuals have died to give freedom to those of us who remain. I recently received an email that had a picture of Arlington National Cemetery on it. The caption read “Freedom Isn’t Free.” That message really struck home as I thought of the number of men and women who died in war or who came home wounded. And although the men and women in my family who served did come home, I think how different my world would have been if they had not survived and even how different it would have been if they had not served.

I tear up at these commissioning ceremonies because I respect the sacrifices and challenges of those young people. I tear up because they remind me that I am able to live the way I do in a nation that allows me so many opportunities. They remind me that I have so much to be thankful for, and that my first words of thanks should be to them.

As you celebrate the 4th of July this year, remember our Patriots. When you have that meal, and say the blessing (Patriots died that you might do so), remember those young men and women so recently commissioned. But also remember those who fought to create this country and those who are in war torn countries now. Show your colors this weekend – and let them be Red, White, and Blue.

--Dr. Eleanor K. Sikes is the Interim Chairperson for Middle Grades Education Programs at Fort Valley State University

Social debate

2008-07-01T05:52:00.000-07:00

I've been reading a lot lately about four-day work weeks. Utah is making the new schedule mandatory for all government agencies except schools and emergency services. And State Superintendent of Schools Cathy Cox floated the idea last week as a way of saving money for the 2009-10 school year.
I've been saying for years (at least I say it every time the price of postage goes up) that I wish the U.S. Postal service would cut back on their delivery days. Really, I don't need to get those bills and sale ads on Saturday. Stay home, have a weekend, save some gas.
Imagine working four ten-hour days instead of five eights. What would be the complications? The benefits? As a parent, I'm thinking it would make a better balance between work and home life. Also as a parent, I'm thinking I have a hard enough time overseeing dinner, homework, bath and bedtime when I leave the office at 5. But I'm also guessing we'd all adjust, and be grateful on Fridays.
What do you think? Click on "comments" to leave your thoughts.

--Misty Cline works for the Office of Marketing and Communications. She loves 3-day weekends, but is a natural pessimist. "Weekends are just a different kind of work," she says.

Bringing Wildcat hope to prison

2008-06-30T06:08:00.000-07:00

It’s a Wednesday morning in June, 7:45 a.m. (that's early in my book), FVSU photographer Robert Ross, Admissions Director Donovan Coley, FVSU President Larry E. Rivers, his security man Corporal Bryant, and I head to Macon State Prison in Oglethorpe, Ga. The president is upbeat, energetic and talkative. That's typical. He's a morning person. I am not.

Dr. Rivers is the commencement speaker today. We drive past miles and miles of corn fields and sod farms, then pull into the facility's main entrance. "Welcome to Macon State Prison" the sign out front reads. After surrendering photo IDs, we walk through a metal detector, a chain link fence and barbed-wire gates. A sobering reality overtakes me. We're led to a large hall where a piano and drum version of "Pomp and Circumstance” is played. A small group of parents, friends and teachers of the inmates assemble.

Gold tassels dangle from purple and white mortar boards worn by the graduates, who are draped in gowns of the same color. Everyone files in orderly. I immediately notice how young the inmates appear. Boyish faces, good-looking brothers, nice smiles. I almost forgot where I was. This could've been any graduation ceremony. I was quickly reminded of my whereabouts after looking down at the prisoners' starched, creased white pants with navy blue stripe seams and shined black brogans. I want to cross my legs to get comfortable, but Coley elbows me and tells me to cross them at the ankles. I do.

I wonder, what can Dr. Rivers say to make the situations of these convicted felons any better? Should it be any better because of the crimes they've committed? Were they guilty? What difference does a degree make in the grand scheme of these lives? Why should I feel sympathy for them? What would the families of their victims think? If I were one of their victims, how would I feel? Questions like this fill my mind in rapid-fire succession until I force myself to snap back into the ceremony.

"Ignorance is your greatest enemy. You've heard the saying 'what you don't know can't hurt you?' I've spent 21 years on death row all because of what I didn't know," said Solomon, one of the few 60-something inmates among the graduates. “Education is liberation. Ignorance is your enemy."

That statement answered one of the questions bombarding my mind. For the incarcerated, education provides mental freedom, if nothing else. I know people on the outside of jail cells who are more bound than prisoners, in the head.

A soloist with the Men of Zion prison choir leads several songs. His voice is as smooth and sultry as Sam Cook's. "The road's been rough, the going's been mighty tough, but I'm still holding on. I'll never let go of His hand."

The atmosphere changes in the room. The program has turned into a church service. Dr. Rivers intentionally leaves the prepared speech in the SUV and speaks extemporaneously. "Isn't it strange...that princes and kings…" (from "A bag of tools," by R.L. Sharpe)

I've heard him start a speech with this poem several times. But today, the words have a new meaning. The message is delivered in a preacher’s tone, volume and cadence. The president cups the mic similar to the way I’ve seen older pastors do; stepping back and forth away from the podium, rocking from side to side. Spontaneous 'amens' and handclaps enliven the stark, depressing room as Dr. Rivers shares a personal testimony about struggle. A high school counselor encouraged him to look for employment as a janitor after graduation, implying that he wasn’t capable of getting into college. With nothing but the blessings of his mom, dad and money enough to pay for one semester of classes, the president entered FVSU.

The author of three books who earned two doctorates holds the audience in the palm of his hands.

"Get knowledge. I’m encouraging you to go beyond where you are. When things get tough, fall on your knees."

The Men of Zion sing again. And I bat back tears. I really want to find a quiet spot alone and cry my eyes out. I swallow hard and keep clapping. I can’t judge the offenses of the inmates. But I can do something to help toward their rehabilitation. An encouraging word, as Dr. Rivers spoke, can accomplish a great feat. An inmate’s letter to the president later describes how the commencement message had an impact. The inmate has applied to attend FVSU through the university’s online course offerings.

--Vickie J. Oldham is the Special Assistant to the President for Marketing and Communications at Fort Valley State University

FVSU-A Personal Touch

2008-06-27T09:40:00.000-07:00

Today, many new freshmen will flock to our campus for pre-orientation. What they find here will set many parents' minds at ease - Fort Valley State University has a personal touch. This touch separates us from other universities and is like no other. We call him President.

It was during my fourth semester at FVSU when Dr. Rivers graced us with his presence. At the time I was taking a full load - and carrying one too - as I was pregnant with my second child, Robert Brandon. Drained with fatigue, I hadn’t the opportunity to attend any functions other than classes, so didn’t meet Dr. Rivers until summer 2006.

By that time, I was seven months into my gestation and it showed. I had just completed an overnight shift in a busy newsroom. I mustered up the energy to witness my best bud and fellow mass communication major, Chaquasha D. Tomlin, graduate magna cume laude during Fort Valley’s summer commencement ceremony.

After the ceremony was over, I weaved my way through the crowd. As I waddled across the Health and Physical Education Complex floor, Dr. Rivers approached me. He stopped what he was doing, placed his hand on my protruding belly and exclaimed, “This is a future Wildcat!” My son was predestined from the womb by our fearless leader to walk in greatness at our fine university.

To our incoming freshmen I say, “Hats off.” You’ve made a wise decision. To the parents I say, “at ease.” Dr. Rivers took the time during such a busy and historic moment, one of his first commencements as President of his alma mater, to let me know that he cared about the matriculation of my unborn son. This same consideration will be given to your children as well.

--Stacie Barrett works for the Office of Marketing and Communications at Fort Valley State University

There will be two more pre-orientation events prior to the start of fall semester: July 11 and July 18. For more information, please call 478-825-6307

What makes a house a home?

2008-06-26T06:11:00.000-07:00

As we say goodbye to retiring employees (some of whom spent thiry years or more with us) and seek to hire new faculty and staff, I am left wondering: What is it that makes a job more than a job?
At what point does a job become a career? At what point does your workplace become your second home and your coworkers your second family? What makes FVSU not just a place of employment or education but the home-base for a far-flung family?
Because there's definitely an X-factor. Maybe it's a phenomenon of time. After so long at a workplace, it's hard to not get to know the people you share an office with. It's hard to not care about their successes and hopes, their disappointments and setbacks.
And maybe it's the byproduct of good hiring. What makes one person stand out in a sea of applicants? Usually it's that person's ability to "fit in" with the existing staff. Or to round out the current talents in an office. And those are hard things to train for, if not impossible.

Change of command

2008-06-24T06:57:00.000-07:00

I had the honor recently of attending the ROTC Change of Command ceremony for the Wildcat Battalion here at Fort Valley State University.

I was both heartsick and gladdened by the changes hearkened by this ceremony. Lt. Col. Anthony Foster will long be remembered by most as being at the helm of the Wildcat Battalion, a soldier carrying out a mission. For me, he will be remembered most fondly as a friend whom I met quite accidentally during my first year of service on the FVSU Judicial Committee in 2006.

I have over the years had many occasions to call upon him for advice, assistance and sometimes just to say “thanks” for being there. He was never too busy to take my call, always had a few minutes to sit and chat in his office about the progress of a cadet or ways to steer back on track some minor offender that I had encountered within judicial hearings. Most of all, he was compassionate and friendly, truly one of the good guys that we as a society so desperately seek in this age of uncertainty.

Recently Lt. Col. Foster spoke to a group visiting Vet Science as part of their health camp activities. After listening to him for a few minutes, I was kicking myself for not inviting him over the years to speak with the various groups that darken our door in need of recruitment to our campus. He is dynamic, down to earth and a sterling - no make that a “golden” - representative of all that is good about our military and our educational system here in The United States of America and I am heartbroken to see him go.

However the antithesis of grief is joy, and I am gladdened to see that the responsibility of leading the Wildcat Battalion is being passed on to Lt. Col. Terry Love, who will go down in history as the 13th Commander of ROTC here at Fort Valley State University. Although I do not know Col. Love personally yet, there is something special about seeing an alumnus come back and take their place “in The Valley.” I look forward to getting to know him and working together for the good of the students under his command. He comes resplendent with accolades and accomplishments which support the hope and faith that his new “FVSU family” already has in his abilities, but most of all he is “one of us.” To Col. Love and his family I bid simply “welcome, we are glad you’re here.”

To Col. Foster, I would just like to say: “May the wind always be at your back, the sun on your face and the hand of God resting squarely on your shoulders, farewell, my friend."

--Oreta Samples is the lead veterinary tech in the Department of Veterinary Science.

The lost art of the RSVP

2008-06-23T08:38:00.000-07:00

This happens to me a lot, as I hostess a number of events for my fraternity and other organizations I am a part of. I send out invitations - either e-vites or beautifully made hand-written cards. "RSVP" is clearly marked. Usually, I'm trying to gauge how much food to have on hand. Days go by, then a week, then two. It's the day before the event and I haven't received a single RSVP. Helloooooo?!?!?

So what has happened to the lost art of the RSVP? Have we reached a point where people feel so entitled that surely a hostess must just assume they will attend? Are we so busy in our lives that we can't make a common courtesy call? Or do the letters RSVP no longer mean anything? Can people decipher "LOL" and "ASAP" but not "RSVP?"

Your thoughts?

--Misty Cline works for the Office of Marketing and Communications at Fort Valley State University.

There's a time for planning

2008-06-18T05:20:00.000-07:00

I read with a little bit of horror both the news story about Georgia State Superintendent Kathy Cox requesting that local school districts push back their start dates and the ensuing "suggestions" posted online from sometimes well-meaning readers. (see http://chronicle.augusta.com/stories/061708/met_462423.shtml)

First, I don't know about all the other moms out there, but I have made arrangements for child care up to the day school is scheduled to start. Push back that date, and I'm left with a certain amount of time to scramble for child care. Summer camps are scheduled to end, the Boys and Girls Club camp here in Peach County had a scary time trying to find the funds to hold their camp at all. And can you imagine the non-traditional students starting college the same week as their kids? Or before? What if you've scheduled your classes around your kids' schedules (as much as possible)? I'm just saying mid-June might not be the best time to suggest changing an August start date.

Second, there was a lot of chatter in the "comments" section about going to a four-day school week. Now I know all the sound financial arguments for that - it would save a fortune in gas and electricity and school lunches. But as a working parent, again I'm horrified. You think my boss is going to let me go to a four-day workweek simply because my kid is out of school on Mondays? Or Fridays? Not a chance. So again I foresee a large number of parents scrambling for childcare. That is, unless some enterprising teachers band together to offer child care. But it can't be at the schools, can it? Because that defeats the purpose of "saving money" by not using the building that day. And frankly, if I'm a teacher and get moved to a four-day week of classes, I'm going to spend that extra day off grading papers, filling out the required paperwork (there's a mountain of it), studying for my own continuing education classes so I can stay certified, and so on. I'm not likely to take on a child care job for my students' parents. And as far as school lunches go, that one meal is, for a lot of students, the best meal they get all day. Friday lunchers sometimes have to make that meal last until Monday. Can you imagine trying to stretch it to Tuesday?

So Superintendent Cox's request left me, and apparently a lot of readers, with much to think about. If you care to continue the discussion in the "comment" section below, be nice, don't tear down anyone else's idea, and don't make personal comments like "so and so doesn't know what they are talking about" and don't bash teachers (that's my own personal pet peeve).

--Misty Cline works in the Office of Marketing and Communications at Fort Valley State University

Living My Wildest Dream

2008-06-17T08:36:00.000-07:00

Webster defines dream as "a strongly desired goal or purpose." All my life my mother and I dreamed of my being the first female in my family to earn a college degree.

My journey as a college student began more than twelve years ago. I attended a large state university at first. Two major factors changed my college career path. One was the loss of my mother during my sophomore year. Once my mother had gone, I had to work hard to take care of myself. After proving myself a valuable employee, my company transferred me out of state to the largest unit in the district - in Atlanta. My path had detoured, but for my own good. Eventually, all roads led to Fort Valley State University.

While I was working in Atlanta, I met my wonderful husband, Robert. Before you knew it, we were married and blessed with our beautiful daughter, Robin. Sooner than I could get diaper changing down pat, my company moved me once again - this time to the Middle Georgia area.

We were doing well. I had a magnificent husband, a radiant bundle of joy, and I was on a career path in the company as a vested eight-year employee. However, something was missing. After taking a short vacation to spend time with Robin, I discovered that something: I had given up on the dream. As I looked into my daughter’s eyes I thought, “How can I tell her to reach for the stars and capture all her dreams when I have given up on mine?”

I came to FVSU as both a transfer and non-traditional student. My career was traded in for the roles of domestic engineer and scholar.

FVSU is a public institution. As I heard Dr. Rivers tell the crowd at the Fall 2007 Preview Day, “Anybody as the right to matriculate at The Fort Valley State University....”

That includes a married mother of two, or anyone else who strayed away from their intended college career path. Let FVSU light the way. The road wasn’t easy, but through the support of my family and the university, my goal was obtainable.

--Stacie Barrett works in the Office of Marketing and Communications at Fort Valley State University

Rewards from the teaching profession

2008-06-16T05:28:00.000-07:00

When I realized I wanted to be a teacher I was about 5 years old. I was not thinking about salary, workload, benefits, or rewards. All I was thinking about was how much I loved teaching. I was thinking about how much fun I was having sharing what I had learned with my “students” (my cousin and my dolls). I was thinking about how much happier I was when “playing school” than when “playing office.”

Now that I have been teaching for 37 years, I realize that I became a teacher because of the intrinsic rewards that come from this profession. I am still teaching because of the opportunities for self-improvement and life-long learning. I am still teaching because I love sharing knowledge and ideas with like-minded individuals. I am still teaching because I am still learning. Someone once told me that “the only job to have is the one that makes you happy.” That job, for me, is teaching.

One of the most rewarding experiences a teacher can have is to encounter his or her former students experiencing happiness and success in their chosen careers. This has happened to me twice in the last few months, and each time I experienced a sense of accomplishment and happiness. I realized that, in some small way, I helped these two former students, and others, accomplish their goals. Therefore, I had also accomplished one of my purposes in being a teacher. They were happy and I was happy for my small part in shaping their lives.

These two encounters are not the only ones I have had in the last 37 years, but they did reinforce once again why I chose a career in teaching. This profession does have a good salary base and good benefits. It does provide great learning experiences. It does have some tangible benefits. And I am very thankful for all of these benefits. But the primary reason for choosing this career and for my remaining in it for so many years is for its intrinsic value, for the value it has added to my life.

--Eleanor K. Sikes is the Interim Chairperson for Middle Grades Education Programs at Fort Valley State University

The day the world will end

2008-06-13T05:38:00.000-07:00

This is the day the world will end. That’s right, Thursday, June 12, 2008, sometime today, according to Texas Prophet and notoriously poor speller, Yisyrayl “Buffalo Bill” Hawkins, nuclear war which will lead to doomsday will get under way today. If you are unfamiliar with Hawkins’ message, search for him on YouTube and you will be deluged with hits for his prophetic videos. If you’re a believer in these sorts of proclamations, its time to clean out your bank account and load up on Krispy Kremes, cigars, and 40s so you can kick back and watch the fireworks.

Unfortunately, Ol’ Bill has a history of being wrong. Hawkins also predicted that September 12, 2006, would be the date the world would end. Despite obviously missing that one, his followers keep following him. Many have legally changed their name to “Hawkins.” Why? Because Hawkins believes that only those with the last name of Hawkins will be saved.

Of course, according to ABC News[1], followers are also expected to buy their doomsday survival products from Hawkins’ own company. This, in addition to the no-doubt mandatory tithing to his ministry, makes the gospel of Armageddon a profitable message.

These guys probably got their start with the first caveman who, on a cloudy morning some millions of years ago screamed, "Oh heavens, some giant bird has eaten the sun and it will never rise again and we'll all die." After much general panic, when the sun rose again, he was beaten to death and life returned to normal.

People, especially it seems, fundamentalist and evangelical Protestants, have been claiming that we are living in the "end of days" as set forth in the Book of Revelation probably since St. John of Patmos set the document out for the ink to dry.Why this happens should be obvious. Imagine how empowering it would be to realize that you are the only person who has been given inside information about how the world is going to end and how people can survive the cataclysm. Now you can not only save those you care about, but you get to play god by choosing who lives and who dies. In addition, you will receive enormous amounts of adoration and if you are condemned by anyone as being a fool, your admirers will lash out at those who condemn you and praise you as a martyr. What a life!

Just in the past few years, how many times have we seen "great prophets" of doom appear? There were hordes of them surrounding June 6th, 2006 (6/6/6), Y2K, the avian flu, remember the suitcase nuke scares after 9/11? Religion has also seen hordes of them. These special individuals who use numerology, secret messages from their television, or "bible codes" to predict the dates of "raptures" or "second comings" or Armageddon. (Even though they wouldn't know what har Megiddo was nor could they find it on a map.)

In fact, the 1980s and 90s were decades of unparalleled optimism for eschatologists. According to What Really Happened.Com, the following are a sampling of the failed apocalypses of the time:
1980 - North Carolina prophecy teacher Colin Deal set dates for the return of Christ for 1982 or 1983, 1988, 1989, and in a March 17, 1989 radio broadcast, "about eleven years away." If at first you don't succeed...

1980 - Prophecy promoter Charles Taylor predicted rapture in 1988: “with the millennial reign of Christ due to begin in 1995, the rapture must surely occur in 1988 to coordinate with many other prophecies!" Not surprisingly, Taylor also made similar predictions for 1975, 1976, 1980, 1982, 1983, 1985, 1986, 1987, and, of course, 1989.

1981 - May 25. About fifty members of a group called the Assembly of Yahweh gathered at Coney Island, NY, in white robes, awaiting their "Rapture" from a world about to be destroyed between 3 p.m. and sundown.

1980 - Psychic Jeanne Dixon predicted a world holocaust for the 1980s.

1988 - Edgar C. Whisenant, in his book 88 Reasons Why the Rapture Will Be in 1988, gave a three day period in September for the saints to be "caught up with the Lord." When this failed, he issued another book claiming that he was a year off, and urging everyone to be ready in 1989.
1991 - Reginald Dunlop, end-times author, stated that "The Antichrist would be revealed" around the year 1989 or 1990, perhaps sooner." The Rapture he predicted for 1991."

1990 - Elizabeth Clare Prophet predicted the end of the world by nuclear war in 1990. Her church has since seen a decline in membership.

1992 - "Rapture, October 28, 1992, Jesus is coming in the Air." Full page ad in the October 20, 1991, issue of USA Today, placed by followers of the Hyoo-go (Rapture) movement, a loose collection of Korean "end-times" sects. When the prophesied events failed to pass, much turmoil broke out among the sects.

1993 - David Koresh, self-proclaimed little lamb of Isaiah 16, and the Second Coming of Christ, died in a fiery conflagration with some 80 of his followers.

1994 - Arab Christian prophet Om Saleem claimed that the antichrist was born November 23, 1933, that his unveiling would come in 1993 and the rapture in 1994.

1994 - Harold Camping, a radio evangelist, wrote a book entitled "1994?" In it, Camping says, "if this study is accurate, and I believe with all my heart that it is, there will be no extensions of time. There will be no time for second guessing. When September 6, 1994, arrives, no one else can be saved, the end has come."

1997 - Mary Stewart Relfe wrote in 1983 that she had received detailed "divine revelations" from God. She released a chart showing World War III beginning in 1989, the Great Tribulation starting in 1990, and that Jesus Christ would come back in 1997, just after Armageddon."

1997 - On March 25, followers of Marshall Applewhite’s Heaven’s Gate cult committed mass murder-suicide in Southern California

1998 - Larry Wilson, a former Seventh-day Adventist pastor, predicted four massive global earthquakes beginning around 1994 and ending in 1998 with the Second Coming.[2]

Of course, 1998 was when Edgar Cayce said the world was going to end, wasn’t it? Hal Lindsay and Nostradamus had us checking out in 2000. The list could go on for as long as you were willing to read[3], but it eventually just gets depressing.

I'm not saying that, someday, one of them is not bound to be right. What I am saying is don't waste your life fretting about each new "prophet of doom." Live joyfully and love boldly each day as if it were your last; because one day will be.

However, if you enjoy the prognosticators of doom, it appears the next big date to circle on your calendar is when the Mayan calendar runs its course in December of 2012. Apparently Staples is all out of refills.

[1] http://www.abcnews.go.com/Blotter/Story?id=5008225&page=1
[2] http://www.whatreallyhappened.com/rapture.html
[3] A more complete list can be found at: http://www.geocities.com/Athens/Oracle/9941/infinity1.html

--Dr. B. Keith Murphy is the Associate Dean for the College of Arts and Sciences at Fort Valley State University.

Continuing education

2008-06-12T17:26:00.000-07:00

Your friendly blog administrator is a little behind this week. You see, I opted to spend some time learning instead of doing. And it was a good decision.

Every summer, FVSU and other institutions of higher learning come out with a schedule of classes for adults. Some of them are geared toward seniors, others toward teachers who need continuing education credits to stay certified. Still others are aimed to help adults in the work force improve the skills they use on the job - or gain skills that would make their jobs easier. You can find the current FVSU offerings here: http://www.fvsu.edu/academics/extended-education/continuing-education-course-schedule My understanding is that the satined glass course is really quite something.

So I spent two days this week in computer training, catching up on the software and hardware that has come out since I was in college (okay, so a fraction of it. The Internet wasn't even a thing when I was in college). I'm pleased to say I'll be back at my desk Friday, ready to put my new skills to use, feeling more effective and productive.

I'm sure the feeling will pass.

--Misty Cline works for the Office of Marketing and Communications

History from a personal perspective

2008-06-10T08:13:00.000-07:00

Saturday, June 7th, has long been remembered as D-Day, a time during World War II when Allied forces secured victory against the German army in a decisive battle that took place on the shores of France. The landing began the march across Europe in a move that would ultimately contribute to the eventual ending of the war.

A fan of all of the great generals of those days; Patton, Montgomery, and Bradley to name a few, I have immersed myself over the years in the rhetoric and literature surrounding that pivotal point in history. It probably didn’t hurt that I can lay claim to one father, four uncles and a godfather who volunteered, fought and came home from the same war and were therefore a part of history - vastly more exciting than the 8 a.m. history class I took as a college freshman.

My father served under General George S. Patton. As an only child born to two people whose ideas on childrearing included treating me like a “miniature adult,” by the time I was ten I not only understood who the Allies and the Axis were, I was enamored with the persona that was George S. Patton’s legacy to the world. You know the one: the profane, loud, obnoxious, God-fearing believer in reincarnation. Yep that’s the one. What information could not be gleaned from Dad’s stories was filled in through countless viewings of the movie “Patton,” starring George C. Scott. Now before you roll your eyes along with your computer mouse while simultaneously groaning that “Oreta can’t write about anything that isn’t patriotic, connected to some movie she watched a half a dozen times, or makes us cry” - bear with me. The direction of our journey will be visible over the next horizon…where our youth are residing.

At Fort Valley State University, we as faculty and staff members have the perfect opportunity to mold the minds and shape the lives of our charges – the students. We introduce students to things that they can only learn through recantations of the past - a past that is not only found in the pages of a history book (although that is certainly a good place to start). What do you have to share that would be a first-hand account of history? We are living in a time that is moving at the speed of light in terms of politics, war, scientific discoveries and other facets of daily life. We all have something to offer.

As I pointed out in last week’s blog, I “learned” something from the student’s point of view about rap music recently. It may not be the preferred setting on the radio for me, but I now have a clearer idea of what rap is all about. Take a moment and think of where you come from both geographically and personally; someone needs to hear about your experiences, your thoughts and your views.

One of the greatest blessings here at Fort Valley State University is the diversity we share. We are all so different yet we are all bound together by a commitment to serve the university and our students. Life experiences in the classroom drive home a message and catch students' interest. In the time it has taken you to read this, you have probably mentally revisited a few educators from your own past who taught you something that you have never forgotten. Wouldn’t it be so neat to leave that sort of an imprint on the students you encounter? Think about it, and while you do, I’ll just go off and ponder the current war in Iraq and wonder: “what would Patton do?” Have a beautiful week.

--Oreta Samples is the lead veterinary technician in the Veterinary Science Department at Fort Valley State University

Wildcats to visit Atlanta

2008-06-09T08:49:00.000-07:00

Atlanta high school graduates and non-traditional students ready to take a step toward college will receive expert advice and a tasty meal at Fort Valley State University’s Annual Blue and Gold Social Cookout. The event gives potential metro area students and their families a taste of wildcat hospitality, Saturday, June 14, from 1 p.m. to 4:30 p.m., at Atlanta’s J.C. Birdine Center. The festive barbecue is sponsored by the Metro Atlanta FVSU Alumni Chapter. Qualified students who apply will be admitted to the university on the spot.

“We’re holding this event in an effort to seal the deal with potential Wildcats and show others that FVSU is the place to be,” said FVSU recruiter Sammie Haynes.

During the cookout, a deejay will spin tunes while parents and future Wildcats chow down on hot dogs, hamburgers, chicken, and veggie burgers hot off the grill.

The Offices Recruitment and Admissions will walk individuals through the application process. Michael Dinkins – FVSU’s new scholarship coordinator – and other financial aid officers will smooth out the financial process for new students. Director of Bands Kevin Jones and Concert Choir Director Alvin Tuck will also be on hand recruiting new students.

Expect door prizes and giveaways throughout the day. Students are encouraged to RSVP prior to June 13. For more information, call (478) 825-6307.

Student Loans Start to Bypass 2-Year Colleges

2008-06-06T06:52:00.000-07:00

Forgive the re-posting of this article, but when I read it here:
new_york_times:http://www.nytimes.com/2008/06/02/business/02loans.html
I had to pass it along.

By JONATHAN D. GLATER
Published: June 2, 2008 in The New York Times

Some of the nation’s biggest banks have closed their doors to students at community colleges, for-profit universities and other less competitive institutions, even as they continue to extend federally backed loans to students at the nation’s top universities.

Citibank has been among the most aggressive in paring the list of colleges it serves. JPMorgan Chase, PNC and SunTrust say they have not dropped whole categories, but are cutting colleges as well. Some less-selective four-year colleges, like Eastern Oregon University and William Jessup University in Rocklin, Calif., say they have been summarily dropped by some lenders.

The practice suggests that if the credit crisis and the ensuing turmoil in the student loan business persist, some of the nation’s neediest students will be hurt the most. The difficulty borrowing may deter them from attending school or prompt them to take a semester off. When they get student loans, they will wind up with less attractive terms and may run a greater risk of default if they have to switch lenders in the middle of their college years.

Tuition and loan amounts can be quite small at community colleges. But these institutions, which are a stepping stone to other educational programs or to better jobs, often draw students from the lower rungs of the economic ladder. More than 6.2 million of the nation’s 14.8 million undergraduates — over 40 percent — attend community colleges. According to the most recent data from the College Board, about a third of their graduates took out loans, a majority of them federally guaranteed.

“If we put too many hurdles in their way to get a loan, they’ll take a third job or use a credit card,” said Jacqueline K. Bradley, assistant dean for financial aid at Mendocino College in California. “That almost guarantees that they won’t be as successful in their college career.”

So far, financial aid administrators say they have been able to find fallback lenders that students can switch to, but the hurdles are costly to students — in money and time. The maximum interest rate on federal loans, now at 6.8 percent on the most commonly used loans, is set by Congress, but lenders are scrapping benefits, like rate cuts for borrowers who make their payments on time or allow direct withdrawals from bank accounts.

Some loan companies have exited the student loan business entirely, viewing it as unprofitable in the current environment. By splitting out community colleges and less-selective four-year institutions, some remaining lenders seem to be breaking the marketplace into tiers. Students attending elite, expensive, public and private four-year universities can expect loans to remain plentiful. The banks generally say these loans are bigger, more profitable and less risky, in part perhaps because the banks expect the universities’ graduates to earn more.

Lenders will not say how many colleges they have dropped, making it hard to determine just how many institutions have been affected. Although financial aid administrators say the trend is widespread, they are often reluctant to identify which lenders have stopped serving their colleges, for fear that it will complicate matters for current students who have taken out loans from those lenders and still need to deal with them.

Michelle McClain, 40, who is studying to become a teacher, learned on Friday that she would have to find a new lender after Citibank dropped William Jessup University. The news angered her.

“The loan is between me and the lender,” Ms. McClain said. “I’m the one that’s taking out the loan, I’m the one whose credit is in jeopardy if I don’t pay it, I am the one totally responsible for the loan, and as long as I’m going to an accredited college, I don’t understand why it would make one iota of difference where I am going to college.”

The government has been taking additional steps to keep the student loan market operating smoothly. And some lenders’ doors remain wide open. Sallie Mae and Nelnet recently reaffirmed their commitment to federal loans regardless of the institution a student attends. Kristin Shear, director of student financial services at Santa Rosa Junior College, said that days after the school was dropped by Citibank, Wells Fargo called to say it was eager to lend to students there.

The banks that are pulling out say their decisions are based on an analysis of which colleges have higher default rates, low numbers of borrowers and small loan amounts that make the business less profitable. (The average amount borrowed by community college students is about $3,200 a year, according to the College Board.) Still, the cherry-picking strikes some as peculiar; after all, the government is guaranteeing 95 percent of the value of these loans.

Mark C. Rodgers, a spokesman for Citibank, which lends through its Student Loan Corporation unit, said the bank had “temporarily suspended lending at schools which tend to have loans with lower balances and shorter periods over which we earn interest. And, in general, we are suspending lending at certain schools where we anticipate processing minimal loan volume.”

Financial aid officials in California said that Citibank had stopped making loans to students at all community colleges in the state. Mr. Rodgers said the bank would not provide details about which schools were affected.

The financial aid director at William Jessup, Korey Compaan, said he did not understand the bank’s explanation.

“The logic is so flawed, that for us to have volume with them in the future, we have to have had volume with them in the past,” Mr. Compaan said. Simply to cut off students at a college, he continued, “I find it totally and completely unethical.”

The government sets the criteria for college participation in federal loan programs, requiring that colleges be accredited and have low default rates to participate, for example. Now lenders are being more selective than the government.

“There’s been a certain amount of market segmentation going on, but this is the first time we’ve seen a lender, especially as large as Citibank, saying, ‘We don’t want to do business with you,’ ” said Samuel F. Collie, director of financial aid at Eastern Oregon University in La Grande, Ore.
“There’s a fundamental issue of fairness and equity that’s certainly not being addressed in this,” Mr. Collie said. “But short of completely revamping the way that financial aid, especially loans, is being delivered to students in this country, I don’t know that we have any easy answers.”

The credit crisis, which has made it harder for some lenders to raise money, and a reduction in the government’s subsidy to lenders have contributed to the reevaluations by the lenders.

“This is one of those perfect storm situations,” said Susan L. Mead, director of financial aid at Dutchess Community College in New York. She said her institution had been dropped by no less than six lenders: HSBC, Citibank, M&T, Chase, Citizens Bank and Student Loan Xpress.

Christine Holevas, a spokeswoman for Chase, said that the bank considered several factors in deciding whether to lend to a particular college’s students. “The repayment rate, you look at the size and length of the loan,” she said. “We have tightened credit standards, yes, but we haven’t cut off any category of school.”

Hugh Suhr, a spokesman for SunTrust, said it was “stepping away from some relationships” with universities, but that this was “not based on any particular type of school.” Mr. Suhr said the bank continued to lend to students at a range of institutions.

Another danger for students is that as they are forced to find and switch to replacement lenders, they may lose track of some debt obligations and miss a few payments.

“It might put them in default,” said Claudia Martin, director of financial aid at Monterey Peninsula College, a community college in California that was dropped by Citibank and two other lenders. “We always recommend that a student stay with the same lender all through school.”
Commercial colleges, among the first to suffer when lenders withdrew from the market, have been openly critical of the new differentiation.

“From what I can tell from our lawyers, it’s not technically illegal for them to reject schools,” said Harris N. Miller, the president of the Career College Association in Washington, a trade group for commercial colleges. “I just think that’s very objectionable.”

Hindsight is 20/20, part II

2008-06-05T11:54:00.000-07:00

In an effort to protect the tellers of these tales, I will share some stories that have come my way following the "What did you wish you knew before you went to college" post.

A coworker here in The Valley told me that, prior to entering college, she had never had to make a bed. "I wish I had known how to do that," she confessed. Which brings up a whole list of life skills that college freshmen need before going off to live in a dorm. Moms and dads, here's your homework: Teach the kiddies how to
1. Do laundry
2. Grocery shop - on a budget
3. Create a budget (and live on it)
4. Cook basic meals - boil water, use an oven without catching anything on fire
5. Put out a fire - with a fire extinguisher and with salt (for those in-oven disasters)
6. Clean a bathroom
7. Patch small nail holes in a wall (so that's what spackle is for!)
8. Sew on a button, repair the hem in a skirt or pants

Any other suggestions?

Rap on

2008-06-04T05:53:00.000-07:00

“Life is like a box of chocolates, you never know what you’re gonna get."

And with those words launched perhaps one of the most lovable goofy characters to hit the big screen in a long time – Forrest Gump. For years the cinema has entertained, provoked and at times frightened all of us. My last blog detailed my own fascination with the legend of Bigfoot and the introduction of this believe-it-or-not creature to me when I was ten years old and saw “The Legend of Boggy Creek.” Perhaps you remember your first dinner and a movie date with that special someone; while the “someone” may not still be a part of your life, they never leave your memory.

Movies and music affect all of us in different ways and, as someone who has spent the last thirteen years of her life on our beautiful campus, I recently had the opportunity to both listen to and read some rap music. I have a bit of a hearing impediment, actually a 90% loss in high frequency, so lyrics have always escaped me as I find myself straining to understand what is being sung, or in this case, rapped.

Last week, during a visit to one of the local nail salons where I was having my bi-weekly pedicure-pamper session, the television was tuned to rap videos when someone hit the closed caption button and the words began to stream across the screen like a manic Dow-Jones Report at the closing of a big day on Wall Street. I started reading while enjoying the beat. I don’t remember the name of the first artist but the song was called “Silly.” As that song faded into another, then another, I found myself enraged, entrenched, romanced and then with a blinding headache that even the warm waters swirling around my toes would not erase. While some lyrics were profoundly disgusting and profane, others were a love story set to a drum beat with nary a profane remark in the entire story: losing the girl, finding the girl and holding the girl through eternity.

While this form of music is not one of my personal choosing, just like most everything else that mankind creates, there is a mix of the good, the bad and the ugly and truly one has to subject oneself to a sampling to be able to separate them. I worry about the children and the young adults who hold those entertainers in high esteem who glorify murder, degradation of women and disrespect for authority through their abuse of a God-given talent. And while this musical form (and yes it is a culturally induced form of music, just like Sinatra was a cultural icon in the fifties, Elvis and the Beatles in the sixties and on and on) is not one that is necessarily of my preference, it does illustrate something about America that makes us great – freedom of expression. And while I don’t think that the framers of the Constitution or the United States military are presently defending our countries right to “rap on,” they did and still do protect our freedom of choice and the freedom of individual expression, which includes the freedom to rap about distasteful subject matter.

So if anybody out there knows someone with a head for writing rap music lyrics, how about a good and decent rap anthem to salute both the United States and our military - you know the ones that are protecting your right to…rap. Any takers?

--Oreta Samples is the lead veterinary technician in the Veterinary Science Department at Fort Valley State University

My Space and Facebook

2008-06-03T07:59:00.000-07:00

There's been a lot of buzz lately about colleges using social networking sites MySpace and Facebook to connect with their students and potential students. FVSU President Dr. Larry E. Rivers set up a page last fall to better keep in touch with both students and alumni, and has had success in addressing concerns, keeping in touch, and sharing information with the millennial generation. Find him here:

http://profile.myspace.com/index.cfm?fuseaction=user.viewprofile&friendid=190854309

http://www.facebook.com/srch.php?nm=Larry+E.+Rivers

Working with FEMA

2008-06-02T12:14:00.000-07:00

I spent the day Friday helping the FEMA representatives who are in the area following the Mother's Day tornadoes. While Fort Valley was spared, Bibb and other outlying counties are still deep in the recovery process. Friday, FEMA opened new Recovery Assistance Centers so that people with storm damage could file claims. It was a privilege to help, and a learning experience.

Why would FEMA call on Fort Valley State? Well, several months ago the Georgia Emergency Management Agency (GEMA) held training on campus for public information officers at colleges around the state. Having participated in that training, we were asked if the agency could call on us in the event of a disaster. Of course, the answer was "yes."

It all comes down to locality. When there's a disaster, and GEMA comes in to help, then FEMA comes in to help, the individuals who work for these agencies aren't usually from the area they are helping. So it falls to those of us who live here to say "this is the local television station. And this is the person in charge there. These are the top radio stations. Here are the phone numbers for the deejays." Because the best thing we can do to help disaster victims is give them the information they need to get help.

So when the disaster recovery center in Twiggs County opened at 8 a.m. on Friday, and the local media was already telling people that we were there to help, your local public information officers considered that "a job well-done."

--Misty Cline works in the Office of Marketing and Communications for Fort Valley State University.

Hindsight is 20/20

2008-05-29T06:33:00.001-07:00

or: Things I wish I had known when I was in college

Someone challenged me yesterday to tell them one thing I learned after college that I wish I had known before I started college.

It has taken me a long time to whittle my response down to just one thing.

I wish I had had more fun while I was in college. I worked my way through, taking 15 to 18 credit hours and working at least one, sometimes two jobs. I got married midway through, so I was responsible for my own home and all that entails.

I wish I had known early on that I didn't really want a job in my chosen major. I wish I had known there was a way to get a Master's degree in the same time it took me to get a bachelor's with a teaching certificate.

But the most important thing, looking back: I wish I had taken more care with the college I chose to attend. Being the first in my family to go to college, and coming from a military family in which we moved every three years, I didn't have ties to any particular school. But see above comment about working, and you'll probably guess I went to the school that would cost me the least. And while I stand by the quality of my education, I certainly don't have the loyalty or pride I see in FVSU grads. I wish I had gone to a school that inspired that kind of loyalty. So I say, pick your school carefully. It's the most important decision you'll make as a 17 or 18 year old.

How 'bout it Wildcats? What do you wish you had known? Click on "Comments" below.
--Misty Cline works in the Office of Marketing and Communications.

Things that go "bump" in the night

2008-05-28T06:37:00.000-07:00

Do you believe in Bigfoot, Yeti, Sasquatch? How about the Loch Ness monster? Now, before you scoff and hit the exit button and move onto the latest happenings of Brad and Angelina, or check out your favorite sports scores online, consider this: Everyone believed the world was flat before Columbus “took the plunge” and risked sailing off the end of the earth. His success began an era in which mankind has attempted to explore and conquer everything about the earth, an era that we are still living in hundreds of years later.

I have spent most of my adult life in the noble and disciplined study of science in a variety of fields. Biology, chemistry, zoology, animal science, veterinary science, horticulture: you name it, I have probably taken a smattering of courses in the subject. And I consider myself scientifically savvy enough to put my name on more than one poster, abstract or paper. But I’ll let you in on a secret – I believe. Again, before you reach for the "back" button, let me explain why I am amazed that more “scientific” minded people don’t believe.

Picture this: Fouak, Arkansas, population less than 900 in an area that is highly agricultural with a multitude of winding waterways and natural swamp. It appears to be a place where boys still hunt with a dog and a rifle after school, old men tell tall tales around the spittoon in the general store and women still hang laundry out to get that fresh smell you only get from the clothes line. Since the 1940’s, there have been sporadic sightings of what is known in those parts as the “Fouak Monster” - which if the eye-witnesses are to be believed is a hairy manimal standing between 6 and 7 feet tall, weighs more than 300 pounds and is bi-pedal (sci-speak for walking on two legs). It lives in the swampy regions of the countryside and has been sighted on many occasions along the banks of Boggy Creek, located about fifteen miles south of Texarkana. The late 1970’s seemed to be a particularly active time for the Fouak Monster, whose presence allegedly accounted for scores of dead chickens, dogs, and even a shoat or two (that is ag-speak for a young, weaned pig). The creature is alleged to have attacked only one man to date, but the attack was so severe that the victim was treated for shock and injuries at the local hospital.

The Fouak Monster was publicized in a documentary which I have held in high esteem since first seeing it at the age of ten - “The Legend of Boggy Creek.” This home-grown docudrama featuring many Fouak residents kept me up for the rest of the night after seeing it in the theatres in 1973, and it kept me up this past Saturday night and again on Sunday night when I felt the need to watch it a second time after receiving it from an E-Bay seller earlier in the week. If you are a non-believer (or if you just want to be entertained cheaply) rent - or better yet buy - a copy; it will make you sit up and think twice about the possibility of the existence of Bigfoot.

The area surrounding the Texarkana region of the southeastern United States is a Mecca of sorts for Bigfoot sightings, with Fouak right in the middle. It is an area that I would dearly love to visit and traipse around during a vacation, preferably in late fall when the leaves are off the trees and one might be able to see the creature from afar. Just like storm chasing and snake handling, this is one of those activities I have wanted to partake in since first seeing the movie those many years ago. And yet, a part of me hopes that the sightings remain privy only to those who live in the region: the ones who never have a camera with them or a tape recorder to record the “unearthly screams” in the night. The everyday guy who hunts the land, has grown up listening to the stories at granddad's knee or the housewife who checks the doors three times at night, her hearing tuned in to every sound her hundred-year old farmhouse makes. These are the folks to whom this legend belongs, not the scientists who seek to explain away every legend and urban myth that spooked so many of us into staring wide eyed into the darkness as children.

So maybe I will leave my “scientific” self at home and if and when I ever get to go to Fouak, I’ll just leave the camera at home. And when I come home to tell you about my adventures, you will all have to simply…believe.

Now go rent that movie!

--Oreta samples is the Lead Veterinary Technician in Fort Valley State University's Veterinary Science department.

Wanted: TEACHERS

2008-05-27T07:27:00.000-07:00

Or How a Minor in Education Might Help You Get a Job
by Eleanor K. Sikes, Ed. D.
Interim Chairperson, Middle Grades Education Programs

I do not know just how many teachers Georgia and the nation will need next year because all the retirements, resignations, and dismissals are not in. But I do know that the number will be in the thousands. Georgia needed several thousand just this year, and some positions were never really filled but were held by long-term substitutes all year.

When the supply of graduates from teacher education programs runs out, principals start looking at all college graduates. And when it comes to being hired, those graduates who have had at least some exposure to education program curriculum will have an edge over those who do not. SO, if you want to be among those most likely to be offered a job in education, but you really do not want to be an education major because that dream job just might come available when you graduate, you should think about getting a minor in education.

A minor in education consists of a minimum of 18 hours of pedagogical courses. These courses are foundational courses in understanding critical issues in education, in teaching students with disabilities, in learning how students develop and learn, and in planning lessons and managing classrooms. These courses will introduce you to real classrooms through the field experiences.

Anyone who is going to make a career of teaching must complete an approved preparation program. If this is not done before graduation, it must be done afterwards. HOWEVER, if one has completed a minor in education as an undergraduate, he will have much less to do afterwards.

The minor in education provides a beginning place for the college student who is just not sure about what he wants to do with his degrees. It offers him an alternative, a backup plan for not getting into graduate school, or for not finding a manager’s position right out of school. There never seems to be a surplus of teachers, so job certainty is increased. The pay is good, and the benefits are good, too. Think about Education for your major, but do not neglect looking into our minor if you are committed to another course.

Students who seek a minor in education are encouraged to speak with the Dean of the College of Education or with the Chair of the Department of the program in which the minor is sought.

A minor in education will not yield enough content or pedagogy for certification. However, having a minor might indicate to a prospective employer the applicant’s seriousness about teaching. Additionally, in some circumstances, the courses required in the education minor may be credited toward completion of a program at a post-bacc or Master’s of Arts in Teaching (MAT) level program. Such credit can only be determined by the institution offering the post-bacc or MAT program. Full certification can be achieved only through the completion of an approved Educator Preparation Program.

Because a minor does not lead to certification by itself, the courses included are generic; in other words, they are common to most programs. The courses included in the FVSU education minor are also required by the State of Georgia for all educators. The courses are:

Course Number Course Title Credit Hours
EDUC 2110 Investigating Critical and Contemporary Issues in Education 3
EDUC 2120 Exploring Socio-Cultural Perspectives on Diversity in Education 3
EDUC 2130 Exploring Teaching and Learning 3
EDUC 2110P Pre-Professional Block Practicum (50 hours of supervised field experience coordinated with the courses above) 0
EDUC 2503 Exceptionalities and Instruction 3
READ 3823 Expanding Literacy Across the Content Areas in Middle Grades OR 3
READ 3820 Expanding Literacy Across the content Areas in ECE/Sp. Ed 3
EDMG 3132 Classroom Management Strategies ( Middle Grades) OR 3
ECSP 3132 Classroom Management Strategies (Early Childhood/Sp. Ed.) 3 Total Hours 18

In addition to the courses listed above, the CoE faculty recommends that the student seeking a minor in education take other courses if possible: at least one classroom management course, one methods course closely related to his/her intended teaching field, and a course in instructional technology. Currently, FVSU offers the following:

EDMG 3232 Methods of Teaching Science in the Middle Grades 3
EDMG 3332 Methods of Teaching Language Arts/Reading in the Middle Grades 3
EDMG 3432 Methods of Teaching Social Studies in the Middle Grades 3
EDMG 3532 Methods of Teaching Mathematics in the Middle Grades 3
ITEC 2120 Introduction to Instructional Technology 3
ITEC 2433 Instructional Technology for the Middle Grades Teacher 3

We encourage students seeking a Minor in Education to take as many as possible of the courses listed above in order to increase marketability and progress toward certification and advanced degrees.

Newly minted freshmen

2008-05-23T09:19:00.000-07:00

Congratulations, high school graduates! You have achieved a milestone in your education careers. But please do not think you have learned all there is to learn.
If you have not yet chosen a college, there is time. If you have already lined up a job, there is still time. And if you have been working for a while in a job you'd rather not be doing ten years from now, your time has come.
If you've already been accepted to FVSU, we'll see you, our newly minted freshmen, in the fall. If you haven't yet applied, there's still space for you.
It's never too late to continue your education. Just ask your teachers.

A library worth the trip

2008-05-22T06:19:00.001-07:00

While I was in Oxford, I was bound and determined to use what little free time was available to me to engage in some serious research in the library system at the University of Oxford, especially the Bodleian Library. Gaining access to this library, as an American, is not as simple as heading down to the Peach County Public Library and obtaining a library card. Instead, I had to first find an Oxford alum to sponsor my application for admission. Luckily, Dr. Kern Alexander, the former president of Murray State University in Kentucky, was the facilitator of the Roundtable and an Oxford alum. He sponsored my application.

Then, I took my application form, and the twelve pound application fee, to the library’s administration building, where my research proposal was considered. After another half hour, I had my picture taken and I was asked, by a very serious looking young lady, to recite the infamous Bodleian oath:

"I hereby undertake not to remove from the Library, nor to mark, deface, or injure in any way, any volume, document or other object belonging to it or in its custody; not to bring into the Library, or kindle therein, any fire or flame, and not to smoke in the Library; and I promise to obey all rules of the Library."

Then, after another 15 minutes, I was handed a shiny plastic card. I was an official patron of the University of Oxford library system. I could now walk past the velvet ropes and security guards which keep the tourists and other riff-raff at bay and, for the rest of my life, enter the oldest library in the English speaking world.

What is now the Bodleian dates back to a 14th century collection of books and manuscripts kept by Thomas Cobham, the Bishop of the University Church of Saint Mary the Virgin. In 1489, the Duke of Gloucester ordered that a suitable room be built atop the Divinity School to house the now enormous collection. That room is still in existence today and is known as Duke Humfrey’s Library. (However, only three of Humfrey’s books remain in the collection.) This room is a remarkable hall, filled floor to ceiling with ancient books and manuscripts. You’ve probably seen it as it has been prominently featured in the Harry Potter series of films.

I was guided to a small research nook by a stereotypically British research librarian. He was a wizened older gentleman with tiny rectangular reading glasses perched on the end of his long and winding nose. “Murphy, eh?” His pale blue eyes twinkled as he ran a gnarled hand through his thin white hair. “Yeh look more Irish than American.”

He smiled again as he read over the computer-generated list of books I had requested when I entered the building. The books were primarily 15th century schismatic texts and manuscripts; but I couldn’t resist asking to see the Tolkien manuscripts while I was there. “Yeh’ll be needin’ these, I suppose.” My companion fished a pair of white cotton gloves out of his pocket.

Within a few minutes, the ancient books and manuscripts arrived, each in its own white archivist box. I was shown how to correctly open the box and how to properly remove the contents and place them on the soft foam book form in front of me with my now-gloved hands. No photocopying was allowed, nor was the use of ink allowed, so I began studiously copying the passages I needed, in pencil, into my notebook.

The sheer sensual and tactile experience was overwhelming. The unmistakable aroma of the ancient parchment pages mixed with the leather binding to create a scent that was headier than the perfume of lilies to book lovers. As far as one could see, in the muted task lighting, stood row after row of ancient oak bookshelves; each filled with equally ancient manuscripts. I physically started when I noticed that, shelved directly in front of me, was a later copy of the Codex Sinatica, which was Constantine’s version of the Bible. The desks at which each researcher quietly worked were equally ancient and time-worn. Shallow grooves had been worn in the wood from centuries of rushed pencils copying down passages from these tomes. I was struck, however, by the noticeable lack of graffiti.

Despite that one lack of words, the Bodleian makes up for it by housing some very impressive works among its collections. Among the most famous are:
· William Shakespeare’s first folio of works.
· A Gutenberg Bible
· Poet Percy Bysshe Shelley’s letters.
· Four copies of the Magna Carta. (Another copy is held in a small chapel just outside of Oxford and you can get much closer to the document at this lesser-known chapel.)
· The Song of Roland.
· A famous Aztec work known as the Codex Mendoza.

Currently, the Bodleian’s 117 miles of shelving hold over eight million works (not counting their digital holdings). The library is growing so fast that they have taken over a defunct salt mine in Cheshire to use as a site to store holdings. Work is also underway to improve facilities for the preservation and archiving of rare manuscripts.

You can see why my new library card is the one souvenir I allowed myself while in Oxford. I was also able to discover a great deal of rare and original source material which, I hope, will lead to a new article about a faked appearance of the Virgin Mary (or the Holy Spirit) in 1555.

You should also be able to tell why I’ve already got the itch to go back.

Dr. B. Keith Murphy is the Associate Dean of the College of Arts and Sciences at Fort Valley State University

It's academic

2008-05-21T08:09:00.000-07:00

Really. That's the defense I use when I tell people about things like the upcoming SC3: Slayage Conference. (Fans of the television series Buffy The Vampire Slayer are suddenly paying attention.)

With keynote speakers such as Jeanine Basinger of Wesleyan University (not to be confused with Macon's Wesleyan College), Matthew Pateman of Britain's University of Hull, and Elizabeth Rambo of Campbell University, and sessions that will tackle gender issues, religion and literary themes in the series, I'm not only interested because I'm a fan of the series, but I'm fascinated because Buffy was one of the first television series' in which the lead role was a strong teen aged female. She saved the world (a lot) and still graduated from high school. She made friends, she made enemies, she dealt with love and loss on a level that teens and young adults could relate to.

As with Keith Murphy's course in comics here at FVSU, there will always be naysayers who believe this can't be serious study. But teachers, are your students going to better relate to Romeo and Juliet or Buffy and Angel? The story is the same, and hey - there's a five-paragraph essay in there somewhere.

http://www.slayageonline.com/SC3/index.htm

--Misty Cline works in the Office of Marketing and Communications.

Same memory, different decade

2008-05-20T07:21:00.000-07:00

Recently I have been noticing some parallels in history between my generation of folks well into their 40’s and my parents' and grandparents' generations. For one thing, we are still complaining about the price of things such as gas and oil, much as my parents did back in the 70’s when there were oil embargoes and lines at the pumps. The stock market crash of the 1930’s was a direct influence on the economic times back then, while today the economic turmoil makes one wonder what is around the corner for us.

At dinner with friends a few nights ago, someone asked me “do you remember what you were doing when the towers got hit?” I didn’t even have to think about it; an instant flashback put me at my desk in my old office in the Annex building of the vet department. Our secretary, Donna, called me and asked what was in the World Trade Center in New York City. When I asked why, she said someone had flown a plane into the side of it. As the popular Alan Jackson song asked “Where were you when the world stopped turning, that September morn?” (http://www.countrygoldusa.com/where_were_you.asp), think a minute, chances are you remember exactly where you were, who you were with, and what you were doing.

In many ways, 9/11 will be the day of infamy that lives in the hearts of our generation much the same as another tragic day of infamy played out in Hawaii in 1941. And much in the same way as our parents and grandparents have reminisced about World War II, never letting the memories fade, we will sit and reminisce well into our dotage about 9/11. On a visit to Pearl Harbor, I took my place on a small boat which ferried groups out to the USS Arizona’s final resting place. I took comfort in the quiet, respectful behavior of the occupants of the ferry; not a word was spoken, and it didn’t need to be. The silence bore the honor for our fellow man, both then and now, who have died in pursuit of liberty and justice for all, much the same as the silence which surrounds memorials and monuments all around this great land that bear soundless witness to those who give all.

They say that history has a way of repeating itself, and if you think about it you see this every day. Take the white powder scare a few years ago. An envelope of Anthrax spores reached Senator Tom Daschle and Senator Patrick Leahy and soon law enforcement agencies around the country are besieged with calls about suspicious white powder being spotted everywhere from underneath Cousin Slim's deer stand to the streets of San Francisco and everywhere in between. I am not downplaying this episode of national security, but nationwide panic stemming from the power of suggestion is nothing new. Orson Wells did it with a simple radio program that got out of hand in October of 1938, suggesting that an invasion of Earth by Martians had occurred and triggering a mass hysteria of sorts. I wasn’t there, but I heard about it plenty of times over the years from - you guessed it - Mom and Dad; just like our grandchildren will hear about the Anthrax scare. People don’t change much, just ask an elderly Japanese American who remembers internment camps, or anyone of Middle or far-Eastern descent these days. Both are facing the same types of ethnicity-based challenges - six decades apart.

As you go through your day, take a moment and notice all the things that are happening in our old world today; it really is a series of repeat performances. The only question is: will we learn from our mistakes or be destined to repeat them? Until next time….

-Oreta Samples is the lead veterinary technician in Fort Valley State University's Veterinary Science department.

Educating the community

2008-05-19T06:54:00.000-07:00

Some baby boomers barely keep up with the newest technology and latest dietary trends, so imagine how their parents are doing.

To keep the older generation up-to-date, Fort Valley State University is offering a free senior enrichment program, May 29, at its C.W. Pettigrew Farm and Community Life Center. The event, which begins at 10 a.m., is also open to caregivers and professional educators who work with the elderly.

During the five-hour workshop, presenters will cover several topics including cell phone usage, practicing healthy eating habits and gardening. Arthur Willis Jr., greenhouse manager and grounds supervisor for the university’s College of Agriculture, Home Economics and Allied Programs, will do a demonstration on how to plant flowers or vegetables.

“This is an opportunity for seniors to pick up a few tips that can keep them up-to-date with what’s going on in the world. Everyone doesn’t have children who can show them how to send a text message or have access to the Internet which can provide tips on how to eat healthy,” said Kena Torbert, the FVSU family life specialist who’s coordinating the event. “The Cooperative Extension Program at FVSU is reaching out to those who need help, or a refresher course, on some important life lessons.”

As people age their bodies change, and as a result they need to adjust their eating habits, Torbert said. She also noted how difficult it can be for older customers to use a cell phone or understand the many cell phone plans.

“I like to do the senior program because it’s fun for me. I just enjoy working with the people. It’s a way to meet someone new and show them that we care,” Torbert said. “Plus, it’s a great chance for seniors to get out of the house and mingle.”

Workshop information: When: May 29 from 10 a.m. - 3 p.m. Where: Fort Valley State University, C.W. Pettigrew Farm and Community Life Center, 1005 State University Drive, Fort Valley, Ga. Cost: Free. How: Participants can register by contacting Kena Torbert, FVSU’s family life specialist, at (478) 825-6573 or torbertk@fvsu.edu.

Growing pains

2008-05-16T18:52:00.000-07:00

Securing on-campus housing at Fort Valley State University may be tricky for returning Wildcats. That’s because a bumper crop of more than 1,000 new students are expected when fall classes begin in August. Due to the anticipated influx of freshmen, residential life administrators are encouraging all current students interested in university housing to prepare for alternative, off-campus living arrangements. Returning students who did not meet the May 2 deadline for housing applications will be placed on a waiting list.

FVSU Vice President of Student Affairs Dr. Terrance Smith says the university is in the process of compiling a list of safe, reputable apartment complexes within the local Fort Valley area and surrounding communities. FVSU’s Housing Director Hosea Lewis will visit each facility on the list, negotiate the best rates for students and develop a directory based on his inspections and discussions with apartment managers. The directory will contain a brief description of the property and its amenities.

Besides expanding its housing inventory, university administrators have assembled a residential life transition team to assess other needs of students, such as transportation. “This is just one of the ongoing challenges associated with FVSU’s rapid growth,” said Smith. “We’re approaching the challenges as opportunities and we’re working to ensure that our students have the accommodations needed,” he said.

For inquiries about university housing, please call (478) 825-6100.

--Christina Milton works in the Office of Marketing and Communications

Golden years

2008-05-15T08:39:00.000-07:00

It's hard to say "farewell" to any member of the Wildcat family. That's especially true of those who have been fixtures on campus for many years. At a retirement banquet last week, we attempted to do just that. The following Fort Valley State University employees were honored and lauded for their service:

Mrs. Barbara Davis, clerical lead, President’s Office
Dr. Yvonne Oliver, associate vice president academic affairs
Mrs. Janice A. Nelson, director of FVSU Foundation
Ms. Lauren Glover, residential life dorm director
Mrs. Gwendolyn Davison, residential life dorm director
Sgt. Richard Bizzell, campus police
Mr. Bonzie Lee Curtis, plant operations
Ms. Alveta Taylor, plant operations
Dr. Nathaniel B. Brown Jr., Head of Agricultural Economics
Rev. Dr. Willie Wright, Research Professional, Agriculture
Ms. Nellie Perry, Head Start, Family Consumer Sciences
Mrs. Mattie Watson, Head Start, Family Consumer Sciences
Ms. Annie Reeves, Residential Life
Mr. Leroy Troupe, Campus Safety
Ms. Shirley Dunn, Office of Title III
Ms. Phyllis Stripling, Mass Communications, Residential Life

Of course, this being Wildcat Country, we know that we'll see most of these folks around campus again - at homecoming, football games, the Black History Month Scholarship Luncheon... After all, you can take the Wildcat off campus, but he's sure to track his way back home.

Of Patriots young and old

2008-05-13T05:57:00.000-07:00

Recently I was asked to participate in the Fort Valley State blog as a contributor. Being the sort who dreams of that “pseudo-career” as a writer who doesn’t necessarily have to eat on a daily basis, I jumped at the chance. So…here I am, Oreta Samples, currently the Lead Veterinary Technician here at FVSU, soon-to-be a doctoral graduate from Nova Southeastern University and now a “blogger.” So here goes good folks, enjoy!

I was invited to sit at the Friends of George Hooks table last Friday at the Governors Awards Luncheon for the Humanities. Hooks was one of the award recipients. The event was held at the Old Railroad Depot in Atlanta on as fine a Southern afternoon as I have ever seen here in the great state of Georgia; the type of day country musicians sing about and the southern belles of the past wrote about in their diaries. After attending a lecture on the merits of barbecue by John Edge, we were all treated to a fine buffet lunch of, (what else) barbecue. There was a fine rendition of our national anthem, sung by Sharon Lane and the expected speeches extolling quite appropriately the accomplishments of the award recipients; but there was something else that brought a tear to every eye in the place.

As we walked in after the guest speaker of the morning to find our tables and check out the exhibits, there was a line of eight or ten youngsters quietly standing against the wall, pressed and starched with a policeman watching over them. Glancing through the program, I discovered that the group was the Chestnut Charter Elementary School of DeKalb County Honor Guard. So why, you might ask, is this, such a big deal that I am writing about it in my first blog appearance? These children are the only elementary school honor guard in DeKalb County; they are hand picked and trained by Sgt. Rick Morgan of the DeKalb County Police Department, and a fine job he has done.

In this day and age, I think regardless of your political affiliation or views it does all of our hearts good to see a group of young people so proudly carrying out the duties of honoring our flag and our country, leading by example as they led a room full of state representatives, senators, seasoned politicians and friends in those precious words “I pledge allegiance… .” In a land where the military is a volunteer force, I couldn’t help but think of the parallel between our soldiers and these littlest volunteer guards. And I have to say it brought more than one tear to this ol' girl's eyes, and I hope to yours. So as you go about your daily lives, take a few moments and really think about the freedom and the privilege which is ours as Americans and then go find a soldier to thank or a child to hug, because within these individuals lies the future of our nation. Until next time, stay safe and May God Bless the USA.

--Oreta Samples is the Lead Veterinary Technician in Fort Valley State University's Veterinary Science department.

Making the most of a summer off

2008-05-12T06:58:00.000-07:00

I remember taking summers off from academia when I was in college. I needed that time to work an insane number of hours at a crazy job to pay for my fall and spring semesters. But let it not be said that I let my brain rot during those weeks away from the classroom; I usually had a list of books I wanted to read. If I had known then about U.C. Berkely's Summer Reading List, I would have saved myself a lot of time and really boring reading. Check the list our here:
http://reading.berkeley.edu/
and happy reading!

--Misty Cline works in the office of Marketing and Communications at Fort Valley State University

Soaking up a little history

2008-05-08T06:13:00.000-07:00

Both the city of Oxford and the University simultaneously feel as comfortable as the company of an old friend and yet as overwhelming as being tasked with memorizing the Atlanta phone book (both yellow and white pages). The sense of comfort derives from the fact that so many books, films, and other bits of pop culture have used Oxford as their setting. Just in the last 15 years, Oxford was used as the setting for such films as The Madness of King George, The Saint, at least three Harry Potter films: Philosopher’s Stone, Chamber of Secrets, and Goblet of Fire before a digitized version of the Oxford setting became cheaper, The Red Violin, Oxford Blues, and The Golden Compass among others.

Readers have also come to know this place thanks to such works as Thomas Hardy’s Jude the Obscure, Evelyn Waugh’s Brideshead Revisited, P.D. James’ The Children of Men, the series of novels begun with His Dark Materials by Phillip Pullman, and Endymion Spring among many others. So, it is hard not to feel very familiar with Oxford. The narrow streets, the awkward sidewalk cobbles, the unfriendly stone faces looking down at you from every angle, the friendly faces of the locals who always seemed to be able to tell who is and is not from Oxford.

At the same time, the volumes of history which seem to flow from every door can seem overwhelming. The city itself was founded in the days of the Saxons as “Oxforda” which, to no great surprise, means "the place where the ox can get across the river." This made the village an important place to be before humans figured out how to build bridges that would consistently carry oxen. So important that, in 912, Oxforda was first written up in the Anglo Saxon Chronicle. However news traveled slowly in those days as the founding of the town probably coincided with the construction of St. Frideswide’s nunnery at some point in the 8th century. St. Frideswide, now the patron saint of both Oxford the town and the University, was a 7th century Anglo-Saxon princess who was to be given in marriage to a Mercian King. Frideswide had established a priory (school) where her betrothed came to court her. When Frideswide refused his advances, the king, Algar, tried to rape her. She ran into the forest and hid. Later, after she returned to the priory, Algar continued his advances until he eventually went blind. Frideswide, for some reason, felt pity for her would-be rapist and prayed for him at a church in Oxford. There Saint Catherine of Alexandria told her to take her staff and strike the ground. Never doubting her sanity for a moment, Frideswide struck the ground with her staff and there on the grounds of what is now the Church of St. Margaret in Oxford a miraculous spring of water sprang from the ground. History holds that she used the water to heal Algar’s blindness. I’m not certain as to the moral of this tale. However, it is merely one example of the history which literally oozes from the ground here.

One of my very first stops was the Eagle and Child, the pub where J.R.R. Tolkein, of Lord of the Rings fame and C.S. Lewis, of Narnia fame, would gather weekly to discuss theology and literature. Of course, I had to hoist a pint of bitters at what was supposed to be the very table where the two would have their infamous disputations. One can also visit Einstein’s chalkboard and the taxidermist’s nightmares at the Oxford Museum of Natural History which served as the models for the talking animals in Lewis Carrol’s Alice in Wonderland tales. In case you are wondering, Carrol thought of himself as the dodo. On the subject of Oxonian literary ties, Kenneth Grahame wrote the children’s classic, The Wind in the Willows, which also features talking animals – must be in the water – while studying at Oxford. He decided to donate the copyright income from the book to the University’s Bodleian Library.

Other famous alumni and former students include 12 saints, an antipope, 47 Nobel prize-winners, a pair of British kings and 12 other assorted monarchs, 24 princes/princesses, 291 members of the British Parliament, 20 American congressmen (including a Speaker of the House), 4 associate justices of the U.S. Supreme Court, and 1 U.S. President.

Some names you might recognize include Aldous Huxley, Oscar Wilde, Percy Bysshe Shelley, John Donne, Stephen Hawking, Richard Dawkins, Tim Berners-Lee (who invented a little thing we call the World Wide Web), Hugh Grant, Kate Beckinsale, Dudley Moore, Michael Palin, Terry Jones, T.E. Lawrence, Adam Smith, John Locke, John Wesley, William Penn, Albert Einstein, Richard Burton, William Tyndale, Jonathan Swift, Thomas Hobbes, Imran Khan, Benazir Bhutto, John Le Carre, Mandfred von Richtofen, Dr. Seuss, T.S. Eliot, Kris Kristofferson, Edmund Halley, Rowan Atkinson, A.A. Milne, Terry Jones, Jethro Tull, Margaret Thatcher, Indira Ghandi, Chelsea Clinton, and Richard Adams of Watership Down fame, to name but a few. I’m certain the Oxford Univeristy Alumni Affairs Office is a bustling place.

Next time, more from Oxford.

--Keith Murphy is the associate dean of the College of Arts and Sciences at Fort Valley State University

From a graduate's perspective

2008-05-06T06:21:00.001-07:00

Saturday, May 3, 2008 was one of the proudest days of my life. It marked the end of a long journey. I finally walked across the stage and shook the hand of Dr. Larry E. Rivers, 8th president of The Fort Valley State University as a graduate, no longer a student.

My family, friends, and classmates made the day all the more worthwhile for me. Being that I am a little older than the average graduate, I wasn’t very excited at first. I contemplated not walking, but I wanted pictures of the special day for my children. But oh, when I arrived!

First, I was stunned by the number of people who were there. They came in droves. Traffic was backed up on State University and on Carver Dive at 8 a.m. Some came to share the moment with a loved one and others came just because it was graduation at FVSU and that’s what they do. Many of us were late for lineup because we couldn’t get through the traffic. I had no idea people would turn out so early for graduation! I had only seen crowds like this at FVSU for homecoming.

My heart burst with joy and pride as I crammed my way into the already packed room designated for graduates. As I gazed upon the students dressed in their regalia I thought, “Wow! Look at all these educated, young black people.” I then realized that I was one of those people! I quickly suited up. Everybody was so happy for each other, we bonded even if commencement was our first time meeting on campus. The two graduates I met appeared to be non-traditional as myself. I was struggling with my white collar and they lent helping hands.

When the door flew open and I heard Pomp and Circumstance echoing throughout the HPE, my heart raced with excitement. It was at that moment that I knew, regardless of what I had been through to get there, I deserved that moment. It’s amazing that I heard the song over the shouting fans. My heart-felt pride was interrupted by a loud “STACIE!” over my head. As I looked up, I saw my husband Robert and his best friend Demarcus acting like pure nuts. They were more excited than me. It was kind of cute. They were really happy for me. Right next to them were my children. I could even hear their little voices calling, “Mommy, mommy!”

I once made the comment that for an HBCU, the campus is dead, but the cheering, waving, dancing spectators brought it back to life Saturday. This is only the second HBCU graduation I attended. It was a rowdy time, but rowdy in the best way. The Valley overflowed with admiration and pride Saturday. As Dr. Rivers cited a well-known Bible verse: “This is the day that the Lord has made,” I rejoiced and was glad in it!

--Stacie Barrett works in the Office of Marketing and Communications

Commencement photos

2008-05-05T08:45:00.001-07:00

The Class of 2008 rises by college to the applause of family and friends Saturday, May 3.

During the course of events, President Larry E. Rivers honored those he called "Trailblazers," individuals who have made an outstanding contribution to Fort Valley State University.

Jeremy N. Lewis, Jonathan W. Williams, Marcie T. Kindle, Quintrina F. Edwards and Sophia C. Mudd were commissioned into the U.S. Army during commencement.

Newly-minted graduates are sworn into the National Alumni Association.

Photos courtesy of Robert Ross.

Tales from Oxford, Part I

2008-05-02T04:30:00.000-07:00

Skyline panoramic view from St. Mary's

Oxford Street

In the late 14th century, Geoffrey Chaucer wrote the following lines about an Oxford philosophy student in the “Clerk’s Prologue and Tale” of the Canterbury Tales:

For him was levere have at his beddes heed
Twenty bookes, clad in blak or reed,
of Aristotle and his philosophie
Than robes riche, or fithele, or gay sautrie.

More than 600 years have passed and now I’ve had the opportunity to retrace the steps of Chaucer’s philosophy student. Thanks, in great measure, to a Presidents’ Research mini-grant from Title III, in March I was granted the life-altering experience of lecturing, researching, and residing for eight days at the oldest university in the English-speaking world: Oxford University. Being invited to Oxford to speak was incredible in-and-of-itself; but that personal highlight was as forgotten as the spring lilies as I stepped off the Oxford Express back into history and directly into the worst Easter snowstorm in the recorded history of the kingdom.

Being too stubborn to wait for a cab, I decided that I could pull my rolling suitcases the “few blocks” from the bus terminal to Exeter College. I quickly learned that the English walk much more than we do and a “few blocks” to them, is a long cab ride to us. I also learned that they are as bad at giving directions as are the people I grew up with. I also learned that wheeled-luggage is not engineered to roll over medieval-style cobblestone side-walks; especially in a heavy downpour of snow. The flakes were now the size of one pound coins (or an American quarter) and falling hard and fast. I stopped at a pub, which was surprisingly open at seven a.m. on a Sunday, and ordered a pint of the local bitters and rested. I also whipped out a map and tried to get my bearings.

According to the map, I had been sent to the wrong college. I was next door to Harris Manchester College and needed to head to Exeter to meet the porter so I could check into my lodgings. Just as FVSU is composed of the undergraduate colleges of Arts and Sciences, Agriculture, and Education, Oxford is composed of 39 colleges and 7 religious “Permanent Private Halls” which function as colleges. Each of the 46 academic units function as complete academic corporations with Oxford University serving as the administrative body which brings them together into a cohesive academic whole. It isn’t as confusing as it sounds as the system works as a cohesive whole while providing a great variety of academic freedom for both students and faculty.

After being fortified by the bitters and steadied by the map, I continued to drag my burden through the streets of the city. Oxford is still very much a medieval town. When a new business such as McDonald’s opens, the franchise doesn’t tear down the historic building; they design their storefront to fit into the historic building. This makes for some interesting architectural choices. It is sad, however, to see American fast-food culture obliterating traditional British restaurants. The numbers of locally owned pubs is declining in Oxford while every major thoroughfare has a McD’s, Burger King, Kentucky Fried Chicken, and Gap. I suppose that this is just the American way of contemporary colonization.

The snow had turned the town into a quiet and beautiful setting that could have easily been the backdrop for a remake of Mr. Scrooge’s timeless tale. Snow capped the comical and grotesque gargoyles which peered down from nearly every building. Pigeons, the size of small chickens, cavorted in the whitened walkways. In time, I worked my burden past newsstands, used book-sellers, and other quaint little shops until I came to the imposing castle-like gates of Exeter College.

The porter quickly relieved me of my cargo and directed me to a spacious dormitory suite that was to be my home for the next eight days. As I unpacked, I looked out the bedroom window and was startled to see a face staring back at me. My new friend was a gargoyle carved to look like a startled priest. Within a few days, his face became a comforting sight each morning as I arose since I know I can appear rather startling to behold before I’ve had my morning cigarette and caffeine.

After a few minutes, the porter came to take me to breakfast. The dining room in which we were to eat was the same one used in the filming of a number of the Harry Potter films. When I was offered the “hot breakfast,” I expected bacon and eggs. Instead, a steaming pile of flesh was brought to my table. Sausages, ham, chops, cutlets, and other meats were stacked on the oversized plate. Next to that was a pair of eggs, over easy, a serving of toast and a cup of tea. When I began on the eggs, someone asked if I would like cereal or pancakes. When I said, “No, thank you. . . .” The waitress seemed genuinely offended. Even though I was famished from the overnight flight and my inability to eat the matter that Delta attempted to foist off on us as food; I could only make a barely visible dent in the mountain of meat. I was afraid I would offend my hosts. Until I saw one of the Oxford faculty return a large portion of their plate uneaten as well. Then I felt less conspicuous.

Breakfast, however, was not indicative of the remainder of the meals I would be served in the United Kingdom. The rest were filling, but bland. Even the Oxford students, the ones who had traveled to the U.S., admitted that Americans make better fish and chips than the British. One student said, “Once you’ve been to Captain D’s, its hard to come back here.”

Next time: More from Oxford.

Dr. B. Keith Murphy is the Associate Dean of the College of Arts and Sciences at Fort Valley State University.

The sounds of summer

2008-05-01T06:12:00.000-07:00

Classes officially ended yesterday, and construction is in full swing on the campus of Fort Valley State University.

Work on Phase III of the Wildcat Commons - adding 300+ beds to the housing complex -is under way, as is construction of the new science lab and classroom building.

May 29 the University will break ground on a new biotechnology center - keeping up with research into alternative fuels is a big priority, as is helping our agricultural community get the most out of their land.

Even as we turn our new graduates loose on the world, we're looking to the next generation - and offering them the best higher education has to offer.

More for the class of 2008 (and beyond)

2008-04-29T07:51:00.000-07:00

From the Black Collegian Online

College Graduates Benefit from Large Retiree Pool
By Phil Gardner

Hot Majors! Hot Jobs!

From the compiled list of majors that employers indicated they were interested in recruiting, approximately 50 percent were seeking business majors (not including marketing and accounting), 36 percent engineering majors, 22 percent computer science, 19 percent marketing, accounting 17 percent, and 28 percent social and humanities majors. From this list we pulled what appear to be the majors most in demand.

Hot Majors

Civil Engineering

Environmental Sciences

Nursing

Accounting

Electrical Engineering

Marketing

Business Administration

Finance

Mechanical Engineering

Computer Science (all)

Agricultural

Business

Mathematics

While mortgage lending firms are not hiring to any great extent, other financial services and insurance companies have plans to increase hiring by 17 percent. The professional services sector that is the home for engineering services, accounting, management consulting, scientific research, marketing research, public relations and advertising firms is expecting to increase hiring by 13 percent. However, some subsectors such as advertising and public relations are bracing for a slowdown if the economy should weaken further.

Government is expected to remain strong for selected agencies. However, federal budget limitations have caused some agencies to retrench from early forecasts for increased hiring. Hospitality opportunities in restaurants and lodging establishments remain strong.

Starting Salaries

Forty-six percent of the employers who reported their starting salaries indicated they do not plan on raising salary levels from last year. Fifty-three percent will raise salary offers by an average of 4.2 percent. This increase is nearly double the amount indicated last year. Twenty-five percent of those reporting salary are preparing to make significant salary increases from 5 to 15 percent. Based on the salary information provided for this study, the average starting salary at the bachelor’s level is estimated to be approximately $43,500. This figure is tilted toward the higher salaries offered in technical fields. The following list provides a sample of starting salaries for selected majors. More detailed salary information can be found at our Web site. (http://www.ceri.msu.edu/).

All Associates

$36,900

Bachelors$43,454

MBA$66,700

Accounting (MS)$54,100

Engineering (MS)

$60,400

Selected Bachelors

Accounting$42,500

Finance$44,900

Marketing$39,100

Advertising$35,700

Computer Science$50,200

Mechanical Engineering $50,900

Electrical Engineering$53,200

Chemical Engineering$53,600

Civil Engineering$48,000

Nursing$43,400

Liberal Arts$34,700

Mathematics$40,700

Chemistry$39,100

Social Sciences$32,300

Employers would like to avoid paying a new hire a bonus; only 10 percent indicated that they would. However, employers may have to reconsider, especially those hiring engineering, accountants, computer science majors. Because the market is competitive for these majors, bonuses are becoming more common. A method that 20 percent of employers are using in an effort to limit turnover is to offer a bonus or performance premium at the completion of the first year of employment.

Do Employers Really Like College Graduates?

Based on stories in the media, it would seem that employers are frustrated by the attitude and lack of commitment displayed by some young adults. So we went in search of what employers like about new college hires. Young adults, we found, bring more positives than negatives to the workplace. Young adults come with plenty of enthusiasm, fresh ideas, technical aptitude, and solid communication skills. These were the top four attributes listed by employers. Also in the mix are team work, willingness to learn, adaptability (can handle change), and analytical thinking.

The Best Way to Land a Job: Internships

The largest expansion in hiring will be from employers using their internship and co-op talent banks. In fact employers are adamant that college students must have an internship or relevant work experience to even be considered for employment. Internships offer a more realistic idea of what being in the adult world is like, as well as how to behave and what will be expected of a new employee. Employers are so focused on these experiences that 50 percent indicated that it is now necessary for candidates to have two internships prior to graduation. The need to have multiple experiences can be traced to two immediate factors: 1) being able to differentiate students quickly when dealing with a large pool of applicants; and 2) a new hire with more workplace skills and exposure will get off to a faster start.

Final Thoughts

This year’s labor market promises to be a good one for college seniors! If seniors started their job searches in the fall or at least began the process by preparing resumes and identifying potential companies, they will be in a better position to land a job. But the early bird may be the winner. The economy has continued to weaken since the fall. This weakness may cause employers to pause and reevaluate whether to hire during the spring. Those who procrastinate may find the labor market closer to graduation to be very different from the market described by employers back in the fall.

Companies of Recruiting Trends 2007-2008 can be ordered from Instructional Media Center at Michigan State University phone: 517.353.9229 or through the web: http://orders.oip.msu.edu/product_p/470.04.htm

Job outlook for new grads

2008-04-28T07:45:00.000-07:00

From the Black Collegian Web site: http://www.black-collegian.com/issues/2ndsem08/job_outlook.htm

College Graduates Benefit from Large Retiree Pool
By Phil Gardner

Despite the cautious and sometimes gloomy economic news released throughout the past several months, particularly in December and early January 2008, the college labor market outlook appears bright. College students have baby boomers (those born between 1945 and 1962) to thank for the growth in opportunities this year. Many large companies are faced with serious concerns as baby boomers prepare to retire and exit their current positions.

Companies are aggressively searching for new talent who can be trained and ready to assume mid-level or higher responsibilities within four or five years (just when those retirements start in earnest).

Dollars, Oil, and Copper
Several forces are conspiring to dampen economic growth. While it is difficult and premature to predict a recession, the weakened housing sector and its impact on financial (credit) institutions have injected uncertainty into the economy. The ripple effect from the sub-prime lending fiasco has now reached firms and individuals initially thought immune from this crisis. Credit rules have tightened making it more difficult for companies to borrow money; to raise necessary capital that could be used to expand operations.

Firms are also facing higher costs for inputs such as metals, chemicals, and energy. As countries such as India and China continue their strong growth patterns, the demand for resources to use as inputs for industry, housing, transportation, and other key sectors has risen sharply worldwide. Higher demand has consequently caused prices to rise. Employers are also feeling the pinch as labor costs have also crept upward, especially for health care and related benefits. Medium-size employers who need to maintain in a competitive position are finding it difficult to expand hiring.

If you have been to the gasoline pumps recently, you know that the price of gas keeps inching up. The energy sector is under stress from increased demand. From all corners of the globe people are using more oil-based products from gasoline, fertilizers to pharmaceuticals. Further complicating oil prices is the weak U.S. dollar. Oil is priced internationally in dollars. As the dollar’s value against other currencies has dropped, oil producers have raised prices to hold revenues the same.

A weak dollar does help us in some ways. Export-oriented manufacturers and service providers are seeing strong growth. Tourism to the U.S. is also growing, as foreigners with strong currencies can find real bargains in the U.S.

Finally, the U.S. consumer may be tapped out. Over 60 percent of the U.S. economy depends on consumers spending money on products and services. Over the past decade, Americans have spent well (aided by rising housing values); in fact, they have spent like no other group in the entire world. The result has seen the U.S. savings rate dip below zero (we spend more than we earn) and credit card debt has grown. Consumers may run out of juice just as the other side of our economy has slowed down.

Job Opportunities
As employers began to firm up plans on their hiring intentions in the fall, 34 percent expected to increase their hiring over last year while 39 percent would decrease their hiring. The remaining employers expected to hire the same number of college graduates as last year. These figures are very similar to other labor studies conducted in the fall by Manpower and Career Builder, for example. These studies described employer intentions as cautious. Federal employment statistics, even though they have been fluctuating unexpectedly during the fall, paint a similar picture.

When the figures are disaggregated by degree level, the figures suggest a much stronger labor market for bachelor’s and MBAs than for other degrees. These figures reveal that employer intentions for college hiring across all degree levels are not increasing as rigorously as last year.

From information provided by 910 firms and organizations (not including school districts), respondents to our survey estimate they will hire approximately 40,000 college graduates. Overall total job opportunities will only expand by 2 percent over last year. However, bachelor’s degree hiring, which accounts for 77 percent of the total hires, is expected to increase by 7 percent.

Size Matters
Large employers, those with more than 4,000 employees, are aggressively pursuing college graduates this year. Large companies are beginning to deal with the implications of the looming exodus of baby boomers from their employee ranks. Some companies face the arduous task of replacing up to 60 percent of their current work force over the next decade. Last year these companies began to ramp up their recruiting efforts. This year companies with more than 4,000 employees plan to increase bachelor’s-degree hiring by 10 percent. Importantly, their focus is on graduates with bachelor’s degrees. Their total hiring across all degrees will only increase by 5 percent.

Companies with 9 to 100 employees that have the capacity for rapid growth are labeled second-stage growth firms. Start-up companies with generally fewer than 10 employees and second-stage companies comprise 78 percent of all firms and establishments (does not include education and government) and are responsible for 36 percent of all employees in the U.S. Companies with fewer than 100 employees comprise 34 percent of the employers responding to our study. This group expects to increase bachelor’s degree hiring by 13 percent and total hiring by 16 percent – almost all of these positions will be new positions and are not earmarked as replacements for retirees.

The news is not as good for companies with 100 to 300 employees, as they expect to decrease bachelor hiring by 13 percent and total hiring by 12 percent. Their comments suggest that the weakness of the economy and rising costs have caused them to take a more conservative approach to the labor market. For companies with 301 to 3900 employees, the news is slightly better as they will increase bachelor hiring by 1 percent. This group was also very cautious, injecting comments that if the economy continued to weaken they may have to pull back their hiring goals for the year.

To be continued...

In the Valley tomorrow

2008-04-25T06:55:00.000-07:00

It's almost here - the second-annual Wheels in the Valley Car, Truck and Motorcycle Show will have motors running rich tomorrow! We're all excited to see Dr. Rivers' classic cars, and to raise a lot of money for both FVSU scholarships and for the Boys and Girls Club of Georgia Heartlands. So come on out, bring the family - there will be plenty of food vendors, make-your-own T-shirts, inflatables and games for the kids, and plenty of car show fun! (Stay tuned for photos next week!)

New appreciation for a small school

2008-04-24T11:09:00.000-07:00

As Fort Valley State University prepares for growth, it is reassuring to see hiring keep up with expected enrollment.

My current attempt to take some rather obscure online courses from a much larger university has led me to a new found appreciation for schools FVSU's size. In fact, as I was transferred for the sixth time in one phone call to yet another department, and then was left completely without satisfaction of my question, I wished (not for the first time) I could just take the courses here.

I'm certain at FVSU my class would not have filled even prior to my early registration appointment. I'm certain someone would have been able to answer my questions. And I'm certain I would have been able to take my problems to the highest level, what with President Rivers' accessibility to FVSU students.

In fact, between Dr. Rivers' MySpace and Facebook pages, his daily meals in the cafeteria, his workouts in the Health and Physical Education Complex, and his appearances at most campus functions, students have ample opportunity to express their concerns directly to "the man." And, I'm pleased to say, they seem to appreciate that accessibility.

Go, FVSU.

--Misty Cline works in the Office of Marketing and Communications

Working hard for the money

2008-04-23T10:02:00.000-07:00

Talk about money with parents these days, and it's hard to find happy news. Everything is getting more expensive, and that annual 3 percent cost-of-living increase just isn't bridging the gap.

With college, it's more than just tuition and fees, room and board, it's the things kids "just have to have" to take with them.

Maybe prices for food and clothing haven't risen much in recent years. But did you take a laptop to college (that would be in addition to a desktop computer)? How about an iPod? Cell phone? Digital camera? 20 pairs of shoes? And that's just the spending before they walk in the door. Once on campus, it's custom room decor, "Pimp My Ride"-worthy car accessories, daily trips to restaurants "because it's cafeteria food, mom" - and the list goes on.

Call it crazy, a lot of parents do. But even though we KNOW we've lost our minds, it's not stopping us. After all, we can't have another kid out there with more perks, more benefits, more advantages than ours. When it comes to buying things for our kids, the definition of "necessity" includes just about anything they want. And if your kid gets a scholarship - especially an unexpected one - well there's money for even more toys.

So what does that teach our kids? Are they learning financial responsibility? Are they learning delayed gratification? Or are they learning to place blame - "If I'd had one of those I would have done better in class!" and to value the dollar above all else? Are they learning to look for the nearest free lunch (I actually heard someone say "I'll go if they'll be serving refreshments") or are they learning to work for something a little better? After all, a meal I cook myself is usually much better than any I get in a restuarant.

--Misty Cline works in the Office of Marketing and Communications

FVSU students participate in Earth Day event

2008-04-22T10:15:00.001-07:00

Valley Behavioral Health Services graduate assistant Chizu Hirata came up with the idea for FVSU’s Earth Day celebration. Hirata, an international student from Japan, is currently earning a second master’s degree in public health.

“I wanted to let students to know about Earth Day, because most students here are not aware of it,” said Hirata. “This is a shared responsibility of everyone around the world to care for the Earth. We want the campus to come together for this cause and to let students know that there is something that we can start doing right now to conserve resources.”

In addition to Hirata, U. Tracy Marshall – coordinator for the Office of Diversity and International Affairs, FVSU Marketing and Communications PR Specialist Shonda Lewis, and FVSU computer science and mathematics major Niraj Yadav helped coordinate the event.

“We only had a short time to initiate the program,” said Marshall. “But we all felt so strongly about saving our resources that we did everything to make this happen. We appreciate support from all faculty, staff and students.”

Get registered now!

2008-04-21T12:34:00.001-07:00

For a full day of cars like this one - register now for the second annual Wheels in the Valley Car, Truck and Motorcycle show!

Go HERE to register: http://www.fvsu.edu/downloads/WitV2008Registration.doc

Beware the Nothing

2008-04-17T06:13:00.000-07:00

I have been meaning to get back to my blog. Really. However, with the trip to Oxford (more on that later) and the incredible amount of work awaiting me on my return both at work and at home I’ve just had nothing left in the tank at the end of the day. Then, today, when I have a few precious minutes to write, I sit down and discover that I’ve been unplugged from the goings-on outside our brick fence for so long that I have nothing to say. Nothing.

Yet, nothing is always more than meets the eye. The television show Seinfeld was about nothing and it became an American icon. So perhaps writing about nothing could be fruitful. I did a little research and came across this:

“20 Things You Didn't Know About... Nothing: There's more there than you think.” (Discover Magazine) by LeeAundra Temescu

1. There is vastly more nothing than something. Roughly 74 percent of the universe is “nothing,” or what physicists call dark energy; 22 percent is dark matter, particles we cannot see. Only 4 percent is baryonic matter, the stuff we call something.

2. And even something is mostly nothing. Atoms overwhelmingly consist of empty space. Matter’s solidity is an illusion caused by the electric fields created by subatomic particles.

3. There is more and more nothing every second. In 1998 astronomers measuring the expansion of the universe determined that dark energy is pushing apart the universe at an ever-accelerating speed. The discovery of nothing—and its ability to influence the fate of the cosmos—is considered the most important astronomical finding of the past decade.

4. But even nothing has a weight. The energy in dark matter is equivalent to a tiny mass; there is about one pound of dark energy in a cube of empty space 250,000 miles on each side.

5. In space, no one can hear you scream: Sound, a mechanical wave, cannot travel through a vacuum. Without matter to vibrate through, there is only silence.

6. So what if Kramer falls in a forest? Luckily, electromagnetic waves, including light and radio waves, need no medium to travel through; letting TV stations broadcast endless reruns of Seinfeld, the show about nothing.

7. Light can travel through a vacuum, but there is nothing to refract it. Alas for extraterrestrial romantics, stars do not twinkle in outer space.

8 Black holes are not holes or voids; they are the exact opposite of nothing, being the densest concentration of mass known in the universe.

9. “Zero” was first seen in cuneiform tablets written around 300 B.C. by Babylonians who used it as a placeholder (to distinguish 36 from 306 or 360, for example). The concept of zero in its mathematical sense was developed in India in the fifth century.

10. Any number divided by zero is . . . nothing, not even zero. The equation is mathematically impossible.

11. It is said that Abdülhamid II, sultan of the Ottoman Empire in the early 1900s, had censors expunge references to H2O from chemistry books because he was sure it stood for “Hamid the Second is nothing.”

12. Medieval art was mostly flat and two-dimensional until the 15th century, when the Florentine architect Filippo Brunelleschi conceived of the vanishing point, the place where parallel lines converge into nothingness. This allowed for the development of perspective in art.

13. Aristotle once wrote, “Nature abhors a vacuum,” and so did he. His complete rejection of vacuums and voids and his subsequent influence on centuries of learning prevented the adoption of the concept of zero in the Western world until around the 13th century, when Italian bankers found it to be extraordinarily useful in financial transactions.

14. Vacuums do not suck things. They create spaces into which the surrounding atmosphere pushes matter.

15. Creatio ex nihilo, the belief that the world was created out of nothing, is one of the most common themes in ancient myths and religions.

16. Current theories suggest that the universe was created out of a state of vacuum energy, that is, nothing.

17. But to a physicist there is no such thing as nothing. Empty space is instead filled with pairs of particles and antiparticles, called virtual particles, that quickly form and then, in accordance with the law of energy conservation, annihilate each other in about 10-25 second.

18. So Aristotle was right all along.

19. These virtual particles popping in and out of existence create energy. In fact, according to quantum mechanics, the energy contained in all the power plants and nuclear weapons in the world doesn’t equal the theoretical energy contained in the empty spaces between these words.

20. In other words, nothing could be the key to the theory of everything

And you thought that this was all going to be a bunch of nothing. Next time: Oxford, England.

--Dr. B. Keith Murphy is the Associate Dean of the College of Arts and Sciences at Fort Valley State University

Students have a blast at Spring Ball

2008-04-16T09:38:00.001-07:00

Fort Valley State University students dressed in their finest Saturday night and gathered in the Woodward Gymnasium for a fun evening at the University's first annual spring ball.

Katherine Chike, Resident Director over the Wildcat Commons, was behind the glamorous event. "It was really just an idea I came up with so that the kids could dress up and have fun," she said. More than 100 students dressed up in gowns and tuxes. "Some kids came dressed up in their church apparel, but most girls still had their prom dresses,” said Chike.

The University's Mass Communications department provided the deejays and the event was catered by Sandra McGee. President and Mrs. Rivers attended, in formal attire.

"We're already planning next year's event," said Chike. "The students work so hard, they deserve a little fun."

Encouraging Freshman Success

2008-04-15T05:48:00.000-07:00

A young person's most difficult adjustment might be the move out of mom's house to their first dorm setting. Compound that life change with the stress to achieve academically without mom watching over their shoulders and it's easy to see why so many college students fail in their first year. At Fort Valley State University, there is a system in place to help freshmen with the tranistion to independent living and independent academic success.

The First Year Experience Center is a collaborative endeavor between the division of Academic Affairs and Student Affairs. Its primary objective is the retention of first-time students at the institution.

Wildcat Welcome Week is the name for the first week of at school for first year students. This week is filled with innovative programs to help new students adjust to their new environment. Spearheaded by a committee consisting of several different departments, this is truly a collaborative experience.

Another focal point of the first-year experience is the post-welcome week extracurricular education of new students. Throughout the academic year FYE strives to provide educational opportunities in non-academic settings. This is achieved by providing guest speakers and lecturers during the course of each semester. As a part of orientation there are also assembly programs that provide enrichment sessions that reinforce orientation information.

Academic assistance and support is a vital component of retaining any student in college. In an effort to emphasize this philosophy, the Academic Success Center is involved in every facet of the first-year experience. Beginning with early orientation, continuing through enrollment, and ending with graduation, the ASC works to ensure students are provided with the proper academic advisement and the academic resources such as free tutorial services that are needed for a smooth matriculation here at Fort Valley State University.

Finally, FYE seeks to provide new students at the institution with positive peer mentoring. Through the combination of several existing student groups including student government, presidential scholars, and student ambassadors; new students are surrounded by positive upperclassmen role models. This experience is also designed to give new students a greater sense of connectedness to the institution.

--Information provided by the Academic Success Center

WFVS wins Station of the Year

2008-04-14T07:33:00.000-07:00

The 29th Annual Black College Radio and Television Annual Awards Banquet, held April 3-6 at Atlanta’s Renaissance Downtown Hotel, ended on an exciting note for WFVS staff members. The Fort Valley State University crowd jumped to their feet when their station was announced as Station of the Year. On stage, BCR host Lo Jelks handed a beautiful plaque to station manager Shirley Ellis, who accepted the award and a $1,000 cash prize on behalf of the staff.

“Amazing,” Ellis said, “This is an amazing feeling. I’m proud to accept this prestigious award on behalf of The Fort Valley State University.”

Every year, Historically Black Colleges and Universities throughout the country compete for the award by submitting a CD highlighting their station’s special features with a brief synopsis of programming to the BCR Awards Committee.

According to Jelks, the panel of professional judges selected WFVS for the top award because of the quality of the station’s presentation and its commitment to community service.

“BCR doesn’t just depend on what the station says it is doing to impact the community,” said Jelks. “We also monitor the stations and get feedback from the people outside of the station to determine the station of the year. WFVS proved to live up to its commitments.”

“You could not imagine the utter excitement and pride we, the campus radio staff members, felt,’” said Ellis. “It was like beautiful music to our ears.”

“I knew that we were the winner when Mr. Jelks called out the letter V,” said WFVS Station Program Director Randy Jackson. “It’s a great feeling to know that all of our hard work paid off.”

In addition to the awards ceremony, the station staff attended a three-day conference, “The Leading Edge of Excellence in Broadcast Education,” – a networking event for college students with professionals in the broadcasting industry. Friday’s keynote speaker was Patricia Russell-McCloud, J.D.

--written bty Christina Milton, office of Marketing and Communications

Ham and Eggs heady fare

2008-04-12T07:28:00.000-07:00

Step 1: Begin with a dash of information about current state legislation relating to Georgia’s agricultural sector. Add a soupçon of exciting news about on-going activities at Fort Valley State University.

Step 2: Simmer gently with a generous gift to the university.

Step 3: Season lightly with musical selections from a nationally known gospel recording artist

Step 4: Garnish with more than a quarter century of traditional Southern style breakfast fixings including country-cured ham, grits, biscuits, hash browns and scrambled eggs.Serves:

About 200 farmers, educators, agribusiness representatives, legislators and rural residents. It was a hearty fare that university administrators and state legislators served up to a crowd of 210 early risers at FVSU’s 26th annual Ham and Egg Breakfast on Tuesday, April 8.

Dr. Mark Latimore Jr., interim dean of FVSU’s College of Agriculture, Home Economics and Allied Programs, opened the 8 a.m. breakfast by inviting participants to mix and mingle during the event in the C.W. Pettigrew Farm and Community Life Center.“Enjoy each other, interact with each other and interact with your legislators,” he said.

Following the first of two musical selections by nationally known gospel recording artist Debra Snipes, FVSU Extension Family Life Specialist Kena Torbert recounted the history of the original ham and egg show held at Fort Valley State College for more than a half-century and the Ham and Egg Breakfast at Fort Valley State University that began 26 years ago. “Ladies and gentlemen, we have put all of this together for your enlightenment, empowerment and entertainment,” Torbert said.

FVSU President Dr. Larry E. Rivers added his own welcome in his remarks, calling the breakfast a tradition that gives rural residents and the FVSU family an opportunity to thank public officials and legislators for their efforts. Rivers went on to cite some of the university’s recent accomplishments and herald some of its planned activities. He began by thanking the legislative trio – state Rep. Lynmore James (D-Montezuma), state Sen. George Hooks (D-Americus) and state Sen. Ross Tolleson (R-Perry) – and Tommy Irvin, commissioner of Georgia’s Department of Agriculture, for their work and support in creating a “safe center” at Fort Valley State. Rivers said the $750,000 facility will shelter animals from across the state during natural and man-made disasters.

As Rivers continued, Irvin asked the president to pardon him as he took a moment to present the FVSU Foundation a $2,000 check. Joking that his annual gift was from his private account and involved no state funds, Irvin, who has served as Georgia’s commissioner of agriculture since 1969, walked to the head table and presented Rivers the check. Thanking Irvin for his long association with FVSU and praising him for his many contributions and strong support, Rivers presented Irvin a commemorative plaque in appreciation. As he presented the plaque, Rivers told the audience that the inscription noted the College of Agriculture’s gratitude and appreciation for Irvin’s continued contributions and commitment to FVSU and its educational programs. Following the presentation, Rivers told his audience that FVSU is now in stage three of its dorm construction program. He went on to briefly note the $20 million state-of-the-art science building scheduled to begin construction later this spring, as well as the new football stadium and student center being planned.

Dr. Daniel K. Wims, FVSU executive vice president and vice president for academic affairs, followed Rivers’ remarks by recognizing and thanking attending legislators, local officials, area business representatives, and state and federal agricultural agency officials for their continued support and participation. After Wims’ introduction, Tolleson opened the legislative reports by telling the audience that two of the session’s activities – a comprehensive state water plan and good agriculture and forestry budgets – were worthy accomplishments. “If we don’t do it, it’s going to affect agriculture,” he said, as he explained the water plan’s importance to Georgia’s agricultural future. “We need to protect, conserve and use our water resources wisely to protect our state’s agricultural sector.”

Tolleson pointed out that the 2008 legislature put together good agriculture and forestry budgets. He told rural residents that legislators “need to stay focused on the two budgets to protect agriculture since they both have a huge impact on rural Georgia.”He closed his report by noting that hard work by Tolleson, James and Hooks resulted in the animal shelter remaining in the state’s budget. “Your entire delegation has worked hard to make certain that the parts of this budget that impact this institution and agriculture are intact,” he said.

Replacing Tolleson at the podium, Hooks told the audience that water was one of the critical issues legislators tackled at the last session. “Hopefully, folks up in Atlanta better understand the problems we face in rural Georgia,” he said. “We have hopefully saved our rural sector’s resources.”

Hooks joined Tolleson in reporting that Middle Georgia’s legislative delegation worked hard to get the emergency animal shelter started at FVSU. He said the completed facility will work hand-in-glove with the university’s veterinary science department and prove a vital resource for the university and the state’s residents. James ended the update session by pointing out that the accomplishments of the area’s legislative delegation are the result of teamwork in the house and senate.

“Fort Valley State University is still strong in the state’s budget,” he said, “thanks to your delegation in Atlanta.” Following their reports, the legislators fielded audience questions that ranged from homebuyer education efforts and alternative energy programs to increased student enrollment at Georgia’s colleges and universities, small farm beef production issues, and biotechnology research.

According to breakfast coordinator James Hill, the 2008 event was an enjoyable and educational experience for all. “As it has for more than a quarter-century, the breakfast brought mid-state residents together to focus on agriculture,” he said. “It’s a grass-roots wellspring where the governed call their representatives to account – to explain and often defend their stewardship of our interests.”

Hill, the SARE 1890 director at FVSU, said reaction to the morning’s events were as diverse as the participants. “Many enjoyed this year’s musical selections by Debra Snipes. Her presence added a new dimension to our annual proceedings and enriched our fare for participants,” he said. “Others renewed their fellowship with FVSU’s administrators, faculty and staff, and kept abreast of legislative issues touching agriculture.”

Fort Valley resident Ollie Russell agreed with Hill’s observation. She said she enjoyed networking at the breakfast. Russell, a retired FVSU extension program assistant in Peach County, called the breakfast an educational opportunity where participants discover the relationship between Georgia’ agriculture and its economy. “It’s also a chance to meet and greet people involved in rural life and all that it means – from the storekeeper to the farmer,” she said. “I really enjoyed meeting old friends and making new ones at this year’s event.”

Contact: B.K. Lilja

FVSU Students Excel at National Scientific Conference

2008-04-10T06:15:00.000-07:00

Four Fort Valley State University students won top awards recently for scientific research presented at the 65th Annual Joint Meeting of the Beta Kappa Chi National Scientific Honor Society and the National Institute of Science. The trip to Irving, Texas was funded by a travel grant from NIS through the National Institutes of Health, the Peach State Louis Stokes Alliance for Minority Participation and the National Science Foundation.

Biology majors Antoinette Johnson and Quintina Stewart won first place in the science education category. Horticulture major Miriam Jimerson secured a second place award and CDEP student Kerri Cooks received third place honors in the earth science category. Biology major Chase Turner won third place in the biology category.

400 faculty members and students from 29 national institutions and Puerto Rico attended the event. During the conference, FVSU students and faculty attended lectures presented by nationally-recognized scientists during workshops on Global Climate Change, Demand for Energy and Nuclear Technology. In other workshops, attendees learned about exploring the universe and earth from space; research training and outreach activities; there were also opportunities for faculty federal panels.

At the meeting, Dr. Clinton Dixon and Dr. Robert Steele served as judges for biology paper presentations. For the second time, Dr. Frederick McLaughlin was elected vice president of the Southeastern Region of BKX and Dr. Dwayne Daniels was chosen – also for the second time – as a Southeastern Regional councilman and editor of the BKX Bulletin.

FVSU faculty members and students in attendance at the meeting:

Robin Wright
Jasmine Paul
Wendy Wilson
Antoinette Johnson
Sherri Hammond
Miriam Jimerson
Jennifer Jones
Sakinah Miller
Lula Brown
Mabya Nyannor
Tiffany Harris
Quintina Stewart
Tyleka Moore
Stephanie Williams
Cayshia Piersaul
Kerri Cooks
Marrisa Tripp
Lakira Harrison
Nicole Bellinger
Monica Sulliven
Tiffany Baskerville
Alexander Little
Raymond Dickey
Charles Martin
Nicholas Harrison
Kashiwa Brawner
Roy Sheppard
Courtney Heritage
Jarrett Proctor
Chase Turner
Marvin Brown
Charles Turner
Oscar Chaney
Melvin Ateuyi

Sip n Chat

2008-04-08T08:09:00.000-07:00

We're fortunate here in the Valley to have a President and First Lady who take an active interest in the well-being of our students. An event set for tonight is just one example.

At 7 p.m. in the C.W. Pettigrew Center, First Lady Betty Rivers will host an evening for Lady Wildcats. She and several campus notables, including Police Chief Brenda Jones and Director of Health Services JoAnn Nobles, will conduct open, honest discussions about health, safety, and emotional well-being.

The Sip-n-Chat is a semi-annual event designed to help the young women on Fort Valley State University's campus prepare for their futures in ways that classes might not. If college is a student's "home away from home," this event is like sitting down with "mom away from home."

What do you want to know?

2008-04-07T06:36:00.000-07:00

As the postmistress for the FVSU blog, I feel like I'm sitting on a fount of information and doling it out in bite-sized pieces. But am I dishing up the most interesting tidbits? What do you really want to know about FVSU? About attending college? About preparing for college? Ask and I'll dig for the answers.

--Posted by Misty Cline, Office of Marketing and Communications

CSI actor on Wildcat Report

2008-04-04T12:18:00.000-07:00

Hill Harper portrays Dr. Sheldon Hawkes, a reclusive coroner who walked away from a promising surgical career on the hit CBS drama series, CSI: NY. The accomplished film, television and stage actor appears on the latest Wildcat Report produced by Fort Valley State University’s marketing and communications department.

Harper talks about his new book, Letters To A Young Brother ( http://www.amazon.com/Letters-Young-Brother-MANifest-Destiny/dp/1592402003). It is a memoir and motivational tool for young men transitioning from “boyhood” to “manhood.”

The show also features part two of the interview with John W. Davison lecture series speaker and feature film producer Gregory Anderson. Jazz impresario B. K. Jackson wraps it up. To view the show, click the link below then hit the play arrow: http://www.fvsu.edu/fvsutv.asp

The first season of the Wildcat Report concludes with this show, the eighth in a series. New programs featuring the country’s most recognized newsmakers begin this fall semester.

Wheels in the Valley

2008-04-02T10:47:00.000-07:00

From last year's show - register today at http://www.fvsu.edu/!

Wheels in the Valley

2008-04-01T07:45:00.000-07:00

It's time to get registered for Fort Valley State University’s 2nd annual “Wheels in the Valley Car, Truck and Motorcycle Show.” The fun-filled family event takes place from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday, April 26 in FVSU’s Wildcat Stadium parking lot. Kids’ games, rides, prizes and entertainment are all a part of the day-long activities.

Vehicle owners from Middle Georgia and the southeast are invited to participate. Registration takes place from 8 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. on the day of the event. The entry fee for pre registered cars, trucks and motorcycles is $20; additional vehicles, $10. The top vehicles will receive awards and specialty trophies. Register online at http://www.fvsu.edu/. Proceeds will benefit the Peach County Boys and Girls Club of the Georgia Heartlands and FVSU’s Challenge Fund for scholarships.

According to event co-chair Wallace Keese, FVSU’s director of Student Support Services, the first event drew car enthusiasts from all over the Southeast. “We had some owners come from Atlanta, and some from as far as Tennessee,” said Keese. “This is another event that connects the university with the surrounding community, and it’s family-oriented.”

Sponsorship and vendor opportunities are now available. The car show is free and open to the public. For more information, call (478) 825-6290.

Choosing a new Miss FVSU

2008-03-28T06:20:00.000-07:00

In a regal event last night on FVSU's campus, the following young ladies were selected as finalists for Miss FVSU 2008-2009: Sherisse Liggins, Shanoria Morgan, Leah Preston and Brittany Campbell

The ladies will campaign over the course of the next two weeks and one will be chosen to represent FVSU in the next school year. All are rising seniors.
In other awards, Miss Leah Preston was selected winner in the following categories:
Business Wear/Oratorical Performance, Talent, Swimwear, Evening Wear and Question & Answer

Other Award winners:
Most Advertising- the contestant whom raised the most funds towards the Royal Court’s expenses- Miss Leah Preston
People’s Choice Award- selected by the audience -Miss Shanoria Morgan
Miss Congeniality- selected by her fellow contestants -Miss Leah Preston
Most Valuable Participant - selected by advisers Anette Johnson and Kina Tolbert - Sherisse Liggens

Get the most out of your campus tours

2008-03-26T06:09:00.000-07:00

It's tour season, and a multitude of young people are spending their spring breaks visiting college campuses. Here are some tips for getting the most out of your visit:

1. Explore on your own - Of course you should take the official campus tour, but be sure to allow time to poke around on your own. Walk the extra mile to visit the areas you'll be spending the most time in. If you know your major, find out which building those classes are taught in. Find out if there is something new coming for that major (like a new lab building) and what scholarship or grant opportunities there are.

2. Read the bulletin boards - When you visit the student center, academic buildings and residence halls, take a few minutes to read the bulletin boards. They provide a quick and easy way to see what’s happening on campus. The ads for lectures, clubs, recitals and plays can give you a good sense of the types of activities going on outside of the classrooms.

3. Eat in the dining hall - You can get a good feel for student life by eating in the dining hall. Try to sit with students if you can, but even if you’re with your parents, you can observe the activity around you. Do the students seem happy? Also, is the food good (keeping in mind it's a cafeteria, not a restaurant)? Are there adequate healthy options? How much is the meal plan and will you use it?

4. Visit a class in your major - If you know what you want to study, a class visit makes a lot of sense. You’ll get to observe other students in your field and see how engaged they are in classroom discussion. Be sure to call in advance to schedule a classroom visit -- most colleges don’t allow visitors to drop in on class unannounced.

5. Schedule a conference with a professor - If you’ve decided on a possible major, arrange a conference with a professor in that field. You can ask about your major’s graduation requirements, undergraduate research opportunities, and class sizes.

6. Talk to lots of students - Are they friendly and open? Do you feel comfortable chatting with someone in the student center or cafeteria? Is there the sense that you can make friends easily on this campus?

7. Sleep over - If it’s at all possible, spend a night at the college. Nothing will give you a better sense of student life than a night in a residence hall. Your student host can provide a wealth of information, and you’re likely to chat with many other students on the hallway. You’ll also get a good sense of the school’s personality.

8. Take pictures and notes - If you’re comparing several schools, be sure to document your visits. The details may seem distinct at the time of the visit, but by the third or fourth tour, schools will start to blur together in your mind. Don’t write down just facts and figures. Try to record your feelings during the visit; you want to end up at a school that feels like home.

9. Talk to the financial aid representative - How many students are on scholarship? What do you need to get a scholarship, loan or grant at that school? Some schools offer full rides for meeting a certain level of academic standard. That might be the school for you, if you qualify!

10. Bring a bookbag and wear comfortable shoes - You'll not only blend in with the students, but you'll have someplace to put all the paperwork, brochures, fliers, handouts and freebies you'll collect along the way.

information from http://collegeapps.about.com/od/choosingacollege/tp/8-Tips-for-a-Campus-Visit.htm

Guide for Parents: Ten Steps to Prepare Your Child for College

2008-03-25T07:43:00.000-07:00

From http://www.acenet.edu

1. Investigate and choose a savings vehicle.There are many options available, including U.S. Savings Bonds, bank accounts, mutual funds, and state savings or prepaid tuition plans.

2. Begin saving as early as possible.Whatever savings vehicle you choose, you will be much better off if you start saving early. For example, if you put aside $50 per month starting when your child is born, at 5 percent interest, you will have saved more than $17,000 when your child is 18. If you start saving the same amount monthly when your child is 8 years old, you will have saved only $7,000 by the time your child is ready for college.

Elementary and Middle School

3. Encourage your child to challenge him or herself academically, develop good study habits, and become involved in school- and community-based extracurricular activities.A positive school experience that is both academically challenging and rich in extracurricular activities is important in itself and as preparation for college.

4. Discuss career and college options with your child and encourage his or her aspirations.Many students assume that higher education is not for them or that the jobs they are interested in don't require college. Today, some form of formal postsecondary education or training is required for almost every well-paying job. With $60 billion in financial aid available, college is possible for almost every American. So encourage your child to aim high, explore all the options, and plan to attend college.

5. Make sure your child starts on a college preparatory track in middle school or junior high.If students don't take the right courses in middle school, they may be shut out of the college preparatory track in high school. The U.S. Department of Education recommends that middle and junior high school students take Algebra I in 8th Grade, Geometry in 9th Grade, and English, Science, and History or Geography every year. Foreign language, computer, and visual or performing art classes are also recommended.

High School

6. Meet with a guidance counselor to map out your child's high school curriculum and familiarize yourself with the college admissions and financial aid processes.If your child has taken the right courses in middle school, he or she should be ready for a college preparatory curriculum in high school.Your high school guidance counselor should also be able to provide you with information on the college admissions and financial aid processes, or point you toward the right reference materials.

7. Help your children research colleges and narrow their options.There are many resources available, both in print and on the Internet, to help you search for colleges by special characteristics or academic offerings and learn about specific colleges (check out the Choosing the Right College Resource Library). After you've done some initial research is the right time to add any special considerations, such as price, distance from home, or religious affiliation, to your child's list of college options.Although it is important to make these decisions before your child has his or her heart set on a specific college, eliminating schools before you have hard information may limit your child's choices unnecessarily. For example—after financial aid is taken into consideration—a private college can cost about the same as a public institution. Without that information, you might overlook a college that would be a good fit for your child simply because of an incorrect understanding of the cost.

8. Make sure your child takes any required college admissions tests and submits all admissions, financial aid, and–if necessary–campus housing paperwork on time.Meeting all the requirements of applying for college is a good lesson in itself, but most students will require some help. Setting up a calendar with all the various tasks and deadlines can be very helpful for both you and your child.

9. Learn all you can about financial aid and assist your child in filling out the application forms.Most financial aid comes in the form of grants and scholarships or low-interest loans. The federal government, states, colleges, and private organizations all sponsor student aid programs. Colleges will provide you with the forms you need to apply for most federal, state, and college aid, and are a great source of information about the various types of aid available.In addition, many books and websites are available to help you search and apply for private scholarships. In most cases, you will have to supply some information about your family's income and assets on financial aid application forms, so be sure to have those records assembled. Visit the Paying for College Resource Library for more information on print and Internet resources that can help you to learn more about this complicated—but vitally important—topic.

10. Devise a budget with your child and determine how much will be covered by financial aid, how much you'll provide, and how much your child will contribute by working and/or borrowing.After you've received your financial aid award statements, it's essential to sit down with your child and make a realistic budget that includes both fixed expenses, such as tuition and books, and variable items such as rent, clothing, and transportation. Once you have completed your budget and subtracted the grant and scholarship aid your child has been awarded, you can determine how much you will contribute and how much your child will have to come up with from savings, earnings, and student loans. Your child could end up working long hours while in college or borrowing more than she really needs unless she puts herself on a budget and makes conscious decisions about how she'll meet her financial obligations.

April 5

2008-03-24T09:03:00.000-07:00

Mark your calendars: We have two great opportunities coming up on the same day.
April 5 will be our Spring Preview Day. Prospective students and their families can come to the campus, meet adminsitrators, talk to students, and find out what it would mean to be a Wildcat. Interested: call the office of recruitment at 478-825-6307.
Also that day, the office of financial aid will unreavel one of the mysteries of getting a college education: how to pay for it! Counselors will be on hand to help with the Free Application for Federal Student Aid - making sure Wildcats maximize their benefits in the 2008-09 school year. There will be games, prizes and all kinds of fun to take the pain out of filling out forms. There are some things students and their parents will need to bring - starting with a federal PIN number. Get yours at http://www.pin.ed.gov/
For more information, call the great folks in financial aid: 478-825-6351

Honors students among us

2008-03-21T08:54:00.000-07:00

We're very proud of all our students. They've made a great choice in pursuing higher education and they represent FVSU well. But today we honor the top achievers in our student body: the students who have made Dean's List and have earned departmental honors.
They are:
Nicole Albertie
Ettioniet L. Anderson
Keierrah P. Beasley
Monika C. Brown
Monique A. Collins
Gregory A. Dixon
Chanta R. Fagin
Gail Gilmore
Sabrina S. Green
Thedoshia L. Guillen
Sherri B. Hammond
Timothy W. Hanson
Jayne S. Howard
Cesunica E. Ivey
Uniqueka U. Jenkins
Baron L. Jones
Margaret P. Keen
Jeremy N. Lewis
Marissa C. Little
Ashlee K. McGhee
Kathryn L. McInvale
Terri O. McInvale
Mabya A. Nyannor
Arithina M. Paschall
Leah D. Preston
Tina L. Richardson
Usha T. Rittenberry
Kimberly D. Rogers
Tangela L. Serls
Deidre L. Taylor
Siarra C. Turner
Quentin D. Vinson
Jasmyn P. Virgo
Tiffany M. Wilson
Wendy R. Wilson

Students Selected for Departmental Honors:
Accounting Jayne S. Howard
Agricultural Economics Stephanie Childs
Agricultural Education Timothy W. Hanson
Agricultural Engineering Baron Jones
Biology Sherri Hammond
Commercial Design Nicole Albertie
Computer Science Carlos A. Vinas
Criminal Justice Usha Rittenberry
Economics Malcolm Toure
Electronic Engineering Wilmer Lara Mateo
English (Literature) Tangela Serls
English (Writing) Tanisha Matthews
General Business Matthew Robichaux
History Ariel Jacobs
Infant and Child Development Gina Richardson
Management Terri O. McInvale
Marketing Tameika Renee Clark
Mass Communications Theodoshia Guillen
Mathematics Cesunica E. Ivey
Music Chey Jones
Political Science Christopher J. Kirk
Psychology Siarra Turner
Social Work Zenobia Hodges
Sociology Chanta Fagin
Veterinary Science Jasmyn Virgo

Preparing your freshman

2008-03-19T05:45:00.000-07:00

It's sometimes shocking that students choose to follow "college prep" or "technical" education paths in middle school. Did you know in middle school what you wanted to do with your life? Did your middle school grades reflect your college performance? While it's never too late to decide to attend college, it's also never too early to start recommending they attend college. In some families, it's automatically assumed the children will attend college - no matter the financial situation. Make the decision to become one of those families. Here's a decent Web site for preparing young people (and their parents):
http://www.dcu.org/streetwise/kids/collegeprep.html

Wildcats on tour

2008-03-17T06:49:00.000-07:00

In addition to the fabulous Concert Choir and band tour last week, Dr. and Mrs. Rivers accompanied the inimitable Wildcat Force on their spring recruitment tour. Twelve outstanding students, accompanied by a jazz trio, introduced FVSU to students at eleven high schools over the course of five days. Here are some photos:

Photos from the Kennedy Center

2008-03-14T13:14:00.001-07:00

Director Alvin Tuck and the FVSU Concert Choir toured the Eastern Seaboard during spring break, making a spectacular stop at the Kennedy Center in Washington D.C.

The audience honored the choir with a standing ovation after their performance on the Millennium stage.

Band Director Kevin Jones and the Concert Band accompanied the choir and turned out an impressive performance of their own.

Notes from the Kennedy Center

2008-03-14T06:34:00.000-07:00

The performance by The Fort Valley State University Concert Choir at the Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts was beyond fantastic.

When I arrived at the Millennium Stage the room was already filled will spellbound listeners. It was obvious that the audience was greatly enjoying the music. In addition to a great performance, the Concert Choir also looked very professional in their formal attire and received a standing ovation at the end.

The next morning, the Capitol Area Chapter of the FVSU Alumni Association sponsored the Concert Choir at Potomac Senior High School in Dumfries, Va., about 20 miles outside of Washington, D.C. The Choir arrived at the school at about 6:30 a.m. to perform at an 8:45 a.m. assembly program. This had to be very challenging for the choir; they had to leave their hotel at about 5 a.m. to avoid the rush-hour traffic.

The Fort Valley State University Concert Choir, dressed in blue and gold shirts, astonished the auditorium of 650 students with their performance. They sang a variety of songs, including spirituals and a song translated from Russian. An all-black concert choir is rarely seen in Northern Virginia, which is predominantly white. The Fort Valley State University Concert Choir was an inspiration to the entire student body and a lesson in cultural diversity for the faculty. Several students have already asked if I can bring them back.

The Capitol Area Chapter of the FVSU National Alumni Association gives thanks to Mr. Alvin Tuck and Mr. Kevin Jones for their professionalism and willingness to showcase the FVSU students. They all represented “The Valley” well. Students are now asking about Fort Valley State!

-Written by Warren Hill, president for the Capitol Area Chapter of the FVSU National Alumni Association

The data aggregator and you

2008-03-13T06:45:00.000-07:00

In last week’s installment, I wrote about how much of a data trail each of us leaves on the Internet and in our daily lives. This week, it’s time to look at why that data trail has become so valuable.

If your personal data were scattered to the four corners of a nearly infinite Internet, then storing your personal data online would pose few problems. In fact, in the years B.G. (Before Google), putting the data clues together would have taken the skills of dozens of Sherlock Holmeses. Now, software technology has found a means to overcome that formerly mind-numbing and time-consuming task of data mining: the data aggregator.

The aggregator allows databases of information to be compiled together and the data to then be parsed in whatever way the customer chooses. For instance, an aggregator allows a marketing firm to take the records of those who have filed bankruptcy and compare it to a state’s licensing database. Why would that be valuable? That data would be priceless for a bank that is looking to push high-interest auto loans because they would know which individuals, who could not otherwise get credit, would soon be in the market for a new car, by the age of their current vehicle.

The more data saved in a database and the longer time span the data covers, the more valuable it becomes. This is one of the reasons Google is sitting on a marketing gold mine:

Because Google saves the results of consumer searches for a long time, perhaps forever, and because it has the search string and Internet address of many searchers, it can do real damage with database matching, which involves taking information from one context, like searching, and equating it to an unrelated venue, like product shopping on an e-commerce site or commenting on a blog. . . . Its g-mail product looks at the content of e-mails so that Google can serve up targeted banner ads. Google Desktop and related products index material stored on home and office computers. . . .Google provides no guarantee, contractual or legal that . . . misuse will never occur. In the meantime, it keeps collecting information. . . .[1]

Businesses are not the only entity to see the value in the aggregation of data. The U.S. government and a number of other national entities are utilizing aggregators in their pursuit of those deemed “dangerous to national security.” In the United States, those aggregators are being called “fusion centers.”

Fusion centers are somewhat controversial and mysterious – the public does not know what goes on inside. . . .they [the intel and security agencies] share current threat information from each of their organizations. Multiple databases from different agencies bring gigabytes of law enforcement and intelligence information into the fusion center....there are now almost 70 fusion centers nationwide. . . .[2]

The scope of data collected by both governmental and corporate aggregators extends well beyond the obvious: demographic, purchasing, and net behavior tracking. “The data collected extends beyond [even] information about consumers’ views of products to information about the consumers themselves, often including lifestyle details and even a full psychological profile.”[3]

This aggregation of data is even extending beyond traditionally sacred barriers of privacy such as that of the physician-patient relationship. Both Google and Microsoft have recently announced that they will collect and aggregate medical, psychiatric, and pharmacy records in order to make them available, by subscription, via the Internet.

Google said it has signed deals with hospitals and companies - including medical tester Quest Diagnostics Inc, health insurer Aetna Inc, Walgreens and Walmart Stores Inc pharmacies. The password-protected Web service stores health records on Google computers, with a medical services directory that lets users import doctors' records, drug history and test results. . . . "We don't know how to suck it out of the brains of doctors, but we know how to suck it out of the computer systems of doctors," [Chief Executive Eric] Schmidt said in an interview after his speech. . . . [4]

Meanwhile, Microsoft has introduced a competing product called “HealthVault.” Both medical aggregation services will allow the data to be utilized by other platforms to search for specialized groups or even individuals within the database. Schmidt was also quoted as saying: “There are a lot of applications you can’t envisage today.” [5] Unfortunately, even those who are advocating a U.S. Government electronic medical records sharing system admit that the privacy of the patients’ records is not their highest priority as they move forward with the initiative.[6] In fact, the medical records which are already online have, according to the Department of Homeland Security, become a target of Chinese and Russian hackers.[7]

Medical aggregators are dwarfed in size and resources by other aggregators, such as the three major American credit bureaus, which spend their time and effort creating data profiles of every person in their sampling group. Many of these, such as Equifax and Experian, operate in the open and regularly deal with the individuals they profile. However, there are many data aggregators who are little-known and prefer to keep it that way. Among them are ChoicePoint, which holds approximately 19 billion records for almost every adult in the U.S., and Acxion whose Profiler program alone gathers data on over 95 percent of American homes.[8] There are a number of other large and specialty aggregators which operate in the public shadows:

Catalina Marketing Corporation maintains supermarket buying history databases on 30 million households. . . . Aristotle, Inc. markets a database of 150 million voters. . . . . Donelly Marketing Information Services of New Jersey keeps track of 125 million people. Wiland Services has constructed a database containing over 1,000 elements, from demographic information to behavioral data on over 215 million people.

There are around five database compilers that have data on almost all households in the United States. . . . Credit reporting agencies also prepare investigative consumer reports, which supplement the credit report with information about an individual’s character and lifestyle. . . . the Global Regulatory Information Database (GRID) gathers information from more than 20,000 sources around the world. GRID’s purpose is to help financial companies conduct background checks of potential customers for fraud, money laundering, terrorism, and other criminal activity.[9]

Aggregation allows companies and governments the opportunities to provide personally targeted marketing. Before computing made such data compilation possible, marketing campaigns anticipated very low responses to their efforts. Direct mail, for instance, would, before aggregation, consider a campaign a success if two percent or more of those who received the flyer in the mail responded.

Compiling the data allows marketers to target specific demographic groups, or groups based on any variable depending upon the level of detail of the collected data. More data equals more precise marketing; even if it means invading one’s privacy to make certain that one is sent a coupon for the proper shade of lipstick. What is even more astonishing about this current situation is that the average user is blissfully unaware of the erosion of their privacy, or they have placed such a low value upon their privacy that they have bartered it away for other digital narratives such as “security” or “a semblance of a relationship.” So, all of the sudden, you may be getting advertising that sees a lot more interesting to you; but, the downside is that this data doppelganger which has been created tells all your secrets and it doesn’t care to whom it spills the beans.

Next week, a look at the illusory and changing face of privacy rights in the U.S.

[1] David Holtzman, Privacy Lost: How Technology is Endangering Your Privacy, (San Francisco: Jossey-Bass, 2006), 12-13.
[2] Ben Bain, “A New Threat, A New Institution: The Fusion Center,” Federal Computer Week, February 18, 2008, 18, 20.
[3] Daniel J. Solove, The Digital Person: Technology and Privacy in the Information Age, (NY: New York University, 2004), 17.
[4] Barbara Liston, “Google Unveils Personal Medical Records Service,” Scientific American, February 28, 2008, http://www.sciam.com/article.cfm?id=google-unveils-personal-m.
[5] Richard Waters, “Google Reveals Plans For Health Databases,” Financial Times, February 28, 2008, http://www.ft.com/cms/s/0/42915cda-e62b-11dc-8398-0000779fd2ac.html?nclick_check=1.
[6] Nancy Ferris, “Persona Non Grata?” Government Health IT, February, 2008, 18 – 19.
[7] Nancy Ferris, “Foreign Hackers Prey on U.S. Health Records,” Government Health IT, February, 2008, 6 – 7.
[8] Holtzman, 190.
[9] Solove, 20-21.

-B. Keith Murphy is the Associate Dean for The College of Arts and Sciences at Fort Valley State University.

Student-Athlete stars

2008-03-12T06:33:00.000-07:00

The Southern Intercollegiate Athletic Conference named its 2008 all conference teams in men’s and women’s basketball in Birmingham, Ala. Fort Valley State had a total of three athletes (two women, one male) to make the units.

Takesha Riggs and KaDeidra Freeland both earned kudos from the league for their play in women’s basketball during the regular season. Riggs, a sophomore from Homestead, Fla., lead the SIAC in scoring (19.3 ppg) and was ranked high in several other statistical categories. Freeland, a freshman from Riverdale, Ga., was selected as the league’s “Freshman of the Year.” Freeland averaged 8.2 points per game, pulled down a team high 6.1 rebounds per outing, and lead the Lady Wildcats in blocked shots with 12.

Martrez Scott was the lone FVSU representative on the 2008 All Conference team. Scott, who was named to the second unit, lead the Wildcats in scoring (14.3 ppg), assists (3.6 pg), and steals (3.2). Scott is a native of Eatonton, Ga.

Internet dependency

2008-03-11T06:51:00.000-07:00

I've posted before about our millennial-generation students who take notes on their laptops during class. Pencil and paper are apparently "so 1980s." Even the public library system here has their catalogue online, instead of in those little pull-out boxes of cards I remember never learning how to use.
Well, what happens when your Internet is taken away? For most of the day yesterday, we were without Net. No e-mail. No shared files. No fact-checking by Web. I have this mental image of us wandering a desert with no water.
While we managed to fill our time productively - taking care of projects that require old-fashioned hands-on work - I was sincerely hoping as I drove to campus this morning that our technology lifeline had been restored. The IT department gets chocolate chip cookies; we're back up.
I've had several wake-up calls about technology in the last two weeks - more than half the students in a seventh-grade class I visited last week have their own MySpace or Facebook pages. I went to pick up my kindergartner from school and he was the only child in the after-school program not tapping away at a computer when I got there.
Just how dependent on technology are we? And at what point do we say "No, I'd rather have a pencil and piece of paper, please."

-Misty Cline works in the Office of Marketing and Communications at Fort Valley State University.