Board Approves Establishment of Nursing Program at East Mississippi Community College; Receives Annual Report on Institutional Accreditation
During its regular monthly meeting yesterday at the University of Southern Mississippi, the Mississippi Board of Trustees of State Institutions of Higher Learning (IHL) approved the declaration of intent/need to establish a program of professional nursing for East Mississippi Community College. The received recommendation of approval allows East Mississippi Community College to establish the nursing program, which may include the development of curriculum, hiring of a program director and faculty, and the acceptance of students for admission. The Board also received the annual report on institutional accreditation, with summarizes institutional accreditation visits and status changes from July 1, 2007 through June 30, 2008, as well as an annual report on tenure and post tenure review. The next meeting of the Board of Trustees is Wednesday and Thursday, November 19 and 20, at the IHL Board Office.
| Universities Encouraged to Tune-In to the "Knowledge to Get to College Day"!
Mississippi Governor Haley Barbour has declared Friday, October 24, 2008, "Knowledge to Get to College Day," and IHL is celebrating with a Pep Rally! The day's activities include a "Knowledge to Get to College" Pep Rally, held to kick-off Mississippi's premiere college access website, www.MISSISSIPPI.edu; and a Tailgate Party, or lunch reception, to honor the civic, business, and education communities that have supported the development of www.MISSISSIPPI.edu. Hosted by Mississippi's public universities, community and junior colleges, private and independent colleges, and the Northwest Rankin High School Cougars, the "Knowledge to Get to College" Pep Rally will feature typical pep rally events, such as performances by high school and college cheerleaders, bands, and dance teams, as well as comments from Mississippi's education and legislative leadership, and the reading of the Gubernatorial proclamation of October 24 as "Knowledge To Get To College Day." The Pep Rally will take place in the Northwest Rankin High School Gymnasium, 5805 Highway 25, Brandon, MS, 39047. The Tailgate Party will take place in the Northwest Rankin High School Performing Arts Building. If you'd like to attend, email rsvp@mississippi.edu. Middle and high school students statewide will also celebrate the day with college preparation and planning activities. Students are encouraged to visit www.MISSISSIPPI.edu to explore their interests and career options, learn about Mississippi's 35 postsecondary institutions, apply to schools, and find financial aid and scholarships. Students are also encouraged to watch the "Knowledge to Get to College" Pep Rally live online at http://tv.mpbonline.org/ihlrally. Students, faculty, and staff at Mississippi's public universities are encouraged to watch as well! For more information, contact Jennifer Rogers at jrogers@mississippi.edu. | Board Names Dr. Donna Oliver Preferred Candidate for President of Mississippi Valley State University
Earlier this week, the IHL Board announced that Dr. Donna Oliver, Provost and Vice President for Academic Affairs at Edward Waters College in Jacksonville, Florida, is the preferred candidate for the position of President at Mississippi Valley State University (MVSU). "The Board and the Mississippi Valley Search Advisory Committee have worked diligently to identify the best person to take Mississippi Valley to the next level of excellence," said MVSU Board Search Committee Chair Trustee Bettye Henderson Neely. Dr. Donna Oliver currently serves as Provost and Vice President for Academic Affairs at Edward Waters College in Jacksonville, Florida. She has a distinguished career as a K-12 public school biology and chemistry teacher, a college professor, and a K-16 administrator that spans 30 years. Dr. Oliver began her college studies at Elon College, where she completed her undergraduate degree in biology and education. After teaching five years at the high school level, she earned a master's of education degree in biology and curriculum and instruction, followed by a Ph.D. in curriculum and teaching from the University of North Carolina at Greensboro. A full biography and photo of Dr. Oliver can be found here. On Tuesday, October 21, Dr. Oliver will participate in open, day-long interviews on the Mississippi Valley State University campus with various university and community constituency groups (schedule forthcoming). Individuals attending the open interviews will be given the opportunity to provide feedback to the Board of Trustees regarding their impressions of Dr. Oliver. At the end of the day, the Board will announce either that Dr. Oliver will be the next president of Mississippi Valley State University, or that the search will continue. For more information on the MVSU search, click here. | Board Members and Legislators Hold Second Higher Education Funding Subcommittee Meeting
This past Tuesday, members of the IHL Board, together with members of the Mississippi legislature, held the second meeting of the select subcommittee formed to create a five- to ten-year plan to adequately fund and maintain Mississippi's public university System. The subcommittee was created by Speaker William J. McCoy, Chairman of the Joint Legislative Budget Committee, with approval of Lt. Governor Phil Bryant. During the meeting, the IHL Board presented information regarding financing higher education, including funding, revenue, and budgets. Click here to view the presentation. The next meeting will be scheduled shortly. For more information, contact Assistant Commissioner of Governmental Relations Dr. Jim Borsig. | |  Items included in the "University News" section of the System Review are submitted each week by the universities. The news items are listed in rotating alphabetical order by university.MISSISSIPPI STATE UNIVERSITY DIVISION OF AGRICULTURE, FORESTRY AND VETERINARY MEDICINE NEWS
 MSU Scientists Help Discover Bacteria Aiding Southern Pine Beetles
Researchers may have found the secret to controlling a tiny insect that robs Mississippi landowners of an estimated 12 million cubic feet of pine forest each year. Though only an eighth of an inch long, the Southern pine beetle is a big pest and difficult to contain. Scientists at Mississippi State University's Forest and Wildlife Research Center, along with colleagues at the University of Wisconsin-Madison, Harvard and the U.S. Department of Agriculture's Forest Service, have made a breakthrough with the discovery of an antibiotic-producing bacterium. Beetles use the bacterium to protect their food against other microbes. Published in the refereed journal Science, the research found that adult female Southern pine beetles carry a previously unknown bacterium. The bacterium produces a unique antibiotic that is highly effective against a fungus that can attack the beetles' food source. "The beetles have established an association with a beneficial fungus," said Cetin Yuceer, forestry assistant professor and co-investigator in the finding. "Beetles bore holes through the outer bark of Southern pines to create galleries within the inner bark and phloem. During this process, the females inoculate the galleries with this beneficial fungus, which is carried in a specialized beetle storage compartment." Learn more. Mississippi State University Outreach Takes Many Paths MSU Extension Leads in Healthy Marriage Initiative International Award Recognizes MSU Entomology Graduates ABC-TV Veterinarian to Appear at MSU's Human-Animal Bond Week MISSISSIPPI UNIVERSITY FOR WOMEN NEWS
MUW to Host Women's Health Awareness Week
Mississippi University for Women's Master of Science in Health Education program within the Department of Health and Kinesiology and Baptist Memorial Hospital-Golden Triangle are sponsoring two luncheons during their promotion of Women's Health Awareness Week, Oct. 20-24. According to Dr. Joyce Yates, professor of health and kinesiology at MUW and coordinator of graduate studies in health education, supportive community sponsors make the week's events successful. "We appreciate the support every year for our Women's Health Awareness Week from Baptist Memorial Hospital Golden Triangle. Baptist always provides us with expert physicians to make presentations during this week on women's health issues. These presentations allow a question and answer period for women outside of the clinic setting," said Yates. Learn more. Sodexo Facilities Division at MUW Celebrates 118,000 Safe Labor Hours MISSISSIPPI VALLEY STATE UNIVERSITY NEWS ONLINE
 Mississippi Valley State University Online
www.mvsu.edu
UNIVERSITY OF MISSISSIPPI NEWS
City, UM Agree to Move Site of New Innovation Center
The city of Oxford has approved a request by the University of Mississippi to move the site of its new Innovation Center. University officials appeared before the Board of Aldermen Oct. 7 seeking permission to change the location from the old Wal-Mart building on West Jackson Avenue to an area near the present site of the UM Medicinal Plant Gardens. Approximately $1 million in HUD funds was originally awarded to the city for remodeling the old Wal-Mart building to become the center. "We want to use these funds to move some of the small garden plots and support buildings, allowing room to construct the first two Research Park buildings, one of which will contain the Innovation Center," said Robin Buchannon, assistant vice chancellor of research and sponsored programs. "HUD has indicated their approval of the change, pending approval by the city." The board approved the request after a brief discussion. University officials expect the relocation work to begin soon. IC tenants will be companies that seek to develop and market their products and which have a research relationship with the university. Other locations were considered and discussions were held with directors of similar university research parks that have incubators, said Syd Spain, executive director of the UM Research Park. The new location offers additional benefits to IC tenants, such as more access to existing research activities and visibility to people traveling Mississippi 6 through Oxford, Spain said. Learn more. Study USA Offers Domestic Travel Options to All Students Safety Training Specialist is First Black Woman to Win APPA Rex Dillow Award Kenneth Sufka Elected New Chair of Faculty Senate Pharmacy Graduate to Return as Chair of Pharmacy Administration UNIVERSITY OF MISSISSIPPI MEDICAL CENTER NEWS
Support Group Helps HF Patients Lead New Life
When Sallie Schott's cardiologist told her she had idiopathic cardiomyopathy - congestive heart failure - 10 years ago, she wasn't exactly sure what the diagnosis meant. She had been very ill for about a month, and it would be more than a year before she would feel well enough to even drive a car. She decided to read everything she could about her condition, and she wondered if any other heart failure patients had successfully fought through the physical weakness and concern she had experienced since her diagnosis. Schott realized that a support group for heart failure patients would be an invaluable resource for information and counseling as she learned to cope with her chronic illness. So when the Division of Cardiovascular Services at the University of Mississippi Medical Center invited her to a focus group for heart failure patients, she was motivated to lead by example. Learn more. New PA Chief Seeks to Raise Understanding, Support of UMMC UNIVERSITY OF SOUTHERN MISSISSIPPI NEWS
Southern Miss Welcomes Record Number of Presidential Scholars for 2008-09
The University of Southern Mississippi welcomed 57 Presidential Scholars to campus this fall for the 2008-09 academic, a record number that school officials say is marked not just by quantity, but also quality. The incoming group has an average ACT of 31 and nine are national merit finalists, said Southern Miss Honors College Dean Dr. David Davies, who credited the work of his colleagues and the university's Office of Admissions. With this year's milestone, the Honors College enrollment stands at 500, double its size from five years ago. "The entire Southern Miss campus is enriched with the arrival of this year's Presidential Scholars, our largest number ever," Davies said. "I believe they're here because we successfully communicated to them the exceptional quality of our academic programs, both within the College and all across campus. A limited number of students recognized as National Merit Semifinalists and Finalists qualify for a Presidential Scholarship, which is designed to cover the cost of attendance for four years, including tuition, out-of-state fees (if applicable), room, board and a book stipend for four years. Learn more. Southern Miss Hopes to Spur Ideas, Commercialization at The Garden Payne Promises to Keep Southern Miss Alumni Association Moving Forward Marine Science Experts Gather for Eighth T.W. Bennett Symposium Health Care Marketing Industry Day to Offer Employment Opportunities UNIVERSITY OF MISSISSIPPI GULF COAST CAMPUS NEWS
Technology Learning Center Provides Specialized Golf Cart to Gulfport
The Bayou Vista Golf Course now has the SoloRider golf cart for people with special needs who want to play golf, thanks to a collaborative effort between the Technology Learning Center at The University of Southern Mississippi and the city of Gulfport's Department of Leisure Services. The Southern Miss center and the city have developed this partnership as a way to bring programs, special events and specialized equipment to individuals with disabilities. "When partnerships form, like the one between the Technology Learning Center at Southern Miss and the city of Gulfport Leisure Services, the citizens are the ones who benefit the most," said Gulfport Mayor Brent Warr. "With the SoloRider golf cart, elderly citizens and persons with disabilities will now have the opportunity to learn how to play golf or continue a sport they have always enjoyed." The SoloRider golf cart allows golfers to drive on the greens, use the 350-degree swivel seat and adjust the elevated seat position. The cart was designed to benefit a variety of golfers who may have spinal cord injuries, chronic fatigue, heart problems, arthritis or pulmonary disorders. Learn more. Southern Miss Professors to Perform Piano, Violin Concert at Gulf Park Campus ALCORN STATE UNIVERSITY NEWS ONLINE
Alcorn State University News Online
www.alcorn.edu
DELTA STATE UNIVERSITY NEWS
Delta States Elliott-Nowell-White Science Symposium Recognizes Excellence
The 17th Annual Elliott-Nowell-White Science Symposium was held at Delta State University on the afternoon of Oct. 9, and the morning of Oct. 10. The Annual Elliott Program of Excellence Recognition Luncheon was held following the Friday morning program of guest speakers. The Recognition Luncheon allows Dr. Robert Elliott and Dr. Mary C. Elliott, founders of the Elliott-Nowell-White Science Symposium, an opportunity to recognize and present awards for achievement to individuals and groups. Learn more. Delta State University Honors Dr. Nino Bologna Delta State College of Business Holds Panel Discussion on Economic Woes Statesmen golfers finish 10th at Territory Classic JACKSON STATE UNIVERSITY NEWS
Mason to be honored with Thurgood Marshall College Fund's 2008 Education Leadership Award
Jackson State University's President Ronald Mason Jr. will be honored with the 2008 Education Leadership Award during the Thurgood Marshall College Fund's 21st Anniversary Awards Dinner on Oct. 27. Mason, chief executive officer of the only university located in Mississippi's capital since 2000, holds a bachelor's and juris doctorate from Columbia University. He has led JSU through an impressive academic restructuring and campus revitalization that has expanded into the surrounding community of West Jackson.. Most recently, Jackson State University announced plans to create a mixed-use development center adjacent to the campus. The Educational Leadership Award is the highest individual award presented annually to a sitting president or educational leader of a public HBCU, who has demonstrated outstanding business, academic and visionary leadership through effective management of his or her institution. Nominees are submitted by philanthropic, board, government, alumni, students and educational leaders nationally. "Dr. Ronald Mason, Jr. has a decorated career in Higher Education and Community Development that directly supports one of our nation's gems and member university, Jackson State University and its 9,000 students," said Dwayne Ashley, President and CEO, Thurgood Marshall College Fund. Learn more. JSU's Walter Payton Center to award two lifetime memberships during annual Sweetness 5K Run/Walk Former U.S. Secretary of Education Rod Paige to speak during JSU's 131st Founders' Day Banquet MISSISSIPPI STATE UNIVERSITY NEWS
Major Gift Honors Former MSU Business Dean
Recently, an anonymous Mississippi State University alumnus again recognized a former dean's leadership at MSU with a gift of more than $2 million to support faculty programs and student scholarships in the College of Business, one of the South's oldest academic programs in the field. Honoring the 45-year career of Tupelo resident William C. Flewellen Jr., the $2.2 million deferred gift will be used to establish an endowed chair in marketing. It also contributes significantly to a previously established endowed scholarship fund that bears Flewellen's name. Learn more. MSU Names Ballroom for Former Union Director 'Dream' Chamber Group to Launch MSU's Lyceum Series 'Sugar Bean' Sisters Opens MSU Theatre's 2008-09 Season MSU Groundbreaking Marks New $8 Million Facility 
Oct. 17 - One of the longest-running Broadway hits of the 1990s opens this season's Ford Series at the University of Mississippi. "Smokey Joe's Cafe," a revue of songs by Jerry Leiber and Mike Stoller, is scheduled at 8 p.m. in the Ford Center. Tickets are $30-$40, available by calling (662) 915-7411. Learn more. Oct. 17-18 - The 30th Annual Fall Flower and Garden Fest at MSU's Truck Crops Branch Experiment Station will feature the best flowers and vegetables for autumn gardens in Mississippi. Contact Rick Snyder at (601) 892-3731 or ricks@ext.msstate.edu. Learn more. Oct. 18 - MSU's Riley Center presents "An Evening with Shawn Colvin," Grammy Award-winning artist. 8 p.m. Tickets are $41 and $35. Learn more. Oct. 18 - MSU's Indian Students Association present Deepotsav '08, featuring Indian culture, dances and cuisine. Lee Hall, 5:30 p.m. For more information, call (662) 312-9417. Learn more. Oct.18-19 - MSU Sky Dawgs/Rocket Club presents its annual air show, Bryan Field in Starkville, beginning at 9 a.m. Saturday. Proceeds benefit the club. For more information, call (662) 401-6280. Learn more. Oct. 19 - The UM Department of Music presents the voice recital "Made in America" at 3 p.m. in Nutt Auditorium. The free program features selections by American composers Leslie Adams, Seymour Barab, Jeff Blumenkrantz, William Bolcom, Jack Gallagher and Nancy Van de Vate, performed by soprano Nancy Balach. Learn more. Oct. 20-24 - MSU's Wood Magic Science Fair is an exciting and innovative program for elementary school students. It highlights the tremendous importance of wood and wood products to individuals and to the world's economy. Contact LaDonna Bullman at lbullman@cfr.msstate.edu or (662) 325-2116. Learn more. Oct. 20-25 - Jackson State University Will Celebrate Its 2008 Homecoming Festivities From Oct. 20 Through 25. Learn more. Oct. 21 - The Southern Miss Office of Sustainability will host author John de Graaf who will present "Haste Makes Waste: The Connection Between Time Pressure and Sustainability" at noon in the Thad Cochran Center Ballroom. The lecture is free. For more information, call (601) 266-5687. Learn more. Oct. 23 - Delta State University will present "The Legend of Sleepy Hollow" a School-Time Matinee, in the Bologna Performing Arts Center Thursday, Oct 23 2008, at 9.30 a.m. & 11.30 a.m. For ticket information, please call the Box Office at (662) 846-4626. Learn more. Oct. 23 - Daniel O'Sullivan, the 2008 Humanities Teacher of the Year at UM, discusses medieval academic studies in a 6:30 p.m. lecture in Barnard Observatory. The talk and O'Sullivan's award are part of the annual celebration of Arts and Humanities Month by the Mississippi Humanities Council. Learn more. Oct. 23 - Professors from the School of Music at The University of Southern Mississippi will perform the "Young Romantics" concert at 7 p.m. Thursday, Oct. 23, in the Advanced Education Center auditorium on the Gulf Park campus in Long Beach. The concert is free and open to the public. Learn more. Oct. 24, 26 - Southern Miss will present La Langue d'Anna (Anna's Voice) by Vernard Noel, featuring French Actress Andree Benchetrit in a one-woman show, 7:30 p.m., Gilbert F. Hartwig Theatre. For Tickets, call 601-266-5418. Learn more. Oct. 25 - MSU's College of Agriculture and Life Sciences honors alumni at the Homecoming Breakfast at the Bost Conference Center. Breakfast will be served at 7:45 a.m., followed by special recognitions beginning at 8:00 a.m. Contact Gayle McClure at gmcclure@cals.msstate.edu or (662) 325-8636. Learn more. Oct. 27 - The U.S. Air Force Concert Band and Singing Sergeants will be in concert at 7 p.m. in the Bennett Auditorium at Southern Miss in Hattiesburg. The 7 p.m. concert is free. Learn more. Oct. 28 - Jackson State University and NASA will offer the workshop, "Our Solar Neighborhood," for Mississippi and Louisiana educators from 8:30 a.m.-2:30 p.m. Oct. 28 on the University's main campus. To make reservations, call the JSU/NASA Educator Resource Center on Monday through Friday at 601-979-2662. Learn more. Nov. 12 - Jackson State University will sponsor the documentary, "This Little Light of Mine," at 7 p.m. Nov. 12 in the F.D. Hall Music Center. This documentary tells the stories of opera singers Marian Anderson and Leontyne Price. Admission is free for JSU students with an ID and $5 for the general public. Learn more. |
