U N I V E R S I T Y
O F
S O U T H
A L A B A M A
SPRING 2009
Taking the
L
ea
d
President
“ L e a d e rs h i p t h ro u g h c h a ri t a bl e g i v i n g
at the University of South Alabama”
Letter from the
Dear Friends,
As our nation and the world
work to address the challenges
of economic uncertainty, two
important truths become even
more evident to me. First, it has
never been more crucial for
institutions like the University of
South Alabama to provide highquality, affordable education to
those who will lead our country to
a brighter future. Second, private
support has never been more
necessary in helping us achieve the
margin of excellence we desire for
our students and those who benefit
from our research, outreach, and
health care programs.
We appreciate your ongoing
investment in the University of
South Alabama. As a result of the
outstanding programs, faculty
support, facilities, and scholarships
that your support makes possible,
students continue to choose USA in
INSIDE
this
ISSUE
record numbers. Likewise, our
research and health care programs
continue to touch increasing
numbers of lives, especially in light
of this year’s grand opening of the
Mitchell Cancer Institute facility.
Thanks in part to private giving,
our physical campus continues to
improve to meet the needs of a
vibrant university. The Bell Tower
and Alumni Plaza, currently under
construction, will soon serve as an
important campus gathering place
and landmark. The new Health
Sciences Building will provide stateof-the-art facilities for the colleges
of Nursing and Allied Health
Professions. Construction is under
way on the Student Recreation
Center and the Football Field
House. Plans are being finalized
for the Engineering and Computer
Sciences Building, and a Student
Dining Facility will soon begin
construction. Despite external
Campaign Celebration ....................................2
Geri and Gordon Moulton Research Fund
is Created ..........................................................4
An Endowment to Honor Mark Twain .......5
Mr. Abe's Goody Book....................................6
Life Insurance Matching Gifts........................7
A New Trustee and A New Endowment ...9
Upcoming Events ...........................................11
challenges, USA continues to be a
university that is on the move.
With a final campaign total of
$93,499,402, we honor you for the
time, resources and energy you have
invested in supporting USA. You
enhance our University and position
it for a bright future. We thank you
and ask for your continued support
as we continue to build a great
university.
Sincerely,
V. Gordon Moulton, President
DEVELOPMENT AND
ALUMNI RELATIONS
Taking the Lead
Page 2
A Message from the Campaign Director
Dr. Joseph F. Busta, Jr.
Vice President for Development and Alumni Relations
Just a few short weeks ago Campaign USA: Leadership came to a close with
fantastic success and an exciting celebration. The Development and Alumni Relations
staff, along with our group of fundraising volunteers, worked feverishly over the last
few months to capture every gift possible to count toward our campaign. While we
did exceed our goal of $75 million in fall 2008, the momentum continued, and we
closed USA’s first-ever comprehensive campaign with an unprecedented total of
$93,499,402. Even during this trying economy, you – our friends, alumni and
supporters – have held us steady as we faced our own economic challenges in the
form of state budget cuts. We can’t thank you enough for your ongoing support.
While we are preparing a complete report on the success of Campaign USA in
each area of the University, we have included in this newsletter, some overall facts
and figures along with a few pictures of how we celebrated the momentous occasion.
Campaign USA: Leadership
a Success!
$93,499,402
The University of South Alabama recently
concluded the institution’s first comprehensive fundraising campaign by announcing that the five-year
effort generated more than $93.5 million, far
exceeding its goal of $75 million.
Funds raised through “Campaign USA” will
support the University’s teaching, research, healthcare,
and service missions, providing resources for
undergraduate and graduate scholarships, faculty
chairs and professorships, classroom and laboratory
equipment, healthcare enhancements, and facilities
and capital improvements through the institution.
“The University of South Alabama appreciates every
gift and effort made to support this historic first
comprehensive campaign, especially the committed
involvement of the Campaign USA Leadership Team,”
said USA President Gordon Moulton.
Led by USA alumnus and local attorney, James A.
“Jim” Yance, Campaign USA was supported by a
Leadership Team of volunteers from across the nation.
“Of the University of South Alabama’s many
contributions to society, none has been more
important and profound than improving the lives of
our individual citizens,” said Yance, who also serves as
vice chair of the USA Board of Trustees. “Campaign
USA is a major investment toward enhancing USA’s
leadership, and it’s already paying substantial dividends
that will lead to the betterment of our community.
Our Leadership Team worked tirelessly on behalf of
the students, faculty and staff of our University, and,
together with more than 22,000 donors, they have
made Campaign USA a success.”
Taking the Lead
Page 3
Major results of Campaign USA
include funds for:
• construction and endowment of the Mitchell Cancer Institute;
• addition of the Joseph and Rebecca Mitchell Learning Resource
Center and classroom renovations to the Mitchell College of
Business;
• construction of the Bell Tower and Alumni Plaza;
• major support for USA Children’s and Women’s Hospital and
the USA Children’s Park; and
• creation of a major endowment fund for scholarships throughout
the University.
Major categories of giving include:
• $22 million to USA’s endowment, representing 220 new
endowments. This includes several multi-million dollar research
funds at the Mitchell Cancer Institute, support for Meisler Hall,
Christee Miree National Alumni Association Outstanding
Employee Service Awards and faculty chairs to attract and retain
outstanding faculty.
• $20 million in program support, including unique academic
programs such as the Melton Center
for Entrepreneurship, Coastal
Weather Research Center,
Stokes Center for Creative Writing,
and the Greek Studies Program;
vital healthcare programs, such as the
USA Burn Center at the USA
Medical Center and USS Hope
children’s oncology treatment center at
USA Children’s and Women’s
Hospital; and campus quality-of-life
Gifts from donors
program improvements, including
in all 50 states
funds for the football and marching
band programs.
and 10 countries
• $12 million for capital projects,
including the Mitchell Cancer
Institute, the Bell Tower and Alumni Plaza, the Veterans Memorial Plaza,
the Alfred and Lucile Delchamps Archaeology Building, renovation of classrooms
and offices in the Mitchell College of Business, and 15 new works of sculpture at
USA Children’s Park.
• $5.4 million in unrestricted funds to allow USA the ability to capitalize on
rapidly developing opportunities and meet unexpected challenges.
Over $12 million
contributed to
support capital
projects
22,032 donors
43,976 gifts
More than 200
New Endowments
Created
Taking the Lead
Page 4
STIMPSON BROTHERS LEADERSHIP SCHOLARSHIP
Pictured: Benjamin “Ben”, William “Billy”, and Gordon “Dut” Stimpson
A group of donors has raised money to honor William H. “Billy”
Stimpson and his late brothers, Benjamin “Ben” and Gordon “Dut,”
through the creation of the Stimpson Brothers Leadership
Scholarship in Business at the USA Mitchell College of Business.
To date, more than 50 donors have raised more than $150,000
toward the endowed scholarship, which honors the brothers who
owned Gulf Lumber Company. Many of these donors have a long
standing relationship with the family through hunting clubs.
The effort was spearheaded by Earle Long III, a longtime friend of
the Stimpson family. Long, a local businessman, said he grew up in
the hunting club started in the 1920s by the Stimpsons’ father, Fred
Stimpson, and Fred Stimpson’s business partner, Jim Radcliff. “It was
like having a second family,” Long said. “We just had wonderful
times, full of adventure, a little mischief, lots of laughter and fun, and
certainly some of the very best hunting and fishing in the South. This
wonderful and close camaraderie created some of the best memories
any of us will ever have, and right in the middle of these treasured
memories are Billy, Ben, and Dut.”
Sandy Stimpson, a son of Billy Stimpson, said that his father was
touched with the gesture by long-time friends of his and his late
brothers.
“My father has never been as touched by anything as he has by this
scholarship in his honor and in the memory of my uncles,” Sandy
Stimpson said. “What Earle Long and our hunting friends have done
to honor my father and two uncles is one of the nicest honors ever
bestowed on our family.”
The scholarship will provide for tuition and fees for a sophomore
level business major (from Alabama), who has demonstrated strong
leadership skills.
GERI AND GORDON MOULTON RESEARCH FUND IS CREATED
In one of the largest gifts in USA history, USA President
Gordon Moulton and his wife, Geri, recently donated $3
million toward research and the cure of cancer at the Mitchell
Cancer Institute. Their gift will establish the “Geri and
Gordon Moulton Research Fund.” In honor of their
generosity, the main research floor of the MCI will be named
the “Geri and Gordon Moulton Center for Cancer Research.”
“I have had the good fortune of being associated with the
University of South Alabama for more than four decades,”
President Moulton said. “It is gratifying to Geri and me to be
part of something as important to the people of the Mobile
region as the USA Mitchell Cancer Institute. This project will
touch countless lives now and in the future, and we are
honored to be associated with such a humanitarian endeavor.”
USA MCI Director, Dr. Michael Boyd, said of the gift,
“Gordon and Geri have taken this war on cancer very
personally. Gordon, being himself a survivor of cancer, is
passionately committed to cancer research. Their gift is an
inspiration to me personally, and it will help enable us to
advance research to leave an everlasting mark on the research
battle against cancer.”
ROBERT WOOD JOHNSON FOUNDATION GIFT TO NURSING
The University of South Alabama is
among the first institutions in the nation to
receive funding from the Robert Wood
Johnson Foundation through the RWJF
New Careers in Nursing Scholarship
Program.
Grants provided through this competitive
program will be used for scholarships to
increase the number of students enrolled in
USA’s accelerated nursing program. This
groundbreaking national initiative, launched
by RWJF and the American Association of
Colleges of Nursing, aims to alleviate the
nation’s nursing shortage by dramatically
expanding the pipeline of students in the
accelerated nursing programs.
USA’s College of Nursing received
$200,000 in funding from RWJF, providing
scholarships for 20 accelerated nursing
students. The $10,000 scholarships will be
particularly helpful to those students who
have difficulty working a regular job while
in school because of the rigorous academic
schedule they must pursue.
“One of the benefits of the new funding
is that it has allowed us to increase
enrollment in our accelerated program,” said
Debra Davis, Dean of USA’s College of
Nursing. “It has also given these students an
opportunity to have some financial
assistance outside of loans.”
Taking the Lead
Page 5
An Endowment to Honor Mark Twain
Dr. Richard Wood, Dean of USA Libraries
and Ross Sloan
Mobile businessman, Ross Sloan,
has given USA a $50,000
endowment to honor the memory
of beloved American author and
humorist Mark Twain. The “Sloan
Endowment to Honor Mark Twain
Fund” includes the naming of a
study room at the Main Library in
Twain’s honor, and it also will allow
the library to buy resources by and
about Mark Twain and his many
contributions to American letters.
“I think of Mark Twain as a
literary genius,” Sloan said. “He
took a simple thing like his
childhood in Missouri and turned
it into creative genius. If there was
ever a friend who was trying to
educate America, it was Mark
Twain.”
“An endowment to acquire and
share books, journals, audio or
video recordings or other library
resources by and about any
individual, event, country or topic
is a very meaningful way for a
donor to recognize someone or
something,” said Dr. Richard
Wood, Dean of USA Libraries.
In 2003, Sloan gave USA a
$100,000 gift to support both the
College of Arts and Sciences and
the University Library. The gift to
the College of Arts and Sciences
established the Albert Schweitzer
Endowed Scholarship Fund,
providing an annual scholarship to
an undergraduate student in the
College. The gift to the University
Library established the Albert
Schweitzer Center and Group
Study Room, and helps to build
the Arts and Sciences Collection
Development Enhancement Fund.
Albert Schweitzer was a physician,
philosopher, and the 1952
recipient of the Nobel Peace Prize.
Sloan, a native of Mobile,
studied history during his
undergraduate and graduate
courses and taught at Bishop
State Community College in the
1960s. A lifelong learner, author
and historian, he now owns his
own insurance agency.
Thompson Engineering Jag Challenge - Premier Golf Event in the Southeast
The Fifth Annual Jaguar Golf Challenge
Golf Tournament presented by Thompson
Engineering recently concluded and once again
the event was sold out. The annual golf
tournament has become the premier golf event in
the northern Gulf Coast region boasting over
$400,000 raised in the past four years for USA
Athletics. Held at the Mobile Country Club, over
$40,000 in prizes are given away each year with
all players taking home over $500 in special
prizes.
Wayne Davis, USA Vice President for
Financial Affairs, was the catalyst behind the
tournament, securing sponsorships from friends
and business associates of the University.
“The continued success of the Jaguar Challenge
enables USA to enhance and improve every
aspect of the Athletics Department. We are
grateful for the generous support of our
sponsors,” said Davis.
2008 was the first year of Thompson
Engineering’s three-year commitment as title
sponsor of the premier event. Jimmy Shummock,
President and CEO of Thompson Engineering,
played in the event and was excited about their
involvement. “I think the Jag Challenge is the
best golf event, period, in the entire Southeast.
We value our participation and look forward to
our contribution enhancing an already successful
event,” said Shummock.
Thompson Engineering committed $20,000
annually as the title sponsor for 2008, 2009, and
2010.
Pictured is the 2009 First Place Team: Bobby Marks,
Brian Vailes, Steve Simmons, and Tommy Druhan along
with Wayne Davis, Vice President For Financial Affairs at
USA and Jimmy Shummock, President / CEO of
Thompson Engineering
POINT CLEAR POLO CLASSIC MAKES DONATION TO MCI
Pictured are USA President Gordon Moulton, Director of the USAMCI
Dr. Mike Boyd, Point Clear Polo Classic Co-Chairs Anne Nix and
Barbara Mudd and USA Vice President for Development and Alumni
Relations, Dr. Joseph F. Busta, Jr.
Representatives from the Point Clear Polo Classic presented a
$135,000 donation to USA in support of the Mitchell Cancer Institute.
This is the charitable group’s latest installment in what has been a long
history of giving to USA. Point Clear Polo has sponsored USA cancer
research for many years, generating approximately $2.7 million in
support of many projects at the MCI and also in support of Project
Hope, a program benefiting pediatric cancer patients at the USA
Children’s and Women’s Hospital.
“The University has been a recipient of Point Clear Polo’s generosity
for many years,” USA President Gordon Moulton said. “Continued
support from organizations such as this one will be very important for
the long-term development of this type of cancer center. The money is
very important, but the belief in this project by community leaders from
organizations like Point Clear Polo is even more important.”
The donation was made possible by proceeds from the 2008 Point
Clear Polo Classic held in October.
Taking the Lead
Page 6
“Mr. Abe’s Goody Book”
Pictured: Kenny Sylvester and Dr. Mike Boyd, USA
MCI Director
Local author and cooking enthusiast
Kenny Sylvester has donated proceeds
from the sale of his heart-healthy
cookbook, “Mr. Abe’s Goody Book,” to
the USA Mitchell Cancer Institute.
The self-described “Optimistic Cook”
and longtime friend and personal
assistant to Mobile businessman and
philanthropist, Abe Mitchell, said he
decided to make the contribution to
show that he shares the Mitchell family
dream of having a world-class cancer
center in this community. “My hope is
that someday, nobody will ever have to
die from cancer,” Sylvester said. “I also
have the hope that a cure for cancer
might come from right here in Mobile,
and, even if the cure is not found,
perhaps a major contribution toward the
cure will come from the Mitchell Cancer
Institute.”
GO Run
The inaugural 5K road race “GO for Gynecologic Oncology”
held on September 13, 2008 on the USA main campus, raised
more than $11,400 for the USA Mitchell Cancer Institute’s
Gynecologic Cancer Research Endowment. The race drew a
crowd of more than 600 people with more than 500 racers.
“It was an outstanding turnout that hopefully will create
momentum for the 2009 race. In addition to helping fund
research, the race raised awareness of gynecologic cancers and
drew attention to an area where research is needed,” said Dr. Rod
Rocconi, who serves as Abraham A. Mitchell Clinical Research
Scholar and a staff physician for gynecology oncology service.
Pictured: Dr. Michael Finan, Dr. Rod Rocconi, and Dr. Michael Boyd
Sylvester, a Prichard, Alabama native,
said he decided to write the selfpublished book in 2004 when Abe
Mitchell, his “best friend and mentor”
announced that he needed to make a
lifestyle change that included switching
to a strict diet and exercise program. Not
willing to sacrifice taste in the pursuit of
a healthier diet, Sylvester set out to
develop dishes that would be both
healthy and palatable. “That started my
quest,” he said, “the cookbook is the end
result.”
“Mr. Abe’s Goody Book” is available
for purchase at The Fresh Market in
Mobile and bookstores nationwide.
Society of American Military
Engineers Gives to USA
The Mobile Post of the Society of American Military
Engineers (SAME) recently made a gift of $10,000 for
naming rights to a room in the new USA Engineering and
Computer Sciences Building. The new building will be
constructed on the corner of Old Shell Road and University
Boulevard, beginning late fall 2009. The gift supports the
Engineering Excellence Fund, which was created to enhance
scholarships, research, student and faculty travel, continuing
education and much more. Personalized recognition plaques
will be placed outside each named room and on the college’s
donor wall.
Pictured: USA President Gordon Moulton; Steve Flukinger, president of the Society of
American Military Engineers; Dr. John Steadman, Dean of the USA College of
Engineering; and Paul Klotz of the Society.
Taking the Lead
Page 7
2009 Distinguished Alumni and
Service Award Winners
On Thursday, March 12, 2009, the USA National Alumni
Association inducted its fifth class of Distinguished Alumni and
Service Award recipients at the Mitchell Center, on USA’s campus.
The sell-out event honored five alumni and three service award
recipients for their outstanding achievements and contributions.
Lead sponsors for the event were AT&T and the Press Register.
2009 Distinguished Alumni and Service Award Winners pictured are (from left to right):
Gigi Armbrecht ‘75, MBA ‘88; (back row) Roger Cole representing the Crampton Trust;
Don McCrory ‘70; Dr. Johnson Haynes, Jr., COM ‘80; Goldie Ungar; (back) Major
General Michael Sumrall ‘70; Marlon Anderson, a major league (NY Mets) baseball
player; and Jim Yance ‘70.
Life Insurance Matching Gifts
The University of South Alabama is offering a trial matching
gift program to include life insurance policies, allowing alumni,
current and retired faculty and staff to use life insurance as an
option for giving to USA.
Each qualified donor is eligible for a match of up to $5,000
over five years. For example, a donor making a $5,000
endowment pledge at $1,000 a year for five years will qualify
for matching funds for each $1,000 payment up to $5,000.
The donor would choose to make a pledged, tax-deductible,
unrestricted gift to USA, and the University would then
purchase a life insurance policy on the donor. USA would
be both owner and beneficiary of the policy. Donors may
designate the face value of the policy for a named endowment
in any area of USA they wish. While the pledge for any policy
could extend ten years, the matching funds would only be
available for the first five years.
Two alumni have already participated in the program. David
Tressler, a 1978 business graduate and certified financial planner,
leads Tressler Financial Group/AXA Advisors, LLC. He has made
a gift pledge to provide funds for a $100,000 life insurance
policy and will name a room at the Mitchell Cancer Institute.
RBC Creates Distinguished
Lectureship Series
RBC Bank has pledged
$45,000 to establish a new
Distinguished Lectureship
Series in the USA Mitchell
College of Business. The
series will be the first of its
kind for the College and will
provide for the costs of two
annual lectures on banking,
or a related field, for all
students, faculty, staff, and
the community.
“We are pleased to
announce this gift to the
Mitchell College of Business,”
said Cedric Hatcher, RBC
Bank Market Executive for
Mobile, “The distinguished
lectureship series strongly
aligns with RBC Bank’s
commitment to education,
and we are glad to be able to
show our support.”
Dean of the Mitchell
College of Business, Dr. Carl
Moore, said “Through this
program, our students will
have an opportunity to
interact with top business
executives on real world
topics. As a relative
newcomer to the Gulf Coast
region, we are proud that
RBC Bank elected to support
our academic programs.”
Vera Reed, a
1996 business
alumni, is a
certified public
accountant,
a certified
financial
examiner,
and partner
at Horne LLP.
She has made
a gift pledge
to provide for
Pictured: David Tressler, Ben Samel, and Vera Reed
a $225,000
insurance policy and will create an endowed scholarship for an
accounting major at the USA Mitchell College of Business.
“I wanted to give something back to the University and the
accounting profession by providing scholarship funds to the next
generation of accountants,” Reed said. “It was a financial
challenge for me to obtain a degree, and I hope this endowment
will ease the financial strain of the students it benefits. I enjoyed
attending USA and appreciate the opportunities afforded me by
the quality education I received.”
Celia Wallace gives USA $300,000
toward Allied Health and Nursing
The University of South
Alabama received a $300,000 gift
from Celia Wallace and Southern
Medical Health Systems to establish
endowments in the College of
Allied Health Professions and the
College of Nursing.
The Celia A. Wallace Endowed
Scholarship in Allied Health will
be awarded to a full-time student
who has been accepted into the
professional undergraduate or
graduate program in one of the
departments within the College
of Allied Health Professions. This
scholarship will be used to recruit
academically and/or clinically
gifted students based on their preprofessional record. The Celia A.
Wallace Endowed Dean’s Fund in
the College of Nursing will provide
unrestricted financial support for
the College to be used for faculty
development, student scholarships,
and much more.
“We are truly grateful for
Ms. Wallace’s support. These
two endowments will prove to be
beneficial and have a significant
impact on our students, faculty,
and the University for many years
to come,” said Dr. Joe Busta,
Vice President for Development
and Alumni Relations.
Taking the Lead
Page 8
Baldwin EMC gives $5,000 for Simulation Lab Equipment
Pictured above, Baldwin EMC Chairperson, Patti Bodenhamer presents their gift to Dr. Jacobs.
The University of South Alabama Baldwin County Campus
recently received a $5,000 gift from the Baldwin Electric
Membership Charitable Foundation to purchase equipment for
the College of Nursing simulation lab in Fairhope. Some of the
equipment purchased include: a crash cart, defibrillator, Broselow
Pediatric Resuscitation Kit, and airway supplies. “Gifts such as
this allow us to purchase equipment and supplies necessary to
better educate and train students in the health sciences in a more
realistic clinical environment. Our patients ultimately benefit
from such generosity,” said Dr. Mike Jacobs, Director of Human
Simulation for Health Sciences.
In May 2008, a press conference introduced the new USA
Baldwin County College of Nursing Complex, located in the
former Fairhope Library. The 20,503 square-foot facility provides
our nursing students with the latest technology in the classrooms
and labs. Currently, the facility has three computerized fully
automatic simulators: a child, an adult male, and a pregnant
female. These mannequins can simulate heart attacks, gunshot
wounds, asthma attacks, seizures, and much more. The
simulation lab is designed to simulate clinical settings that
provide undergraduate students the opportunity to learn and
enhance their skills.
Special Visitors at Children’s and Women’s Hospital
Hours before they took the field at Ladd-Peebles Stadium to try and
impress pro football scouts, players from the Under Armour Senior Bowl
made a big impression when they visited with young patients at the
University of South Alabama Children’s & Women’s Hospital.
The annual hospital visit is a favorite event for the players and their young
fans, most of whom are unable to attend the game. Players went room-toroom visiting patients, and also visited patients in the hospital’s neonatal
intensive care unit, USS Hope cancer and sickle cell treatment center, and
therapy services.
“The Senior Bowl organization has been a generous supporter of our hospital
for many years,” said Dr. Becky DeVillier, USA Children’s & Women’s Hospital
Administrator. “The generosity of the players in giving up their time to visit our
patients is a real bonus and something we look forward to each year.”
RADIOTHON FOR THE CHILDREN
More than $87,000 in gifts and pledges were received
during the 10th Annual Children’s Miracle Network
Radiothon supporting the USA Children’s and Women’s
Hospital. The broadcast aired November 24-26, 2008
on Lite Mix 99.9 FM.
“Despite the economic challenges many are facing,
our community once again stepped up for USA
Children’s and Women’s Hospital,” Dr. Joe Busta said.
“We appreciate the support.”
During the Radiothon, children, families, doctors,
staff, and volunteers talked about their experiences at
USA CWH as they were interviewed by Lite Mix
personalities. Listeners’ pledges will help purchase
medical equipment and enhance programs and services
for children treated at the hospital.
CORRECTIONS
Our apologies for errors made in previous editions of our
newsletter. Corrections are listed below.
• An article featuring Reece and Rose Miller in our fall 2008
newsletter incorrectly spelled Mr. Miller’s name.
• Mr. and Mrs. Alton Brown were included in an Advisory Board
article in the fall 2008 newsletter. Our story failed to include all
graduation years for each. Mrs. Toni G. Brown was a graduate
of USA’s College of Education in 1971 and also received her
master’s degree from the College in 1975. Mr. Alton R. Brown,
III received his bachelor’s degree in 1976 and master’s degree in
1978, both from the USA College of Arts and Sciences.
• In the fall of 2007, an article featured the establishment of a
scholarship by alumnus, Christopher C. Melton. The article
incorrectly named the scholarship. The scholarship is the Carl N.
and Jewel O. Melton Endowed Entrepreneurship Scholarship.
Taking the Lead
Page 9
JoAnn and Gene Broadus give
$10,000 to Nursing
Recently, USA retiree, alumna, and Campaign USA Leadership Team member,
JoAnn Broadus and her husband Gene, gave $10,000 to the JoAnn S. Broadus
Endowed Scholarship in Nursing, a named endowment they established in
2004 to honor JoAnn and her love for the nursing profession. This endowment
supports an annual tuition award for an outstanding nursing student at the
University of South Alabama who demonstrates high academic achievement.
“This scholarship is an excellent resource for the College of Nursing and a
wonderful way to continue JoAnn’s legacy while promoting quality nursing
programs and empowering our nursing students,” said Kristyn Seawell,
Development Officer for the College of Nursing. Gene and JoAnn Broadus
have supported the College of Nursing for many years, bringing their total
giving history to the University to more than $25,000.
Pictured is JoAnn Broadus and Dr. Debra Davis, Dean of the College of Nursing, at JoAnn’s
induction into the Alabama Nursing Hall of Fame in October 2007.
A NEW TRUSTEE AND A
NEW ENDOWMENT
The Honorable Kenneth O. Simon
was recently appointed to the USA
Board of Trustees. Simon will serve a
state-at-large appointment on the USA
Board, filling a vacancy created by the
death of J.L. Chestnut, Jr., whose term
was to end in September 2013.
Simon, a native of Mobile, is a
USA alumnus and attorney in
Birmingham, Alabama. He earned his
bachelor’s degree in history from USA
in 1976 and his law degree from the
University of Alabama in 1979.
Currently, a partner in the
Birmingham law firm Christian &
Small, he formerly practiced law in
Mobile, served as a Judge in Jefferson
County, and worked for the U.S.
Securities and Exchange Commission’s
Enforcement Division in Washington
D.C.
“This appointment is important to
me on many levels,” Simon said. “I
spent four of the most important
formative years of my life at USA. It
introduced me to the world of ideas,
to leadership, to achievement at a high
level, and opened many doors for me.”
“As a trustee, I am humbled and
gratified now to contribute to USA in
a way that I never expected,” he said.
Simon also recently established a
new endowed scholarship in memory
of his mother, Ms. Lavonne Simon.
The Lavonne Simon Endowed Book
Award will be awarded to an
outstanding student entering his/her
senior year of study at USA’s College
of Education. Ms. Simon was the first
African-American graduate of USA.
She earned her degree from the
College of Education in 1967.
2009 FACULTY/STAFF
ANNUAL FUND
REPORTS
RECORD GIFTS
The 2009 Faculty/Staff Annual Fund
recently reported a record amount of
gifts, with the total raised at over
$476,000. Some 70% of employees
participated in the annual fundraising
drive, including 69 donors who pledged
$5,000 or more over a five-year period.
Sixty-five departments achieved 100%
participation while 726 employees gave
$100 or more. This year’s campaign was
led by Jean Tucker, Senior University
Attorney and Dr. Ronald Franks, Vice
President for Health Sciences.
Taking the Lead
Page 10
DEBUTANTES REMEMBER FRIEND/CLASSMATE
The fifteen young ladies who
were members of the 2009
Debutantes of the Mobile Carnival
Association chose to honor and
remember their friend and
classmate, William A.L. Mitchell.
During their début season, in lieu
of personal gifts from friends and
family, the debutantes requested
that donations be made to the
William A.L. Mitchell Endowment
for the USA Trauma Center. The
girls decided that being a debutant
is not all about
fun and
socializing and
wanted their
time in the
spotlight to make
a difference by
giving back to
the community.
Their kindness
generated 30
gifts totaling $2,660 to the fund,
which was established in 2005
when William
passed away after
an automobile
accident. William’s
mother, Mrs.
Barbara Mitchell,
said, “Our family is
so proud that this
year’s debutantes
chose William’s
memorial fund as
their charitable donation. It is such
a thoughtful way to continue
remembering him in their lives.” To
date, there have been over 300 gifts
with almost $115,000 contributed
to the endowment fund. As part of
the endowment, two annual
trauma lectureships have been held
for the faculty, staff, residents, and
medical students for the USA
Medical Center and College of
Medicine. The University thanks
the 2009 debutantes for helping to
expand the endowment fund to
continue trauma education.
Three New Sculptures Dedicated
Three new sculptures were formally
recognized and the donors honored
recently at the USA Children’s Park at
USA Children’s and Women’s Hospital.
“Joseph’s Table,” by landscape artist
Terry Plauché, was given in memory of
“Chef Joe,” Joseph Elliot Haskins, and
donated by his family and friends.
“Da Mi Un Baccio,” (translated “Give
Me A Kiss”) by artist Jane DeDecker, was
given in memory of USA employee
Barbara Wooley by her husband, Larry
Wooley, and family and friends.
“Wanna Ride?” by artist Victor Issa
was given by Dr. and Mrs. Randall W.
Powell and dedicated to all USA
Children’s and Women’s Hospital
employees who contribute to the miracles
occurring daily at the hospital and to the
patients there who daily inspire employees
to improve their lives.
“Since USA Children’s Park opened,
many have enjoyed the beauty of the
sculptures and the quiet, peaceful setting
it provides,” USA President Gordon
Moulton said. “The park is a place of
hope, not only for our young patients and
their families, but the entire community.”
Pictured: Larry Wooley with sons Dane and
Heath, standing with the sculpture given in
memory of Wooley’s late wife, Barbara.
Mitchell College of Business
Faculty Support College
Two Mitchell College of Business faculty members recently made
gifts to the College to support their departments. Dr. Alvin J. Williams,
who joined the MCOB team in the fall of 2008, pledged $5,000 to
create an endowment fund to support the newest major at the
Mitchell College of Business, Supply Chain Management. This gift
will be matched by the University to create a total endowment of
$10,000. In addition, Williams also made USA the owner and
beneficiary of a generous life insurance policy with proceeds
benefiting his endowment. The Center for Supply Chain
Education and Research Endowment will support scholarships,
research, student and faculty travel, continuing education and
much more.
Dr. Frank R. Urbancic, an accounting professor in the College
for more than 19 years, agreed to leave $200,000 in his will to
establish two endowments for the College. The Frank R. Urbancic
Faculty Fellow Award will provide a stipend for a tenured Associate
Professor or tenured Professor in the Mitchell College of Business.
The Frank R. Urbancic Scholarship in Accounting will support an
undergraduate student studying accounting.
Dean of the Mitchell College of Business, Dr. Carl Moore, said
“The gifts from Dr. Urbancic and Dr. Williams are evidence of the
strong commitment our faculty have to the continued success of
the Mitchell College of Business and the University. It is very
gratifying to know that two of our senior faculty have made this
level of commitment to our academic program. They have set an
example for all.”
“Dr. Urbancic’s bequest through his will insures there will be an
accounting scholarship for students and an award for professors,
forever. The Center for Supply Chain Management is new, and
Dr. Williams’ commitment guarantees there will be money to
support this new center,” said Ben Samel, Director of Leadership
Gifts and Planned Giving.
Taking the Lead
Page 11
Upcoming Events
September 5, 2009
USA vs Hargrave (Va.) Military
Academy Football Game
USA will kick off with the first-ever football
game at Ladd Peebles Stadium at 4:00 pm.
Come out and support the Jaguars for their
first football game of the season! For season
tickets call (251) 461-1USA (1872). See the
USA Athletics website, www.usajaguars.com,
for the schedule and more information.
September 10, 2009
Charity Denim Event
University of South Alabama
Student Center - The Terrace
Discount designer jean company, Charity
Denim, will offer 600-700 pairs of designer
jeans for approximately 40-60% off retail! Tops
special events. Call Abbie McCullough at 4607032 for information on sponsorships.
and accessories will also be available. Brands
include those found at Nordstrom's and
Macy's. The USA College of Nursing will
receive a donation from each pair of jeans or
accessory sold. Visa, Mastercard, Discover, and
American Express are accepted. No checks,
please. For more information or to volunteer,
please contact Kristyn Seawell in the
Development Office at 460-7032.
September 24, 2009
Eastern Shore Toyota/Hyundai of
Daphne 3rd Annual Golf Tournament
The 3rd Annual Eastern Shore Toyota/Hyundai
of Daphne will take place at the Timbercreek
Golf Club in Spanish Fort. This event has raised
over $40,000 in the past to benefit breast
cancer research at the USA MCI. For
information on participating or sponsorships,
see the MCI website, www.USAMCI.com or
call Abbie McCullough at 460-7032.
September 19, 2009
"GO" for Gynecologic Oncology 5K
and Fun Run
The Mitchell Cancer Institute’s Second Annual
"GO" for Gynecologic Oncology 5K and Fun
Run will take place on the USA campus this
fall. The event was a huge success last year
with wonderful support from the community
and the Port City Pacers. 2009 participation
forms and more information can be found on
the MCI website, www.USAMCI.com, under
November 7, 2009
University of South Alabama
Homecoming
Join the Jaguars to celebrate homecoming at
Ladd Peebles Stadium at 4:00 pm. USA will be
playing Milford Academy out of New York.
Special events for our alumni, friends, and
students will be going on all week. The USA
website, www.usouthal.edu, will update with
more information on these events as the date
draws closer.
November 19, 2009
Celebrate Hope
This inaugural event will be held at the USA
Mitchell Cancer Institute to “Celebrate Hope”
and raise funds to further cancer research at
the USA MCI. The event will feature a
chef/celebrity food and wine pairings and live
music. Mark the date on your calendar and
stay tuned to the MCI website for more
information as the time nears. For tickets
and sponsorship opportunities contact
Kelly McCarron or Abbie McCullough at
460-7032.
Current Construction on Campus
Student Recreation
Center
Expected completion
Spring 2010
Health Sciences
Building,
now housing the
Colleges of Allied
Health and Nursing
Football Fieldhouse
Bell Tower
Expected completion
August 2009
Expected completion
Early 2010
Working with You
Dr. Joseph F. Busta, Jr.
Vice President for Development
and Alumni Relations
Tracy Coleman
Associate Director, Medical
Development
Cassandra Commings
Development Specialist, Children’s
and Women’s Hospital
Development
Ann Cunningham
Director, Children’s and Women’s
Hospital Development
Kim Culbreth
Development Officer, School of
Continuing Education and
Special Programs and College of
Education
Melissa Dickinson
Assistant Director, Annual Giving
John Goodroe
Director, Athletic Development
Travis Grantham
Director, Medical Development
and Alumni Relations
Lisa Kavanagh
Associate Director, Alumni
Relations
Carol Kittrell
Director, Alumni Relations
Kelly McCarron
Assistant Director, Medical
Development
Abbie McCullough
Assistant Director, MCI Special
Events, Medical Development
Beth Schiavoni
Assistant Director, Athletic
Development Annual Giving
Melodie Robinson
Assistant Director, College of
Medicine Alumni Relations
Kristyn Sifford Seawell
Development Officer, Colleges of
Nursing and Allied Health
Lauren Roebuck
Development Officer, College of
Engineering and Mitchell College
of Business
Shinta Stanley
Accountant
Shea Sadler
Assistant Director, Development
Services
Ben Samel
Director, Leadership Gifts and
Gift Planning
Ginny Turner
Director, University Development
Contacting Us
University of South Alabama
Office of Development and
Alumni Relations
Technology & Research Park
Bldg. III, Suite 2150
Mobile, Alabama 36688
Dr. Lois Wims
Associate Dean, College of Arts
and Sciences Development
(251) 460-7032
Julie Cowgill Wysong
Associate Director, University
Development
http://www.southalabama.edu/
development
“Taking the Lead” is published twice a year by the University of South Alabama Office of Development and Alumni Relations. This publication is distributed to those who have given $1,000 or more to USA in the 12
months preceding the current issue.
Taking the Lead
Page 12
Opportunities to
Corporate matching gifts—many companies encourage their
employees’ philanthropy by matching, doubling, or tripling the
employee’s gift. If you work for a matching gift company, just send your
employer’s matching gift form with your gift, and USA will take care of
the details. Both you and your company will be recognized for the
matching gift.
Bequest through a will or living trust—many donors find a bequest
the most convenient way to leave a legacy to USA.
Charitable trust or other life income plan—various trust
arrangements such as charitable remainder unitrusts, charitable
remainder annuity trusts, and charitable lead trusts may enable you
simultaneously to make a gift to the University, retain income from the
assets, and secure a tax advantage.
Gifts of real and personal property—your gift of real estate, works of
art, collectibles, rare books, copyrights, and oil and gas interests may be
sold and the proceeds endowed or used for capital or operating funds.
Gifts of useable scientific equipment or computers may go immediately
into the classroom or research laboratory.
Gift with funds that are returned to you or passed to your loved
ones—you can make a gift of cash or other assets through an
arrangement that will provide USA with annual gifts over a specified
period and then pass the gift principal to your heirs or have it returned
to you. These creative gift plans offer valuable income, as well as gift and
estate tax savings, depending upon which type you choose.
IRA’s and qualified retirement plans—because these assets may be
subject to heavy taxation when passed to your heirs, they are wonderful
assets to consider using for charitable giving. Your gift can be made
simply by designating USA as a beneficiary of your retirement plan. If,
however, you meet the minimum age for withdrawals and would benefit
from a deduction to use against your current taxes, you might also
consider a lifetime distribution to USA. Due to the dynamic nature of
the law, you should consult your tax advisor prior to making such a gift.
Life insurance—a life insurance policy that is no longer needed can
be donated during your lifetime to support your favorite University
program. Such a gift offers you income and estate tax savings. USA
can also be named as a beneficiary of a new or existing policy.
University of South Alabama
Office of Development
TRP III, Suite 2150
307 N. University Blvd.
Mobile, Alabama 36688-0002
Private support is critical for the future success of the University of
South Alabama (USA). There are many ways to make philanthropic
gifts to USA. Gifts can be restricted gifts to any department, college,
or program or, you can choose to make unrestricted gifts to the
University to be used “Where the Need is Greatest” at the President’s
discretion.
A charitable gift to the University of South Alabama can take many
forms:
Cash or securities—make the most immediately useable gifts to USA.
All gifts of cash or securities can be designated for any purpose you choose.
Give
Non-Profit
U.S. Postage
PAID
Permit No. 506
Mobile, AL