Virtually Shorter
January 2008

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Bringing jazz around the world

Shorter College Band Director Tom Smith received the International Jazz Ambassador award on Jan. 12 during the 35th annual International Association of Jazz Education (IAJE) conference in Toronto, Canada. “My understanding is that this is the top award given for advocacy of jazz and jazz education,” said Dr. Alan Wingard, dean of Shorter’s School of the Arts. “We are incredibly proud of Mr. Smith's accomplishments and this prestigious recognition.”

Founded in 1968 as the National Association of Jazz Educators, IAJE promotes the continued worldwide growth and development of jazz and jazz education; the association currently has more than 8,000 members from 42 countries. Only six awards are presented to outstanding jazz leaders each year.

The International Jazz Ambassador award honors an IAJE member who has made a significant impact by developing an IAJE presence in a new and/or underdeveloped country, region or unit. Smith has done all three by beginning more than 30 nonprofit regional jazz ensembles in rural North Carolina, developing a jazz school in Romania and leading a jazz program in African townships.

“I am grateful to be honored with this award because it brings legitimacy to this type of jazz advocacy work,” said Smith. “It recognizes a lifetime of my work, which has mainly been behind the scenes. Hopefully the increased credibility from this award will open additional opportunities for funding other start-from-scratch jazz groups.”

A five-time Senior Fulbright Professor of Music at the Romanian National University of Music in Bucharest and the Tibiscus University in Timisoara, Smith has also served as a Fulbright Professional Specialist at the University of KwaZulu-Natal in Durban, South Africa. He holds degrees from the University of Southern Mississippi and the University of North Carolina at Greensboro.

In the photo, Smith conducts the Shorter Band in its debut performance at the Sept. 15, 2007, Shorter Hawks football game at Barron Stadium.

Who’s in charge of the big games

On Jan. 18, Bill Peterson and Bob Berry were selected as the co-chairs of the host committee for the upcoming NAIA national championship games. (Virtually Shorter sent out a breaking news issue earlier this month announcing that Shorter College’s bid to host the NAIA National Football Championship Games in 2008 and 2009 was successful. T he news was shared at a press conference on Jan. 3.) “A great deal of attention will be focused on Shorter College, Rome and Floyd County as we host these games,” said Shorter President Dr. Harold E. Newman. “We appreciate the NAIA for its confidence in us and commit ourselves to making this a successful event. I encourage alumni and friends to make plans to attend both games to support the college in this important venture.” The 2008 game will be played on Dec. 20, and the 2009 game is slated for Dec. 19. Both will be played at Barron Stadium in Rome, home of the Shorter Hawks. Between now and then, a great deal of work will take place. Peterson and Berry have begun to address concerns such as organization and sponsorships. They will also soon appoint vice presidents to coordinate individual aspects of the championship week such as stadium operations, transportation and hospitality. Peterson is Shorter’s athletic director. Berry is a partner in the law firm of Brinson, Askew, Berry, Seigler, Richardson and Davis.

Praises for publications

Both Shorter’s literary magazine, The Chimes, and Shorter’s yearbook, The Argo, recently earned recognition for the 2006-2007 publications. The Chimes : The 2006-2007 edition of The Chimes placed first in the American Scholastic Press Association’s literary magazine competition. In a letter from the ASPA, the magazine was described as “an excellent publication” that “shows the efforts of talented and creative editors, writers, artists, photographers, layout designers, staff members and advisor.” The winning editorial staff members include Catie Eisel, editor-in-chief; Krystin Fain, layout and design editor; Jennifer Sikes, faculty editor and advisor; and John Kwist, assistant faculty editor. The publication’s design staff includes students Adrienne Estes, Katie Edfelt, Peter Faile, Amy Goggins, Cassie Murdock, Heather Michot, Kristen Swindells, Laura Pate and David Williams.

Published annually since 1879 (except for a brief break from 1918 to 1922), this magazine is the longest running publication in Shorter’s history. Today’s magazine contains poetry, creative prose, nonfiction and artwork of various media created by Shorter students, alumni, faculty and staff. A new edition of The Chimes will be released at the end of the spring 2008 semester.

The winning editorial staff members include Ashley Ottinger, editor-in-chief; Amber Wilson, student life editor; Joshua Pipes, sports editor; Bethany Dykes, organizations and people editor; Paige Cook, arts and entertainment editor; and Allison Hattaway, faculty advisor.

Published as a coffee-table style book, the nine-by-ten inch publication was a unique look from previous Argos. The publication’s theme was “Legacy.” The 2007-2008 Argo will be the school’s first full-color yearbook.

MORE ALUMNI NEWS

Piano dedication set for Feb. 17

If you enjoy the beautiful sounds of a grand piano, then Sunday, Feb. 17, is a date to reserve on your calendar. A recital is planned for 3 p.m. that day in Brookes Chapel to showcase the new SK-EX Shigeru Kawai nine-foot full concert grand piano. Handcrafted in Japan, this impressive addition to Shorter’s existing fleet of pianos was one of the purchases made possible by a $110,000 gift from Robert and Kathy (’64) Engeman in June 2007. In addition to this concert grand piano, a SK-5 Shigeru Kawai six-foot, six-inch artist grand piano was also delivered during the summer of 2007.

William and Mary Ann Knight, President Harold Newman, David Oliver, Elizabeth Blood and Terry Moore will perform to showcase the new piano. The Engemans will attend the recital, and other alumni and piano enthusiasts are invited.

You were once in their shoes… Although the months leading up to your first semester at Shorter may seem like a distant memory, there are high school seniors experiencing those decisions today. In fact, dozens of bright prospective students will be on “the Hill” on Friday, Feb. 1, to complete competitive scholarship interviews. Remember, our alumni play a significant role in recruiting today’s prospective students.

Now is a great time to promote the next Sunday at Shorter to students in your area. What better way to show off your alma mater than encouraging a high school junior or senior to visit Shorter, meet with faculty members and tour the campus.

On Sunday, March 30, the admissions office will host another Sunday at Shorter. If you know someone considering Shorter (or if you want to convince someone to consider Shorter), have them e-mail Joan Blackwelder at jblackwelder@shorter.edu for the day’s schedule and additional information. Parents are also encouraged to attend.

Help us spread the word by promoting the March 30 Sunday at Shorter to a high school student near you!

Arts events always a delight Now is the time to make reservations for Shorter’s arts events during spring semester. From February to April, events abound for alumni and friends to enjoy. If you missed the opera in January, click here for photos of the show. Visit www.shorter.edu/academics/arts/calendar.htm for dates for each spring event. For ticket information and reservations, contact Shorter’s box office at (800) 868-6980 ext. 7288 or boxoffice@shorter.edu.

SPORTS NEWS

Shorter Hawks enter NAIA Top 25

On Jan. 30, Shorter’s men’s basketball team entered the NAIA national rankings at No. 23. This is the first time the Hawks have been ranked since the 1997-1998 season. Such success closely follows Shorter’s victory over in-town rival Berry College. In an incredibly packed Winthrop-King Centre on Jan. 24, the Shorter Hawks men's basketball team beat the Vikings for the third time in a row, 81-78. The heated contest came down to the wire as only one point separated the two teams with nine seconds on the clock… A foul by Berry's Jess Mullens allowed Kedric Wilson to score two free throws to give Shorter a three-point lead and the win. "This has to be one of the most exciting games I've been a part of," said Shorter Head Coach Chad Warner. "Our guys were consistently going after the ball and feeding off the crowd. It was a close game, and in the end, a win against Berry is a win against Berry."

Tomas Pranciliauskas led all scorers with 30 points and five three-pointers. Prior to this game, the six-foot-four junior guard was named the Southern States Athletic Conference Men’s Basketball Player of the Week for Jan. 13-19.

The Hawks continue their homestand this weekend at Shorter's Winthrop-King Centre. To follow the Hawks’ season, visit www.goshorterhawks.com.

Softball ranks seventh in preseason poll

The National Association of Intercollegiate Athletics ranked Shorter’s Lady Hawks softball team seventh in the nation in the preseason softball poll released Jan. 30. Last season, Shorter’s team had a 23-game winning streak and jumped into the NAIA top ten national ranking. With a regular season record of 50-12, the team was the region 13 runner-up. The Lady Hawks then received a bid to the 2007 NAIA national tournament and ranked sixth in the national poll. At the end of the season, the team held a 25-3 record in the Southern States Athletic Conference and clinched the 2007 regular season championship.

The Lady Hawks led the SSAC in 11 categories, and the team had seven members on the All-Conference team, three members on the All-Region team, and one NAIA All-American selection. In addition, Head Coach Melanie Carter was named the conference coach of the year, the region coach of the year, and the NFCA-NAIA East Region Coaching Staff of the Year, along with Assistant Coach Al Thomas.

The Lady Hawks begin their season at home on Feb. 16 when they play a doubleheader against Tennessee Wesleyan College at the Alto Park Softball Complex. The first regular season poll will be released on March 19. Check out the Lady Hawks online at www.goshorterhawks.com.

Track qualifies six for NAIA Indoor Nationals

In its second season, the Shorter College track and field team has taken some big steps towards becoming a competitive force in the NAIA. On Jan. 19, the Hawks and Lady Hawks competed in the Niswonger Invitational in Johnson City, Tenn., for their first meet of 2008. Shorter had six qualify for the NAIA Indoor National Championships and several who came within a few tenths of a second of joining them. "To have that many qualify at our first team meet is pretty exciting," said Shorter track and field head coach Scott Byrd. "We have a group of good kids with a strong work ethic who are really farther along in their training than we thought they would be." Qualifying for the indoor nationals, which will be held at East Tennessee State University during the first week of March, were four members of Shorter's men's team and two members from the ladies' squad.

For the Hawks, N'aithan Scott completed the 60-meter hurdles in 8.33 seconds and placed third in the open invitational round. Albeyon McMillan posted a time of 6.97 seconds in the 60-meter dash, Remy Charpentier ran the 800 in 1:54.90 for third overall, and Martin Hernandez completed the 5,000 meters in 15:24.98.

For the Lady Hawks, Ashley Cousin took fourth overall in the collegiate division of the women's 60 meters with a time of 7.75 seconds while K'Ianca Dupree completed the 200 meters in 24.99 seconds.

Shorter's next meet is scheduled for Feb. 1-2 at Indiana University. Keep up with their season at www.goshorterhawks.com.

Football players earn All-American, national poll votes Three Shorter Hawks were named to the Victory Sports Network 2007 NAIA Football All-American honorable mention team. Zach Morrison made the team for offensive line, Matt Yarbrough made the team for defensive line, and Ryan Gloer made the team for linebacker. Zach was key in Shorter's offensive line this year, contributing as a starter for his third straight season. Matt had 33 tackles this year on the defensive line with four sacks. Two of his sacks came against NCAA Division II Stillman College, for a total 14-yard loss. Ryan, who was also named the Mid-South Conference's Defensive Player of the Year, led the Hawks in assisted tackles this season with 42, and he added 24 unassisted tackles. He led Shorter in tackling in four games this season despite shoulder problems.

The Shorter football team wrapped up their season on Nov. 10 with a win against Lambuth University to give the Hawks their winningest season ever at 7-4. The National Association of Intercollegiate Athletes (NAIA) recognized this successful season in their final poll released on Jan. 15. Shorter was one of four teams that received votes but did not make the top 25. This gives the Hawks a final ranking of 28 th after their third season.

"We're excited for the recognition of efforts by our players, coaches and staff," said Hawks Head Coach Phil Jones. "We struggled a little bit right after mid-season, and to watch our team bounce back is a tribute to the Hawks and our character. We hope we can improve upon that next season."

The Hawks will kick off their fourth season on Aug. 28 in Cullowhee, N.C., where they will take on the Western Carolina Catamounts.

MARK YOUR CALENDARS NOW FOR THESE UPCOMING ALUMNI EVENTS

For more information on the events below, visit Hawkspace, call the Alumni Office at (800) 868-6980, ext. 7353 or (706) 233-7353 or e-mail sgraves@shorter.edu.

Family & Friends Day
Saturday, Feb. 16
10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Click here for more information.

Kawai Piano Dedication Recital
Sunday, Feb. 17 3 p.m.
Brookes Chapel

Students Today, Alumni Tomorrow
Tuesday, March 4
6:30 p.m.
Coosa Country Club, Rome, Ga.
Reservations are required.

Alumni are wonderful resources for Shorter students to learn about career planning, internships and job interviews. Please join us for this student-alumni dinner networking event. Please call (706) 233-7305 for more information.

Rome and Northwest Georgia Alumni Brunch
Saturday, March 8
10 a.m.
Shorter College Dining Hall
Cost is $10 per person.

Please call (706) 233-7305 to make your reservation.

Sunday at Shorter (Prospective student event)
Sunday, March 30
9 a.m. to 4 p.m.
For information, contact Joan Blackwelder at jblackwelder@shorter.edu

Heritage on the Hill
Saturday, April 19
Heritage on the Hill will serve as the reunion weekend for the 50-year reunion class and classes above.
Click here for more information.

SHORTER ALUMNI BENEFITS

Liberty Mutual: Savings on auto and homeowner’s insurance to Shorter alumni

For a free, no-obligation rate quote, call Beth Blalock at 770) 924-6464 x 206 or e-mail Beth.Blalock@LibertyMutual.com.

"I've switched my homeowner's and automobile insurance to Liberty Mutual. Not only does Shorter receive a portion of my payments, but coupled with the discount for alumni, I've realized an annual savings of more than $1,300. I've also made a new friend in Beth Blalock, who
is Liberty Mutual’s quote representative for Shorter.”
Shorter alumnus Clark Samples (’71)

Shorter College Alumni Association Platinum Plus MasterCard Credit Card

"The Bank of America credit card is a wonderful tool for alumni to promote Shorter through name recognition. Every time I present the card, a new person sees the Shorter College name, and often asks about the college.
Shorter alumna Patsy Drummond (’62)

Travel Benefits: Savings on resort vacation
condominium rentals for Shorter alumni

To review available locations and dates as well as booking information, visit www.alumnitravelbenefits.com/shorter.asp or call (888) 729-3842. Use Shorter’s code AGA-002.

"We had a wonderful trip to Disney World! The condo through Alumni Travel Benefits was beautiful; it exceeded our expectations in every way!”
Shorter alumna Tina Chapman (’04)

Got news? Maybe a new job or a new baby? Recently married? Share the good news with your friends through class notes in Shorter magazine. E-mail your news to wtaylor@shorter.edu . Be sure to include your full name, class year, e-mail address, mailing address and phone number. Please let fellow alumni know that they can subscribe to Virtually Shorter by visiting Shorter's alumni web community Hawkspace. You also can reach the Alumni Office at (800) 868-6980.

Virtually Shorter is compiled by the Office of Institutional Relations. If you have questions, comments or suggestions for our e-newsletter, e-mail Tracy Batchelor at tbatchelor@shorter.edu.

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