2001 News Archive
FALL SEMESTER 2001
December 20,
2001-New facility at DSC Hurricane Center nearing completion
December 19, 2001-DSC
accepts applications for elementary education program
December 18, 2001-New DSC
fine arts center visited in 2002 legislative session
December 7, 2001-Chinese culture subject
of next Dixie Forum
December 1, 2001-Rotary Bowl results
November 28, 2001-DSC dance department
to perform at December showings
November 27, 2001-Humanitarian doctor
to present at DSCs Dixie Forum
November 21, 2001-Dixie Rotary
Bowl invitees ready to roll
November 7, 2001-DSC to host high school
students at annual Career Day
November 1, 2001-CEO of InfoWest to speak
at next Dixie Forum
November 1, 2001-Environment and Land
Use Ethics
October 31, 2001-DSC Chamber Orchestra
to present its Fall Concert
October 31 ,2001-Service project to benefit
one of St. Georges own
October 31, 2001-Chamber Orchestra to present
its Fall Concert
October 25, 2001-Concert
October 19, 2001-New Four-year
program approved at Dixie State College
October 18, 2001- Lt. Colonel
Bert Walker
October 5, 2001-Homecoming taking center stage
at Dixie State
October 4, 2001-New coordinator
in place at DSCs Hurricane Center
October 4, 2001-New DSC Hall of Fame inductees
to be honored
October 1, 2001-South Indian Dancer up next
at Dixie Forum
Sept 21, 2001-Opera Singer To Perform At Dixie
Forum
Sept 24, 2001-DSC Elderhostel bound for the
2002 Olympics
Sept 25, 2001-DSC Memorial Concert for Victims
of Terrorist Attacks
Sept 27, 2001-Lt. Governor delivers message
to DSC students
August 8, 2001-DSC Fall Semester New Student
Orientation Schedule
August 8, 2001-Registration time at Dixie
State College
August 16, 2001-Groundbreaking SET set for
new DSC facility in Hurricane
SUMMER 2001
May 10, 2001-Dixie students
win three 1st place international awards
May 4, 2001-Dixie State To Confer 1,272 Degrees
and Certificates
May 4, 2001-Dixie State College Names
Four Valedictorians
May 4, 2001-DSC to award distinguished
citizens awards
May 4, 2001-Madison Square Garden CEO To Address
Dixie State Graduates
May 1, 2001-Dixie State Motion Picture Students
Win a Telly Award
SPRING SEMESTER 2001
March 1, 2001-Dixie Emeritus
Professor Receives BYU Alumni Award
March 1, 2001-Student Newspaper "THE DIXIE
SUN" Wins Regional Award
March 1, 2001-DSC Public Relations Department Wins
1st Place National Paragon Award
March 1, 2001-DSC Motion Picture Students Produced
"Mountain Meadows Massacre"
New facility at Dixie
State College Hurricane Center nearing completion
(St. George, UT Dec. 20, 2001) Construction on a 4,500 sq.
foot-plus addition to the Dixie State College Hurricane Center is
nearing completion. The expansion project officially got underway
Aug. 22, 2001, during a groundbreaking ceremony and is right on
schedule to be completed in time for the first day of spring semester
classes.
"Were pleased with how the project has gone so far from
all angles," said Ned Carnahan, executive director of Campus
Services at Dixie State and college representative for the design
and construction of the project. "Bird Construction has worked
hard to keep the project on time and on budget. And without any
unforeseen complications, the building will be open for instruction
on Jan. 7, 2002."
The final inspection date for substantial completion of the building
is scheduled for Jan. 3.
To date, the 6,005 sq. foot center, which has consisted of the Walter
C. Lichfield Building, has housed two large classrooms and a computer
lab. The expansion consists of an additional 4,600 sq. feet, mainly
of classroom space, which has been built onto the existing building.
In all, four new classrooms will be added to the center. The college
also uses classroom space at Hurricane High School to satisfy student
demand.
The project has been completely financed by private donations. Before
the Alan Joseph Stout Hurricane Center was first dedicated in Sept.
2000, a donor approached DSC administrators and proposed that a
second building be built as well.
"Its a little unusual that people have that much love
for their community that theyll step forward and be that generous,"
said Stan Plewe, vice-president of College Services.
The expansion comes at a time when the East county area is itself
expanding, an area the Hurricane Center is specifically geared towards
serving. Hurricane alone has experienced a 110 percent growth increase
over the past ten years, growing from 3,915 in 1990 to a population
of 8,250 in 2000. Enrollment at the Hurricane Center has reflected
that growth to some degree.
When DSC first began offering classes in Hurricane during Fall Semester
1995, 34 students total were enrolled in two courses. Enrollment
for the following two fall semesters averaged 25 students. Fall
enrollment grew to 85 and 90 in 1998 and 1999 respectively, jumping
to 242 in 2000. Over 400 students were enrolled in over 30 courses
this fall semester at the center.
Hurricane Center coordinator Dave Nichols said the centers
expansion is crucial in order to keep pace with the countys
growth.
"The addition is really going to mean that well be able
to serve the growth thats occurring in the area with higher
education," Nichols said. "I think that it may not be
many more years, if not possibly a year after this building is done,
before the next one may in the planning stages."
Dixie State College has offered classes in Hurricane since 1995.
Until construction of the Hurricane Center was completed in 2000,
classes were held at Hurricane High School. The Center sits on 8
acres of partially developed land, which was all privately donated.
The Centers director is Dr. Dave Nichols who is new to DSC
this fall semester. Over 400 students were enrolled for fall semester
classes at the Hurricane Center, which is located at 112 South 700
West in Hurricane, UT. For information about classes offered at
the Hurricane Center, call (435) 652-7912.
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Dixie State
accepting applications for new elementary education program
(St. George, UT Dec. 19, 2001) With the elementary education
program approved and in place at Dixie State College, the search
for students is now underway. Applications are currently being accepted
and will be through the Jan. 18, 2002 deadline.
"The success of any education program is dependent on the candidates
who apply and who are admitted to the program," said Dr. Michael
F. Killeen, director of the University Center and elementary education
at Dixie State.
The popularity of the degree, which includes an English as a Second
Language (ESL) State endorsement, began manifesting itself long
before the program received approval. Students were knocking down
the door just to "sign up" while the proposal for the
program was still taking shape. The admission process, however,
will not only be a selective one, but is expected to be competitive
as well. The admission committee anticipates that up to 125 people
will apply for admission for Fall Semester 2002.
Initially, however, the program will have a limited enrollment of
30 students, which is consistent with the precedent set by the Board
of Regents at the time UVSC began requesting four-year programs.
In 2003, another 30 junior students will be admitted, making for
a capacity of 60 students in the program at any given time. This
limited enrollment will be in effect for three years while the program
gets off its feet and is evaluated.
Candidates will be invited to interview with the admissions committee
based on the completeness of a pre-admission checklist, which consists
of completing general education (associates degree or equivalent)
and pre-requisite course work, submitting three letters of recommendation,
a writing assessment, achieving a minimum overall GPA of 2.75 and
in the last 30 semester hours and completing a request for an FBI
background check. Students must also have a minimum GPA of 3.0 in
all pre-requisite course work.
In addition, a foreign language component will require that students
have the equivalent of eight semester hours of foreign language
credit prior to beginning the program. While the purpose of the
degree wont be to produce bilingual teachers, the admissions
committee will be looking for students who know what its like
to speak and learn another language.
"Well be training students who have a predisposition
to wanting to be able to deal effectively with people who may not
speak English," Killeen said. "Its to the individuals
advantage if they happen to be bilingual, but we dont necessarily
need them to be bilingual by any means."
In terms of academic achievement, the admissions committee will
consider the highest score from each candidates ACT, SAT or
GPA and points will be awarded for each item in the admissions rubric,
which also includes the pre-application packet, a second writing
assessment, the interview and the letters of recommendation.
Letters of acceptance will be mailed out the first week in February
2002 to the top 30 candidates. Killeen and his staff are getting
the ball rolling quickly in order to accommodate those who might
want to meet application deadlines at other institutions.
"We think its only fair and in the interest of students
who may not get into our program that they have other options,"
Killeen said.
The elementary education program at DSC will be the first in the
State to have the ESL endorsement actually imbedded in the degree
program, something that, thus far, has proven popular among educators
as well. Killeen receives approximately three phone calls a week
from neighboring states looking for teachers with ESL training.
"Its in extremely high demand," Killeen said of
the ESL endorsement. "I would hazard to guess that, over the
next few years, not only will Washington County be very interested
in our graduates, but other areas in the region will as well."
The Utah Board of Regents approved the degree in mid-October. It
marks the third four-year degree to come aboard at DSC since July
2000, joining the four-year business administration and computer
and information technology programs.
Any questions regarding admission to the elementary education program
can be directed to Susan Ledbetter at (435) 652-7842 or Michael
Killeen at (435) 652-7841.
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New Dixie State fine
arts center to be visited in 2002 legislative session
(St. George, UT Dec. 18, 2001) Though budgets throughout
the state are on the chopping block, administrators at Dixie State
College have received word that theres a chance the college
will get its new fine arts center after all. Construction on the
new building, which is currently in an advanced design stage, was
placed on hold due to this years state budget shortfalls,
but was recommended in the governors recent budget proposal
for the 2002 legislative session.
"Were surprised, but extremely pleased with the governors
support for our new fine arts building," said Dixie State College
president Dr. Robert Huddleston. "Were looking forward
to this much needed facility on our campus."
The Eccles/Graff Fine and Performing Arts Center has traditionally
housed the Art, Communications and Theatre programs at Dixie State
College. One-third of the current Graff Building, however, is condemned
and unusable. Consequently, departments that were once housed in
the center have since been moved to other buildings on campus. It
was built in 1962 and designed to accommodate a student body of
500. Today, enrollment at DSC has exceeded 7,200.
An architectural and engineering study has indicated that replacement
of the building is the only reasonable solution to correct all of
the ADA, fire, building code, and seismic problems that exist. For
over two years, the proposed new building has been a top priority
for the Board of Regents. The Utah State Building Board ranked it
third in the year 1999, fourth in 2000 and third in 2001 in terms
of capital development priorities.
Governor Leavitts budget recommendations were specifically
geared towards helping the state through economic challenges currently
affecting the entire nation. His proposal is designed, in part,
to maintain funding for critical education and places a high priority
on investing in education.
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Chinese culture subject of next
Dixie Forum
(St. George, UT, Dec. 7, 2001) Dr. Jingdong Liang, communications
professor at Dixie State College, will be the next speaker at "Dixie
Forum: A Window on the World" on Dec. 11 at 12 pm in DSCs
Dunford Auditorium. The title of his presentation is "In Search
of Academic Excellence Across the Pacific." Among the topics
Liang will touch on will include his childhood and education in
China and working as a journalist in both the U.S. and China.
"No one exemplifies our "Window on the World" theme
more than Jingdong," said Terre Burton, English professor at
Dixie State and the series coordinator. "He has a unique background
and a lot of interesting stories to tell, and I think people will
find him and his presentation intriguing."
As a native of China, Liang has not only covered news as a reporter
for his home country, but has also worked as a Chinese journalist
for an American newspaper.
Liang holds a bachelors degree in English and a masters
degree in journalism, specializing in English news writing and editing,
from Chinese. During and after his graduate work, Liang held teaching
positions in China as an assistant professor of English at the Beijing
Polytechnique University for four years and as a part-time instructor
of English at the renowned Peking Union Medical College founded
by Ralph Nader.
He also worked with the New China News Agency, a state run newspaper,
covering international news for a year before resigning to come
to America and complete his doctorate work at the University of
Utah. In addition to his teaching responsibilities at DSC, Liang
is currently the advisor to the student newspaper The Dixie Sun.
Dixie Forum presentations have taken place every other week throughout
fall semester and will continue through spring semester, the next
falling on Jan. 8 and featuring Dr. Max Rose and his presentation,
"The ABCs of Math." Burton has been pleased with
how the series has gone in this its first year.
"Our last presentation left members of the audience eager to
go out and do good, so compelling was our speaker, Dr. Kelly Reber,"
Burton said. "Every speaker has inspired us in one way or another--whether
we were being encouraged to use our own creativity, to try new things,
to believe in ourselves, or to expand our intellectual and cultural
horizons. I'm hoping that audiences will find next semester's offerings
just as rich, informative, and encouraging."
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Dixie State prevails in 2001 Dixie Rotary
Bowl
(St. George, UT, Hansen Stadium, Dixie State College Dec.
1) The 2001 Dixie Rotary Bowl, matching the third-ranked Dixie State
College Rebels against the eleventh-ranked Rochester Community and
Technical College Yellowjackets, was as evenly matched as it possibly
could have been through three full quarters of play. Dixie State
then went on to score 27 unanswered points in the fourth quarter,
giving the Rebels the 40-14 victory and eleventh overall Dixie Rotary
Bowl win in fifteen tries.
Both teams struggled with turnovers throughout the game, yet neither
team reaped serious consequences until the fourth quarter. At the
end of three quarters, Rochester enjoyed a one-point lead, but five
interceptions in the fourth quarter alone, four of which eventually
resulted in Rebel touchdowns, proved too much for the Rochester
Yellowjackets to overcome.
The Rebels stole a page out of Andy Reids Philadelphia Eagles
playbook to start the game and kicked and recovered an onsides kick
on the opening kick-off. While DSC was unable to convert any points
off its opening drive, the Rebels got on the board first early in
the second quarter when RB Aaron Sain ran 27-yards, on a draw play,
for a touchdown.
DSC followed that up with a blocked punt, which was finally recovered
by the Yellowjackets on the RCTC 3-yard line. DSC QB Dave Grant,
the third quarterback to start for the Rebels this season, eventually
snuck in on a quarterback keeper to give DSC a 13-0 lead. The ensuing
extra point missed.
The Yellowjackets got things going in the second quarter with big
kick-off return, followed by a 28-yard reverse to Keith Harris,
which put Rochester on the board with eight minutes remaining in
the half. Dixie State took a 13-7 lead into the locker room.
Early in the second half, the Yellowjackets pulled a trick out of
their own out of their sleeve, eventually leading to RCTCs
first lead of the game. The Yellowjackets faked a punt, which RB
Quentin Brown took all the way to the Rebel 30-yard line. Rochester
QB Ryan Hulke then hit WR Brian Bridges to get the Yellowjackets
inside the 10-yard line and later hooked up with TE Mike Rehfeldt
for a 9-yard touchdown strike, giving RCTC a 14-13 lead after the
ensuing extra point.
The Yellowjackets continued to put the pressure on with an interception
picked off by DB Lamar Mathews, which was returned to the Rebel
32-yard line, clearly shifting the momentum in RCTCs favor.
DSC, however, quickly turned the momentum back in its favor by causing
and recovering a Yellowjacket fumble. While the Rebels were unable
to capitalize on the fumble, they intercepted a pass on the following
Yellowjacket drive and were able to capitalize. Grant then hooked
up with WR Christian Smith, who actually finished up the first half
and began the second at QB for the Rebels, for a 25-yard strike.
After a 15-yard penalty, the Grant/Smith combination again met up,
taking DSC to the 1-yard line. Sain then ran for a one-yard touchdown,
his second of the day, and a 19-14 DSC lead.
On the ensuing Yellowjacket drive with 7:53 remaining in the fourth
quarter, Dixie State DB Travis Armistead picked off the ball deep
in RCTC territory and ran the ball back for another Rebel touchdown,
resulting in a 26-14 DSC lead.
With just over seven minutes to play in the fourth quarter, RCTC
promisingly marched down the field only to be picked off once again
on a fourth down passing play. With an opportunity to put the Yellowjackets
away, DSC then fell victim to a turnover of its own.
DSC got that opportunity right back, however, after an errant RCTC
pass ended up in the hands of DSC LB Singa Iloa and was again taken
for another DSC touchdown, marking the second interception return
for a Rebel touchdown. With a score of 33-14, the Rebels sealed
the deal with yet another pick and later capped off the game with
a 6-yard touchdown scamper by TE Ryan Larsen, giving the Rebels
the definitive 40-14 victory. DB Travis Armistead was named the
games MVP.
Dixie State stymied Rochesters running game holding RB Rod
Malone to 29 yards rushing on 14 carries and no touchdowns. Overall,
the Yellowjackets managed 161 yards of total offense. QB Ryan Hulke,
who threw four interceptions in the game, passed for 103 yards,
completing 14 of 33 attempts, and one touchdown. TE Mike Rehfeldt
was on the receiving end of that touchdown and led the Yellowjackets
with 40 yards receiving. RB Quentin Bown led RCTC in rushing with
42 yards on four carries. DB Ben Wanek was a bright spot for the
Yellowjackets, compiling 125 yards in kickoff returns (long of 70).
RCTC committed a mere three penalties to DSCs 14, accounting
for 35 and 188 yards in penalties respectively.
The Rebels were led by DB Travis Armistead who was credited with
two interceptions (68-yard return) and one touchdown. On the offensive
side of the ball, QB Dave Grant completed 8 of 10 passes for 99
yards throwing. Christian Smith and Josh Adams led the way in receiving
with 72 and 44 yards respectively on three passes apiece. TB Joe
Lomu and RB Aaron Sain led the Rebels in rushing, Lomu with 66 yards
on 18 carries and Sain with 53 yards on 10 carries and two touchdowns.
As a team, DSC rushed for 166 yards, passed for 142 yards.
Ranked ahead of the No. 3 Rebels going into Saturdays match-ups
were No. 1 Georgia Military and No. 2 Kilgore, Texas. Both won their
respective bowl games later that evening, keeping their undefeated
records intact. With an 11-1 record, Dixie State will most likely
maintain its No. 3 ranking to finish up the season.
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DSC dance department to perform
at December showings
(St. George, UT Nov. 28, 2001) The dance department at Dixie
State College is gearing up for two dance showings to take place
in the month of December. On Dec. 3, the DSC ballet, jazz dance
and modern dance classes will present its biannual "End of
Semester Class Showing." The Dixie Dance Company will perform
a week later on Monday, Dec. 10.
"What will make the "Dixie Dance Company Showing"
unique is that each performance has been choreographed by the students
themselves," said Li Lei, assistant professor of dance at DSC
and coordinator of the showings. "Consequently, each performance
will have a different look and feel and style of its own, and the
showing as a whole should produce a lot of variety."
Both showings are scheduled for 7:30 pm in rooms 126 & 127 in
the DSC North Instructional Building (NIB) on the corner of 900
East 100 South. Students and community members are invited to attend
both showings. Admission to both is free. The showings are a precursor
to the larger-scale and more formal spring dance concert, which
will take place in April 2002.
"The students are happy to have this opportunity to perform,"
Lei said, "and this is a great opportunity for people in the
community who enjoy dance to come out and support our dancers and
our dance program, not to mention see some pretty good dancing."
Lei, who has been at DSC since July 2000, heads the DSC dance department.
She holds a masters degree in dance from BYU and a doctorate
in dance education/teaching and administration in higher education
from NYU. At an early age, Lei was selected to dance as part of
a professional dance company in China, a company that later appointed
her its principal dancer. She specializes in ballroom, modern, and
ethnic dance as well as ballet.
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Dixie Rotary Bowl invitees
ready to roll
(St. George, UT Nov. 21, 2001) Dubbed the biggest junior
college bowl game in the nation, the Dixie Rotary Bowl selection
committee has done its best to ensure that the 2001 version of the
Dixie Rotary Bowl, now in its sixteenth year, lives up to that reputation.
That responsibility now falls on the shoulders of second ranked
Dixie State College of Utah and eleventh ranked Rochester Community
& Technical College, MN. Both enter the Dec. 1 showdown in St.
George, UT with a single loss apiece and identical 10-1 records
to match.
"These are two quality teams whose records speak for themselves,"
said Rick Schofield, Dixie Rotary Bowl executive director. "Dixie
State was ranked number one in the nation for much of the year and
Rochester had a twenty-two game win streak going before losing their
last game of the season, so these are two first-rate programs, and
were happy to have them in this years Dixie Rotary Bowl."
The Dixie State Rebels began the season ranked atop the NJCAA polls
at number one in the nation. After four wins to start the season,
the Rebels stubbed their toe against Glendale Community College.
DSC then reeled off six straight, including an emotional overtime
win over long-time rival Ricks College, undefeated and ranked second
in the nation at the time. The Rebels clinched the WSFL Conference
title with a win against Scottsdale in their final game of the season.
Dixie State is no stranger to the Dixie Rotary Bowl and has been
victorious in ten of the fifteen Dixie Rotary Bowls since 1986.
"Its been a great thrill for me to be a part of fourteen
of the fifteen Dixie Rotary Bowls," said DSC head coach Greg
Croshaw, now in his twentieth season at the helm of the Rebels.
"Thats been tremendous for our program, and we look forward
to it again this year. Were excited and thrilled to have an
opportunity to play such a fine team from Minnesota with a background
that Rochester has."
The Rochester Yellowjackets, fresh off a 12-0 season and NJCAA Div.
III National Championship in 2000, bulldozed their way through their
first ten games, beating their
opponent by an average of 34 points a game. After being ranked as
high as third in the nation and cinching the MCCC Southern Division
championship, RCTC ended the season one victory and just two points
shy of a perfect season. The Yellowjackets lost 14-13 to Fergus
Falls Community College, MN, which ended the regular season ranked
fifteenth nationally.
"We are delighted to have a chance to play in this bowl,"
said RCTC head coach Tom Hosier. "We had the unfortunate loss
at the end of the season where we missed a field goal on the last
play of the game that could have kept our undefeated record in tact,
and didnt know if the Rotary Bowl would still be interested
in us. Were delighted and complimented that the committee
would still look at us as a worthy opponent, and were looking
forward to the game."
The Yellowjackets are a team that, as described by Hosier, runs
the ball one-third of the time and throws the other one-third. They
are led by sophomore running back Rod Malone who rushed for 1,360
yards this season, averaging over 120 yards per game on the ground
and leading the team with 18 touchdowns. Quarterback Ryan Hulke
passed for 1,724 in 2001 and was responsible for 17 Yellowjacket
touchdowns. Brian Bridges led the team in receiving with 844 yards
and nine touchdowns on the season. Freshman kicker Rhys Lloyd is
one of the top kickers in the nation and lays claim to over 100
RCTC points this season.
On the defensive side of the ball, RCTCs secondary is led
by Jordan Wagner and Tony Deweese who have seven and five interceptions
respectively on the season.
The Dixie State ground attack is headed by Joe Lomu and Aaron Sain
who rushed for 1,006 yards and 463 yards and scored nine and five
touchdowns respectively. Josh Adams led the team in receiving with
an average of 69 yards per game. Lomu and Adams led the team in
scoring with 54 points and nine touchdowns each. Freshman Waylon
Bond became the Rebels triggerman after QB Jared Lowe went
down with an injury early in the season. Bond led DSC with 901 yards
passing and eight touchdowns in seven games as a starter. Ron Green
and Chris Stucki anchor the offensive line and were named Coach
Croshaws offensive players of the year.
The Rebel defense is anchored by defensive lineman Scott Young who
led the team with 15.5 sacks.
Pre-game activities for the 2001 Dixie Rotary Bowl begin at 11:30
am on Dec. 1. Kickoff
is at noon in Hansen Stadium on the campus of Dixie State College.
Cost for reserved seats is $10, $5 for general admission.
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Humanitarian doctor to present
at DSCs Dixie Forum
(St. George, UT Nov. 21, 2001) Dr. Kelly Reber, a podiatrist
from Flagstaff, AZ, will present at the next Dixie Forum: A Window
on the World on Tuesday, Nov. 27 at 12 pm in the Dunford Auditorium
at Dixie State College. Reber has been all over the world on humanitarian
missions. Over the past ten years, he has made volunteer medical
trips to Armenia, Brazil, Cambodia, Mexico and Kuwait and Iraq in
1992. Dr. Reber is full of stories of his team's dedication as they
go to countries around the world where their services are so badly
needed.
"There are many cases that fill our eyes with tears,"
Reber said. "There is an eleven year-old young man that I did
surgery on three months ago. He showed me he is now able to run.
He has a big wide smile, but is embarrassed to smile because his
teeth are discolored from years of not brushing his teeth. A colleague
of mine spent a few hours cleaning and polishing the boys
teeth, which gave him back his beautiful smile. His grandmother
was so happy she could hardly speak."
In addition to his work abroad, Dr. Reber organized the Nothern
Arizona Volunteer Medical and Surgical Team along with Burt McKinnon,
M.D. and Nurse Karen Litman.
Reber grew up in Littlefield, AZ and has many connections with the
St. George area. His mother, sisters, and two of his brothers all
live in St. George. Reber attended Virgin Valley High School, Mesa
Community College, Brigham Young University, and graduated with
his doctorate from the Illinois College of Podiatric Medicine. Reber
and his wife, Tamara, have five children.
Both students and community members are invited to attend the forum.
Admission is free.
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CEO of InfoWest to speak at next
Dixie Forum
(St. George, UT Nov. 1, 2001) Kelly Nyberg, one of the original
founders of InfoWest Internet Services, will speak at the next Dixie
Forum: A Window on the World, set to take place Tuesday, Nov. 6
at 12 noon in Dixie State Colleges Dunford Auditorium. Nyberg
will talk to students and the community about his experiences with
the Internet and technology as well as share some insight into the
technology industry and the experiences hes had therein.
"I am delighted to have one of our own graduates as a speaker,"
said Terre Burton, DSC English professor and coordinator of the
forum series. "Kelly pretty much grew up at Dixie, and has
built a great commercial success right here in his own home town."
InfoWest provides Internet services from dial-up access to high-speed
wireless and DSL across the state of Utah. It is southern Utah's
first and largest Internet provider with over 10,000 subscribers.
Nyberg has been the president and CEO for the company since it was
first established in 1994.
Kelly was born in Provo, Utah and moved to St. George at the age
of one. His father, Peter Nyberg, moved their family to St. George
to accept a teaching position at Dixie College and ended up spending
over 20 years as a professor, dean and also vice-president at the
College.
As a southern Utah native growing up in St. George, Kelly attended
Dixie High School and Dixie College. He served as vice-president
of his class during his freshman, sophomore and junior years. He
also served as student body vice-president his senior year at Dixie
high school. After high school, Kelly graduated from Dixie College
and went on to SUU where he continued his studies to become a doctor.
However, somewhere along the way he made some dramatic changes in
his career, which brought him into the computer industry.Kelly has
been married for 10 years to his wife Rochelle and has three children
Nate, Braden and Alli.
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DSC to host high school students at annual Career Day
(St. George, UT Nov. 7, 2001) On Tuesday, Nov. 13 over a
thousand high school students from Lund, NV to Fredonia, AZ to Escalante,
UT will congregate at Dixie State College for the Colleges
annual Career Day. In all, over 25 schools will be represented.
Some will bring their entire student body, consisting of as few
as nine students, while others will bring as many as 300 high school
seniors. All, however, will come with the same purpose.
"The main goal is to provide up to date career exploration
information to students from rural area high schools," said
Virginia Woodward, Career Day coordinator and Career Center director
at DSC. "We do it because we feel theres a real need
for young people to begin exploring different careers early on.
We know they may not know what theyre doing with their future
by the time theyre seniors in high school, but this will at
least give them a chance to narrow some things down and maybe discard
some ideas."
Local professionals representing 86 different occupations will be
on hand to help the hundreds of high school students in attendance
do just that. Over 100 workshops will be available to choose from,
which will give students a look into the intricacies of their chosen
careers.
Dixie State students are invited to attend the workshops as well.
In fact, classes the morning of Nov. 13 have been cancelled at DSC
in order to encourage students to attend.
"We certainly have an interest in our students attending because
we know that if they can decide what they want to do, they can get
through school for less money and in less time, Woodward said. "Were
not trying to force their hand, but the sooner they can decide,
the better off theyll be."
Studies indicate that if students are heading in a specific direction
with regards to a major or career choice, even if they change their
mind later, theyre more inclined to stay in school and do
better in school.
According to Woodward, its a good idea even for those who
have selected a career field to attend the workshops specific to
their field on the basis that doing so could open the door to options
within their field that they hadnt yet thought of. On the
flipside, students may find that the career theyve chosen
isnt quite what it was cracked up to be.
In addition to high school and college students, community members
are invited to attend the Career Day workshops as well.
"At any given time there are people who are unemployed or trying
to make a career change," Woodward said. "Thats
just kind of a fact of life now that a lot of people are in a mode
of retraining and reassessing their careers."
Career Day, now in its twenty-fourth year, was originally established
by the vocational director of Washington County School District
and the vocational director at the college to provide rural areas
with information on vocational careers and careers in general. That
focus has remained constant for the most part over the years in
order to familiarize students with occupations that may not have
as much of a presence in smaller cities as they do in the larger
ones.
What havent remained constant over the years are the occupations
featured on Career Day, due to the ever-changing job market. Change
in this regard is a given, according to Woodward, and the workshops
are designed accordingly.
"We really need to be training students now, not only to be
national employees, but to be global employees," Woodward said.
"There will be a lot of people who want to stay here in St.
George because they love it, but a lot of people are going to be
moving all over the United States and world."
Career Day kicks off at 9 am in DSCs Cox Auditorium with a
general assembly to help orient students to the college campus.
Workshop schedules will be sent out to the area high schools prior
to Career Day. In all, students and community members will be able
to attend up to four different workshops beginning at 9:30 am and
running through 1 pm. For workshop schedule information, call (435)
652-7737.
Back to the top
Environment and Land Use Ethics
to Be Discussed at Dixie State College
(St. George, UT Nov. 1, 2001) The Dixie State College Department
of Humanities and Social Sciences will sponsor a presentation by
Dr. Elaine Englehardt and Dr. David Keller of Utah Valley State
College on Nov. 8 at 1 pm in the Dunford Auditorium on the DSC campus.
Englehardt and Keller, both professors of philosophy at UVSC, will
present on environmental ethics and the ethics of land use. This
event is free and open to the public.
"We encourage members of the community to attend, since land
use issues are so timely and relevant in this area," said Louise
Excell, associate dean of arts, letters and sciences at Dixie State.
In addition to her teaching responsibilities, Dr. Englehardt is
the assistant vice president for academic affairs at UVSC. She has
taught ethics, philosophy and communication classes for the past
twenty-five years and recently completed a three book series with
Harcourt College Publishers in Ethics: "The Organizational
Self and Ethical Conduct: Sunlit Virtue and Shadowed Resistance,
Interpersonal Communication Ethics: Friends, Intimates, Sexuality,
Marriage and Family, and Principled Media Ethics."
Englehardt is currently director of a second grant in excess of
$100,000, entitled "Continuing Ethics Across the Curriculum."
Over 500 faculty and approximately 10,000 students annually participate
in ethics programs and courses as a result of these grants and Englehardt's
activities.
She recently received the Governors Award for Achievements
in the Humanities, presented by the Utah Humanities Council. Englehardt
is also the founder of the Center for the Study of Ethics and served
as its director from its creation in 1993 until 1999.
Dr. David Keller received a Merit Award from the Utah Humanities
Council for his Religion and Views of Nature Conference in 1998.
Keller has been the Director of the Center for the Study of Ethics
since 1999.
He has also been involved on and off campus in the Ethics Across
the Curriculum program. His first book, The Philosophy of Ecology:
From Science to Synthesis (co-authored with ecologist Frank Golley),
was published in 2000 by the University of Georgia Press, and earned
him the Deans Scholarship Award for the 2000-2001 academic
year.
Back to the top
DSC Chamber Orchestra to present
its Fall Concert
(St. George, UT Oct 31, 2001) The Dixie State College Chamber
Orchestra, under the direction of Dr. Ronald L. Garner, will present
its Fall Concert, Tuesday, Nov. 6 at 8 pm in the Avenna Center Cox
Auditorium. The concert is free to the public.
"This years Chamber Orchestra is an excellent ensemble
of very talented and gifted performers who come to us from throughout
Utah as well as states such as Texas,
California, Nevada, and Arizona," said Dr. Garner, director
of the ensemble. "It is a joy and a very rewarding experience
to be associated with such fine young musicians."
The Chamber Orchestra, a select string ensemble of 25 college students,
will present a program featuring the works of Schubert, Pachelbel,
Rachmaninoff, Monti, and others.
Soloists will include Jamie Thornton, of Hurricane, who will perform
the "Rondo for Solo Violin and String Orchestra," by Schubert,
and pianist Andrea Blaney, of Salt Lake City, who will be featured
in the orchestras presentation of "Les Miserables."
In addition, the orchestra will play Renaissance dances and Irish,
Scottish, and Gypsy folk pieces. Both students and community members
are invited to attend.
Back to the top
DSC students gear up for service
project to benefit one of St. Georges own, turn to community
for help
(St. George, UT Oct. 31, 2001) Students at Dixie State College
are gearing up for a service project to benefit one of St. Georges
own and are asking the community for help. A yard sale will be held
at the DSC Old Gymnasium on 700 East, Saturday, Nov. 10 from 8 am
to 12 noon. A silent auction will also be held for certain items.
All proceeds from the yard sale will benefit the recovery and rehabilitation
of eight year-old Nathan Petersen, son of Mark and Becky Petersen,
who was recently involved in a near-drowning accident.
"Mark and Becky both have played a large role in our community
for a long time," said Donna Stafford, DSC director of student
activities. "These are people who have given a lot to St. George
and we need St. George to help us give back. Every time they turn
around, theres another expense relating to this accident,
and nothing is cheap when it comes to medical expenses."
Students are asking community members and business leaders to get
involved by donating items for the yard sale. A donation drop-off
will be in place beginning Thursday, Nov. 1. Items can be dropped
off at the DSC parking lot at 300 South 700 East between noon and
6 pm through Friday, Nov. 9. Donation pick-ups can also be arranged
by calling the DSC student government offices at (435) 652-7517.
"We understand that a lot of people have been hit hard for
donations, especially the past two months," said Connor Shakespeare,
DSC student body president whos spearheading the service project.
" Were looking for things that could sell at a yard sale,
maybe things that people cant sell themselves, but that are
still in good shape."
"People can do a little fall-cleaning between now
and Nov. 10," Stafford said. "Most people have things
around their house that they no longer have a need for, but that
someone else may. As the old saying goes, One mans junk
is another mans treasure."
DSC students have also looked to local businesses to donate items
to the yard sale. Letters have been sent to many businesses throughout
the community, but according to Stafford, theyve heard back
from only a few.
"Were really hoping that many of our local businesses
will remember this event and jump on the bandwagon and help us,"
Stafford said. "We know that a lot of them have been hit as
a result of the Sept. 11 attacks, but this is for one of our own
here at home."
The service project is part of the "Campus to Community"
program, new this year to Dixie State College. Stafford has seen
a lot of student service projects carried out over the years, but
has never seen a student government push service as much as Shakespeare
and those surrounding him are this year. The student theme for the
year is "Back to the Basics," and, according to Shakespeare,
service seemed to be a natural fit.
"The three things we are focusing on this year are academics,
school spirit, and community involvement," Shakespeare said.
"As part of the Campus to Community program, we
do one large service project each semester. It wasnt long
after the accident occurred this past summer that we decided to
focus our efforts this semester on Nathan. We think this can really
make a difference, and were proud to have a hand in helping
make that difference."
In addition to in kind donations, an account in Nathans name
has been set up at Beehive Credit Union, 1227 E. 100 South in St.
George, phone: (435) 652-9070. Cash donations can also be made by
calling Donna Stafford at (435) 652-7513.
Back to the top
New Four-year program approved
at Dixie State College
(St. George, UT Oct 19, 2001) The Utah Board of Regents today
voted on and approved a four-year elementary education program at
Dixie State College. Beginning Fall Semester 2002, DSC students
will be able to begin pursing a BS degree in elementary education
with a state ESL endorsement.
"This is wonderful news, not only to the college, but to the
community as a whole and educators throughout Washington County,"
said Dr. Robert Huddleston, president of Dixie State College. "Weve
worked hard for this and are excited to have it materialize. This
program will only add to what we feel is a solid and attractive
base of four-year programs at Dixie State College."
This new four-year program joins the four-year business administration
and computer information and technology programs at Dixie State.
Dr. Michael F. Killeen, the programs director, is happy with
the shape this new program has taken thus far, particularly with
regards to the built-in ESL endorsement.
"This will allow our students to not only be effective elementary
school teachers, but to effectively manage all of the issues associated
with teaching children who dont speak English as their first
language," Killeen said. "Well be the first in the
state to have the whole endorsement as part of our degree program.
The endorsement is actually embedded in the program."
Initially, the program will have a limited enrollment of 30 students,
which is consistent with the precedent set by the Board of Regents
at the time UVSC began requesting four-year programs. This limited
enrollment will be in effect for two to three years while the program
gets off its feet and is evaluated by the Board of Regents.
The next step for Dixie State College is to fine-tune the details
of the program and prepare to admit students to the program, which
will occur during Spring Semester 2002. According to Killeen, theres
already been an outpouring of support throughout the community in
the programs behalf.
"Over the course of the past year in developing this proposal
for the program, weve entered into what we think is a really
good developing partnership with Washington County School District,"
Killeen said. "They are absolutely excited at the prospect
of being able to partner with us in producing the best teachers
we possibly can. Thats an exciting piece because the quality
of any education program rests on the kind of experiences the students
have teaching in the schools themselves."
Back to the top
DSC Announces Oct 23 Concert
(St. George, UT Oct 18, 2001) Dixie State College today announced
that the Dixie State College music department will present the Symphonic
Band and Jazz Ensembles in a combined concert Tuesday, Oct 23. The
concert will be held in the Avenna Center Cox Auditorium at 8 pm.
"There is an exciting chemistry in the Symphonic Band this
year," said Gary Caldwell, DSC director of bands and conductor
for the Southwest Symphony. "This particular group of musicians
really creates a kind of simmering energy in their playing. And,
they work so well together, learning very difficult music in a relatively
short period of time. They are a real joy to work with, and I think
people will really enjoy this concert."
The Symphonic Band is a group of 73 college musicians. They perform
regularly in various concerts in and around the community. The Oct
23 program will include a variety of pieces including "Hanover
Festival" by Phillip Sparke, "March Slav" by Tchaikovsky,
Symphonic Suite from "Robin Hood, Prince of Thieves" by
Michael Kamen and "El Camino Real," a Latin Fantasy by
Alfred Reed.
The Jazz Ensembles are full 18 piece big bands comprised of accomplished
student jazz musicians. The Jazz Bands and Jazz Combos will perform
a variety of swing and Latin numbers featuring saxophone soloists
Tyson Smith, Sterling Hamilton, John Tilby and on the piano, Kali
Terry and Cassidy Larson. The Jazz Combos, directed by Dennis Zwang,
are smaller five to seven piece ensembles that feature various soloists.
Cost for the concert is $2 per person or $5 per family. Students
with a DSC activity card will be admitted free of charge. Tickets
will be available at the door the night of the concert.
Back to the top
Creativity the subject of next
Dixie Forum
(St. George, UT Oct 18, 2001) Lt. Colonel Bert Walker will
be the next guest speaker at Dixie Forum: A Window on the World,
new this year at Dixie State College. The forum is slated for Tuesday,
Oct 23 at 12 noon in DSCs Dunford Auditorium. Both students
and community members are invited to attend. Walkers theme
will be "Secrets of the Unchained Mind," dealing with
how people can better use the creativity they are born with.
"Everybody is creative to one degree or another, but not everyone
knows how to unleash that creativity," said Dixie Forum coordinator,
Terre Burton. "I think people will leave this forum with a
new perspective and approach to creativity."
Walker was born in Springfield, Illinois. He earned a BA in Spanish
from Lawrence University and later joined the U.S. Air Force. In
the USAF he trained foreign officers, earned a master's degree in
Spanish from the University of Wisconsin and quickly rose through
the ranks to become a Lt. Colonel in charge of the prestigious Air
Command and Staff College at Memphis State University.
During his career, Walker was stationed in Alabama, Pennsylvania,
Tennessee, Panama, and Bolivia. He was responsible for training
hundreds of foreign officers. Among his favorite topics included
how geography builds countries, how to teach well, and using imagination
effectively.
Dixie Forum is held every other Tuesday at noon, the next being
held on Nov 6. Thus far, this semesters series has featured
a sculptor, a South Indian classical dancer and an opera and Celtic
singer. Admission to the forum series is free. For more information,
contact Terre Burton at 652-7812.
Back to the top
Homecoming taking
center stage at Dixie State
(St. George, UT Oct 5, 2001) A football game, a parade and a pageant,
all rolled into one week, can only mean one thing. Homecoming Week
at Dixie State College officially gets under way Tuesday, Oct 8,
with the majority of the activities taking place Friday, Oct 12
and Saturday, Oct 13.
All community members are invited to attend, regardless of their
tie to the college. "This is a great time of year, one we always
look forward to," said Kalynn Larson, alumni association director
at DSC. "Homecoming is not only a great tradition that alumni
get excited about, but it's a fun time for the entire community.
We like to see everyone get involved, whether they're a Dixie State
alum or not."
The DSC Homecoming Queen Pageant will lead off this year's activities
and will be held Tuesday, Oct 9 at 7 pm in the Cox Auditorium. Over
twenty freshman and sophomore candidates will participate. The eventual
homecoming queen will qualify for the Miss Utah Pageant. Cost to
attend the pageant is $3 per person.
An alumni assembly will be held Friday, Oct 12 at 11 am in the Graff
Fine Arts Center. The assembly will feature musical and dancing
performances by DSC alumni. Admission is free, and the public is
invited to attend.
Following the alumni assembly on Oct 12 will be the golden generation
luncheon and program, which will be held in the Gardner Center Ballroom
at 12 noon. Cost for the luncheon is $10 per person.
The heart of homecoming week kicks off Saturday, Oct 13, beginning
with the homecoming parade. The parade begins at 9:30 am. All entries
must begin to line up at the parade's starting point at 8:30 am,
which will be between 200 E. and 400 E. on 100 South. From there,
the parade route, as it traditionally has, will turn on Flood Street,
with the majority running down Tabernacle. Any entries should have
already contacted Donna Stafford at 652-7513.
Immediately following the parade will be the DSC Founder's Day Assembly
and Hall of Fame, which will be held in the St. George Tabernacle
Saturday at 10:30 am. Some of DSC's senior-most alumni will be recognized,
including graduates from 1918 through 1931. The public is invited
to attend at no cost.
The DSC Alumni Association tailgate party gets underway Saturday,
Oct 13 at noon, after which the Rebels host New Mexico Military.
Kickoff is at 1 PM Food at the tailgate party is free to DSC alumni.
Non-alumni are invited to attend the regularly held college tailgate
party. Cost to attend the game is $5.
The week wraps up the night of Oct 13 with the alumni banquet, which
will be held at 7 PM and promises to be one of the highlights of
this year's homecoming festivities. Originally, the banquet was
scheduled to be held in the Dixie College Gymnasium. The location
of the banquet has been changed to the Burns Arena. Speaking at
this year's banquet will be St. George native, Dr. LeRoy Neilson
Nisson. Dr. Ron Garner, a professor of music at DSC for 47 years,
is this year's distinguished alumnus. Cost is $11 to attend the
banquet.
Tickets for the luncheon and banquet can be purchased at the North
Administration Building from Kalynn Larson who can be contacted
at 652-7535 or via email at larson@dixie.edu. Tickets may also be
purchased from Dan Watson at the Alumni House located at 658 E.
200 S. Phone: 652-7538.
Back to the top
New coordinator in place
at this semester at DSCs Hurricane Center
(St. George, UT Oct 4, 2001) The Dixie State College Hurricane
Center is not only currently undergoing a face-lift, but its administration
has recently changed faces as well. Dr. Dave Nichols is the centers
new coordinator this fall semester.
"Its an excellent college -- top of the line," Nichols
said. "They dont come much better. This is a quality
institution. The people here take great pride in the worth of education.
The pioneers that settled this valley were people who believed in
the importance of education, and it shows up very strongly at Dixie
State College."
Nichols should know a thing or two about what goes into making an
institution a quality one. He has been involved in education his
entire career. Nichols got his first taste of teaching while at
BYU pursuing his masters degree. He taught natural history
and anatomy laboratory classes and knew right then that he wanted
a career in academia.
"I enjoyed working with the students, and thats kind
of where I formally made the decision to go into education,"
Nichols said. "I knew, though, that I didnt want to teach
at the high school level because I knew what kind of high school
student I was and what kind of trouble I gave my teachers."
Nichols, accordingly, went straight to the community college level.
The community college movement was just getting underway about the
time Nichols graduated from college, and that new market appealed
to him from the get go. He landed his first job at Lincoln Trail
College, a brand new institution at the time, in eastern Illinois.
Because it was brand new, Nichols wore many hats. One year after
starting as science chair/professor, he was named chair over academics
for the entire college. He remained at Lincoln Trail for three years,
teaching full-time and taking on administrative duties part-time.
Being from the western U.S., and an avid downhill skier, Nichols
always wanted to return to the west. That opportunity to move west
came in 1974 at Northland Pioneer College (NPC) in Arizona, again,
a brand new college full of opportunity and just a stones
throw from the skiing of the White Mountains. NPC has campuses throughout
northeastern Arizona.
A founding faculty member/administrator once again, Nichols took
on a variety of duties. He began at Northland Pioneer as a life
sciences instructor, the only one at the college at the time. Because
there were so few professors, each inherited the administrative
responsibilities over their respective programs. Nichols administrative
duties increased as time went on. During his tenure, he worked as
assistant dean of instruction and later as associate dean of instruction.
At one point, one-half of all academic programs fell under Nichols
jurisdiction. Before he knew it, Nichols had been at Northland Pioneer
for 25 years and was eligible for early retirement.
"I had accumulated the necessary points, opened that door and
said, Its time to go into another door somewhere else,"
Nichols said.
Before shutting the door completely, Nichols left his administrative
duties and went back to teaching part-time for two years at Northland
Pioneer. During that time, he commuted once a week from St. George,
having already moved his family in order to be more centrally located
to extended family. Soon thereafter, the door opened to Dixie State
College.
Nichols comes to DSC at a time when the Hurricane Center is undergoing
considerable growth. Construction on a 4,600 sq. foot addition began
this year in August. The addition will nearly double the size of
the center and is expected to be finished in time for spring semester
in January 2002.
"The addition is really going to mean that well be able
to serve the growth thats occurring in Hurricane with higher
education," Nichols said. "I think that it may not be
many more years, if not possibly a year after this building is done,
before the next one may be in the planning stages."
In addition to his new position at Dixie State College, Nichols
is a small businessman on the side. He and his wife, Sue, own a
small resort, Double B Lodge, in the White Mountains near Sunrise
Ski Resort. The lodge also serves as a retreat from the southern
Arizona summer heat. Nichols and his wife have seven children, five
daughters and two sons, and eight grandchildren.
Nichols holds a bachelors degree in zoology with a minor in
botany, which he earned at Brigham Young University. He holds a
masters degree in vertebrate zoology with a composite minor
in community college education and botany, which he also earned
at BYU. Lastly, he holds a doctorate degree in leadership in higher
education, which he completed at Northern Arizona University in
1996.
# # #
Dixie State College has offered classes in Hurricane since 1995.
Until construction of the Hurricane Center was completed in 2000,
classes were held at Hurricane High School. The center sits on 8
acres of partially developed land, all of which was privately donated.
Over 400 students are currently enrolled in fall semester classes
at the center, which is located at 112 South 700 West in Hurricane,
UT.
Back to the top
New DSC Hall
of Fame inductees to be honored during Homecoming Week
(Oct 4, 2001) Dixie State College will honor three individuals and
one couple as this year's inductees into the Hall of Fame. Each
inductee, or their representative, will be presented a medallion
at the Fourth Annual Hall of Fame Ceremony to be held in conjunction
with Homecoming Founder's Day activities on Saturday, Oct 13, at
11 am in the St. George Tabernacle.
"Our Hall of Fame has provided a unique forum to honor individuals
who have contributed so much to the great stature that Dixie has
attained over the years," said Dr. Robert Huddleston, college president.
"We are grateful to the many people who have dedicated their careers
and given so much time toward the success of this institution."
Along with the medallion, individual plaques with a photograph of
each award recipient will be presented during the ceremony. The
photos and plaques will join the past 45 inductees at the Wall of
Fame located at the Avenna Center in the Cox Auditorium. Following
the ceremony, each inductee, where possible, will be asked to spend
an hour with students in their area of recognition answering questions
during a short presentation.
This year's inductees and their areas of recognition are:
Val A. Browning Social Science and Humanities
Val A. Browning is a major benefactor of Dixie State College. His
generous donations have enabled the college to add the Val A. Browning
Learning Resource Center and the Val A. Browning Library to Dixie
State's campus. In addition, Browning has provided a nursing endowment
for scholarships to Dixie State's new LPN Nursing program. Browning
was born in Ogden and graduated from Ogden High School in 1913.
He then spent one year at the Fabrique Nationale d'Armes de Guerre
in Liege, Belgium, studying factory methods of firearms manufacturing
and learning the French language. Browning then studied engineering
and law at Cornell University. He holds an Honorary Doctorate of
Humanities Degree from Dixie State College and an Honorary Doctorate
in Science from Weber State University. The late Val Browning and
his wife, Ann Chaffin (also deceased) are the parents of four children.
During World War I, Browning was commissioned a second lieutenant
in the United States Army and was immediately ordered to France
to teach instructors at the three U.S. Army machine gun schools.
He was sent to the front with the 79th American Division as a machine
gun trouble-shooter and instructor and to report on the performance
of Browning machine guns and automatic rifles under combat conditions.
Browning was then stationed in Washington, D.C. where he received
his discharge, returning to become an assistant to his father in
the development and manufacturing of firearms.
Hugh M. Woodward Education Known as the "Father of Dixie,"
Hugh M. Woodward (deceased) was the pioneer president of Dixie State
College. Under his leadership, the original administration building
of pink sandstone and the gymnasium were constructed on Main Street
in downtown St. George. Through his efforts, approval was given
in 1916 for the establishment of Dixie Normal College. During his
tenure as president, Dixie's enrollment fluctuated between 15 to
122 students. He served as president from 1911 to 1918. He wrote
the first student body charter and instituted the first student
body government at Dixie State.
William Rolfe Kerr Education
William Rolfe Kerr, served as Dixie's 12th president. He spearheaded
the cooperative education work program with local businesses, brought
about salary increases for the faculty, and promoted closer ties
between college and community. It was Dr. Kerr's conception of an
educational, cultural, and recreational facility that resulted in
the building of the Dixie Center. During Kerr's tenure, enrollment
rose to 1589 students, and a new trades and industries building
was built and dedicated in 1980. Later in his career, he served
as Utah Commissioner of Higher Education.
He was sustained as a General Authority of The Church of Jesus Christ
of Latter-day Saints on April 6, 1996. He was serving as President
of the Church's Texas Dallas Mission at the time of his call. He
is currently serving as a member of the Church's Utah South Area
Presidency.
Kerr was born and raised in Tremonton, Utah. He married Janeil Raybould
of Rexburg, Idaho, in 1960. They have six children and nine grandchildren.
Robert N. and Peggy Sears Fine and Performing Arts Together, Robert
(deceased) and Peggy Sears have been a major force behind cultural
enrichment at Dixie State College.
Every February, Dixie State hosts the Robert N. and Peggy Sears
Dixie Invitational Art Show. A retired vice president of Phillips
Petroleum, Robert worked tirelessly with Peggy to establish a quality
art invitational at the college. The show has become one of the
most popular, well-attended exhibits in the state of Utah. Funds
from the sale of the exhibit's art work are applied toward the eventual
construction of an art museum on the college campus, and the proceeds
from each yearly exhibit help bring the dream of the museum closer
to a reality.
The Sears organized the first advisory council for Dixie State College
and Robert served as chairman for the first three years. They were
also a driving force behind generating funds and gave generously
of their personal assets. They contributed to numerous scholarships
and created an art scholarship endowment in addition to donating
sculptures, paintings, and enabling the creation of the sculpture
garden on campus. In 1990, the Sears were awarded the Utah Governor's
Award for Excellence in the Arts.
Back to the top
South Indian
dancer next up at Dixie Forum
(Oct 1, 2001) Neela Moorty, an expert in the South Indian dance form
Bharata Natyam, will present and perform at the next Dixie Forum:
A Window on the World.
The performance will be held in DSC's Dunford Auditorium Tuesday,
Act 9 at 12 noon. "Bharata Natyam has enriched my life," Moorty said.
"It is an extremely challenging discipline that has tested me mentally,
physically, and emotionally. Dancing has not only allowed me to appreciate
my rich heritage, but it has brought joy and beauty into my life."
Bharata Natyam is among the oldest and most popular and widely performed
dance styles of India. It's known for its wide range of hand movements
and positions, which are poetically symbolic in nature and often have
religious meaning. Moorty first learned Bharata Natyam from guru Smt.
Viji Aunty at the age of 10 in Los Angeles. Moorty later moved to
her native state, Utah, to attend high school, but that didn't put
a stop to her dance lessons. Moorty's mother routinely drove her from
Utah to Los Angeles, every other weekend in fact.
She has participated in many Shakti productions, including Moha Mudgara,
Purandara Daasa, Meera, Thyagaraja, and Women of the Mahabharata.
In 1997, Moorty toured the West Coast and Canada with the Shakti Dance
Company as part of the dance ballet Shyama.
Moorty is no stranger to southern Utah. She attended high school at
Cedar City High where she won the Sterling Scholar Award in dance,
not to mention graduating with a 4.0 GPA. From there, Moorty went
on to graduate from SUU and later from Yale University with a degree
in Political Science.
While at Yale, she performed and choreographed group dances for many
cultural shows and was a founding member of the eclectic dance group,
A Different Drum. Moorty currently works in San Francisco with a health
care consulting firm. "I feel quite lucky that I had the opportunity
to learn about different types of ethnic arts and traditions when
I was at college in the East," Moorty said. "In fact, I would say
that it was one of the highlights of my college education. I am happy
to bring this rich and unique form of cultural awareness back to southern
Utah."
Dixie Forum is held every other week on Tuesdays in the DSC Dunford
Auditorium. Lt. Colonel Bert Walker will present at the forum Act
23 at 12 noon and will talk about how people can better use the creativity
they are born with. Back to the top
Opera singer to perform
at Dixie Forum
(St. George, UT Sept 21, 2001) Marta Burton, a coloratura soprano,
will be appearing at the next Dixie Forum: A Window on the World in
the Dunford Auditorium at Dixie State College at 12 noon on Tuesday,
Sept 25. She will be talking with Dixie students and other interested
people about the life of an aspiring actress and singer and her own
experiences as a performer.
Her presentation and performance are open to the public. Burton's
resume is an impressive one. She first appeared on stage as the youngest
daughter of the King of Siam in the popular musical "The King and
I." "She has always loved theatre, showed her talent early, and has
spent years refining it," said DSC Professor Terre Burton who scheduled
the performance and who also happens to be Marta's mother. "I think
it will be worth the audience's while to come see her perform."
Burton has regularly appeared in musicals and operas, and has, more
recently, sung with a number of symphony orchestras, including solo
performances with the National Symphony Orchestra at the Kennedy Center
in Washington, D.C. Although Burton's specialty is opera, she also
sings Celtic music, American folk music, and musical theatre numbers.
She recently completed a three-month tour with The Norwegian Dream
as it cruised through the Baltic, playing the lead in "Crazy for You."
This last week she participated in benefit concerts in New York City
with Opera Works, singing the U.S. premier of John Tavener's "The
Child Lived."
Although she did not grow up in St. George or attend Dixie State College,
Burton has ties with both because her parents, Lou and Terre Burton,
teach in the English Department at the college. Burton, who attended
a community college in Cheyenne, Wyo., feels she has a lot in common
with Dixie students. She participated in community and college theater
while she was growing up, very much enjoyed the experiences of attending
a small college, and has a deep love for the American West.
The Dixie Forum: A Window on the World is presented every other Tuesday.
On Oct 9th, Neela Moorta will appear and discuss and demonstrate the
classical dances of South India. Back to the
top
DSC Elderhostel
bound for the 2002 Olympics
(Sept. 24, 2001) Dixie State College's Elderhostel program is sponsoring
a course that will take Elderhostel students to the 2002 Olympic games
in Salt Lake City, UT, and spots are filling up quickly. "It's
been an extremely popular ticket thus far," said DSC Elderhostel
director Ann Durfey. "The first two weeks are completely filled
up. The second two weeks have space available, but we expect them
to fill up shortly after phone registration begins."
Telephone registration begins Tuesday, Sept 25. The toll free number
to register is 1-877-426-8056. Registration can also be done in person
at 123 East 100 South in St. George or online at www.elderhostel.org.
Due to popularity, waiting lists are also in place, according to Durfey.
In all, four different course sections are currently being offered
in six and ten day increments, which will run through the entire month
of February 2002.
Up to 44 people can enroll for each program week. Opening week begins
Feb 1 and will run through Feb 10, cost is $2,436. Enrollees will
attend four Olympic events, which include Ski Jumping: K90 Individual,
Cross-Country Skiing: Women's 15K, Men's Alpine Skiing; and Figure
Skating: Pairs Short Program. Opening week enrollees will also attend
opening ceremonies at one of the downtown locations.
The Olympic events highlighting week two, Feb 10 ¼ 15, are Figure
Skating: Men's Short Program and Cross Country Skiing: Men's 10 km.
Cost for six days is $1,377.
Week three, which runs Feb 15 ¼ 20, will feature Figure Skating: Dance
Original and Cross Country Skiing: Women's 1.5 km Sprint. Cost for
six days is $1,377.
Closing week runs Feb 20 to Mar 1 and includes Men's and Women's Short
Track Speed Skating, Women's Curling, Bobsleigh: 4-Man and Cross Country
Skiing: Men's 50 km classical. Cost for closing week (week four) is
$2,336. "This is an excellent value," Durfey said.
"We researched other Olympic packages deals available and most
start at $3,000, and many of those packages don't include everything
an Elderhostel package includes. There are many very expensive packages
out there, but we think we have put together a great experience at
a fine price."
Common denominators of all four weeks include, among other things,
Olympics Arts Festival events, including a performance by the Mormon
Tabernacle Choir, classes dealing with Greek society and culture and
Olympic history, and tours of Olympic Park in Park City and other
Olympic venues, including Olympic Village.
Each group will also attend a medals ceremony at Olympic Legacy Plaza.
Excursions each week also include a tour of Salt Lake City with lectures
on its history and a cruise on the Great Salt Lake. Participants must
be 55 years of age or older. Younger students are not eligible unless
they accompany a participant that falls in that age category.
Though the academic content will be at a college level, the course
is not a traditional, credit-based college course. In addition to
classes and events, rates include food, lodging and transportation
to and from events. Travel arrangements and airfare (if applicable)
to Salt Lake City are the responsibility of the individual. Early
arrival and stay-over is available at the Elderhostel facility in
St. George. For more information, visit www.dixie.edu/elderhostel
or contact Ann Durfey at (435) 673-3704 or durfey@dixie.edu
Back to the top
DSC Announces Memorial
Concert for Victims of Terrorist Attacks
(Sept 25, 2001) Dixie State College today announced that the Dixie
State musical department, under the direction of Dr. Jong Hyun Kim,
will host a memorial concert Sunday, Oct 14 at 8 pm in the Cox Auditorium.
The concert will be in honor of those who lost their lives in the
Sept 11 attacks on America. "Personally, I think this was
an attack on all of humanity," Kim said. "As a musician, I want
to do something special for those innocent victims and their grieving
families. And I feel that the material we've chosen for this concert
is most appropriate given this tragic occasion."
The event will feature the Dixie State Chamber Orchestra, Southwest
Symphony Orchestra, Chamber Singers, Women's Ensemble, Southwest Chorale
and the Dixie State College Chorus in a combined presentation of Brahms
requiem.
Different from the traditional setting of the Roman Catholic requiem,
Brahms text is non-denominational and focuses solely on faith and
hope.
Both the public and students are welcome to attend. Tickets must be
reserved in advance at the Cox Auditorium ticket office. The concert
is free of charge, but donations are appreciated. To reserve tickets,
call (435) 652-7800. Back to the top
Lt. Governor
delivers message to DSC students
(Sept 27, 2001) Lt. Governor Olene Walker was at Dixie State College
this morning to promote her "No Vote, No Voice" campaign to DSC students.
The campaign is designed to increase student participation at the
voting booth and in politics in general.
Walker has been the driving force behind the registration of college
students in the state over the past couple of years. She continued
with that theme and urged students to get involved in the political
process early on. "It's great to come up to the legislature when it's
in session and lobby," Walker said. "That's great, but if you really
want to do something, by then it's too late. You need to be getting
your issue before the individual legislators now. You need to start
with your own legislators, build a good case, and take it to others."
Dixie State students are familiar with what it takes to get involved.
According to director of student activities, Donna Stafford, DSC saw
the greatest increase in student voter registration of any higher
education institution in the state this past presidential election.
"We're proud of that statistic because it is so important to get involved,"
Stafford said. "We feel that it is vital for students to understand
they can make a difference, and we're happy to continue our support
of the Lt. Governor in increasing involvement."
Walker has invested effort and time in increasing voter participation,
particularly among young people. Both in Utah and across the nation,
Walker has heard just about every excuse in the book, along with numerous
complaints. However, she grew up in a home where complaining came
at a price. "My parents didn't tolerate complaining," she explained.
"They always said if it's worth complaining about, you'd better get
busy and do something about it. If it isn't worth doing something
about, you have no right to complain."
Walker urged students who have a complaint about local, state or federal
government to get involved and fix it. "If you're concerned about
what might be happening at Dixie State College and you have a complaint,
get involved," Walker told students. According to Walker, involvement
is fundamental to democracy, a way of life that has had added meaning
since Sept 11. "(Our nation's tragedy) has brought us together and
maybe made us realize and think a little more about our freedoms."
Walker didn't shy away form making a few suggestions on just how to
get involved. She mentioned the myriad boards that exist in the state
of Utah, ranging from the city council to the library board, and urged
students to take their involvement to the very top. "I would encourage
all of you to look into running for office," Walker said. "And for
heaven's sakes, if you're not going to run, look around you and find
people who share your values and ideas and help them run."
Back to the top
DSC Announces
Fall Semester New Student Orientation Schedule
(August 8, 2001) Classes at Dixie State College officially begin Aug.
21, but new students will get their first taste of DSC a day earlier.
August 20, marks the beginning of "WOW Week," or "Week of Welcome,"
a full week geared specifically towards orienting, welcoming and getting
new DSC students involved from day one.
DSC director of student activities, Donna Stafford, is involved annually
in the planning of "WOW Week" and places a lot of stock in this first
week of school. "This is one of the most important weeks of a student's
academic career," Stafford said. "Everyone comes here with a clean
slate. Everyone comes from their own individual institution to a situation
where Dixie State College is now everyone's institution. It's important
that students feel like they're a part of the college, and ÝWOW Week'
facilitates this."
James Malinchak, contributing author to the "Chicken Soup" series
and author of "From College To The Real World," will kick off orientation
week as the keynote speaker on Monday. Students will have the opportunity
to join the approximately 40 clubs that are available on campus during
a club rush, which will be held Aug. 24. Other highlights of the week
will be a movie night, an improvisational comedy show, a carnival,
and a dance in the Gardner Ballroom. Back
to the top
Registration
time at Dixie State College
(August 8, 2001) Fall Semester at Dixie State is less than two weeks
away, and registration for classes is in full swing. Enrollment is
up nearly three percent over last year, and the registration system
is equipped to take on all comers.
The main concern, according to Bill Fowler, vice president for student
services, is that many classes are already full and others are filling
up quickly. "Only sixty percent of our new freshman students have
registered for their classes," Fowler said. "In order for them to
sign up for the classes they want, at the times they prefer, they
need to complete registration as soon as possible."
Among those classes that are proving popular this fall semester are
those offered in DSC's new four-year Business Administration and Computer
and Information Technology programs. Approximately 150 students are
already registered in classes associated with these programs, up significantly
from last year's total. A large percentage of those students dragging
their feet appear to reside right here in Washington County. "Our
records show that many local students have not completed their class
schedules," Fowler said. "They need to come in as soon as possible
to finalize their classes for the August 20 beginning of fall semester."
In addition to registering in person, students can register for classes
on the telephone by calling 652-7777, or over the Internet, accessible
at www.dixie.edu in the admissions and registration section.
As the August 20 starting date approaches, Vice President Fowler recommends
that students register in person at the college with the help of an
advisor who can register students on the computer system as they meet.
For those who choose to attend school on a part-time basis, DSC waives
the fees (cost of tuition still applies) for students who carry a
workload of three credits or less. For help selecting courses, students
may call 652-7690. Back to the top
Groundbreaking
SET set for new DSC facility in Hurricane
(AUG. 16, 2001) The Dixie State College Hurricane Center is about
to nearly double in size, yet at zero cost to the college. Construction
on a second building, which will be completely financed by private
donations, will officially begin during a public groundbreaking ceremony
Aug. 22 at 10 am.
Before the Alan Joseph Stout Hurricane Center was dedicated in Sept.
2000, a donor approached DSC administrators and proposed that this
second building be built as well. "It's a little unusual that people
have that much love for their community that they'll step forward
and be that generous," said Stan Plewe, DSC vice president of administration
and information services.
Currently, the 6,005 sq. foot center houses two large classrooms and
a computer lab. In addition, DSC borrows classroom space at Hurricane
High School to accommodate student demand.
The expansion will consist of an additional 4,600 sq. feet, mainly
of classroom space, which will be built onto the existing building.
In all, four new classrooms will be added to the center. "This will
allow us to be more self-contained and use less of the high school,"
Plewe said. "Instead of having two rooms that accommodate sixty each,
these smaller rooms will allow us to have a little more variety in
the center." And given Hurricane's growth over the past ten years,
every bit helps.
Census data indicates that Hurricane has experienced a 110% percent
growth increase over the past ten years, growing from 3,915 in 1990
to a population of 8,250 in 2000. According to Plewe, however, this
addition to the Hurricane Center is good news not only to the residents
of Hurricane, but to all of Washington County.
In addition to Hurricaneñ LaVerkin, Toquerville, Springdale, Virgin
and Rockville are the main cities the DSC Hurricane Center is geared
towards serving. "The east county area is one of the fastest growing
areas in southern Utah," Plewe said. "It's an important function of
a community college to reach out to the community, and the Hurricane
Center allows us to provide our services to these particular communities.
Instead of driving 50 miles from Springdale to St. George to take
classes, for example, the Hurricane Center helps cut back on some
of that travel time."
According to Hurricane Center director Dave Nichols, this new addition
to the Hurricane Center is crucial in order to keep pace with the
county's growth. "The addition is really going to mean that we'll
be able to serve the growth that's occurring with higher education,"
Nichols said. "I think that it may not be many more years, if not
possibly a year after this building is done, before the next one may
in the planning stages."
Construction is scheduled to run through the end of fall semester.
Noise from the construction is expected to be minimal and isn't expected
to disturb classes. It will also help that only evening classes are
scheduled during the construction phase. For Nichols, however, a little
noise is a small price to pay for what's to come. "I like the sound
of hammers and nails and sawing because that means that things are
being built," Nichols said. "If it takes a little construction noise
and a little inconvenience, we'll certainly try and do the best we
can to live with it until it's done."
DSC administrators hope to have the project completed in time for
the start of spring semester in January 2002. Ceremonies will be held
on site at 112 South 700 W. in Hurricane. Welcoming and remarks begin
at 10 am, with the official groundbreaking ceremony beginning at 10:30
am. Refreshments will be served at 10:45 am. Both the public and media
are welcome to attend.
Dixie State College has offered classes in Hurricane since 1995. Until
construction of the Hurricane Center was completed in 2000, classes
were held at Hurricane High School. The Center sits on 8 acres of
partially developed land, which was all privately donated. The Center's
director is Dr. Dave Nichols who is new to DSC this fall semester.
Currently, over 300 students have registered for fall semester classes
at the Hurricane Center. The Hurricane Center is located at 112 South
700 West in Hurricane, UT. Back to the top
Dixie Students Win Three
1st Place International Awards
In a year already bright with national recognition for Dixie State
College, the DEX (Business Marketing) Club came away from the International
Career Development Conference with three international awards, the
best showing in the school's history. The annual May competition took
place in Anaheim, California. "While Dixie has always
had an excellent national reputation with our marketing students,
often winning one international first place award each year, this
year we came away with three," said Brent Snow, marketing professor
and club advisor. "This was a truly amazing success for our students
and for Dixie State College. "Snow noted that out of 20 events,
Dixie won two individual first place awards and one first place team
award. Wiley McArthur, of St. George, took first place in Retail Merchandising.
Bryan Stewart, of Hurricane, took first place in the nation in Human
Resource Management Decision Making. The team contest included Gabrielle
McArthur (Wiley's wife), and her multi-state team took first place
in the Culinary Arts Institute competition.
Other top awards included Scott Seegmiller, California, who finished
in the top 15 in Financial Management and Marketing. "Overall,
there are 2000 competitors from 35 states," said Snow. "Dixie
won 15 percent of the first place awards. That is an remarkable achievement."
Snow is assisted by instructor Shari Gowers who also traveled with
the team to California. "It is so rewarding to be associated
with these students," said Snow. "The kids are competent,
refreshing; willing to study and work hard, and they represent themselves
extremely well among other college students." Back
to the top
Dixie State To Confer 1,272
Degrees and Certificates
Dixie State College will award a total of 1,272 degrees and certificates
at the 90th annual commencement exercises on May 4, at 6 pm in the
Avenna Center Burns Arena. The college will also award its first two
bachelor degrees at the ceremonies.
David Checketts, president and CEO of Madison Square Garden and former
executive director for the Utah Jazz, will address the graduates.
He will also be awarded an Honorary Doctor of Humanities degree.
Hayley Devey will represent the school's four valedictorians by also
speaking to the graduates. She is the daughter of Melanee Dulfon and
the late Michael Devey. Hayley grew up in a small community called
Quichipa, located ten miles west of Cedar City.
In addition to Devey, class valedictorians for 2001 will be Matthew
Wayne Bettridge, son of Jim and Suzanne Bettridge, Milford, Utah;
Chauntelle Joy Plewe, daughter of Stanley and Barbara Plewe; and Kimberly
Wilson, married to Scott Wilson, of St. George.
A total of 874 associate degrees will be conferred, including Dixie
State's first two bachelor degrees ever, plus 398 vocational and technical
certificates will be awarded.
The graduates hail from 28 Utah counties, 24 states and four foreign
countries, and they range in age from 17 to 61 years. The class represents
six Asian American/Pacific Islanders, five Black students, 25 Hispanics,
14 Native American/Alaska Natives, eight international students and
808 white students. Back to the top
Dixie State
College Names Four Valedictorians
Dixie State College of Utah has named four valedictorians for the
Class of 2001. Earning top honors from a field of 874 students receiving
associate degrees, all four students have achieved a 4.0 grade point
average during their two years at Dixie. They will be honored at the
90th Commencement Exercises on Fri. May 4, at 6 PM in the Avenna Center
Burns Arena. Hayley Devey will represent the four
valedictorians by addressing the graduating class. She is the daughter
of Melanee Dulfon and the late Michael Devey. Hayley is a native of
Utah; she grew up in a small community called Quichipa, located ten
miles west of Cedar City. In 1995 she graduated from Cedar City high
school and spent the following three years as a nomad. After realizing
the world was too tough without an education, she decided to attend
Dixie State College.
While at Dixie she developed a passion for learning. Much of her interest
was in the biological sciences; she became especially familiar with
the "study of life" when she gave birth to her daughter,
Indigo. With Indigo came immense joy, as well as a greater appreciation
(and need) for an education and the inspiration to follow her dream
of one day getting her Ph.D. Along with her desire to learn, Hayley
is also very passionate about nature and animals. She will incorporate
this passion into her educational goals at the University of Santa
Cruz, where she will major in marine biology, earn a Ph.D. and swim
with the dolphins. Matthew Wayne Bettridge was born
February 23, 1977 to Jim and Suzanne Bettridge. He is the fifth of
seven children. He was born in Coalville, Utah and at age one moved
with his family too Milford, Utah. Matt attended Milford Elementary
and Milford High School and graduated in 1996 as the valedictorian
of his class. After a two-year mission for the Church of Jesus Christ
of Latter-Day Saints in Edinburgh, Scotland he returned to Utah. He
then moved to St. George in 1999 to attend Dixie State College. He
has always been interested in the fields of Science and will be transferring
to Utah State University to study Aerospace Engineering.
Chauntelle Joy Plewe is the seventh child of Stanley and Barbara
Plewe. Her grandparents are Melvin and Ellen Going and Jared and Melba
Plewe. She is very honored to receive this recognition.
She graduated from Dixie High School with honors as well as the service
academy cord. In high school she served as an officer of the Jetette
drill team and as a member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day
Saints seminary council. She received the President's Youth Service
award for her involvement in the Youth Volunteer Corps and R.A.S.K.
(service club).
Chauntelle came to Dixie on both academic and dance scholarships.
She has loved her experience at Dixie State College and says her teachers
have taught her as much about life as she has learned about academics.
Along with her school work, she assists teaching dance to children.
Following graduation, Chauntelle will continue her education at Dixie
State College to receive the Visual Technologies certificate. She
then plans to attend BYU and study public relations and communications.
She hopes to become a public relations manager for a dance company
or non-profit organization. Kimberly Wilson has lived
most of her life in Salina, Utah where she also graduated as valedictorian
of her class at North Sevier High School. She started her higher education
at Southern Utah University but decided to come down to sunny St.
George to complete her Associate of Science Degree and attend the
practical nursing program. She plans now to further her education
by completing the RN program and eventually a BSN program at the University
of Utah.
Kimberly's long range goal is to become a nurse practitioner or a
nurse-midwife. She says she finds great satisfaction in helping others
through nursing and it is her desire to encompass the traits of great
nurses in Dixie State College's nursing program.
Married to Scott Wilson, Kimberly enjoys eating her husband's good
cooking. She likes to read, run, play the piano, hike, swim, camp,
watch movies, play miniature golf and spend time with her family.
She is the oldest of five children and she insists that if she had
to describe herself in one word, it would be "intense."
Back to the top
Dixie State College to award distinguished
citizens awards at commencement
Dixie State College will honor two local individuals with Distinguished
Citizen Awards at the 90th Commencement Exercises on May 4, 2001.
Being honored are Larry Jewell and Jonna Stout. "These
individuals have provided Dixie State College with long years of devoted
service as well as excelled in other areas of community and national
involvement," said President Robert Huddleston. "We're pleased
to recognize their many achievements at this time of commencement."
Larry Jewell began his broadcast career at KUER while
attending the University of Utah. After graduating with a B.S. degree
in political science, he worked in Sidney, Nebraska. A move to Brigham
City, Utah occurred in 1972 after his marriage to Pam Husband, also
a University of Utah graduate. His next move was to Salt Lake City
for a brief stint with KWHO. Finally he chose a station in St. George
which offered an ideal mix of sports, news, and feature broadcast
opportunities.
Dixie State College has been a major factor in Larry's broadcasting
experience in southern Utah. He was the voice of Dixie State for eighteen
seasons of football and basketball and four seasons of baseball. Highlights
included post season play-by-play of bowl games, two JUCO World Series
tournaments, and three trips to Hutchinson, Kansas, which included
broadcasting the national championship.
From fall of 1993 to spring of 2000, Larry taught two radio classes
as a part-time adjunct professor at Dixie.
His daughters, Tamara and April, earned associate degrees from Dixie
State. A son, Skyler, attended Southern Utah University for one year
and is now serving in the New York, Rochester Mission.
Larry has served in many leadership positions in his church and community,
including six years on the Southern Utah Federal Credit Union Board
of Directors, coaching and umpiring Little League, singing with and
serving as M.C. for the Color Country Chorus, volunteering his talents
as M.C. For city princess pageants, 4-H award nights and other community
events as well as judging college forensics and high school academic
decathlons.
His trade mark "Take care now, ya hear!" can be heard at
the end of every St. George (formerly Zion) Pioneerzz broadcast during
the summer.
Larry has cherished every chance to serve and appreciates Dixie State
College for providing so many opportunities. Jonna Pulsipher
Stout was born in Bunkerville, Nevada eight months after her father's
death. Her mother, Cleone Pulsipher, raised Jonna and her five siblings
in Bunkerville until they moved to Hurricane. When World War II broke
out the family returned to Nevada, where Cleone worked making parachutes
at Nellis Air Force Base.
After the war the family returned to Hurricane, where Jonna finished
high school and met and married her sweetheart., Boyd Crawford Stout.
After their first son, Stephen, was born they moved to Las Vegas where
Boyd went into banking and accounting. They were blessed with four
more children: Larry, Ken Annette, and Jon, who was adopted. They
have also been foster parents to eleven children. Jonna was a full-time
mother and strongly believes in the importance of mothers being in
the home.
In 1972, Jonna and her family returned to the Hurricane Valley to
partner with Boyd's brother in establishing Stout Home Furnishings.
Boyd died in 1985 after a lingering illness.
Jonna is an active member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter
Day Saints. She has worked with the youth, the sports program and
girls camp. She served as Primary President four times, Young Women's
President four times and stake young women's president. Boyd and Jonna
supported their own sons and also sponsored three others as missionaries.
She is currently serving her fourth mission for her church.
Jonna is an active member of the service club, Buenos Amigas, in Hurricane.
She served as President in 1990. Today, the highlights of Jonna's
life are her twenty-five grandchildren and seven great-grandchildren.
Back to the top
Madison Square Garden
CEO To Address Dixie State Graduates
The 90th Commencement Exercises will be held at Dixie State College
on May 4, at 6:00 p.m. in the Avenna Center Burns Arena. David W.
Checketts, president and chief executive officer of Madison Square
Garden will address the graduates. He will also accept an Honorary
Doctorate of Humanities Degree.
David W. Checketts was named President and Chief Executive Officer
of Madison Square Garden on September 20, 1994. Since then, the company
has made tremendous strides in providing a vast array of sports and
entertainment excitement to millions of people.
The 45-year old Checketts oversees all operations of one of the most
powerful sports and entertainment companies globally, including the
"World's Most Famous Arena" and its three sports franchises--the
New York Knickerbockers of the NBA, the New York Rangers of the NHL
and the New York Liberty of the WNBA--along with the award-winning
MSG Network and FOX Sports Net New York. In keeping with the Garden's
tradition as a sports and entertainment showplace, he has also fostered
an expanded commitment to hosting live entertainment, family shows,
and the renewal of the great legacy of Garden Boxing. In 1997, he
negotiated the lease agreement for Radio City Music Hall and the purchase
of Radio City Productions, which provide boundless entertainment opportunities
for the company.
Checketts serves as a governor for both the Knicks in the NBA and
the Rangers in the NHL. For the NBA, he is on the planning committee
for the future of the league, as well as being one of nine members
serving on the NBA's Labor Relations committee. He also serves on
the operating committee for the WNBA.
While overseeing the most comprehensive and ambitious restoration
of Radio City Music Hall in its storied history, Checketts continues
to expand the reach and visibility of the Hall's hallmark events.
Dave began his career at the Garden as Knicks President in March 1991.
In his four full seasons in that position, the team finished in first
place three times, made it to the Eastern Conference Finals twice
and emerged as Eastern Conference Champions in 1994. He came to the
Knicks from the National Basketball Association headquarters, where
he had served as Vice President and General Manager of NBA International
since September 1990. Checkets spent six years with the Utah Jazz,
beginning in 1983, and during that time brought the team into prominence
as one of the NBA's most efficient and successful organizations. It
also made Dave, at 28, the youngest chief executive in the NBA.
Committed to the community, in 1998 Checketts established the Madison
Square Garden "Cheering for Children" Foundation, which
represents all areas of the Garden (including the New York Knicks,
the New York Rangers, the New York Liberty, MSG Networks and Radio
City Entertainment) in its commitment to the community. In 1999, the
Foundation, working to strengthen after-school programs throughout
New York's five boroughs, established the Cheering for Children After-School
Initiative, and committed resources valued at more than two million
dollars in its first year alone.
Dave earned his undergraduate degree from the University of Utah after
attending Brigham Young University. He later earned his MBA from BYU.
He is co-founder and board member of Professional Team Physicians
(PTP) and serves on the board of Spalding Sports International and
Jet Blue, a new airline starting this year.
Checketts lives in Connecticut with his wife Deb and their six children-Spence |