Pen Point

September 2005

Pen Point

We're delivering a great reading experience to your doorstep. This issue of the Alumnus includes some examples of what Ball State is doing in its continual quest for excellence. Recognition of alumni and their achievements is an important aspect of Alumni Association programming. The breadth and depth of Ball State's graduates is evidenced through this year's Distinguished Alumni: Ann Johnson, internationally renowned artist; Morry Mannies, the "Voice of the Cardinals"; and Eugene White, superintendent of the largest school district in Indiana. Their stories are unique, their service to their communities, professions, and to Alma Mater are exemplary. The recipients, who will be honored at Homecoming in October, are profi led beginning on page 3. Having concluded her fi rst year as president of Ball State, Jo Ann M. Gora has emerged as an individual who is paving new ground. From her historic appointment to an innovative inaugural to her demonstrated leadership both on and off campus, she has established precedent and is raising the university's visibility throughout the state and nation. In a candid interview with Tom Cochrun, Ball State alumnus and news director for WISH-TV in Indianapolis, President Gora answers questions about her fi rst year in offi ce and the vision she has for the university. The interview begins on page 18.

Sande Schrier Weiss was an enthusiastic, very involved, and highly successful student when she was on campus in the early 1980s. Today her enthusiasm is channeled into her career, which includes serving as general manager of the Louise Mandrell Theater in Pigeon Forge, Tennessee. Read Sande's story beginning on page 9.

The first phase of the McKinley Avenue Safety Improvement Project is fi nished and we believe visitors to campus will be impressed. Construction lasted much of the summer, but the result is a positive change for the entire university community. With Shafer Tower as a centerpiece, McKinley Avenue between Riverside and Neely has become a safe and scenic thoroughfare. In his Comment on page 2, Vice President Thomas Kinghorn gives a summary of the project, while our Department Feature on pages 13-14 provides a description of the summer work that changed the area from a construction site to a beautifi ed streetscape.

Nursing schools throughout the nation offer online education, but Ball State's School of Nursing is a pioneer in the fi eld. Professor Nagia Ali has co-authored a number of publications on the subject of online learning. In Faculty Spotlight on pages 24-25, Ali presents a summary of research she has conducted on student perceptions and experiences with online education.

There is a tremendous amount of other good news to report. These are among the highlights: John Huffer, director of Ball State's Photo Services, has received honors from the University Photographers' Association of America for his outstanding work; Kay Bales has been appointed dean of the Division of Student Affairs; and Charles "Chip" Jaggers is newly appointed director of University Development. Also, the university has received a major contribution from Paul and Patricia Kozel, generating momentum for the stretch drive of the stadium campaign.

Of course as we launch a new academic year, the campus is bustling with activity. A most important fall event for students and alumni alike is Homecoming. Please check pages 35-36 for a brief summary and put the week's agenda on your calendar. This year at Homecoming we are, "In it to Win it!" And that is such a good summary for everything that's happening at your Alma Mater.

Pen Point is written by Ball State Alumnus Editor Charlotte Shepperd