May News
SUL ROSS NOTES CALENDAR CHANGES, START OF 120-HOUR DEGREE PLAN IN FALL 2007
Sul Ross State University students graduating after September 2007 will have degree plans of 120 scheduled course hours instead of 130.
In addition, 2007-2008 academic year calendar changes have been approved, eliminating the "dead day" prior to final examinations for Fall Semester 2007 and Spring Semester 2008. The result will be a week-long Thanksgiving break, a later spring break to correspond with Easter Sunday, and an earlier May 2008 graduation date.
In its last session, the Texas Legislature lowered the required number of scheduled course hours (sch) a Texas university undergraduate needs to graduate. The new requirement states a degree cannot require more than the minimum number of hours (120) required by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools (SACS). Although the requirement does not take affect statewide until Fall 2008, Sul Ross has made the change a year early.
"We have been preparing for this change and Sul Ross will be at the forefront of the transition," said Dr. David Cockrum, provost and vice president for Academic and Student Affairs. "This will result in a tuition cost savings for our undergraduates, beginning with Fall Semester 2007.
"Sul Ross will reduce electives whenever possible to reach the 120-hour limit. Each degree must have at least six scheduled course hours of free electives. In the event of a broad field major, which has 60 sch, the minor will be eliminated. If a minor presently exists, it would be removed as a requirement in order to reach 120 sch.
By eliminating the fall break, originally scheduled for Oct. 12, 2007, and the "dead day," slated Thursday, Dec. 6, 2007, Thanksgiving break 2007 will be extended to a full week, Nov. 19-23. Final exams will begin Monday, Dec. 10 and continue through Friday, Dec. 14. Fall graduation will be held Saturday, Dec. 15 as originally scheduled.
Spring break 2008 will be a week later, March 17-21, to coincide with Easter Sunday, March 23. Final exams will begin Monday, May 5, 2008 and continue through Friday, May 9. Spring graduation will be held May 10, 2008, a week earlier than listed in the general calendar.
AG COMMISSIONER URGES PARTICIPATION IN TEXAS' FUTURE
 Texas Agriculture Commissioner Todd Staples urged his audience to participate and be a part of Texas' future.
Using the theme "Partners for Progress," Staples delivered the 2007 Leaders in Agriculture Series Lecture Wednesday (April 11) at Sul Ross State University. The series is presented by Sul Ross in cooperation with the San Antonio Livestock Exposition (SALE).
"I'm excited about the future of Texas and the role Texans play," said Staples, who was elected to his present position in 2006 after serving in the State Legislature and State Senate.
"I urge you to think about what contributions we can make...that will have an impact on our state beyond our lifetimes," he said. "Each of us has an opportunity.
"Staples stressed the impact of agriculture – $85 billion annually – to the state's economy."That's nine and a half percent of the Gross State Product," he said. "Sul Ross is part of that product with its contributions to agricultural education.
"Staples noted that "Partners for Progress" seeks the collaboration of individuals, communities, higher education institutions and businesses working together to develop opportunities for economic growth.
"The real ideas don't start in Austin," he said. "They start out here in the rural areas....We need to use the resources entrusted to us to create opportunities.
"Staples listed a number of Texas Department of Agriculture priorities, including continued promotion of the "Go Texan" marketing program initiated by his predecessor Susan Combs. Creation of more export opportunities, food safety and equitable management of water resources were others.
"Agriculture in Texas is a powerhouse of production and we want to continue that," he said. "Water is an issue....We have a role to play in the management of water so that every region has an opportunity to prosper. Water policy should not be a have and have not situation; it should be win-win.
"He told his audience that the state population is projected to double from the 2000 figure of 20 million to 40 million by 2060.
"Change is needed to address the issues that will arise (with population growth). This is the type of instution that embraces change, and we need to accept that challenge. That's what Partners for Progress is all about," he said.
Staples fielded questions from the audience at the conclusion of his address. He and his staff also toured Sul Ross during his visit.
The Leaders in Agriculture Lecture Series began in 1988 to recognize SALE's contributions to Sul Ross. Since 1987, SALE has given more than $920,000 to Sul Ross. The San Antonio Livestock Exposition Equine Center was named in their honor by the Board of Regents of the Texas State University System.
Scholarship awards are made to freshmen in agriculture and directly related areas who qualify for participation in the Sul Ross Freshman Leadership Program. Criteria for selection include strong academic performance, as well as demonstrated leadership potential indicated by involvement in 4-H, FFA, interscholastic competition, and other activities.
HISTORIC STAGECOACH ROLLS BACK INTO MUSEUM OF THE BIG BEND
 After 10 years in storage, the century-old stagecoach rolled back into the newly renovated Museum of the Big Bend.
The stagecoach, part of the original museum, was placed into storage in 1997 when the Museum's contents were relocated in Lawrence Hall on the Sul Ross State University campus. The stagecoach was too large to be accommodated in Lawrence Hall.
Now the coach, along with a chuck wagon, is the first of the permanent exhibits in the renovated facility, now known as the Emmett and Miriam McCoy Building. Earlier this year, the Museum moved from Lawrence Hall to the McCoy Building, its original location, a native stone building erected in 1936.
"The stagecoach is one of the major symbols of the Museum of the Big Bend, and we are pleased to have it back on display," said
Larry Francell, Museum director.
The coach, built in the late 19th century, was used in northern Mexico into the early 1900s. It is one of the prominent items of the Museum's original collection.
"Now that the stagecoach has been returned, we will start installing the rest of the permanent exhibits," he said. Francell added that the pterosaur, a flying reptile found in Big Bend National Park in the 1970s, will be installed May 11.
About $100,000 remains to be raised to complete the exhibit and design phase of the renovation/relocation project. A total of $4.3 million has been raised. Renovation of the building began in 2005.
"We are extremely close to completing this goal," Francell said. "The gifts we have received indicate the degree of importance placed on the Museum that extend far beyond the Big Bend Region.
"The enhancements we have made to the museum will offer the people of the region, as well as the state, the opportunity to experience the beauty and the majesty that comes from the area, and to gain a better understanding of the interplay of the area's vastly diverse cultures," said Sul Ross President R. Vic Morgan.
Museumscapes of Dallas has been selected as the permanent exhibits fabricator for the Museum. The firm will fabricate and install exhibits in the Museum, which contains over 5,000 square feet for permanent exhibits. As designed, the exhibits incorporate 15 interrelated sections, which together will interpret the story of the Big Bend and Davis Mountains of Texas.
Exhibits will include photo backdrops, text, graphics, historic photographs and artifacts, as well as video loops. The main exhibit space will encompass about 4,000 square feet, with an additional 1,200 square feet of temporary exhibit area.For more information, contact Francell, (432) 837-8145.
Sul Ross Delivers Donations to Eagle Pass
On Wednesday, May 2, a truck full of donated items left Sul Ross, headed for Eagle Pass. The donations were collected for the victims of the tornado that struck Eagle Pass and Piedras Negras on Tuesday, April 24.
The E-5 tornado, which reached speeds of nearly 150 miles per hour, left 10 dead and hundreds homeless alonan 8- mile path of destruction.
The idea to collect and deliver items to the people of Eagle Pass was proposed by Lieutenant Drew Powell, Sul Ross State University of Public Safety.
According to Campus Activities Coordinator, Melissa Harmon-Jeffs, "Sul Ross and the Alpine community have been incredibly generous in donating items for those affected by the tornado in Eagle Pass.
"We have recieved everything from diapers to dog and cat food, water and nonperishable foods, toiletries and personal items, blankets, and even stuffed animals!" she added.
May people havae also donated cash, and Harmon-Jeffs said that will be put to good use. "We'll be using the cash donations to buy whatever else is needed."
The truck-load of items was delivered to the Red Cross in Eagle Pass by officers from the University Department of Public Safety.
Sul Ross Alumni's son graduates from FBI Academy in Quantico, Virginia
 Photo: Sul Ross State University Graduate (BS/Criminal Justice - December 1980) Armando Ramirez, Jr. and his wife Norma A. Ramirez standing with son Armando Ramirez, III at the conclusion of graduation ceremonies at the FBI Training Academy, Quantico, Virginia on September 14, 2006.
Former Del Rio residents Armando Ramirez, Jr. (SRSU - BS/1980) and his wife Norma A. Ramirez recently attended the graduation ceremony for Armando Jr.'s son Armando Ramirez, III at the FBI Training Academy in Quantico, Virginia on September 14, 2006. In keeping with tradition at the FBI Academy, Armando III was presented his FBI Special Agent Badge and Credentials by his father Armando Jr., who is assigned as the Resident Agent in Charge of the Drug Enforcement Administration's Rio Grande Valley office located in Brownsville, Texas, Houston Division.
Coincidently, Armando Jr. also received his DEA Special Agent Badge and Credentials on the same stage when he graduated as a Special Agent with the Drug Enforcement Administration fifteen years ago.
Armando III's first assignment as an FBI Special Agent will be in Allentown, Pennsylvania, which is part of the FBI's Philadelphia Division. The Ramirez family was born and raised in Del Rio, attended local schools, and worked in the area before the call to government service took them away from the Queen City, but they have never forgotten their roots while maintaining contact with family and friends residing in the city.
Before joining the FBI Armando III was teaching school in Houston, Texas. Armando Jr. also has a younger daughter, Vanessa Lea Ramirez-Benavidez, a Jr. Criminal Justice major attending the University of Texas in San Antonio where she also lives and works full-time as a Leasing Consultant.
Armando Jr. worked as a police officer in Del Rio, Texas for ten years before joining the Drug Enforcement Administration and his work assignments have included offices located in Eagle Pass, Laredo, Monterrey, Mexico, Brownsville, Texas, and is awaiting for his next assignment which will take him to DEA Headquarters in Washington, D.C. for a three year tour of duty .
SR HONORS VA TECH STUDENTS by Trey Darby
 On Friday, April 20, almost 100 students, faculty, and staff gathered under the Sul Ross flags (at half staff) for a moment of silence in honor of the victims of the Virginia Tech shootings.
Many wore orange and maroon, Virginia Tech's school colors. While everyone was welcomed, the remembrance ceremony was conducted by SRSU students.
Daniel Brown reminded the crowd that the day happened to be the eighth anniversary for the Columbine High School shootings in Colorado, and he noted that the recent Virginia Tech tragedy should be a point for change in our lives.
"We all need to pay more attention to the people around us and remember to always be kind," Brown said.
Those present were invited to share their feelings, thoughts, or words of inspiration with the group. University of Public Safety officers were there to answer any questions on security concerns on our own campus and students were encouraged to visit the Counseling and Advising Center if they needed someone to talk to about the incident.
OPEN HOUSE AT RENOVATED SUL ROSS TURNER RAS FACILITIES APRIL 19
An open house was held Thursday, April 19 at the renovated/expanded Turner Range Animal Science Center facilities at Sul Ross State University.
SUL ROSS JOINS GULF COAST COOPERATIVE ECOSYSTEM STUDIES UNIT
Sul Ross State University has joined a cooperative system that enables universities, non-governmental organizations and federal agencies to collaborate on environmental projects.
As part of the Gulf Coast Cooperative Ecosystem Studies Unit, Sul Ross will partner with over 20 other universities, agencies including the Bureau of Land Management, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, U.S. Geological Survey and non-government concerns including the Nature Conservancy of Texas, Coastal Conservation Association and Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center. Cooperative Ecosystem Studies Units (CESUs) provide research, technical assistance and education to federal land management, environmental and research agencies and their partners.
Member universities benefit through faculty development and faculty-student research projects.
"Sul Ross has attempted to join the CESU network on several occasions over the past few years and we are pleased to be a member," said Dr. Louis Harveson, associate professor of Natural Resource Management.
"This partnership has the potential to generate many educational opportunities for our students and faculty through research projects, internships and future employment. We're especially excited about strengthening our relationships with some of our existing constituents, including the National Park Service, Natural Resource Conservation Service and Department of Defense," said Harveson, who serves as the technical representative for Sul Ross.
Harveson is also planning on hosting a workshop on the Gulf Coast CESU sometime this summer or early fall for Sul Ross faculty and staff.
For more information, contact Harveson at harveson@sulross.edu or (432) 837-8098.
Sul Ross Alumni Bump into each other in Slovakia By Jena Vanderburg/Sul Ross Junior
Sul Ross State University graduates can be found just about anywhere.
Jory Vanderburg, Sul Ross alumnus (M.A. in history 2003, M.A. in education 2004) stationed in Germany, was participating in a mission service project in Slovakia, when he noticed a girl wearing a Sul Ross sweatshirt.
The girl was Katy Brock, SRSU class of 2000, who was serving as a team leader for a group of American high school students from Belgium at the Slovakia Youth Mission Service Project April 8-15.
Brock was the youth director for Supreme Headquarters Allied Powers, Europe (SHAPE) students, whose parents are assigned to SHAPE in Belgium.
Brock's parents are also Sul Ross graduates. Vanderburg is the father of Jena Vanderburg, a Sul Ross junior.
Vanderburg took a position as Wing Historian for the United States Air Force working as a civilian for the 388th Fighter Wing at Hill AFB in Ogden, Utah. In less than a year, Vanderburg was promoted and on a flight to Germany as the new member of the Historian Office, Headquarters, USAF in Europe for up to five years.
When the missionary project was mentioned at the church Vanderburg attends on the Ramstein Air Base located outside the town of Kaiserlaurten, he volunteered.
The Slovakia Mission involved over 700 American high school students from throughout Europe, 70 Slovak/Czech translators (high school and college aged), and 70 adult leaders to the Liptovsky Mikulas area in North-Central Slovakia.
"We constructed playground equipment at the elementary schools and other enhancements at the high schools," Vanderburg said.
They also conducted ESL classes and then did a Vacation Bible School as an after-school activity.
"The American kids were wonderful bringing the message of God to this former East-Block Communist country," Vanderburg said. "All totaled, they probably witnessed to over 3,000 children at 18 school sites.
"In the evening, all the missionaries and translators went to a 240-year-old church for a praise and worship program.
"It was an amazing and rewarding trip," Vanderburg said. "Not only being in a country where once this was forbidden, but the fact that this world isn't as big as we thought and that two Sul Ross students would meet here."
SUL ROSS FACULTY MEMBER HARVESON'S QUAIL STUDY ARTICLE PUBLISHED
An article on a Gambel's Quail study in West Texas co-authored by a Sul Ross State University faculty member has been published in several venues.
The article, "Texas Council of QU [Quail Unlimited] Sponsors Gambel's Quail Project in West Texas," by Dr. Louis Harveson of Sul Ross and Michael R. Sullins of Texas Parks and Wildlife appeared in Quail Unlimited magazine and on the TexasHuntFish.com website.
Sullins and Harveson, associate professor of Wildlife Management at Sul Ross, traced the history of the ecological study, which began in 2002 with Texas Parks and Wildlife Funding.
"The objectives were simple: to obtain as much ecological information about Gambel's quail so that land owners and managers in Texas could better manage their populations, " the article stated. "Specific objectives included determining Gambel's quail distribution, diet, survival, density, habitat preferences and nesting characteristics.
"Unlike bobwhites, which occur in relatively lush habitats, Gambel's quail survive in some of the toughest country in Texas, where rainfall is usually below eight inches, temperatures commonly exceed 110 degrees, and desert scrub vegetation dominates the landscape," the article continued.
Sul Ross graduate students Michael Gray, Sullins, Poncho Ortega, and Margarita Gomez participated in the research. Each student focused on a different aspect of the study and collectively, they have amassed one of the largest demographic dataset on Gambel's quail in the country with over 700 birds captured during the study.
"We now have a better understanding of the distribution of Gambel's quail in Texas, as well as seasonal food habits, habitat preferences, surveying techniques, survivorship, population dynamics, major predators and much more, thanks in great part to organizations such as Texas Quail Unlimited, who rightly place such high priority on conservation of the resource for now and future generations," the article stated.
For more information, contact Harveson, (432) 837-8488 or harveson@sulross.edu.
SUL ROSS GRADUATE PRODUCES INDEPENDENT MOVIE by Jason Hennington, Skyline Reporter
 Uvalde, Texas, a small town that is suffering from prolonged drought, decaying downtown buildings, ranches sparse with cattle just waiting on rain...
This is the setting of "Road To El Paso," an independent movie produced by Sul Ross graduate Shiloh Richter and her brother Rawlyn Richter.
Shiloh Richter also directed the full-length feature film which alternates between a full-color, present-day story and a sepia-toned western set in the 1800s.
Shiloh Richter attended Sul Ross from 1994-1996 when she graduated with an M.A. in English. She taught literature part time before leaving to produce her first movie.
"My dad and I wrote the screenplay together, and then we had to learn all the steps to putting a movie together," she said. "We didn't know what we were doing, but dropped into it and did it anyway, learning along the way."
Her brother Rawlyn, who has worked in music for years, wrote all the songs and lyrics for the movie's soundtrack. Although the songs were not intended for the movie when they were written, they fit. Rawlyn also worked on the film sets of Texas and "The Good Ol' Boys." He now works at the junior high school in Uvalde.
Neither Shiloh nor her brother wanted to run off to Hollywood after deciding to make this movie. Their top priority was to have a life with a family and a home, and still do creative projects.
"I believed it could be done here in Uvalde," Shiloh said. "I'm proud of the outcome and of all the people who jumped in there and made a movie even when it seemed the craziest thing in the world."
A small scene in the opening credits of Johnny Knoxville's "The Ringer" was a learning experience for Shiloh and her mother, who also appeared in the scene. Right now Shiloh is learning the marketing and distribution part of the business, and says it is a whole new phase to learn about in movie making.
"It's going to take a while, but the market is changing drastically with the Internet. It is becoming more and more a market for independent films," she said.
The movie is the story of rancher Martin Auden (Rawlyn Richter) who finds his life in shambles. His wife leaves him, his tractor breaks down, his horse is stolen and a nine-month drought sets in, the worse one in more than 50 years.
During the shooting of the picture, the 125 year-old Ingenhuett store burned down in the Hill Country town of Comfort. The loss provided more of an impetus for the heartbreak in the opening sequences of the movie. The burned remains echo the shell of a man and the challenges he is up against.
 In the story, only a few items remain from the burned store ruins, including a handwritten journal from El Paso, 1886. When Martin meets his ex-wife Paula at a café to ask her to come home, she refuses but encourages him to go after the stolen horse and to not let anything else get away.
Out of complete frustration, Martin packs his bags to head to El Paso to follow the one lead he has. On one of his lonely evenings, he begins reading the old journal. His journey west takes on similarities of the story written in the journal, the story of John (John Dodson), a young man who meets Emily (Emily Willis), a young woman passionate about protecting the land from corrupt fortune seekers.
In his quest, Martin meets Skye Morrow (Debbie French), a single woman desperate for the new life she thinks she may have found on land she has inherited. In her attempts at a new life, Skye has purchased Martin's stolen horse and set it free on her property.
Skye gives Martin permission to search her land, the only condition being that she gets to go with him on foot into the 40,000 acres of badlands. On their treacherous journey, Martin and Skye spend their evenings reading the unfinished love story in the journal, only to discover endings of their own.
"Road To El Paso" involves many of the buildings in Uvalde and also includes many of the townspeople. City officials took roles as Texas Rangers and explorers to help bring this movie to life. The decaying Opera House was emptied as the costumes were used, and a downtown building became an 1800s saloon.
Local ranch and hunting lodge owners offered their resources to help bring the movie to life. Horses as well were given their moment in the spotlight. Local university students stayed up late nights hanging chandeliers and curtains, polishing bar stools, and rubbing dirt on actor's faces. Other students took roles and sewed costumes for the film. Everyone in the town seemed to offer help and encouragement.
Jama Brown, actor Matthew McConaughey's kindergarten teacher, was excited about having a western movie shot in her hometown. She explained that children are missing the days of western heroes and the values that westerns taught.
"The biggest thing is trying to see the project through to the end," Shiloh said. "Most important to all of us was including everyone who wanted to be a part and finding a place for them."
Shiloh said they wanted the movie to be tied into the place where it was filmed, Uvalde County. She praised the community cooperation, and over 200 people helped with the production. The filming and production took two years of crazy hours, unpredictable weather, and trying to work with the cast members' schedules.
On the last day of filming, the town honored the history of entertainment in the area by buying bronze plaques for Uvalde natives Dale Evans, McConaughey, Dana Andrews and the Grammy winning group Los Palominos. The plaques were placed in the town plaza, the heart of the town. This movie was a chance for stories to be kept alive and bring more life to the community.
"Road To El Paso" is ready to view, and the DVD can be found at www.thetexasranch.net. A percentage of the profits will go to the New Mexican Horse Project to help protect what became the symbol of the story; the wild horse that should always run free.
BRYAN KUNG, SAVAHNA ESTRADA NAMED SUL ROSS MAN, WOMAN OF THE YEAR
 By Jason Hennington, Skyline Reporter
Sul Ross State University seniors Bryan Joseph Kung, San Antonio, and Savahna Estrada, Mission, were named 2007 Man and Woman of the Year at the annual Honors Convocation held Monday (April 16) in Marshall Auditorium.
These are the top honors awarded to seniors at Sul Ross who have a 3.0 GPA or higher and have demonstrated qualities of leadership and good citizenship. Both Kung and Estrada will graduate in four years or less.
Kung had no idea he was about to be named Man of the Year."
"I was surprised. I wasn't expecting this," Kung said. "I was sitting there thinking, 'Now who is the athlete who's going to get this.' I'm glad I wore a tie."
Kung is the son of James and Alicia Jones from San Antonio. He attended Brackenridge High School and graduated in 2003. He is a member of Kappa Delta Pi, International Educational Honor Society, and Phi Alpha Theta, International History Honor Society. Kung also received the Clifford Casey Book Award during the ceremony.
"My biggest obstacle was just sticking with it for four years," Kung said.
Within those four years, he was on the Dean's List in the Fall of 2003, Spring of 2004, Fall of 2004, Spring of 2006, and Fall of 2006. He was also elected to Who's Who Among Students in American Universities and Colleges in 2006. His overall GPA is 3.404.
"I have to thank my mom, for sure, because she sacrificed a lot to get me here," Kung said. "And all my history teachers for not giving up on me."
For the past three years, Kung has been a member of the Sul Ross track team and is currently ranked third in the American Southwest Conference in the hammer throw. He has also been active in community service, including assisting with Middle School Track meets and is a member of the Hillside Baptist Church.
Kung has advice for future students. "Don't give up, keep working, because it'll all pay off eventually."
"Estrada was also caught off guard by the announcement of Woman of the Year.
"I was very surprised," Estrada said. "My heart is still pounding.
"Estrada graduated from Mission High School in 2004 and will be completing her degree at Sul Ross in only three years. She is the daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Manuel Estrada. She is a member of Alpha Psi Omega National Drama Honor Society, Sul Ross Theatrical Society, and the Newman Club. Estrada also worked as a Residential Assistant for two and half years in Fletcher Hall and the Lobo Village Apartments.
"The hardest thing for me was being so far away from home," she said.
Estrada received a Freshman Leadership Scholarship in 2004 and a Sul Ross Ambassador Scholarship in 2005. In 2006 she received the Henry Bertrand Memorial Scholarship. Along with these honors, she was named to the Dean's List in the Fall of 2004, Spring of 2005, and Fall of 2006.
"Greg and Juliet Schwab, Dona Roman, and Liz Castillo really helped me," she said. "I have to thank my parents and my family, too.
"While at Sul Ross, Estrada has been active in theater productions, acting in 11 productions, including her senior project, "Little Girls Don't Do That." She directed Los Vendidos and has assisted with technical production in several other plays.
"I want to continue acting and making a difference," Estrada said. "I do want to return here after I'm done with grad school.
"Dream big because they do come true," she said.
Kung and Estrada were chosen by members of the university faculty. Along with these prestigious honors, each student also received a pen set crafted by the Industrial Technology Department.
The Man and Woman of the Year award is the top honor a Sul Ross senior can receive. The following departmental awards were also given at the convocation.
Animal Science
Outstanding Equine Science Student – Auralee Horne, Coleman.
Outstanding Farrier Tech Student – Ross Sheffield, Splendora.
Outstanding First Year Vet Tech Student – Carolyn Martinez, El Paso.
Outstanding Second Year Vet Tech Student – Kristina Alaniz, Brownsville.
Outstanding Meat Technology Student – David Peikert, Dickinson
Outstanding Meat Science Student – Zachary Schuch, Austin
Outstanding Graduate Student – Missey Dunaetz, Anderson, Calif.
Behavioral and Social Sciences
Clifford B. Casey Book Award – Bryan Kung, San Antonio.
Outstanding History Major, Phi Alpha Theta History Award – Brock Jones, Alpine.
Outstanding Political Science Student Award – Cherish N. Zimmerman, Fort Davis.
Benedict-Dowell Memorial Scholarship – Roman Villarreal, Rio Grande City.
Outstanding Psychology Student Award – Julie Webb, Alpine.Biology
Outstanding Undergraduate Biology Student Award – Dyanna Montoya, Fabens.
Outstanding Graduate Biology Student Award – Dan Leavitt, Big Bend National Park.
Business Administration
Accounting Excellence Award – Lauren Sanders, Terlingua.
Computer Science and Mathematics
Outstanding Freshman in Mathematics – Stephanie Marshall, Kermit.
Mathematics Scholarship for Mathematics Excellence – Tony Jamail, Bracketville.
Outstanding Senior in Mathematics – Jason Leyva, Monahans.
Gilley Mathematics Excellence Award – Talitha Jo Raby, Alpine.
Outstanding Senior in Computer Science – Johnnie Saavedra, Alpine.
Criminal JusticeOutstanding Freshman Criminal Justice Student – Jose Galindo, Terlingua.
Outstanding Sophomore Criminal Justice Student – Heather Morales, El Paso.
Outstanding Junior Criminal Justice Student – Laura Canales, Alpine.Outstanding Senior Criminal Justice Student – Paul Carrasco, Marfa.
Outstanding Graduate Criminal Justice Student – Kristi Coleman, Alpine.Earth and Physical Sciences Outstanding Freshman in Chemistry – Eli Elizaldez, El Paso.
Outstanding Sophomore in Chemistry – Karen Lastovica, Missouri City.
Outstanding Junior in Chemistry – Micah Thornton, Austin.
Outstanding Senior in Chemistry – Gabrielle Guy, Alpine.Julius Dasch
Outstanding Undergraduate Geology Student – Kellye Acuff Odessa.
Outstanding Non-Traditional Geology Student Award – James Fitzgerald, Alpine.
Lance Forsythe Memorial Outstanding Graduate Student Award – Adelina Beall, Alpine.
Education
Education Excellence Award – Kym Kyzar, Burnet; Jaylia Foster, Marfa; Courtney Camarillo, Boerne; Azucena Garcia, Presidio.
Fine Arts and Communication
Outstanding Freshman in Theatre Award – Luke Miller, Baird.
Henry Bertrand, Jr. Memorial Scholarship – Amber Bowman, Odessa.
Music Teachers National Association Student Achievement Recognition Award (STAR) for 2007 – Ben Stringer, Alpine.
Outstanding New Freshman in Art – Ashley Danielle Nunnelee, Fort Davis.
Outstanding Art Student Award – Todd Overstreet, Rogers.
Languages and Literature
Outstanding Senior English Major – William Broun, Tahoka.Outstanding Senior Spanish Major – Estefania Busch, Sanderson.
Natural Resource Management
Outstanding Underclassman in Natural Resource Management – Madeleine Cantu, Deer Park.
Outstanding Upperclassman in Natural Resource Management – Catherine Brown, Alpine.
Outstanding Graduate Student in Range and Wildlife Management-Range – Curtis Shell, Bertram.
Outstanding Graduate Student in Range and Wildlife Management-Wildlife – Aaron Sides, Sterling City.
Physical Education
W.H. Perryman Scholarship – Shiloh Shugart, Merkel; Richard Fraire, El Paso.
CONSERVATIONIST ANDREW SANSOM ADDRESSED DIAMOND JUBILEE LECTURE
 Texas conservationist Andrew Sansom addressed the 13th 75th Anniversary Diamond Jubilee Lecture Wednesday, May 2 at Sul Ross State University.
Sansom, addressed "Texas Natural Resources: Successes and Challenges" in Marshall Auditorium on May 2.
Sansom presently serves as executive director of the River Systems Institute and is a research professor of geography at Texas State University-San Marcos. He is a former executive director of the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department, executive director of the Texas Nature Conservancy, and founder of The Parks and Wildlife Foundation of Texas.
Between 1980 and 1995 while working with The Nature Conservancy and the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department, he acquired more than a half million acres in the Trans Pecos to add to the Big Bend National Park and the State Parks and Wildlife Management Areas of the region.
These acquisitions included the creation of Big Bend Ranch State Park and the Chinati Mountains State Natural Area as well as additions to Davis Mountains State Park, Sierra Diablo Wildlife Management Area, Black Gap Wildlife Management Area and Franklin Mountains State Park.
For his commitment to the management and protection of natural resources, Sansom also is a past recipient of the Chevron Conservation Award, The Chuck Yeager Award from the National Fish and Wildlife Foundation, The Pugsley Medal from the National Park Foundation, and the Seton Award from the International Association of Fish and Wildlife Agencies. He is a Distinguished Alumnus of Texas Tech University and Austin College.
Under his leadership at the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department, Mr. Sansom spearheaded a number important programs, including:
* Creating the Parks and Wildlife Foundation of Texas, which funds a number of department programs through private donations.
*Opening two state-of-the-art hatcheries that also serve as research laboratories, educational centers and aquariums -- the Sea Center Texas in Lake Jackson and the Texas Freshwater Fisheries Center in Athens.
*Creating new urban fish and wildlife programs designed to promote awareness of conservation issues in large urban areas where most Texans live. These include KIDFISH, Becoming an Outdoors Woman, Outdoor Kids, and the Buffalo Soldiers Program.
A native of Brazoria County, Sansom has dedicated his life to environmental conservation. He has served on the board of trustees of the Texas Historical Foundation, Bat Conservation International, KLRU Public Television in Austin, and The National Audubon Society. Sansom joined the staff of the National Recreation and Park Association in Washington, D.C. in l969. He served as environmental coordinator for the White House Conference on Youth; Special Assistant to Interior Secretary Rogers C.B. Morton; director of conservation education at the Federal Energy Administration; and deputy director of the Energy Institute at the University of Houston.
His published works have appeared in Texas Monthly, The Texas Observer, Houston City Magazine, Politics Today, Texas Highways, Texas Parks and Wildlife, and Texas Town & City. His first book, Texas Lost, was photographed by Wyman Meinzer and published in November 1995. His most recent book is Texas Past, photographed by Wyman Meinzer and published in November 1997.
This lecture was the 13th in a series to commemorate the 75th anniversary of Sul Ross. Lectures in this series come from various disciplines representing the diverse interests of the University community. Although the Diamond Jubilee celebration officially ended with the Convocation on Nov. 23, 1996, the Diamond Jubilee Lecture Series continues as a commemoration of Sul Ross first 75 years.
APRIL 30 RETIREMENT RECEPTION HELD FOR SUL ROSS VP MICKEY HAVENS
Mickey Havens, Sul Ross State University vice president for Administrative Services, was honored at a retirement reception Monday, April 30.
The reception was held in University Center second floor foyer from 2-3 p.m. Havens retired May 1 after 35 years service with the State of Texas, including 27 with the Texas State University System and the last 23 at Sul Ross. He joined the Sul Ross staff in 1984 as vice president for Business Affairs and was named to his present position in 1998. It is believed his vice presidential tenure is one of the longest in Sul Ross history.
"I never planned to be somewhere forever, but I never planned to be somewhere else," he said of his Alpine tenure. "The people here are the difference. The vitality a university brings to a small community is amazing.
"While at Sul Ross, Havens has overseen construction projects, which approach $92 million. The bulk of the expenditures have occurred since 1999 and include a new University Center, Pete P. Gallego Multi-Purpose Center and the new residential complex. Havens duties have also included preparation of endowment agreements, which have grown from 28 endowments totaling slightly more than $870,000 in 1984 to 214 endowments valued at over $11,728,000.
"The capital improvements and the endowments are two significant numbers that point to Sul Ross growth," said Havens. He credited Sul Ross graduate and Texas State Rep. Pete P. Gallego for much of the universitys facilities growth.
He also praised the three presidents he has served under. "I credit Bob Richardson, who brought me out here; Jack Humphries, who kept me, and Vic Morgan, for his continued support. In addition, the people here are second to none. I appreciate the opportunity to have served Sul Ross.
"A native of Belton, Havens served in the U.S. Air Force (1967-71), including overseas assignments to Japan, Vietnam and England, after graduation from high school. After his discharge, he enrolled at the University of Texas at Austin, receiving a Bachelors of Business Administration degree in 1974.
He was hired as director of finance for the Texas State University System in 1980 before coming to Sul Ross. He became a certified public accountant in 1984 and received a Masters of Business Administration from Sul Ross in 1990.
While working at the Texas State University System in Austin, I had the privilege of working with Senator Pete Snelson and his staff, along with Lamar Urbanovsky and Ed Kaska, on the legislation and Constitutional Amendment that led to the creation of the Texas Higher Education Assistance Fund, which has provided capital funding to universities for over 25 years," Havens said. "I also worked with Representative Jay Gibson and then-Sul Ross President Richardson to secure the initial special item funding for the Chihuahuan Desert Research Institute that continues today.
Retirement plans include travel, for which he and wife Jan are well equipped. When their daughters, Amanda and Alisa, were Alpine High School students, the Havens once logged 17,000 miles during an eight-month period to attend their interscholastic events. The travel log included 440 miles round trip to El Paso to watch a volleyball match that lasted 18 minutes; and 260 miles round trip to hear a three-minute performance in a regional band competition.
"We also drove about 500 miles to see Amanda run 46.1 seconds in the 300 meter hurdles, and I wished it had been 44 or 45 seconds," Havens laughed.
Police Academy graduates 100% pass rate on state exam By Shannon Anderson/Brand Editor
 Members of the December Law Enforcement Academy graduating class have received word that their class has a 100 percent pass rate on the first attempt at the state licensing exam.
The group of eight motivated students graduated Dec. 22. The class average was 93.33. The Law Enforcement Academy is directed by Kellie Powell, with offices in the Morelock Academic Building.
The graduation ceremony in December included a welcome by Dr. R. Vic Morgan, the Pledge of Allegiance, Invocation, Code of Ethics, Cadet Class Presentation, and the presentation of awards.
Class members received several awards. Tony Alvarado was named Top Gun. Alvarado, Sterling Baade, and Johnny Dutchover won the marksmanship award, and Marcos Aguilar received the PT Award.
Olga Armendariz and Ross Burling tied for the Trigiano Scholarship, and Amendariz also received the Academic Award with an average of 95.05. Burling and Aguilar both received the Fighting Heart Award.
Alvarado was awarded the Defensive Tactics Award. Armendariz was named the most improved in Defensive Tactics.
Class members included Aguilar, Alvarado, Ruben Arredondo, Armendariz, Baade, Burling, Dutchover, and Lauren Sanders.
Platt Bring Diverse Experience to Sul Ross
by MaryAshley P. Gredell/Skyline Reporter
 A recent addition to the Sul Ross State University Biology Department, assistant professor Dr. Steven Platt, has worldwide experiences in science to his name.
Platt joined the faculty this past fall after leaving the conservation biology program at Oglala Lakota College in South Dakota. Currently, he teaches general zoology, ecology, and herpetology.
"I've always liked this area," Platt said. "I've been coming down here for years. When a position happened to come open, I applied for it, and here I am. From the standpoint of a biologist, there's a low human population density, so there's plenty of research opportunities. That, and I like the small school atmosphere."
Platt is a native of Louisiana, and earned his bachelor's and master's degrees at Louisiana State University and Southeastern Louisiana University, respectively. For his dissertation, the biologist studied the ecology and status of Morelet's crocodile in Belize and earned his Ph.D. in zoology from Clemson University in Clemson, SC. Much of the biologist's work has involved herpetology, or the area of herpetology that examines reptiles and amphibians.
"I've just always been interested in alligators and turtles, though I have a real diversity of interests - mammals, birds, plants," said Platt. "That's one of the great things about teaching at a small school. If I were at a bigger school, I'd be typecast as a herpetologist. Here, I'm a vertebrate biologist, meaning that I can teach and pursue my research questions. That's certainly an advantage of teaching here."
After finishing his undergraduate degree, Platt spent two years in the forests of Liberia, West Africa as a U.S. Peace Corps volunteer.
"[The Peace Corps] is really interesting. They say it's the toughest job you'll ever love; it takes a lot to go from the first world to living in the third world and adjusting to the lifestyle. It was moreof a mental challenge than anything else.
"It's not for everybody, but it can be a very rewarding experience," Platt said. "I always encourage people to do it, if they are interested. If you've never left the country, it really opens your eyes to the way the rest of the world lives. Things we take for granted, you just never even think about until you get into other countries. They're simply not available.
"Really, you have to go there and realize that you're not going to change the world. You will make a difference, though, and you'll get a lot out of it, personally," Platt said."I've often thought when I retire, rather than sit around and get old and get grey hair, I'd like to go back and volunteer again."
Of all the places the Sul Ross faculty member has worked and studied, the country of Burma in southeast Asia holds a special place in his memory.
"Burma is where my wife is from and that's where we met. She was a turtle biologist, and we met on a crocodile survey on a mouth of the Ayeyarwady River."
As far as advice for biology students who are interested in pursuing a career as full and vibrant as his own, Platt offers the following:
"If you're a biologist, learn as much as you can, get a diverse background, and definitely consider going on to grad school."
Next fall, Platt will most likely be teaching general zoology again, along with ichthyology and a conservation-heavy readings class for biology students.
Perspective On the Future Of Mountainside
By Shannon Anderson/Brand Editor
Many students who called Mountainside home for a semester, or those who had to make the move from Mountainside to Lobo Village are wondering what is going to be done with the residential hall.
President R. Vic Morgan has plans for the historic residential hall because it is too structurally sound not to make good use of it.
"Mountainside will be there if we need it for summer camp or something along those lines. We will not abandon it or let it deteriorate. It will be kept secure, and we plan to use it for future residential living," Morgan said.
"Originally, we wanted to renovate Mountainside along with the building of the new dorms, but there would have been nowhere to place students while waiting on Lobo Village to be completed. It would have also taken too long," he said.
Eventually Mountainside will be renovated if the student population grows.
"If Sul Ross grows enough, Mountainside will be renovated so the rooms will be two bedroom suites with a bathroom in between."
Because of its proximity to Lobo Village, Fletcher is going to be used as overflow housing for a while, and if Sul Ross grows and it is needed, Fletcher will be turned into a new academic building.
"Ferguson Hall used to be a woman's dormitory," Morgan said. "It was really nice. It even had a fireplace in it."
For Sul Ross to justify renovating Mountainside in the future, the university has to be successful at recruiting. President Morgan has already spoken with the coaches about seriously recruiting and retaining people in the next couple of years.
"Once we are certain we are going to have students to fill up the space Mountainside will provide, we will start planning, which I anticipate will be one and a half to two years from now. It will then take about one and a half years to complete the project," Morgan said.
The parking lot has always been a problem at Mountainside. With the renovations, Mountainside will go from housing 350 students to only 250, which will make the parking lot more manageable.
"The mountain creates a problem, so we would enlarge the spaces and put up wheel jacks so there won't be a risk of cars rolling free."
The biggest problem with these renovations is that students have to pay for them. The school is making the cost of living as cheap as possible to be able to pay off debts.
"The state doesn't give money for housing," Morgan said.
Renovating a building, especially the size of Mountainside takes a lot of work. The building won't be gutted, but it needs a lot done to modernize it. Once it is completed, Morgan thinks it will be more popular than the new housing students have now.
SUL ROSS INSTRUCTOR DESIGNS INTERPRETIVE GEOLOGICAL EXHIBIT AT CDRI
An eight-panel exhibit designed by a Sul Ross State University faculty member will give visitors a clearer understanding of how landscapes are formed and controlled by the underlying geology.
Blaine Hall, geology and mathematics lecturer in the Academic Center for Excellence, and a member of the Chihuahuan Desert Research Institute's board of directors, has designed an eight-panel panoramic exhibit that will be installed on CDRI property in the Davis Mountains. The Interpretive Geological Exhibit – an octagonal wood and stone platform located on Clayton's Overlook, the highest point of the 507-acre property – offers a 360-degree view that includes Mitre Peak, Mount Livermore, the Glass Mountains and other landmarks.
"Here, you can see the geology. It's not virtual, it's real," said Hall.
Based on the interpretive content developed by Hall, Museumscapes of Dallas is creating the corresponding panels that will describe the eight views. Over $93,000 of the $110,000 total project cost has been raised. Board member Clayton Williams, for whom Clayton's Overlook is named, his wife Modesta, several Midland area foundations and private donors have contributed to the project.
Hall first created a photographic panorama of the Interpretive Geological Exhibit for a presentation to the 2004 Geological Society of America annual meeting, held in Denver. A full-size mockup of the platform has been constructed on the site to assist with development of the interpretive panels.
Completion is anticipated during Fall 2007. Hall has already toured several school groups and held workshops for teachers at the site.
"When the exhibit is completed, people will be able to see with their own eyes what a geologist sees and come to understand how the features of the landscape surrounding them are the result of construction and destruction: building-up and wearing-down," Hall said. "The insight that they gain here and the vision they take with them will help them to see and understand these processes and the resulting scenery elsewhere.
"Future plans include an animated version of the exhibit displayed in CDRI's visitor center, and eventually online.
For more information, contact Hall, (432) 837-8119 or bhall@sulross.edu
SUL ROSS GRADUATE STUDENT FINDS NICHE AT BIG BEND NATIONAL PARK By Jason Hennington, Skyline Reporter
 Photo: Graduate Billie Brauch recieves the 2004 Woman of the Year Award in her senior undergrduate year. Photo by Barbara Richerson.
Alpine native Billie Brauch came to Sul Ross State University in 2000 with the intention of playing volleyball for a year before transferring to a different university.
Her plans soon changed. After taking the introductory geology classes with Dr. Kevin Urbanczyk and Dr. David Rohr, Brauch decided that Sul Ross would be the best location for her to get her degree in geology.
She also played volleyball for Sul Ross and was a member of the Sul Ross women's rodeo team.She earned her bachelor's degree in geology in 2004 and is now working on her master's degree in geology.
Since graduating, she has been working at Big Bend National Park as a biological science technician and working on the grasslands restoration/erosion control project in the North Rosillos area of the park.
"After I graduate [anticipated in December 2007], I hope to keep this job for three years," she said. "In three years, who knows? I hope to apply for a permanent job in Big Bend National Park."
Brauch learned about the job through a friend of her adviser, Dr. Urbanczyk. Jeff Bennett, the hydrologist and physical scientist in Big Bend National Park notified her of the job. She found the job posted on usajobs.com and applied in February. Brauch was awarded the position and began working on March 19.
"My classes and geology graduate work are the reason I have this job," she said.
With a major in geology and a minor in natural resource management, the possibilities are endless for the type of work Brauch wants to do.
"I've found that Sul Ross has provided me with skills above and beyond my expectations, and it is extremely fulfilling to actually be applying what I learned in school," she said.
Along with working at Big Bend, Brauch is still enrolled in a class at Sul Ross and is completing the class through correspondence while living in Panther Junction. She is finished with her course work at Sul Ross and is currently working on her thesis.
"The research area and rock formations I am studying are in my own backyard, so to speak," Brauch said.
While working at Big Bend National Park, Brauch is still trying to get used to scheduling her time with school and work.
"I am still adjusting to my work schedule, so I haven't been extremely diligent yet in my thesis work," she said. "However, I have found it helpful to reserve time on the weekends to study and catch up on schoolwork."
With the many distractions in Big Bend, Brauch finds it easy to get sidetracked.
"It doesn't help that there are so many more things to do in South County than in Alpine," she said. "I have been spending almost all of my time mountain biking, road cycling, swimming, hiking, and exploring places that most tourists never get to see in the national park."
SUL ROSS JOINS GULF COAST COOPERATIVE ECOSYSTEM STUDIES UNIT
Sul Ross State University has joined a cooperative system that enables universities, non-governmental organizations and federal agencies to collaborate on environmental projects.
As part of the Gulf Coast Cooperative Ecosystem Studies Unit, Sul Ross will partner with over 20 other universities, agencies including the Bureau of Land Management, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, U.S. Geological Survey and non-government concerns including the Nature Conservancy of Texas, Coastal Conservation Association and Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center. Cooperative Ecosystem Studies Units (CESUs) provide research, technical assistance and education to federal land management, environmental and research agencies and their partners.
Member universities benefit through faculty development and faculty-student research projects.
"Sul Ross has attempted to join the CESU network on several occasions over the past few years and we are pleased to be a member," said Dr. Louis Harveson, associate professor of Natural Resource Management.
"This partnership has the potential to generate many educational opportunities for our students and faculty through research projects, internships and future employment. We're especially excited about strengthening our relationships with some of our existing constituents, including the National Park Service, Natural Resource Conservation Service and Department of Defense," said Harveson, who serves as the technical representative for Sul Ross.
Harveson is also planning on hosting a workshop on the Gulf Coast CESU sometime this summer or early fall for Sul Ross faculty and staff.
For more information, contact Harveson at harveson@sulross.edu or (432) 837-8098.
LONGEVITY AWARDS RECEPTION MAY 2 AT SUL ROSS
Sul Ross State University employees were recognized for 40, 35, 30, 25 and 20 years of service on Wednesday, May 2. The reception was held at 2 p.m. in the Upper Foyer of the University Center.Those that received awards were:
40 years: Judith Parsons, Behavioral and Social Sciences.
35 years: Paul Lister and Nelson Sager, Languages and Literature.
30 years: Chet Sample, dean of Professional Studies; Wayne Sheehan, Behavioral and Social Sciences; Rowena Gallego, Financial Assistance; Judy Perry, Human Resources.
25 years: Jim Case, dean of Arts and Sciences; David Corbin, Computer Sciences and Mathematics; Barbara Richerson, News and Publications.
20 years: Linda Coleman, Registrar; Roberto Hinojos, Physical Plant; Melleta Bell, Archives of the Big Bend.In MemoriamRebeka Jacquez
In Memoriam
Joseph D. Godsey Sr.
Josephe D. Godsey Sr. passed away February 15, 2007. After celebrating his 90th birthday in September 2006. he was a student at Sul Ross iwht his father and three brothers in 1939-1940. He served with Flying Tigers in China during World War II. He had a full military career, then he was with the Texas State Board of Education, served as director of post-education for ten years. Submitted by Mrs. J.D Godsey.
Paula Kay "PK" Wolking '71
 San Marcos Paula Kay "PK" Wolking, age 56, of San Marcos, TX, peacefully passed away after a fight with cancer, on May 1, 2007, surrounded by her loving family.
Paula was born June 24, 1950, to Dr. Emmett (Pat) Eugene Kelly and Joe Ann Kelly, in Odessa, Texas. She was the eldest of five children. She graduated from Arlington High School in Arlington, Texas, in 1968. She was an All-District volleyball player at Arlington High and was a member of the team that placed 4th in the state tournament in 1967. In 2001 she was inducted into the Hall of Honor at Arlington High School. She continued to play through college at Sul Ross State University, where she was a member of the First DGWS National Intercollegiate Volleyball Championship Team in 1970. She was also a part of the Women's Championship Team in Hawaii, where they took second place, their only loss of the season. She met her husband of 35 years, Dennis Wolking, on a volleyball court at Sul Ross State, where he played basketball. They were married February 12, 1972, in Austin, Texas.
After graduating from Sul Ross State in 1971, she began teaching and coaching volleyball and track at South San Antonio High School. Nine years later she left South San High and moved with her husband to San Marcos, Texas, where she received her master's degree from Southwest Texas State University in 1981. Soon after, she gave birth to her daughter, Anne Elizabeth, in December 1982.
In 1981, she then began teaching at San Marcos High School, in fields ranging from Physical Education and Health to U.S. History, Government and "We the People" Government. Along with her teaching duties, she coached volleyball, track, and cross-country, as well as sponsored cheerleaders and Key club, and served as a lead sponsor for the class of 2001. During her tenure at SMHS, she was presented with the Secondary Teacher of the Year Award for the 1995-96 school year. In 1996, she began teaching a debate class called "We the People…The Citizen and the Constitution," where her class finished first in 1996, and never finished less than third place for the next five years. Throughout the years, she also worked various workshops as a facilitator for the State Bar of Texas in the field of Law-Focused Education. In 2001, she received the State Leon Jaworski Award for Teaching excellence in Law-Focused Education for her work in the classroom. Paula retired from teaching in 2002.
Paula had a brief career as a Freelance Writer developing test items for Holt, Rinehart, and Winston in Austin, TX. She also worked for Harcourt Assessment in San Antonio, TX in their Social Studies TAKS program. In 2005, she returned to the teaching profession with SMCISD serving as the Master Teacher of the Teaching American History Grant for grades 6th thru 12th. She worked in this position until retiring again on March 31, 2007.
Some of the programs she participated in were: History Alive (2005); State Coordinator for the Lincoln Memorial National Youth Committee (1993-1994); Participant in the National Teens, Crime, and the Community Conference (1991); Law and the Humanities Summer Institute (1992); Presenter at the Annual State Law Related Education Conference (1992 and 1993); Facilitator, Texas Coalition of Youth Leaders (1999-2001); conducted seminars for the We the People program; District 14 Coordinator for We the People: Project Citizen (2003-2007); District Coordinator for Citizen Bee (2005-2007); and a member of Who's Who Among American Teachers. She was a member for the following SMCISD teams: Advisory Team (1999-2001); AVID (1999-2001) and the District Vertical Team (1998-2002).
She touched the lives of thousands of students and was dearly loved by all of them. She was a very positive, loving and patient woman. Her optimistic attitude and fundamental belief in the potential of all her students were apparent in her dedication to teaching. Paula's philosophy was to always treat every one with respect. She shared her boundless energy with many clubs and civic organizations over the years. Paula valued her family more than anything else in the world. She was particularly fond of holidays and any family event and worked with such joy to bring her family together to celebrate. She will be dearly missed by her family, colleagues, friends and students.
Paula is preceded in death by her mother-in-law, Wilma J. Wolking and her father-in-law, Walter G. Wolking. In addition to her husband, Dennis, she is survived by her mother, Joe Ann Kelly and her father, Emmett Eugene Kelly of Pflugerville, Texas; daughter, Anne Witherspoon and her husband Kelly Witherspoon of Austin; sisters and their spouses, Carolyn and Jon Ellis of Austin, Kathy and Sam Mihalik of Austin, Jean and David Darling of Katy; and brother and spouse, Joe and Shannon Kelly of Dripping Springs; sister-in-law, Kay Wolking Bratton and husband, Richard Bratton of Austin. She also leaves behind many aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews and cousins.
Visitations were held Thursday, May 3, 2007 from 3:00 to 5:00 p.m. at Thomason Funeral Home, 2001 Ranch Road 12, San Marcos, and 6:00 to 8:00 p.m. at the H. L. Grant Catholic Student Center in the St. Jude Chapel at 100 Concho Street, San Marcos, TX on the campus of Texas State University at the corner of LBJ Drive and Concho Street. The Rosary will be recited at 7:00 p.m. Thursday, May 3 at the student center.
A funeral service were celebrated on Friday, May 4, 2007 at 4:30 p.m. at St. John's Catholic Church, 624 Hopkins, San Marcos, TX. Interment followed at San Marcos Cemetery on Ranch Road 12.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Southwest Regional Cancer Center, Attention: Ann Meyer, LCSW-OSW-C, 901 W. 38th Street, Suite 200, Austin, Texas 78705 or the local Women's Shelter.
Arrangements entrusted to Thomason Funeral Home, 2001 Ranch Road 12, San Marcos, TX 512-396-2300.
Remembering Kenneth "Kenny" Ersch submitted by Susie Jasik
I am Susie Jaksik, Kenny's soul mate and partner in the last years of his life, and I am writing to help us all remember the personal, human touch of Kenny on our lives. Any of you who knew him well will hopefully recognize from these remarks that his character didn't change all that much over the years. He worked hard, played hard, had high ideals like respect and patriotism, but was so humble and so sincere.
It is so difficult to narrow down into a few lines all the wonderful qualities about Kenny that make us miss him so much. It's almost as if he's passed his gift of gab on to us as his legacy. Even though I came to know Kenny late in his life – only the last ten years – he spoke so endearingly of his time spent at Sul Ross.
If I had to put Kenny's life into categories that define what was most important to him, I would say work, play, and family. But as one of his buddies at his memorial service said it best, he approached all of life with passion and enthusiasm. Work had to come first on the list, because music was what he lived for. To put it in his own words; "once you get it in your blood, you can't give it up." He was president of Texas Music Educators Association for 10 years. He was a member of Phi Beta Mu Music Fraternity.
At Sul Ross he was drum major for the Lobo Band for his 4 years and started a drum line that performed as well, and he made it fun to watch the band during half time! He was a member and officer of a social fraternity TKE that was active at SR for several years. After graduation from Sul Ross he directed bands in Pflugerville, New Braunfels, Blanco, Harper, Hondo, Fredericksburg, and Corpus Christi.
When work turned to play, no one loved a party more than Kenny. There seemed to be no "slow" or "off" button when he began letting off steam. But he truly loved to play drums. He would play with anyone who needed him. When he climbed up behind his drum set and kicked off a tune or took off on a drum solo, the smile that spread across his face carried a spark that lit up the whole place.
As for family, was a father figure to hundreds of middle and high school kids. They sensed his sincerity. They reached out to him and knew they could share their troubles; that he would hold their concerns in confidence, listen, and most of all, care. His brother, Gene and his wife Mabel, were also involved with the SR band; live in Tucson, Arizona.
 It's hard to believe he's gone, but he has left us with mental snapshots of great times. Even now, it's not hard to conjure up an image of Kenny: sunshiny smile, squinty eyes behind dark sunglasses, not a hair out of place, extending his hand, saying, "Hey man! How's it goin'?"
Kenneth "Kenny" Ersch, age 50, of Fredericksburg suffered a heart attack and died on Sunday, July 2, 2006. Ersch served as Hondo Owl Band director for several years. A memorial services were held Thursday, July 7, 10:30 a.m. at Holy Ghost Lutheran Church, 110 East San Antonio, in Fredericksburg
Photos Courtesy of Gene & Mabel Ersch
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