Fall 2006/Winter 2007 (Vol. 118 No. 2) Text (PDF) - Spelman ...

SPELMAN – A MODEL FOR THE NATIONVoicesB EVERLY D ANIEL T A TUM, PRESIDENTS PELMAN C OLLEGEWith the recent release of the report of the SpellingsCommission, A Test of Leadership: Charting theFuture of U.S. Higher Education, many in ournation are asking key questions about access, affordability,accountability and innovation in our system ofhigher education. These questions come at an importantmoment at Spelman College while we are celebrating 125 yearsof educating young women in the liberal arts tradition and lookingahead to the next 125 years of service to the nation. We wantyou to know how Spelman is responding to the needs of thenation in terms of these key questions.Access. Spelman College was founded with the purpose of providinga liberal arts education to women who had been deniedaccess to any education at all. A radical vision in 1881, the schoolthat began with 11 students in the basement of a church hasblossomed into one of the leading liberal arts colleges in thecountry, serving approximately 2100 women of African descentfrom around the world. As a result of the dedication of our facultyand staff, Spelman has gained an excellent national reputationand we are proud of our consistently high rankings in themedia’s annual college guides. At #74 ranking, Spelman is theonly historically Black college currently listed in U.S. News &World Report’s top 100 liberal arts colleges. Black Enterpriseranks Spelman as fifth on its list of best colleges for African Americans.In fact, Spelman is the only liberal arts college in the topfive, following Florida A&M University, Howard University, NorthCarolina A&T University and Harvard University. Our studentsstill represent the underserved in the educational market – Blackwomen, many of whom are eligible for federal financial assistance.Our position on the Washington Monthly list of the 30best liberal arts colleges is a particular source of pride for usbecause they base their rankings on the contribution an institutionmakes to the “greater good” in providing social mobility forits students, research contributions and national community service.Though overall we are #22 on their “top 30” list, in thesocial mobility category we are ranked #1 because our graduationrate of 77 percent far exceeds what is expected of an institutionwith such a high percentage of students receiving Pellgrants. This statistic affirms our success in carrying out our historicmission of providing a truly transformational educationalopportunity to economically disadvantaged women.Affordability. Today’s current cost of attendance (tuition,fees, room and board) at Spelman College is approximately$26,000, considerably lower than many other private institutionswhose yearly costs now exceed $40,000. We are genuinely concernedabout the ever-escalating costs of higher education andhave made every effort to contain our cost increases. We are disciplinedabout our spending and take pride in our 30-year history ofbalanced budgets and an Aa3 credit rating. We have done anexcellent job of managing our resources. Our endowment performanceis consistently in the top quartile of college endowmentreturns, as measured by Cambridge Associates. Each year Spelmanoffers approximately $6 million in aid to our students, butwe know we need to do more, as this level of assistance is only ableto meet 28 percent of the demonstrated need our students have.Approximately 80 percent of our students meet the federal guidelinesfor financial aid, and more than 50 percent of our 2005 classhad an expected family contribution (EFC) of $3,500 or less.When family contributions, need-based grants and merit-basedgrants run out, our students take on high levels of debt to fundtheir education. Unfortunately, some students find they haveexhausted all of their available resources before they are able tofinish their degree. It is these students who are part of the 23 percentwho do not graduate from Spelman. We strongly believe thatwe could boost our graduation rate of 77 percent by 15–20 percentagepoints if we could provide additional scholarship supportto all students who have unmet need, and that is our goal.Accountability. Parents and students alike want to be surethat they are receiving value for their tuition dollars. At Spelmanwe know that they are, not only because such a high percentageof our students graduate in a timely way, but because the outcomesfor our students are so impressive in terms of admission tograduate school and successful employment. Students whochoose Spelman are in the company of some of the most talentedyoung women in the world. Although recent news reports havehighlighted declining enrollments at historically Black collegesand universities, the demand for a Spelman education remainshigh, with more than 4500 women applying for 545 spaces forthis academic year. Our admissions process is highly competitive,with an acceptance rate of 39 percent. Among colleges forwomen, only Barnard College and Wellesley College have acceptancerates more selective than ours. The quality of our studentbody is indicated by the fact that we have the highestnumber of Gates Millennium Scholars of any college oruniversity. This very prestigious scholarship is awardedto low-income, high-talent students by the Gates Foundationand provides a full four-year scholarship. GatesMillennium Scholars can attend virtually any institutionthey choose and we are proud that currently 36 areenrolled at Spelman. Because Spelman is well knownfor selective admissions and rigorous academics, ouralumnae find that the Spelman name opens manydoors in corporate America and in academia. Twothirdsof Spelman graduates go on to graduate or professionalschool. We continue to be the leading pipelinefor Black women engineers, medical school studentsand students who go on to earn doctoral degrees inmathematics. We fuel the nation’s private and publicsector with top talent, prepared with the skills they needto succeed.Innovation. Our curriculum continues to evolvewith the changing needs of our global society. We continueto maintain our focus on the hallmarks of anexcellent liberal education – the ability to think critically,communicate effectively in both written and oralform, reason quantitatively, understand one’s socialand environmental context and to appreciate the aestheticsof the world in which we live. For example, weare using the tools of the 21st century to engage ourstudents through technology by expanding our curriculumto include environmental science and internationalstudies. Our Women’s Health Initiative hashelped our students understand the challenge of healthdisparities in underserved communities. Committed tocontinuing our legacy of educating Black women inthe science and technology fields where they have beenso underrepresented, we take great pride in the successof our computer science students and robotics team. Infact, the SpelBots, have blazed new trails as the firstfemale team to ever compete in the InternationalRoboCup – not just once, but twice.Accessible, affordable, accountable, andinnovative – Spelman College is a modelfor the nation.We are building on our tradition of 125 years of educatingwomen who change the world every single day.Today’s Spelman students represent the next generationof leaders. They are ready for the challenge. Withour dedicated faculty, committed staff and the continuedsupport of friends like you, we are well positioned toanswer the test of leadership and help chart the futureof higher education. •Photo: Julie Yarbrough, C’91Spelman is the onlyhistorically Blackcollege currently listedin U.S. News & WorldReport’s top 100liberal arts colleges.4 S P E L M A N M E S S E N G E RF A L L 2 0 0 6 / W I N T E R 2 0 0 75

Letters to a YoungBrother: ManifestYour Destinyby Hill Harper(Gotham/Penguin)So, what’s a book dedicated to youngmen doing in Spelman’s publication?If you want to have a betterunderstanding of the challengesfacing young African Americanmen and what makes them tick,then this book is also for every youngBlack woman, every mother, everyfather and every other person whocares about what happens to a Blackman’s future.Harper, known for his starringrole in TV’s CSI:NY and in films likeLackawanna Blues, He Got Gameand Beloved, is less known for hisvolunteer work with Big Brothers BigSisters and motivational work inpublic schools around the country. Itis even lesser known that he graduatedmagna cum laude from BrownUniversity with a B.A. degree, cumlaude from Harvard Law School witha J.D. and holds a master’s degree inpublic administration from theKennedy School of Government.The book is written in the formof e-mails between Harper and ananonymous “young brotha,” whorepresents the many “young menI’ve been meeting and speaking to,”Harper writes in the introduction.“In this book I hope to addressmany of the questions they’ve beenasking me.”Harper relies on his own experiencesgrowing up under the influencesof strong male role models.“Each of my grandfathers taughtme that there was value in contributingto my community. . . .[T]hey spent their lives in service toothers.” But, he writes, “Effectivementoring does not end with ourblood relatives.”Harper emphasizes the value ofeducation because it “gives options”in what you can do in your life.“From what you said in your letter,you seem to think school is controllingyour life… What you don’trealize is that school does not controlyou. You control school. Schoolis there to serve you, not for you toserve it. . . . I want you to startapproaching your education fromthat place of power. . . . I mean gettingyour needs met; making theteachers do what they are supposedto do . . . . [But] it’s your job to helpthe teachers help you.”Harper covers every challenge facingyoung men: from school, to family,life, to girls, to sex, to having faith andthe importance of “Dreaming Big.”For every bit of advice Harperoffers from his own experiences andknowledge, he also gives the “youngbrotha” (and any readers) thechance to hear from others he mayadmire. Jay-Z, rapper turned businessmanextraordinaire, actressGabrielle Union, tennis star VenusWilliams and Harper’s former classmate,U.S. Senator Barack Obama.Harper ends his book with thesewords: “Be a man who is relaxed,intelligent, compassionate, actscourageously, loves unconditionallyand let your life reflect that truth . . . .This, right now, is your opportunity –the wind is at your back, and I wantto see you FLY!”Wearing Purple:Four LongtimeFriends Celebrate theJoys and Challenges ofGrowing Olderby Lydia Lewis Alexander, MarilynHill Harper, Otis HollowayOwens, Mildred Lucas Patterson(Harmony Books/Crown)Many of us face the onslaught of“Muddle Age” (you know what Imean!) by turning our backs on it.But soon enough, the effects of gravity(sagging everything) make usturn around and face it. How wemanage that turnaround determinesour stability for the rest of our lives.To our rescue come four womenwho entered that loaded minefieldarmed with a 40-year friendship. Inthis book, which came about as theresult of their ability to pour out theirfeelings openly with one anotherthrough their letters, we are madeprivy to important changes allwomen must face in life in one wayor another.Friends since their college days atTalladega in the 1950s, they’veshared the effects on their lives ofcareers, marriages, motherhood,divorce, widowhood, death of friends,siblings and parents.They talk aboutmenopause, being “old,fat and forgetful,” findingnew balance in theirlives, being healthy andfit and, most important,the real meaning of joy.The authors have differentcareers and live indifferent cities. Yet theirfriendship has sustainedthem through the trialsand errors – and successesin their lives.Lydia Lewis Alexander:university teacher andadministrator, mother of one son,widowed. Lives in Birmingham, Ala.Marilyn Hill Harper: doctor –anesthesiologist/clinician; motherof two sons (one is actor and authorHill Harper), divorced. Lives in SanFrancisco.Otis Holloway Owens: universitydean of student affairs, mother ofone son and two stepsons, marriedsince 1968. Lives in Jacksonville, Fla.Mildred Lucas Patterson: teacher,mother of two sons, married since1962. Lives in Kernersville, N.C.The importance of their purplewearing(denoting royalty) sisterhoodis summed up by Otis.“We are more than friends toeach other . . . . Our lives are shapedby our faith, unconditional supportand strength of purpose. No matterwhat, we do not forget each other.We are reminded . . . that there ismore to life than sitting aroundengaging in a ‘pity party.’ We listenwithout judging . . . . Sometimes wecan’t offer advice, but we can be thesounding board that assures us notto worry because everything willwork just fine. This is the real valueof our special relationship.”For the rest of us, this book servesas a reminder that it’s a good time tocall or write a special sister-friend inour lives.Queens: Portraits ofBlack Women andTheir Fabulous Hairby Michael Cunningham andGeorge Alexander (Doubleday)Photographer Michael Cunninghamof Crowns fame and journalistGeorge Alexander put their talentstogether to create this photo-essayon the influence hair has had on thelives and personas of Black women.From Harlem to Ghana, Atlantato London, the pair scoured thesalons and hair shows to gather thepictures and stories of hairstylesworn by Black women. Cunninghamwrites that they “stoppedwomen on the street, peeked inbeauty salons up and down the EastCoast and attended the ‘heaven’ ofthe Black hair industry: the hairshows . . . .”Alexander notes, “For Blackwomen around the globe . . . hairstylinghas provided economicempowerment and advancement . . . .It has bought children’s Easterclothes and paid for college tuition.”And hair concerns have certainlyaffected Black women’s self-esteem.It was hair that generated a familylegacy for one interviewee, televisionproducer A’Lelia Bundles. Shebecame the biographer of her greatgreat grandmother, Madame C.J.Walker, hair products pioneer, entrepreneurand political activist. AndBook Notes L ORRAINEshe was the nation’s first Blackwoman millionaire.After reading W.E.B. DuBois’sThe Souls of Black Folks, Bundlessays, “That book transformed me. Iwas going through this identitytransformation and hair was verymuch a part of that . . . . With longhair people did say I was cute, butwith my Afro I was consideredstrong. The older I get the more Irealize that what endures is ‘strong,’not ‘cute.’”The authors cover every hairstyleimaginable, from straight to kinky,locks to Afros, short to long, exotic tofantasy, you name it – they pictured it.The women, whose ages rangefrom 10 to 82, tell stories of sittinglong hours in hair salons, of gettingburned by hot combs and perms, ofkitchen sink shampoos, of familyR OBERTSONdisputes, of job discrimination and,most of all, of the identity crisestheir hair styles have provoked.Lettice Graham, 82, who gracesthe cover of the book, remembers,“When I was a child, my aunt usedto braid my hair and she would braidit so tight that I couldn’t laugh forthree days.” Nowadays, Letticeswims five days a week, does an hourand a half of exercise every day andstill likes the convenience of braids.“This style now makes me feelmore youthful. When I look in themirror, I feel beautiful inside andout.”Alexander writes, “As our bookprogressed, I was again reminded ofthe multifaceted beauty of the Blackwoman . . . . She’s just plain beautiful.A Queen. Here’s to Black womeneverywhere!”Lisa Rogers-Cherry, C’89, a credit counseling and debt management expert, is the author of Lifting the Burdens ofDebt: A Helpful Guide to Getting Your Debts Paid and Your Life Back on Track. Ms. Rogers-Cherry says discipline,sacrifice and budgeting are the keys to getting debt under control. In Lifting the Burdens of Debt she offers pricelesspractical tips, fill-in forms, checklists, positive affirmations and, most importantly, solutions to help readers tackle theirmoney problems. (ISBN 0-9774296-0-1; Red Pen Press, Dania Beach, Fla., www.redpenpress.com)ANGELA BROWN TERRELL is a writer andeditor based in Columbia, Maryland.8 S P E L M A N M E S S E N G E RF A L L 2 0 0 6 / W I N T E R 2 0 0 79

MessengerF E A T U R ETHEMETAMORPHOSIS OF THE125TH ANNIVERSARY PAINTING“The River That Flows Through Time” ©Varnette P. Honeywood 200610 S P E L M A N M E S S E N G E RF A L L 2 0 0 6 / W I N T E R 2 0 0 711

MessengerF E A T U R EPart 1“The Sound of the Genuine”Howard Thurman, Baccalaureate May 4, 1980“The sound of the genuine is flowing through you. Don’t be deceived and thrown off by all the noisesthat are a part even of your dreams, your ambitions – all of these things that you don’t hear the soundof the genuine in you – because that is the only true guide that you will ever have, and if you don’t havethat you don’t have a thing. You may be famous, you may be whatever the other ideals are which are apart of this generation, but you know you don’t have the foggiest notion of who you are, where you aregoing, what you want. Cultivate the discipline of listening to the sound of the genuine in yourself.”The Miracle Years:1881-1909ProgramProcessionalDr. Joyce Finch JohnsonThe River That Flows Through TimeComposed by Joe JenningsSpelman College Jazz EnsembleIn This Very RoomAmbassador Ruth Davis, C’65 – Founders Day 1998“In This Very Room”Ruth A. Davis, C’65,Founders Day 1998“Oh it was a Wonder!”Annie Alexander (former student)Founders Day Address April 11, 1978“…it was something that the Negro women willremember as long as there’s one living. They’llalways remember the sacrifice and the dedicationand the love for our dear Jesus that helped them toestablish Spelman Seminary and oh if they couldsee it now and see what they have done – if theycould only see it now they would be so glad!”In This Very RoomSoloist: Laura English-Robinson, C’69Accompanied by Dr. Joyce Finch JohnsonFounders Sophia B. Packard and Harriet E. GilesPerformed by Rachel McMichael and Brynn TuckerFounders Day 1978President Donald M. StewartandAnnie Alexander (former student)1881 DanceChoreographed by Kenneth GreenRestaged by Audrey Waters, C’2002Music by Scott JoplinThe River PerformersThe Sound of the GenuineDr. Howard Thurman – Baccalaureate 1980The Miracle YearsKeshia Knight Pulliam, C’2001Photos: Julie Yarbrough, C’91There is a river that runs through timeThere is a current that charges the mindThere is a chapel that stands sublime,A beacon of hope for womankind.There is the message that inspires us allBrought by two women to these very hallsThere are the memories that permeate the wallsAnd fill us with courage, one and all.There is the future, nourished and guided by the pastIlluminated by a sisterhood that will forever lastThere is the Spelman spirit that flows from class to classFrom generation to generationThat propels Spelman womenFar beyond earlier imagination.There is a tradition ascending through timeThere is a current that charges the mind,Captured so uniquely, so easy to findIn this very room, at this very time.12S P E L M A N M E S S E N G E RF A L L 2 0 0 6 / W I N T E R 2 0 0 713

Part IIComing of Age:1910-1934ProgramThe River That Flows Through TimeComposed by Joe JenningsSpelman College Jazz EnsembleSong of the RiverDr. Howard Thurman – Baccalaureate 1980Choreography by Audrey Waters, C’2002Just Come From The MountainSung by Mattiwilda Dobbs, C’46Founders Day 1992Josephine Dobbs Clement, C’37Passing the TorchPresidents Lucy Tapley and Florence ReadWritten by Bob AdamsPerformed by Crystal Dickinson and Carolyn CookLook Where You Brought Me FromSpelman College Glee Club (1992 & 2006)Soloist: Carolyn Brailsford, C’75Directed by Dr. Norma Raybon 1992Directed by Dr. Kevin Johnson 2006Commencement 1992Maya AngelouComing of AgeDr. Juliet Blackburn-Beamon, C’58Photos: Julie Yarbrough, C’91“Sing your own song, said the riverSing, sing your own song.Out of yesterday song comes.It goes into tomorrow,Sing your own song.With your life fashion beauty,This too is the song.Riches will pass and power,But beauty remains.Sing your own song.“Song of the River”Howard ThurmanBaccalaureate May 4, 1980All that is worth doing,Do well, the river said.Sing, sing your own songCertain and round be the measureEvery line graceful and true.Time is the mold, the weaver, carver,Time and the workman together,Sing your own song well,Sing well, the river said.Sing your own song well.”14 S P E L M A N M E S S E N G E RF A L L 2 0 0 6 / W I N T E R 2 0 0 7 15

Part IIICultural Awakening:1935-1959The Deep River dance was based on the“Limbo” painting by Jenelsie Holloway,C’41, (oil, 1979, 39”x 72”). She retiredin June 1991 after 39 years of teachingart at Spelman.ProgramThe River That Flows Through TimeComposed by Joe JenningsSpelman College Jazz EnsembleMomentsPresident Albert E. ManleyMusic: Many Rains Ago from “Roots”by Quincy JonesReflectionsIntroduced by April CurryEsther Rolle (former student),Josephine Harreld Love, C’33,Lena Horne, Alice Walker (former student)Celebrating Jenelsie Holloway, C’41Narrated by Charnelle Holloway, C’79Deep RiverSung by Marian AndersonChoreographed by Christopher HugginsPerformed by Toni Doctor and Antonio SiskThis RiverPerformed by Dr. Joyce Finch JohnsonSoloist: Laura English-Robinson, C’69Cultural AwakeningMozel SpriggsPhotos: Julie Yarbrough, C’91Josephine Harreld Love, C’33: acceptance speechas recipient of the 1991 Founders Spirit Award“As I stand here, memories of Sisters Chapel flood mythoughts, from the earliest years into the present – vespers,eight o’clock chapel services, two graduations,Christmas Carol and other concerts, my wedding – eventhe all-day taping of a Bill Cosby show in which I servedas an extra!“I have walked, sauntered, marched and skipped –illegally, of course – up and down these aisles and acrossthis platform. I have fiddled with the campus orchestra,sung with choruses, recitaled, soloed with a visiting symphonyorchestra – danced on a platform temporarilybuilt at the treble level of the organ loft before the morerecent installation of the visible pipes – and, mostimportantly, gathered within these walls the fundamentalprinciples and basic philosophy of a way of living.”16S P E L M A N M E S S E N G E RF A L L 2 0 0 6 / W I N T E R 2 0 0 717

Part IV“Today”The Restless Years:1960-1981Mary O. Brookins Ross, C’28Founders Day AddressApril 10, 1983Today is ours, Spelman, let’s live itLove is strong, Spelman, let’s give itA song will help, Spelman, let’s help sing itPeace is dear, Spelman, let’s help bring it.ProgramThe River That Flows Through TimeComposed by Joe JenningsSpelman College Jazz EnsembleThe past is done, Spelman, don’t rue itOur work is here, Spelman, let’s do itThe road is rough, Spelman, let’s help clear itThe future is vast, Spelman, don’t fear it.Torrent RiverGiwayan Mata African Drum EnsembleSpelman College Praise Dancers and the SistersChapel Mime MinistryThe Restless YearsSpoken word by: Ayanna Davis, C’2009“Keep Moving From This Mountain”The battle is on, Spelman, let’s help fight itThe world is wrong, Spelman, let’s help to right itIs faith asleep, Spelman? Let’s wake itToday is ours, Spelman, let’s take it!Jordan RiverChoreographed by Kenneth GreenThe River PerformersMusic by Dr. Bernice Johnson Reagon, C’70Commencement 1980Marian Wright Edelman, C’60Convocation 1972Congresswoman Shirley ChisholmKeep Moving From This MountainDr. Martin Luther King Jr. – Founders Day 1960Why? King of Love is DeadWritten by Nina SimoneDirected by Joe JenningsSoloist Brandelyn Scott, C’2005Spelman College Jazz EnsembleTodayDr. Mary Brookins Ross, C’28 – Founders Day 1987The Restless YearsSarah E. Thompson, C’2006Photos: Julie Yarbrough, C’91Martin Luther King, Jr., Founders Day 1960“…Founders Day is always a significant day and I join you inpaying tribute to those persons who through their dedication andtheir flawless efforts brought this institution into being. In a realsense you are the heirs of this legacy of good will and sacrifice onthe part of the founders of this institution. Of course, there is onebasic reason I’m happy to be here and that is I happen to be aMorehouse man, for Morehouse men always consider it an honor tospeak to Spelman ladies . . . .”“Keep moving, for it may well be that the greatest song has notbeen sung; the greatest book has not been written; the highestmountain has not been climbed . . . . This is your challenge – reachout and grab it and make it part of your life. The basic thing is tokeep moving. Move on out of these mountains that impede ourprogress to this new and noble and marvelous land …“We must keep moving – if you can’t fly – run; if you can’t run– walk; if you can’t walk – crawl. But by all means keep moving.”18S P E L M A N M E S S E N G E RF A L L 2 0 0 6 / W I N T E R 2 0 0 719

Part VWords of PraiseThe Praise Song:1981-2006Toni MorrisonCommencement 1978“You are the safety of the world, as well as its danger. You are its danger, because you will change it. Andyou are its safety because you will love it and nourish it.You are not only the ship that will travel difficult waters, you are also the harbor. You are not onlythe traveler who will break open new paths, you are also the inn where you will offer rest. There is noconflict in that; there is no dichotomy in that: You are women. You don’t have to choose between marriageor work; a career or children. What is the history of Black women in this country? We did it all. Wewere fierce and loving; energy and stasis; pioneers and nurturers; travelers and havens; warships andsafe harbors. We did it all. I beg you, no matter what anybody tells you: do it all, my sisters, do it all.”ProgramThe River That Flows Through TimeComposed by Joe JenningsSpelman College Jazz EnsembleSpelman: It’s a Battle for the Human MindPatricia Russell McCloud – Convocation 1983Inaugural AddressesDr. Johnnetta Betsch Cole,Dr. Audrey Forbes Manley, C’55,Dr. Beverly Daniel TatumWords of PraiseToni Morrison, Oprah Winfrey,Drs. William and Camille Cosby,Dr. Sheron Patterson, C’81, Dr. Mae JemisonA Poem for Spelman at 125Pearl Cleage, C’71We AreSpelman College Glee ClubDirected by Dr. Kevin JohnsonThe River PerformersGranddaughters ClubJennifer Beal, Deaundra Cash, JeNita Partride,Faridah Sharit, Jaunice Sills,Courtney Spence, Sydney Taylor, Randy Warren,Elizabeth Johnson, LaToya LeeSpelman HymnBenedictionAnnie Alexander (former student)RecessionalDr. Joyce Finch JohnsonPhotos: Julie Yarbrough, C’91President Johnnetta Betsch ColeInaugural Address, November 6, 1988“On this special day, this new day, we recommitourselves to the education of servant leaders! Wewill continue to teach and learn in ways whichhelp us to fully understand the issues and theproblems of our times and indeed to addressthem. And we will feel and care in ways whichlead us to help solve those very problems.“In a spirit of collaboration, we at SpelmanCollege reach out to other educational institutionsat all levels, to the community of Atlanta, toour people everywhere, to Black women, whereverthey may reside. We are committed to taking acourageous stand for a better world, and we takegreat comfort in knowing that by your presencehere today, you endorse our efforts and join us inthis righteous quest.“Let each coming day find us brave and notafraid to dare.”President Audrey Forbes Manley, C’55Inaugural Address, October 31, 1998“Today, I am truly blessed among women to havetraveled the world and served as a physician, academicianand public health professional. Butwhat a proud moment in time that destiny hasbrought me to the place where it all began toserve as the eighth president of this institution.“Since returning to Spelman, I have learnedthe true meaning of saying that one lives one’sdestiny. I feel that everything that I have everdone, every experience that I have ever had, everylesson that I have ever learned, every place that Ihave ever gone, every opportunity that was everafforded to me, every course that I have ever takenand every achievement I have been blessed tohave has been for this moment.“I hear in my mind, in my heart, in my entirebeing, the words from a hymn that was sung in thechurches of my youth that expresses my feelings atthis moment: ‘A charge to keep I have!’ And I add:An institution to glorify, honor and serve.”President Beverly Daniel TatumInaugural Address, March 22, 2003“Spelman College has set a table of liberal artsexcellence and these young women want to cometo this table not because they must, but becausethey may. They come because this place was builtfor them, and as I said in my opening convocationaddress eight months ago, there are notmany places a Black woman can say, ‘this placewas built for me,’ but Spelman College is one ofthem, and that is a powerful magnet. For somany Black women, Spelman is a magical place.“Spelman’s strength is not only the result of wiseleadership during the last half of the 20th century,but it is also fueled by an enduring andcompelling mission that will propel us forwardinto the 21st century.”The River That Flows Through TimeFounders Day 2006Production CreditsWriter . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Jo Moore StewartScript based on Spelman: A Centennial Celebration and Spelman: A Woman’s PlaceProducer and Director . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Kenneth GreenAssistant to the Director . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Ralph GlenmoreAdministrative Assistant . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Kenique PennProject Manager/Stage Manager . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Mickí SmithProduction Assistants . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Ralph Dickerson, Milan Green, Carlisa LaneJasmine McCord, Jamilia Purdue, Furery Reid, Lorraine RobertsonMyla Smith, Keny Thomason, Ntianu YoungVideo Editing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .David BrayfieldCostumes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Lois StewartGraphics . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Edward AdamsWardrobe Assistant . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .LaNita LaneResearch . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Taronda SpencerActing Coach . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Bob AdamsLighting and Sound Advisor . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Andre AllenProduction House . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Innovative IlluminationsMusic Editing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Bob AdamsHair Designs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Brenda GreenMakeup . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Carmen SimmonOriginal artwork “The River That Flows Through Time” ©Varnette P. Honeywood 200620S P E L M A N M E S S E N G E RF A L L 2 0 0 6 / W I N T E R 2 0 0 721

Alumnae NotesSister to Sister:AND THE JOURNEY CONTINUES…My recent appointment as the seventh Director ofAlumnae Affairs is an honor I accept with deep gratitudeand one which I will do everything in my power to live upto. You see, Spelman is a significant part of my history. Itis my home. With a multigenerational connection to theCollege, I have always considered Spelman a vital part ofmy bone marrow.As I stroll across our beautiful campus, I love to rememberwalking the same pathways during my college days.There are significant visible changes but so much is stillthe same today. The new Science Center wasn’t here in thelate 80s, Rockefeller (currently under a most anticipatedrenovation), Packard, Giles and Tapley still surround theOval, but Sisters Chapel (with its splendid transformationinside) remains the graceful sentinel of campus.My days spent on these grounds, as a little girl growingup and as an undergrad, were some of the best times of mylife, and they shaped who I am today. I truly have a specialplace in my heart for my alma mater and the people ofSpelman, past and present. There is a tie that binds thepast to the future, and that tie is tradition. The rich culturalheritage of Spelman serves as the foundation for hertraditions of excellence in educational endeavors. Whenwe speak of our students, we do so with pride in knowingthat ours are the best. As an alumna, I am fully aware ofour institution’s deep-rooted history and her mission ofempowerment and service and providing academic excellence.For the past 125 years this mission has served adynamic and outstanding group of young women.We, the alumnae, perpetuate and model the ideals ofthe College through the examples of our lives, our contributionsto the communities in which we reside and work,and our leadership on the job and in society. We are visionaryleaders, scientists, educators, artists, entrepreneurs andmothers. What an inspiration this will be – to serve in thislively academic community where scholarly learning andpersonal growth are central to our lives, where women arecommitted to intellectual growth and making this world abetter place.As we continue to celebrate our past, we must activelychart the course for our future. For an institution such asSpelman to survive and thrive for 125 years is a remarkablefeat. Let’s look forward to another 125 with celebrationand amazing joy! Spelman’s future is limited onlyby our vision and the dreams we dare dream, by our skilland commitment in carrying out those plans, and by ourfaith and generous gifts.Sisters, as we begin a new journey under new leadership,I encourage you to act decisively and care tenderly.Support the Annual Fund. Know that your gifts, of everysize, will enable us to continue to build upon our strongtradition of preparing leaders in the sciences, social sciences,education, business and the arts just to name a few.And so…onward and upward we go! Will you joinme? I am counting on you!Most sisterly,Cindy Brooks Baumgardner, C’90Director of Alumnae AffairsPhoto: Bud SmithSPELMAN COLLEGE ALUMNAE ACHIEVEMENT AWARDS 2006 RECIPIENTSAchievers 2006 (l-r, as listed above) surround President Beverly Daniel Tatum and J. Thomas Carroll, Regional Vice President,Mid-Atlantic Region, Tiffany & Co., at Breakfast at Tiffany & Co.Photo: Julie Yarbrough, C’9122S P E L M A N M E S S E N G E RF A L L 2 0 0 6 / W I N T E R 2 0 0 723

Delores LaRheine McCollumPersonal: Nominated by UnitedStates Senator George Voinovich to be aprospective participant at the AfricanAmerican Leadership Summit on March27–28, 2006 in Washington, D.C. Thesummit brought together governmentleaders and prominent African Americansfrom across the country andaddressed issues impacting our communities,including economic development,job creation, education and health care.1974LaTanya Richardson JacksonPersonal: Received an Excellence inLeadership Award with her husbandSamuel Jackson from the Atlanta UrbanLeague Guild in June 2006.1975Brenda SilerProfessional: Named director ofcommunications and marketing forthe United Negro College Fund inMarch 2006.1976Evelynn HammondsProfessional: Received the TrailblazerAward at Spelman’s 125thAnniversary Signature Event on April10, 2006 at the Georgia Aquarium.1977Zenobia Lawrence HikesProfessional: Co-wrote with Louis B.Gallien the article, “The Fusion of Curricularand Co-Curricular Affairs at SpelmanCollege: An Administrative Case Study,”for the Journal of College and Character(Florida State Press, Oct. 2005).1978Robin BurtonProfessional: Accepted position asacademic counselor/lecturer at theNorth Carolina Agricultural and TechnicalState University, The Center forStudent Success, in Greensboro, NorthCarolina.Teresa SmithProfessional: Performed in a benefitproduction of the award-winningdrama Fences given by the NouveauNoir Ensemble theatre group inCharleston, South Carolina. The threeJanuary 2006 performances raisedmoney to support minority studentswithout academic scholarships at theCollege of Charleston.1980Rolonda WattsProfessional: Served as mistress ofceremonies at Spelman’s 125thAnniversary Signature Event on April10, 2006 at the Georgia Aquarium.1981Omelika KuumbaProfessional: Instructed The SistersChapel African Dance Troupe for theirperformance at the Martin Luther King,Jr. Worship Service on January 15, 2006at Sisters Chapel.1982Janet AndersonMarried: Lerone Bennett, III (Morehouse,Class of 1982) in a private ceremonyin Ochos Rios, Jamaica.1983Cathy DanielsProfessional: Appointed secretaryof the college at Spelman effectiveAugust 2, 2006. In this position she willserve as the principal administrativeofficer to the Board of Trustees, as assistantto the president on all matters thatrelate to the board and ceremonialactivities of the College, and as a memberof the president’s senior cabinet.Hazel DeanProfessional: Lectured for WorldAIDS Day on November 30, 2005 in theSpelman College Cosby Auditorium.1985Miquel AntoineProfessional: Received the 2006Lloyd N. Ferguson Young ScientistsAward. The award is presented annuallyby the National Organization for theProfessional Advancement of BlackChemists and Chemical Engineers to arecipient (with up to 10 years of professionalexperience) who has shown earlypromise and accomplishments in his orher field and who has demonstrated thepotential to sustain a productive scientificcareer.Valerie LeonardProfessional: Upgraded her Website, valeriefleonard.com, to be moreresponsive to the needs of nonprofitpractitioners. She has introduced anumber of new features, including aweblog, archived issues of electronicnewsletters, brochures for her servicesand upcoming capacity building seminars,and a revamped governmentgrants page. In addition to theupgrades, visitors will still be able tosubmit and review job postings, purchasereference books and QuickBooks accounting software at 20%discounts, and access links to resourcesfor nonprofit small businesses.Jasmine Pugh TaylorPersonal: Selected as one of Mississippi’sLeading Business Women for 2006by the Mississippi Business Journal.1987Carol RayProfessional: Published book,Poems Inspired by Mother.Tara Buckner SwainProfessional: Appointed executivedirector of the Greater St. LouisRegional Empowerment Zone ManagementCorporation.1988Billie Howard BarnesProfessional: Appointed to theKansas City Public Library Board ofTrustees in August 2005. Board membersare appointed by the mayors oftheir respective districts and serve fouryearterms.Cherise Kimball NewellBirth: Daughter Nyla KatherineNewell born on December 24, 2005, at8 lbs., 4 oz.1989Terri DavisProfessional: Published her first book,Hobbies, Habits and Other HiddenHang-Ups, which has been affectionatelydubbed her “poetic doodles from thefrontlines of womanhood.” A poemfrom the book, “Mirrored Images,” wasprinted in the October 2005 issue ofEssence magazine.Sherri FranksMarried: Bennard Gillison, Jr. at theMartineau Bay Resort and Spa in Vieques,Puerto Rico.Traci HardenProfessional: Provides graphicdesign services through her company,Pretty Colors Graphic Design, specializingin periodical/publication layoutand design, collateral materials, corporateidentity development, fine art andillustration, logo design, and writingand editing services.Deirdre LawrenceProfessional: Announced on August4, 2005 that she has been selected as aMansfield Fellow. The intensive twoyearprogram provides for a year inJapan working full time in professionalpositions in Japanese governmentoffices, preceded by a first year of intensive,full-time language and areas studiestraining in the United States.Take Note!Two Spelman alumnae werehighlighted in the January 2006issue of Ebony magazine for thedynamic roles they play in theNational Football League (NFL).Jacquelyn “Jakki” JonesNance, C’88, is the president ofthe Cleveland Browns Foundationand Adina Ellis, C’97, isthe corporate communicationsmanager for the NFL.Kia-Jacquelyn Omotalade, C’2000, has been awarded two of themost prestigious fellowships in academia – a Yale-Clinton FoundationFellowship to Ethiopia and a Fulbright Fellowship to Indonesia. Ms.Omotalade will spend a year in Ethiopia working with researchers toaddress pressing healthcare needs in the Sub-Saharan African countrythrough the Ethiopian Hospital Management Initiative. In May 2007 shewill begin her research in women’s health in Indonesia through her2006–2007 Fulbright award. The May 31 – June 6, 2006 edition of thePittsburgh Courier ran a feature on Ms. Omotalade, highlighting herextraordinary success.On March 24, 2006, in celebration of AfricanAmerican Heritage, Senator Hillary Clintonawarded Laurie Cumbo, C’97, the Certificateof Recognition for OutstandingAchievement and Service to the Citizens ofNew York State. Ms. Cumbo, founder andexecutive director of the Museum of ContemporaryAfrican Diasporan Arts (MoCADA),launched the museum in 1999 in a buildingowned by the historical Bridge Street AWMEChurch in the community of Bedford-Stuyvesant in Brooklyn. On May 18, 2006, sheunveiled the opening of the new location ofBrooklyn’s first Black art museum. Ms. Cumbowas also featured in the July/August 2006 issueof The Network Journal, Black Professionalsand Small Business.Four Spelman women are making invaluable contributionsto the success of TBS’ new half-hour comedy, Tyler Perry’sHouse of Payne. Denise Burse Fernandez, C’73, andformer student Cassi Davis both star in the television production,while Patrice Coleman, C’78, is a makeupartist on set, and Maya Brooks, C’2004, is the publicistfor the show. Tyler Perry’s House of Payne premiered onJune 21, 2006.On Thursday, April 6, 2006,Maenelle Dixon Dempsey,C’33, and former Spelman PresidentAudrey Forbes Manley,C’55, pictured above with PresidentBeverly Daniel Tatum, werehonored with the 2006 FoundersSpirit Award at the Awards Convocationin historic Sisters Chapel.On April 10, President EmeritaManley presented Rev. Norman M.Rates with the Legacy Award at the125th Anniversary Signature Eventat the Georgia Aquarium.26S P E L M A N M E S S E N G E RF A L L 2 0 0 6 / W I N T E R 2 0 0 727

1990Cindy Brooks BaumgardnerProfessional: Named director ofAlumnae Affairs at Spelman College inJuly 2006.Dawn GriffinEducation: Received doctor of philosophydegree from the University ofAlabama at Birmingham School ofPublic Health.Adrienne Lance LucasProfessional: Participated in severalAtlanta book signings for her children’sbook, Before You Arrived,during Mother’s Day weekend, includingthe Mother’s Day Reading at ElizabethBaptist Church, Muffins with Momat Smyrna City Library and Mother’sDay Storytelling at Image It! – TheChildren’s Museum of Atlanta. Ms.Lucas also held a book signing at CampCreek Marketplace Barnes & Noble onJuly 8, 2006.Stacey ValrieProfessional: Accepted an assistantdirector position with the State of Georgia,ADA Coordinator’s Office effectiveJanuary 3, 2006.1991Audra BrownMarried: José Ward in a small ceremonyon Saturday, February 18, 2006.Sonja Knighton DickensProfessional: Named partner to thelaw firm Arnstein & Lehr in their FortLauderdale office.Laura Simmons DiopMarried: In 2005.Birth: Daughter Khadijah NaimahDiop on December 26, 2005.Moraima Kelly IvoryProfessional: Featured in an articleon homebuilders in the June 2005 issueof Atlanta Living Space Magazine.Tayari JonesProfessional: Participated in athree-part series of conversations titledSisterSpeak & More given by best-sellingauthor Pearl Cleage, C’71, inFebruary 2006.Julie YarbroughProfessional: Featured in the photographicexhibition – SpelmanDepartment of Art Presents Works bySISTAGRAPHY: The Collective of AfricanAmerican Women Photographers ondisplay February 3 – March 3, 2006.1992Tiffany GreenMarried: Ronald Tate, Jr. (Morehousegraduate) at United MethodistChurch in Silver Spring, Maryland.Richele Jordan-DavisProfessional: Promoted to assistantdean for diversity at Columbia University,College of Physicians & Surgeons.She has provided more than sevenyears of service to the department assistingwith the transformation of theOffice of Diversity, helping to increaseminority enrollment, programs andinitiatives at the medical center.Pamela Ransome-ClarkEducation: Achieved nationalSpringBoard Trainer/Consultant certificationthrough The College Board.She is one of 120 teachers in the UnitedStates with this certification and conductsnational training sessions thatprepare English teachers to facilitatepre-AP English classes.Elisa ToryMarried: Brian Duane Dixon in aprivate ceremony in Atlanta on October29, 2005.1993Theresa AdkinsEducation: Awarded a Ph.D. fromthe University of Florida.Professional: Hired as assistant professorof secondary education at TowsonUniversity in Towson, Maryland.Geronda CarterProfessional: Ran for Clayton CountySuperior Court Judge, Atlanta, Georgia.Sonya Summerour ClemmonsProfessional: Featured guest at theforum “Straight Talk About Life” as ascientist and engineer in research,business and academic careers onMarch 28, 2006 in the Spelman CollegeJune Gary Hopps Atrium.Leslie LipscombMarried: Married Stacy Harrison onMarch 18, 2006 at the Carl House inAuburn, Georgia.Njeri MathisMarried: Will Rutledge on July 8,2006 in Houston and honeymooned inJamaica.Professional: Transitioned fromthe Harris County District Attorney’sOffice to professor of law at South TexasCollege of Law.1994Tuere BowlesEducation: Earned a Ph.D. in adulteducation from the University of Georgiain May 2005.Professional: Employed as an assistantprofessor in the department ofadult and higher education at NorthCarolina State University in Raleigh,North Carolina.Dineo BrinsonProfessional: Named associatedirector of Alumnae Affairs at SpelmanCollege in July 2006.Lisa GaryEducation: Received a Ph.D. in epidemiologyand health policy from YaleUniversity in December 2005.Professional: Assistant professor inthe department of health care organizationand policy at the University ofAlabama at Birmingham School of PublicHealth. Dr. Gary is also an associatescholar in the Lister Hill Center forHealth Policy. Her research areas includemental health disparities, patient trustand men’s health.1995Stacey AbramsProfessional: Democratic candidatefor State House of Representatives(Georgia) seat for District 84. AttorneyAbrams also spoke at the last convocationfor the 2005–2006 academic yearat the Honors Convocation on April 20,2006 in Sisters Chapel.Jana DicksonMarried: Ken R. Richards at the FirstUnitarian Church in Chicago.Shakeesha JeffriesProfessional: Featured in the photographicexhibition – (Spelman)Department of Art Presents Works bySISTAGRAPHY: The Collective of AfricanAmerican Women Photographers ondisplay February 3 – March 3, 2006.Natalie JenkinsProfessional: Investment officer forthe City of Dallas Employees’ RetirementFund.Noelle LeVeauxProfessional: Founder and executivedirector of Dress for Success Dallas.Teri McMurtry-ChubbProfessional: Named coordinatorfor the Center for Law, Diversity andJustice (CLDJ). CLDJ is housed at theFairhaven College of InterdisciplinaryStudies at Western Washington Universityin Bellingham, Washington.Kelli MooreProfessional: Named programdirector for Cultural Leadership, a nonprofitorganization created to teachyoung African Americans and Jews aboutsocial injustice, racism and discriminationwith a goal of inspiring youngadults to work toward change.Take Note!A.J. Johnson, C’85, actress and lifestyle adjustment coach wasfeatured in the June 6, 2005 issue of Jet magazine in the article “Waysto Lose Weight Before the Wedding.” Ms. Johnson offered fitnessadvice and encourageddrinking plenty of water.Morehouse College has hired Brenda Banks,C’71, as chief archivist to facilitate organizing morethan 10,000 pieces of the Martin Luther King Jr. Collectionat Morehouse College. Morehouse receivedthe collection, which includes more than 7,000pieces written in King’s hand, after Atlanta MayorShirley Franklin and other civic and corporate leadersstruck an 11th-hour, multimillion dollar deallast month to keep the coveted collection from beingauctioned to the highest bidder by Sotheby’s auctionhouse in New York City. As chief archivist of the MartinLuther King Jr. Collection at Morehouse College,Banks will work closely with archivists at the RobertW. Woodruff Library and Morehouse Collegearchivist, Herman “Skip” Mason, to catalogue andarchive every piece of the collection.Jet magazine highlightedRev. Bernice King’s,C’85, desire to uphold herparents’ legacy in the article“Rev. Bernice King Will TakeUp Nonviolence Legacy of Parents”in the July 3, 2006 issue.The article says that “sheintends to do more to carry on thelegacy of nonviolence espoused byher parents,” and that Rev. King is“looking inward to discover howshe can more fully embrace a nonviolentlifestyle.”Sherri McGee, C’87, recently worked as a television producer andwriter for the second time on the full-figured reality beauty pageant,Monique’s F.A.T. Chance. The first two-hour special became the highest-ratedspecial in Oxygen Network’s history. The second season debutedJuly 15, 2006. Ms. McGee also recently married Anthony Melvin LouisMcCovey at the Luxe Hotel in Brentwood, California.In 2005, Sanquinetta Dover, C’77, CEO of DoverStaffing, received severalaccolades including the “Success Against the Odds” Award from the AtlantaBusiness League. Georgia Department of Labor Commissioner Michael Thurmondpresented Ms. Dover, chair of the Atlanta Employer Committee, with theProject of the Year Award at the Georgia Employer Committee’s Annual StateConference. DoverStaffing was also recognized by the Georgia Department ofLabor Vocational Rehabilitation Department for its continued tenacity in supportingemployment for people with disabilities and was honored by the FultonCounty Human Services Department for outstanding support and service to theOffice of Workforce Development. Ms. Dover began her firm in 1996 and hasemerged as a model of success in the staffing services industry. She was featuredby the Atlanta Business Chronicle in a special edition on CEO’s who graduatedfrom Georgia colleges and universities.28S P E L M A N M E S S E N G E RF A L L 2 0 0 6 / W I N T E R 2 0 0 729

Jeanine PerezMarried: Jaime M. Santos who has aseven-year-old daughter, Jeneé M.J.Santos.Birth: Daughter Jenell Elise Joy Santosborn November 10, 2004.Professional: Joined the VirginIslands’ 26th Legislature as chief ofstaff for first-term Democratic SenatorNeville James.Morrisa Marshall RiceEducation: Selected out of 700 applicantsto become a HRSA Scholar 2006 forthe U.S. Department of Health andHuman Services, Health Resources andServices Administration. The HRSAScholars Program is designed to enhanceHRSA’s ability to recruit, hire, train,develop and retain high-quality individualsfor professional positions. The cornerstoneof the scholars program is a highlystructured, individualized, 12-monthtraining and development curriculumthat each scholar must finish to completethe program. Upon completion, scholarswill be promoted to the next grade leveland assigned to a permanent position.The official appointment took placeNovember 14, 2005.Ursula WrightProfessional: Appointed chief financialofficer of the National Alliance forPublic Charter Schools in February2006. The Alliance is headquartered inWashington, D.C.1996Michi EverettBirth: Son Chance Yair born December21, 2005, at 6 lbs., 6 oz. and 20 1 ⁄4 in.Christie GraysProfessional: Named businessdevelopment director for BremnerHealthcare Real Estate’s new Miami,Florida office.Andrea Stevenson JohnsonProfessional: Released the bookDaily Professions, a spirit-filled journal,on January 31, 2006, published byTate Publishing.Shani DuMauier LeccimaPersonal: Shani and her husband,Samuel (Morehouse College, Class of1994) were featured on A&E’s Flip ThisHouse in August and September 2006.Aliciadine Starks OliphantProfessional: Featured guest onWomen With a Vision internet radioprogram by Aliciadine Music Ministries& XRadio Las Vegas on February 6, 2006.Marla Posey-MossProfessional: Candidate for statedelegate (Maryland), District 34A.Aleesha TaylorEducation: Earned an Ed.D. in InternationalEducational Development –Policy Studies, Teachers College,Columbia University. Her dissertation isQuestioning Participation: CriticalPolicy Scholarship and EducationReform in Tanzania.1997Nia CrossMarried: John Luke Castelly on May6, 2006 at the Sugar Hill Resort in St.James, Barbados.Latonya GistEducation: Completed master of businessadministration in May 2004 andmaster of accountancy in December 2005.Professional: Employed in theNashville practice of global Big Fouraccounting firm, Deloitte & Touche LLP.RaShell Smith-SpearsEducation: Received a Ph.D. in Englishfrom the University of Missouri –Columbia.Professional: Assistant professor ofEnglish at Jackson State University inJackson, Mississippi.1998Azure Utley CardwellBirth: Daughter Sienna Bonita, 4 lbs.,2 oz., 17 in., and son Lucas David, 5 lbs.,5 oz., 18 1 ⁄2 in., born July 28, 2006.Stephanie ColemanBirth: Daughter Mikayla Joy Colemanborn April 10, 2006, at 9 lbs., 7 1 ⁄2 oz. and19 1 ⁄2 in.Sharon FaulkMarried: Les A. Jean-Pierre on April30, 2006 in Woodmere, New York.Orien Barnes GarnerEducation: Received a master of sciencein adult training and organizationalpsychology from Saint Joseph’s University.Heather McTeer-HudsonProfessional: Elected 3rd vicepresident of the National Conference ofBlack Mayors during the organization’s32nd annual conference in Memphis.1999Tanika GoudeauProfessional: Published the book,In Moments of Silence, (PublishAmerica)on February 13, 2006. The book isa collection of poems outlining lifeexperiences from the unique perspectiveof an African American woman.The book release party was held onFebruary 12 at Nuyorican Poets Café inNew York.Antoinette HarmonBirth: Daughter Sydnee Allyse Harmon-Gambleborn September 2, 2003at 8 lbs., 1 oz.Ayana JacksonProfessional: Held opening receptionfor “African by Legacy, Mexican byBirth” exhibition January 9, 2006 atThe Franklyn H. Williams CaribbeanCultural Center, African Diaspora Institute.The exhibit contains 37 printsfrom the 2003 & 2005 series, text piecesand short films shot on 8 mm.Lise-Pauline MiltonEducation: Received her master ofarts in teaching from Wayne State Universityon May 4, 2004.Married: Jarrett Barnett on September4, 2005.Professional: English professor atHarrisburg Area Community College.Tiffani MurrayProfessional: Published the book,Stuck on Stupid: A Guide for Today’sSingle Woman Stuck in Yesterday’sStupid Relationships, on June 2, 2006.It is the first of the “Stuck on Stupid”book series that addresses sticky situationsin relationships, career, family,marriage, health and more.Makia PowersProfessional: Presented “Whichteen mothers will get pregnant again?”at the 2006 Pediatric Academic SocietiesAnnual Meeting on April 30 in SanFrancisco. Dr. Powers and colleagues atChildren’s Hospital Boston investigatedpredictors of repeat pregnancy among275 adolescent mothers receiving carein two urban hospital-based teen-totclinics.Keisha Bursey ReddickBirth: Daughter Gabrielle Anil Reddickborn April 17, 2006 at 6 lbs., 13 oz.Professional: Administrative chiefresident for Duke University departmentof obstetrics and gynecology.Heather ThompsonEducation: Graduated from WayneState University Law School in May2005. She sat for the Michigan Bar inJuly 2005 and was sworn in as a memberof the Michigan Bar Association onNovember 26, 2005.2000Nailah FlakePersonal: Presented as Queen ofWashington Mardi Gras at the 57thAnnual Washington Mardi Gras Celebration,“Louisiana – Abundant Links,”in January 2005, by her father, U.S.Representative William Jefferson (D-LA).She is the fourth African-Americanqueen in the celebration’s history.Take Note!Liwaza Green, C’93, formermusic industry executive, actress,model and full-time mother oftwo, adds television host to herresume as she co-hosts RealMoms, Real Stories, Real Savvy.The show celebrates pregnancyand motherhood as it informsand educates women on criticalparenting, health and emotionalwellness issues. A 26-part weeklyseries made for public television,the show recently won seven distinctiveawards and honors at the27th Annual Telly Awards.Talitha Washington, C’96, wrote an article onApril 18, 2006, in her hometown paper, the EvansvilleCourier & Press, about the man who inspiredher to earn her Ph.D. in mathematics. The storyhighlights the life of Evansville native Elbert Cox,the first African American to receive a Ph.D. inmathematics in 1925. Dr. Washington tells how sheArnita Welch, C’98, a Gatewaystudent, received the HoseaWilliams Award from the GeorgiaState University Office of StudentLife and Leadership InterculturalRelations at the 23rd AnnualMartin Luther King, Jr. Convocationon January 19, 2006. Theaward is given to an individualand an organization who havedemonstrated purposeful risktakingand initiative for thebetterment of the community,who have exhibited leadershipskills and demonstratedcourage and dedication tocommunity activism. Ms.Welch was nominated by Dr.Harry Lefever, professoremeritus of sociology, SpelmanCollege and LulaRoberts, learning resourcesspecialist, Spelman College.Emily Jones, C’94, reached thepeak. Using the Machame Route, Ms.Jones trekked to the highest point onthe continent of Africa. She reachedUhuru Peak (19,366 feet), the top ofMt. Kilimanjaro, at 8:31 a.m. GMT onJuly 14, 2005. “It was the hardest thingI have ever done, physically and mentally,”says Ms. Jones. “It has onlyincreased my desire to reach all of mydreams. It reminds me that I only getone try at this thing called life. I bettermake it happen!”became the second African American from Evansvilleto earn her Ph.D. in mathematics in 2001 andthanks Cox for paving the way. Earlier in the year, Dr.Washington lectured at the University of Evansville,where she is an assistant professor of mathematics,presenting “Mathematicians of the African-AmericanDiaspora.”Philadelphia Mayor John F. Streetannounced the appointment of LoreeJones, C’90, to the position of secretaryof external affairs, effective April 3,2006. Prior to her appointment Ms.Jones served as first deputy managingdirector for the city of Philadelphia.She was a driving force behind highprofile efforts such as Project BrotherlyLove, the city’s Hurricane Katrina reliefeffort, and last summer’s Live 8 concert.As secretary of external affairs,Jones will be responsible for governmentalrelationships in Harrisburg,the state capital, and Washington, D.C.Kathleen Bertrand, C’73, premieredthe blues rendition of “TheATL” written and produced by DallasAustin for the Brand Atlanta Campaignat the campaign’s stakeholdermeeting at the Georgia Aquarium onDecember 5, 2006. She performed thesong again on December 7 on WAGAFox5’s television morning programGood Day Atlanta. In May 2006, Ms.Bertrand released her latest CD, NewStandards, and she has been performingand hosting in-store signingssupporting the project.30S P E L M A N M E S S E N G E RF A L L 2 0 0 6 / W I N T E R 2 0 0 731

LyaNisha GonzalezProfessional: Wrote a play that wasaccepted to the NYC InternationalFringe Festival in August 2006.Paula HarmonEducation: Graduated magna cumlaude from Morehouse School of Medicinewith a doctorate in medicine.Professional: Pursuing a career inotolaryngology at the University ofNorth Carolina at Chapel Hill.Lezli Levene HarvellEducation: Graduated from the Universityof Medicine and Dentistry ofNew Jersey, May 2006. She receivedawards from the American Academy ofOrofacial Pain, the New Jersey Academyof Pediatric Dentistry and the Dr. UrielGunthrope Award for the advancementof dentistry through service.Gina LoringProfessional: Performed two showsat the Temple Bar on March 25 and June9, 2006 in Santa Monica, California.Hawanya MillerEducation: Earned a master’s degreein marriage and family therapy from NovaSoutheastern University in June 2006.Tiffany PryorProfessional: Assistant director ofadmissions at the Goizueta BusinessSchool, Emory University.Alia SampsonMarried: Julian Marcel Brown onJune 24, 2006.2001Heather LoweryProfessional: Featured in the summer2006 issue of Jewel, highlightingher successful career as CEO of Agencyfor Artists, a music booking agency.Mechele Hester LynchBirth: Daughter Meira Kennedy Lynchborn November 22, 2005 at 9 lbs., 1 oz.Keshia Knight PulliamProfessional: Served as a presenter atSpelman’s 125th Anniversary SignatureEvent on April 10, 2006 at the GeorgiaAquarium and at Founders Day Convocationon April 11 in Sisters Chapel.2002Jasmin BaileyProfessional: Received an M.F.A. infilm production from the Lawrence andKristina Dodge College of Film andMedia Arts at Chapman University inOrange, California in May 2006.Mari-Yan L. PringlePersonal: Signature presenter at Spelman’s125th Anniversary Signature Eventon April 10, 2006 at the Georgia Aquarium.Calissia Thomas TasbyEducation: Received Who’s WhoAmong Students in American Universitiesand Colleges honor for academic achievementand student leadership as a graduatestudent at Texas A&M University.2003Preye Tillman CobhamEducation: Awarded the degree ofjuris doctor from the University ofNotre Dame on May 21, 2006.Samaria Hudson DrakefordBirth: Daughter Chella Yutori Drakefordborn February 18, 2006 at 6 lbs., 12 oz.Nicole DunsonEducation: Awarded the degree ofjuris doctor from the University of ConnecticutSchool of Law on May 21, 2006.Ashley JenkinsMarried: Christopher Len Vick(Morehouse, Class of 2003) at St.Mark’s United Methodist Church inNew York City.2004Patti DavisEducation: Received master of sciencedegree in psychology with anemphasis in social psychology withhigh honors from the University ofGeorgia on May 13, 2006.Asha JenningsPersonal: Signature presenter at Spelman’s125th Anniversary Signature Eventon April 10, 2006 at the Georgia Aquarium.Christian McKenzieProfessional: Made the youngestregional special events coordinator forin-store promotions, fashion shows andcelebrity appearances for Macy’s Eastcorporate. Previously she was an assistantbuyer for Nine West and privatelabel shoes.Aimee PierreEducation: Earned a master of educationdegree in guidance and counselingfrom the University of Georgia inMay 2006.2005Moya BaileyPersonal: Signature presenter at Spelman’s125th Anniversary Signature Eventon April 10, 2006 at the Georgia Aquarium.Adrienne BrownEducation: Attended a China Healthand Wellness program through KennesawState University, Kennesaw, Georgia.The program focuses on medical practicesin China, as well as public healthsystems in medical institutions. She conductedresearch at several major universitiesin China and visited five differentcities during the one-month venture.Chelsey RodgersPersonal: Named first runner-up tothe 2006 Miss District of Columbia andalso received the title of Miss Congenialityat the 2006 Miss District of ColumbiaScholarship Pageant held on July 1,2006, at the University of the District ofColumbia in Washington, D.C.Tiffany TysonProfessional: Selected fromapproximately 1,200 finalists from theUnited States to participate in the JapanExchange and Teaching Program(JET). She departed for Japan on July29, 2006 to spend one year as an assistantlanguage teacher in Fukuoka-ken.Ashli WilsonEducation: Attending a teachertraining course at the Shady Hill Schoolin Cambridge, Massachusetts. It is ayear-long training course in partnershipwith Tufts University. She is alsotaking seminars towards her master’sdegree in education at the school.Take Note!In the January 12, 2006 edition of DiverseIssues, the magazine profiles 10 scholars, indisciplines from neurobiology to anthropology,who are changing the face of the academyand serving as an inspiration to bothstudents and colleagues. Shona Morgan,C’95, is one of those 10. Dr. Morgan, assistantprofessor, operations management,School of Business and Economics, NorthCarolina A&T State University, and the otherawardees are recognized for doing innovativeresearch in their chosen field of study,teaching and for reaching out to shape thenext generation of scholars. The articlehighlights her stellar career and education,in which she says Spelman gave her thefoundation to excel … and helped her transformher lifelong talent for mathematicsinto a satisfying career.D’Angela Proctor Steed’s, C’91,company, The Momentum Experience,was featured in the “Newsmakers” sectionof the August 22, 2005 issue of Jetmagazine for receiving financial supportfrom some of Hollywood’s blackelite entertainers. Will Smith, BlairUnderwood, Duane Martin and wifeTisha Campbell-Martin are investorsin the theatrical distribution company.Founded by Ms. Steed and NiaHill, the company targets urban consumersin nontraditional theatricalvenues. The company’s first releaseis The Seat Filler, a romantic comedystarring Kelly Rowland, ShemarMoore and Duane Martin.Asha Jennings, C’2004, andMoya Bailey, C’2005, wereHonoring Champions for ChangeAward recipients at the annualChampions for Change Luncheon& Silent Auction put on by TheWomen’s Resource Center to EndDomestic Violence. The March 16,2006 event honored the pair fortheir continuing efforts in challengingthe hip-hop industry forits negative depiction of AfricanAmerican women. On Friday, May26, Ms. Jennings was featured onGood People by Atlanta’s 11Alivenews anchor Brenda Wood. Thesegment profiles individuals whomake a difference in society andfocused on Ms. Jennings’ efforts toexpose the negative portrayal ofwomen in hip-hop videos.Keshia Knight Pulliam,C’2001, was featured in the July3, 2006, issue of Jet magazine.The actress paused for a photowith her brother James C. Pulliam,III at his graduation fromMorehouse College.32 S P E L M A N M E S S E N G E RF A L L 2 0 0 6 / W I N T E R 2 0 0 733

Reunion 2006Photos: Julie Yarbrough, C’91Photos: Bud SmithGolden Girl Class of 195634 S P E L M A N M E S S E N G E RF A L L 2 0 0 6 / W I N T E R 2 0 0 735

REUNION 2006:125 REUNIONYEARS OF WOMEN WHO CHANGE THE WORLD1252006: YEARS OF WOMEN WHO CHANGE THE WORLDClass of 1936Class of 1941Class of 1956Class of 1946Class of 1961Class Photos: Curtis McDowell Professional Photography Class of 195136 S P E L M A N M E S S E N G E RF A L L 2 0 0 6 / W I N T E R 2 0 0 737

REUNION 2006:125 REUNIONYEARS OF WOMEN WHO CHANGE THE WORLD1252006: YEARS OF WOMEN WHO CHANGE THE WORLDClass of 1976Class of 1966Class of 1971Class of 198138S P E L M A N M E S S E N G E RF A L L 2 0 0 6 / W I N T E R 2 0 0 739

REUNION 2006:125 REUNIONYEARS OF WOMEN WHO CHANGE THE WORLD1252006: YEARS OF WOMEN WHO CHANGE THE WORLDClass of 1986Class of 1996Class of 1991Class of 200140S P E L M A N M E S S E N G E RF A L L 2 0 0 6 / W I N T E R 2 0 0 741

Spelman Celebrates the Legacies ofSmythe-Haith, Killian and YatesD INEO A. BRINSON, C’94A SSOCIATE D IRECTOR OF A LUMNAE A FFAIRSIn MemoriamMabel Murphy Smythe-Haith, C’37April 3, 1918 – February 7, 2006Dr. Mabel Murphy Smythe-Haith entered Spelman College in1933 as Mabel Hancock Murphy, the daughter of Harry S. Murphy,proprietor of a printing shop, and Josephine Dibble Murphy,dressmaker. She attended Atlanta University Laboratory HighSchool and upon applying to Spelman College, she receivedglowing recommendations from Dr. S. M. Nabrit and Dr. JohnHope. She wrote in her application for admission to SpelmanCollege, “I wish to come to Spelman because a better educationis obtained, many subjects are studied at Spelman ... and thereare better opportunities there.”She began her illustrious career at Spelman with a major ineconomics and a minor in mathematics. In her first year, shewas associate editor of news on the Campus Mirror staff, amember of the Spelman College Glee club and the Atlanta UniversityChorus and Orchestra. She then became news editor forthe Campus Mirror and performed as a University Player and amember of the orchestra in her sophomore year. After two fruitfulyears at Spelman College, she was awarded a scholarship tospend the remaining two years of her collegiate experience atMount Holyoke College.Dr. Mabel Murphy Smythe-Haith went on to earn her doctoraldegree from the University of Wisconsin in economics andlaw. In 1962 she was appointed to the U.S. Advisory Commissionon International and Cultural Affairs by PresidentKennedy. Two years later she was appointed to serve as U.S. representativefor UNESCO. Dr. Smythe-Haith went on to serve thecountries of Syria and Malta with her husband, Hugh Smythe,who was ambassador to both countries. In 1977 PresidentCarter appointed her as ambassador to the Republic ofCameroon, where she spent four years in this capacity.Spelman College gave her its highest honor, an honorarydegree, in 1980. Dr. Smythe-Haith was then appointed to theSpelman College Board of Trustees in 1981 and later named alife trustee. She and her husband very generously donated a sizableAfrican art collection to Spelman College in the 1980s.Dr. Mabel Murphy Smythe-Haith was honored on June 8,2006 by a memorial ceremony in the Packard Memorial Gardenby Read Hall.Darlyne Atkinson Killian, C’48October 9, 1928 – June 6, 2006Mrs. Darlyne Atkinson Killian entered Spelman College in 1944at the age of 15. She arrived at Spelman from Brenham, Texaswhere she was raised by her parents, Dr. Joseph Donahue Atkinson,Sr., dental surgeon and Meharry Medical School Class of1925 graduate, and Gladys Lenore Peyton Atkinson, pianist,home economics teacher and housewife. When asked why shewished to come to Spelman on her college application, shestated, “Spelman College offers the particular things that areoften omitted in many educational institutions. I feel that I amassured of skilled care of health, wise physical training, sharpeningof my perceptions, sane and well balanced guidance formental and emotional needs. For the girl who seeks means ofpreparation for a well-balanced future, collectively and individually,Spelman is my choice.”She chose Spelman and became very active in the life of theCollege. She took physical education classes from Miss MargueriteF. Simon. She committed to four years as a member ofthe Sunday School Council and the YWCA, serving on the cabinetin her senior year. She was also a member of the FrenchClub and the University Players. In her senior year she served asvice president, and her senior class quote for the yearbookstated, “She needs no stage, no set, nor screen, / This frolicsome,lovable, gay Darlene.” She graduated from Spelman Collegein 1948, receiving her A.B. in art with a minor in history.Upon graduation, Darlyne Atkinson followed her heart and,on June 10, 1949, she married her college sweetheart, WilliamHerty Killian, Jr. (Morehouse College Class of 1948) in San Antonio,Texas. Once again she followed her heart, becoming anartist, art teacher, and area supervisor of art for grades K-12 inthe Atlanta Public School System. She came from a family of collegegraduates, a family that believed in the power of education.As a result, she further honored her family legacy by returning toreceive her M.A. and Ed.S. in art education from the University ofGeorgia in 1968 and 1978 respectively. She retired from theAtlanta Public School System in 1992 after 40 years in education.Ultimately, she was a pioneer in art education in Atlanta.Mrs. Killian was a loyal Spelman alumna,giving consistently through the years of hertime, talent and treasure to ensure that generationsof young women would come to knowand experience higher learning in the Spelmantradition. She consistently contributedto Spelman College, especially at FoundersDay and Reunion, and served on variousCollege committees and as a class agent, rallyingher classmates around each and everyreunion. She especially reveled in her lovefor Spelman during one of her proudestmoments as a Golden Girl at Spelman College’sReunion 1998. She also committed todecades of service to the National AlumnaeAssociation of Spelman College (NAASC) asa dedicated member of the Atlanta Chapter, serving on manycommittees and always recruiting new members.Mrs. Darlyne Atkinson Killian’s funeral was held in SistersChapel on June 9, 2006.Ella Mae Gaines Yates, C’49June 14, 1927 – June 27, 2006A fourth-generation Atlanta native, Ella Mae Gaines was born toFred Douglas Gaines, Sr., a picture framer, and Laura MooreGaines, a graduate of Morris Brown. She graduated from BookerT. Washington High School in the Atlanta West End communityand was accepted to Spelman College on July 31, 1944. Herapplication for admission to Spelman stated, “I wish to come toSpelman, because I feel there is no other college anywhere in theworld finer for a girl to receive training to prepare herself forhigher gains in life. I have always looked forward to enteringSpelman College, because Spelman students have a certain airabout them that denotes character and culture. I would naturallylike to fall in line.”She fell in line immediately. She was a member of the BiologyClub, French Club, English Club, University Players, YWCA,NAACP, Atlanta-Spelman-Morehouse Chorus, and the CampusMirror as photography editor. It is significant to note that she42S P E L M A N M E S S E N G E RF A L L 2 0 0 6 / W I N T E R 2 0 0 743

Excerpts from“My Friend Ella ... A Remarkable Woman!”By Marymal Dryden, C’48, June 30, 2006You will note that throughout my remarks I willoften refer to Ella simply as a remarkable woman,for that is what she has always been in my eyes, inmy life and in the lives of our families and friends.Imagine a woman who could install a guttersystem around her house, paint the walls, hang theElla Mae Gaines Yates, C’49wallpaper, change the wiring and still insist onwas a member of the publicity committeedecoupaging an entire suite of bedroom furniture of the Spelman College Library Club andherself to make her home as beautiful as it was now the business manager for the Atlanta UniversityLibrary Club during college. Shefunctional…a remarkable woman.was also a member of the Spelman CollegeGlee Club and the Atlanta-Spelman-Imagine a woman who could manage andoversee the building of a new public library and at Morehouse Orchestra throughout herthe same time apply, get accepted, enter and graduatefrom law school…a remarkable woman.entire college education. Her collegecareer culminated with the experience ofbecoming Miss Maroon and White in theImagine a woman who inspired great loyaltyfall of her senior year. She graduatedfrom every institution with which she was from Spelman College in 1949, receivinginvolved…My friend Ella, a remarkable woman, her A.B. in English with a minor in musicand three years of pre-med curriculum.has been a part of so many of my memories and soUpon graduation, Ella Gaines Yatesmuch of my history that it is hard for me to remembera time when she wasn’t. We have survived many earned a M.S. in library science fromtook her education to higher heights. Shelifetimes together and I will miss her terribly…I am Atlanta University in 1951, school librarycertification from Rutgers University incertain that she is “upstairs” right now, measuring1956, and a J.D. from Atlanta Law Schoolfor drapes, configuring her new garden and getting in 1979. Her career encompassed university,public, medical, and special librari-ready to decoupage a new set of furniture in thelibrary. All I can say is, "St. Peter, watch out! Ella isanship, as well as being graduatelibrarian school lecturer, library consultantand research writer. Mrs. Yates heldmoving in!"positions at the Brooklyn Public Libraryand several New Jersey Public Library Systems before becomingassistant director of the Atlanta Public Library System in 1972.She was also a visiting professor at Atlanta University’s GraduateSchool of Library and Information Science at this time. Mrs.Yates was then featured in the December 16, 1976 issue of Jetmagazine as the first African American to head the Atlanta PublicLibrary System. (She was also the second African Americanwoman to head a public library system in the United States.)She was chosen unanimously by the board from a pool of 48applicants to direct a system consisting of a main library, 26branches and over 300 employees. By 1978 she was responsiblePhoto: Bud Smithfor 400 employees and a $5 million budget. Under her active,hands-on directorship, a central library was built with an $18.9million dollar construction cost. She was the first African Americanlibrarian in the country to have a major metropolitanlibrary built during her tenure. She was also the first librarianin the country to place a branch in a major security facility, theFulton County jail. With these achievements, Mrs. Yates garnereda very strong national reputation.As Ella Gaines Yates’ career continued to flourish, sheserved as a research writer for the U.S. Civil Rights Commissionand founded her own firm, Yates Library Consultants. Sheserved as visiting lecturer at the University of Washington’sGraduate School of Library and Information Science and madeseveral speeches a year on First Amendment rights and intellectualfreedom. Subsequently, Ebony magazine featured her intheir April 1987 issue stating, “Ella Gaines Yates is state librarianfor the Virginia State Library. Appointed by [the governor]last year, she has compiled 34 years of library and academicexperience . . . . She is the sixth librarian of Virginia since 1903,as well as the first woman, first Black, [and] first non-Virginianin the post.” At the time of the appointment, she was the onlyAfrican American to be appointed state librarian in the UnitedStates. She was a woman of many firsts, a natural leader in herfield and in her community, and she was duly recognized withabundant honors and awards.Mrs. Ella Gaines Yates was a loyal Spelman alumna, givingconsistently through the years of her time, talent, and treasureto ensure that generations of young women would come toknow and experience higher learning in the Spelman tradition.As a loyal alumna, she gracefully represented President DonaldStewart at the inauguration of David C. LeShana as sixth presidentof Seattle Pacific University in Seattle, Washington. Shewas named “Distinguished Alumna” by President Stewart inJanuary 1997. The Atlanta Daily World stated, “Dr. Stewarttold Mrs. Yates that in honoring you today, we honor ourselves,for your personality that which is most honored and honorablein this city and the nation, for you have been a devoted and dedicatedservant of your community, and you have brought credit,prestige and glory to your alma mater, Spelman College.’”As a loyal alumna, Mrs. Yates consistently contributed to SpelmanCollege, especially at Founders Day and Reunion, and servedon various College committees and as a Class Agent, rallying herclassmates around each and every reunion. She especially reveledin her love for Spelman during one of her proudest moments as aGolden Girl at Spelman College’s Reunion 1999. She also committedto decades of exceptional service to the National AlumnaeAssociation of Spelman College (NAASC) as a dedicated nationalexecutive member, Seattle Chapter organizer, and longtimemember of the Atlanta Chapter.Mrs. Ella Gaines Yates’ funeral services were held at her lifelongchurch, Friendship Baptist Church, on July 1, 2006. •44S P E L M A N M E S S E N G E R