Sunday, September 28, 2014

Wildcat Dreams - Vol. 2, No. 3


Sunday, September 28, 2014 • Vol. 2, No.3

Wildcat Dreams is Fort Valley State University President Ivelaw Lloyd Griffith’s tri-weekly e-newsletter. As an additional resource to stay connected to FVSU, Wildcat Dreams highlights various campus activities and updates about new initiatives and programs. Readers are encouraged to share with friends and family. We welcome your feedback. Please send comments to fvsu_pr@fvsu.edu. Thank you and happy reading!

Read more news on the FVSU Review. 


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John Chaffin, Fort Valley State University's featured Alum for this e-newsletter edition, plays Warlock on Tyler Perry's "The Haves and the Have Nots."


FVSU Alum Spotlight: Jon Chiffon

This edition's Alum Spotlight features a Fort Valley State Wildcat actor who currently stars as the character Warlock on The O Network’s and Tyler Perry’s "Haves and Haves Not."

Jon Chaffin, a 2005 graduate of FVSU, grew up in the Stone Mountain, located east of Atlanta. The actor is the youngest child, and only son, in a family of five. The Wildcat alum says he had a great childhood being raised by a mother who runs a fitness boot camp named DCS Fitness and a father who is a self-employed contractor.

“I get my entrepreneurial spirit from my father,” Chaffin said. “Even though times are tough, you know that you have it within you to succeed. That’s why I’ve never been afraid of losing a job, because I have my father’s spirit within me.”


Read the entire story here.




 Melba Moore will speak to students on FVSU's campus on Thursday, Oct. 2. 

Famed entertainer Melba Moore to visit FVSU

Melba Moore, an iconic Tony Award-winning actress and Grammy–nominated artist, will speak at Fort Valley State University’s campus next month. The acclaimed Broadway actress and entertainment will speak at FVSU at 3 p.m. Thursday, October 2, 2014.

Moore will share her journey with students and provide advice to encourage young people and help them succeed. The university will unveil the FVSU Wall of Wisdom poster commemorating Moore's achievements and significant quote. The poster will be erected along with others in Founders Hall in late October.

Read the entire story here.


Maj. Gen. James Donald, keynote speaker, shares his experiences on September 11, 2001 Washington, D.C. on FVSU's campus recently.

Ceremony commemorates  9/11 victims  

Maj. Gen. James Donald, chairman of the Board for Georgia’s State Board of Pardons and Paroles, said when the military leadership initially learned of the 9/11 attack, they thought a missile had hit the Pentagon. The act resulted, he said, in the fastest military mobilization in the nation’s history.

Donald recently shared the revelation during a September 11th commemoration ceremony held at Fort Valley State University. The retired military official was the keynote speaker for the event held Sept. 11 at the quadrangle next to Founders Hall. It featured first responders from Peach County and Fort Valley State University, and individuals that survived the Sept. 11, 2001 attacks at the Pentagon.

Read the entire story here.





FVSU nets $149,500 grant to prepare future biotechnology workers


A federal agency recently provided grant funding to help Fort Valley State University launch a new program designed to increase the number of skilled workers prepared for biotechnology careers.

Earlier this month, the United States Department of Agriculture’s National Institute of Food and Agriculture awarded Fort Valley State University’s Biotechnology Program a $149,500 grant to implement a new program that will help with the recruitment and retention of high school students and college students in biotechnology-related fields. The grant period will end in August 31, 2016.

 “Through funding from NIFA we intend to prepare global leaders for food and agricultural biotechnology industry,” said Dr. Sarwan Dhir, a professor of plant biotechnology and director of FVSU’s biotechnology Center. “We will accomplish this goal by providing the right tools, training and career guidance to the target audience including K-12 students and educators of African –American decent, a population that has been under exposed to these fields in the past.

Read the entire story here.



Students at last year's 2013 Homecoming kickoff ceremony.

Homecoming week to be global affair


Fort Valley State University’s homecoming theme is taking a global approach for the 2014 year. The theme is "Wildcats World Wide: FVSU – Your Passport to Excitement."

 This year’s homecoming festivities will take place the week of Sunday, Oct. 19 – Saturday, Oct. 25. On the final day the Wildcats take on the Paine College Lions at 2 p.m. in Wildcat Stadium. The annual parade will precede the game at 9 a.m.

"A part of the rationale that went into it, we wanted to demonstrate that we not only have students from all over the world, but alumni too, so it gives us a chance to do themes based on different locations," said Brian Byrd, one of the organizers of this year’s homecoming activities. "We’re creating a look and theme for different destinations. On Saturday, it is a Welcome Home. You’ve gone on your journey and have a home for homecoming, and the excitement that goes along with it.

Read the entire story here




This year's Excellence Award winners pose with Fort Valley State University president Ivelaw Lloyd Griffith, provost and vice president of Academic Affairs Dr. Jessica Bailey and college deans.

Faculty honored with 2nd Annual Celebration of Scholarship Day

Fort Valley State University recently recognized the research and accomplishments of faculty members at the 2nd Annual Celebration of Scholarship Day on Sept. 25 at the C. W. Pettigrew Center. 

Dr. Jessica Bailey, provost and vice president for Academic Affairs, told the audience that research and scholarship were important for the role they played in creating new knowledge for society. “Scholarship is related to teaching,” Bailey said. “Most people say that they want to become teachers, but their teaching is limited to their classrooms. Scholarship gives professors a much wider audience to teach the world.”

 Dr. Ivelaw Lloyd Griffith, FVSU president, was the keynote speaker.

Read the entire story here.





Dr. Earl Long, parasitologist and U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention expert.

Ebola expert to speak during third GIC meeting

Fort Valley State University’s upcoming Global Initiatives Council meeting next month will feature a lecture from an Ebola expert and consultant with the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. 

Dr. Earl Long, a parasitologist and U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention consultant, will deliver the Presidential Excellence Lecture on the “Dynamics of International Diseases: the Case of Ebola” at 12:30 p.m. Wednesday, Oct. 22 in the Pettigrew Center Auditorium.

Read the entire story here.



Fort Valley State University director of Undergraduate Research Dr. Sarwan Dhir (far left) and senior biotechnology student Brandon Beaty (far right) take a quick photo with University of the Philippines - Los Banos students and researchers in the Laguna Province.

NSF funds used to partner with the University of the Philippines- Los Banos

Fort Valley State University will help meet a crucial need for globally-engaged scientists, researchers and engineers thanks to supplemental funding from the National Science Foundation, Department of Biological Infra-structure. 

The $7,500 in NSF funding will help the university create a U.S. - Philippines International collaborative Research Experience for Undergraduates in Biotechnology program. The campus will partner with the University of Philippines and the International Rice Research Institute in the Philippines on research and education in the field of plant genomics and biotechnology, and provide training, networking and intellectual development opportunities for undergraduates and faculty scientists with international research backgrounds.


Read the entire story here.


 
Dr. Ivelaw Lloyd Griffith, president of Fort Valley State University

 FVSU president to join U.S. Global Leadership Council 

Fort Valley State University President Dr. Ivelaw Griffith has been invited to join the U.S. Global Leadership Coalition’s Georgia Advisory Committee.

The USGLC is a broad-based network of 400 businesses, non-governmental organizations, and military, faith-based and civic leaders working to support American global engagement. 

“The invitation to serve on this Council reflects recognition by others that FVSU can make a valuable contribution to international affairs in general and the international education in particular,” Griffith said. “Moreover, it provides an opportunity for me to position our university to benefit from the wealth of relationships and resources in the Global Leadership Council as we pursue our global agenda.” 

Read the entire story here.




Kena Torbert, family life specialist for Fort Valley State University’s Cooperative Extension Program, was recently elected to serve as president of the National Coalition for Black Development in Family and Consumer Sciences. 

Extension Specialist Elected President of a National Coalition

Kena Torbert, family life specialist for Fort Valley State University’s Cooperative Extension Program, was recently elected to serve as president of the National Coalition for Black Development in Family and Consumer Sciences. 

According to the American Association of Family and Consumer Sciences, FCS provides a set of skills, research and knowledge used to help people make informed decisions about their well-being, relationships and resources.

Individuals with an FCS degree can pursue a career in a variety of fields such as food and nutrition science, financial planning, extension education and product development. Torbert, who is serving a two-year term ending in 2016, said her duties as president include encouraging young people to pursue careers in FCS and ensuring FCS professionals are recognized for their research and teaching achievements.


Read the entire story here.






(From left to right) Billy Brown, Fort Valley State University’s energy educator for the Georgia Residential Energy Efficiency Network (GREEN) Program; Leslie Weaver, FVSU 4-H program coordinator; Stefan Price, FVSU Bulloch County extension agent; Phillip Petway, FVSU 4-H Twiggs County extension agent; Terralon Chaney, FVSU Twiggs County extension agent and Keishon Thomas (not pictured), housing specialist for FVSU’s Cooperative Extension Program.



Extension personnel earn regional, state and national awards 

Six Fort Valley State University Cooperative Extension employees were recently honored for their work by the Georgia Extension Association of Family and Consumer Sciences (GEAFCS). Keishon Thomas, Phillip Petway, Terralon Chaney, Stefan Price, Billy Brown and Leslie Weaver all received awards for their projects at the GEAFCS annual conference Aug. 8 in Jasper, Ga.

 The GEAFCS is a professional association for family and consumer science professionals employed by the Georgia Cooperative Extension System. It is part of the National Extension Association of Family and Consumer Sciences.


Read the entire story here.



Fort Valley State University student Jeremy Wimes(left) and Dr. Davida Curtis, director of FVSU's TRIO Student Support Services.

Scholar and administrator present at Council for Opportunity in Education Conference


A student and administrator from a FVSU program that assists first-generation students flew to the nation’s capital for a conference that will spotlight first-generation college students and programs committed to helping them obtain a higher-education.

 Jeremy Wimes, a senior majoring plant science-biotechnology, and Dr. Davida Curtis, director of FVSU’s TRIO Student Support Services program, attended the 33rd Annual Council for Opportunity in Education’s 33rd Annual Conference, Sept. 7 – 10, in Washington, D.C.

Read the entire story here.



FVSU President Ivelaw Griffith takes a photo with this year's new Faculty/Senate officers for the 2014-2015 academic term.

Faculty Senate holds elections 

Fort Valley State University’s Faculty Senate discussed policy changes and elected new senators during its first meeting of the 2014-2015academic term. During the meeting, university President Ivelaw Lloyd Griffith charged the assembly with duties and responsibilities that it will need to undertake during the 2014-2015 academic term to help strengthen the position of FVSU.

Dr. Komanduri Murty, a professor of sociology, is the outgoing president of the Faculty Senate. Murty spoke about the role of the Faculty Senate on campus.

“The Faculty Senate is the delegate assembly through which the faculty normally exercises its responsibilities,” Murty said. “It serves as a means of communication among the faculty. The chair of the faculty (President of FVSU, Dr. Ivelaw Lloyd Griffith) is the official medium of communication between

Read the entire story here.






Department of Mathematics and Computer Sciences provides new Applied Statistics Internships 

This fall, Fort Valley State University’s Mathematics and Computer Science Department will be presenting new research, internship and mentoring opportunities for students and faculty pursuing minors in Applied Statistics. The new program was launched this fall thanks to funds from a $393,684 National Science Fund Grant. 

Dr. Dawit Aberra, chair of the university’s math and computer science department, and assistant professors of mathematics Dr. Haixan Wang and Dr. Shadreck Chitsonga, were co-principal investigators for the grant projects entitled, “Targeted Infusion Project: Developing a Minor Program in Applied Statistics within the Department of Mathematics and Computer Science at FVSU.”

Read the entire story here.


Dr. Anna Holloway, retired dean of the College of Graduate Studies and Extended Education, started a new scholarship to help Fort Valley State University students.

Retired FVSU administrator launches scholarship fund


A retired Fort Valley State University dean is commemorating her retirement with a special scholarship fund to help Wildcat students.

Anna Holloway, who served as the dean for the College of Graduate Studies and Extended Education, launched the 46 Years Scholarship Fund before her retirement in June.

Holloway worked at FVSU as a professor and an administrator for 46 years. “To celebrate my retirement, I’m asking my former students and others that I’ve mentored to donate $46 (or as much as you can afford) to my ’46 Years Fund,” Holloway said.

Read the entire story here.


Jasmine Hughes, a senior agricultural economics major from Irwinton, Georgia studied in Brazil while participating in the International Summer Experience in Agriculture and Related Sciences Program June 27-July 14.

South American trip exposes student to international opportunities 

Jasmine Hughes, a senior at Fort Valley State University, traveled abroad this summer and experienced moments usually photographed in National Geographic Magazine. 

Hughes, who is studying agricultural economics, participated in the International Summer Experience in Agricultural and Related Sciences Program June 27-July 14 in Brazil. 

The program is a project developed by Alabama Agricultural and Mechanical University and Tuskegee University to expose students in agriculture and related sciences to an international experience. Accompanying Hughes on the trip were four graduate students from Alabama A&M University. As the lone undergraduate on the trip, Hughes said she took pride in representing FVSU during an international excursion.


Read the entire story here.



Fort Valley State University College of Education graduate Kris Smith teaches his fourth grade class at Hunt Elementary School. (Photo credit 13WMAZ).

College of Education alum receives 13WMAZ "My Teacher is Tops" Award 

A Fort Valley State University alum was recently honored by a Macon, Georgia television station for being an amazing teacher.

Kris Smith, a 2014 graduate of FVSU's College of Education and a first-year teacher of fourth graders at Hunt Elementary School, was nominated by his students for 13WMAZ’s “My Teacher is Tops” Award. 

Read the entire story here.




Karla Martin, (bottom far right) the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s 1890 liaison, poses with FVSU 1890 National Scholars Program recipients. Top row (L-R) - Courtney Lester, Xavier Murphy Bottom Row (L-R) Sadiyyah Muhammad, Bernard Taylor, Karla Martin *Gre’Nisha Jones was not available for photograph during the time of publishing

Agriculture students earn full scholarships from a national program

The rising costs of college tuition and associated fees leave many students competing for scholarship funds to pay for higher education. Fortunately, five Fort Valley State University students have beaten the odds by earning a full scholarship and employment opportunity.

Unlike many of their peers, FVSU sophomores Gre’Nisha Jones, Courtney Lester, Sadiyyah Muhammad, Xavier Murphy and senior, Bernard Taylor can leave college debt free because of the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s (USDA) 1890 National Scholars Program. 

The USDA/1890 National Scholars Program is a partnership between the USDA and 1890 land-grant universities. The purpose of the scholarship is to increase minorities studying agriculture, food science and natural resource sciences.

Read the entire story here.



Fort Valley State University ambassadors greet prospective students during last year's Open House on campus.

Fall Open House slated for prospective students

Prospective students and their families can get to know Fort Valley State University’s academic offerings and campus life activities during the upcoming Fall Open House.The event is scheduled for October 18, from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. and will include sessions on financial aid and admissions as well as tours and information on campus clubs and student organizations. 

 “We want to expose more of the student services and beauty of our campus to help young people make an informed decision about choosing our university over other ones,” said. Sha-Ron Jones, FVSU’s director of recruitment. “Students will get a chance to interact with current students, faculty and staff. They’ll also be able to tour our classrooms, laboratories, computer labs and residence halls.”

Scheduled activities include:

9 a.m. - High school students and their families can enjoy refreshments in the Pettigrew Center lobby, while making one-on-one connections with coaches, faculty, students and staff members who will teach  them about the best that Fort Valley State University has to offer.  
10 a.m. - President Ivelaw Lloyd Griffith will give students an official welcome to campus. Following the presidential greetings, FVSU administrators and students will provide prospective students with a behind-the-scenes look at the best that the university has to offer.

11:30 a.m. - Two breakout sessions. 
Guides will lead high school students with tours of FVSU’s lovely campus. 
Or, students may learn how to submit applications for admission and financial aid during an admissions/financial aid session. 

The campus life session will provide aspiring Wildcats with information about campus clubs and student organizations that will help them to acclimate to the Wildcat life. Later, young people interested in majoring in music or band, can complete auditions for departmental acceptance during the Music Interest Session and Auditions. Faculty members will be on hand to discuss academic opportunities available at FVSU.

Read the entire story here.






Georgia's First Lady Sandra Deal greets FVSU President Ivelaw Lloyd Griffith during REACH event.

Byron Elementary REACH event promotes college for middle schoolers 

Fort Valley State University administrators recently traveled to Byron Middle School on September 23 to participate in a program focused on urging students to complete college by identifying and supporting low-income, academically promising middle school students.

The program, Realizing Educational Achievement Can Happen, or REACH, was launched in 2012 at the Georgia Institute of Technology. It is a key component of Gov. Nathan Deal's Complete College Georgia, which focuses on college completion to improve the state's prosperity. The venture is the state's first public-private needs based scholarship program.

Read the entire story here.




Fort Valley State University's Student Government Association during their swearing-in ceremony.

Student leaders meet with President Ivelaw Lloyd Griffith

FVSU’s Student Government Association and members of the Royal Court recently met with President Ivelaw Lloyd Griffith for the first of a series of periodic meetings that will take place over the course of the academic term. The goal of the meetings are to allow student leaders to exchange information and ideas with the president.


 COMING SOON - The FVSU Mobile App


 

Homecoming 2014 Schedule of Activities


Sunday, October 19, 2014

6 p.m.
Gospel Concert
C. W. Pettigrew Center


Monday, October 20, 2014

12 p.m.
Kick-Off
HPE Complex

7 p.m.
Comedy Showcase
Pettigrew Center




 Tuesday, Oct. 21, 2014

1 p.m.
SGA Student Appreciation Day
Lyons Students Center


9 p.m. to 12 a.m.
Party in Paris/Late Night Breakfast




Wednesday, October 22, 2014

10 a.m. 
Third Meeting of Global Initiatives Council
Pettigrew Center

12:30 p.m.
Presidential Excellence Lecture
"Ebola as a Dynamic International Disease"

6 p.m.
First Lady Appreciation Reception
C. W. Pettigrew Center
Invitation Only

7 p.m.
FVSU Night at Rigby's Entertainment Complex
Warner Robins, Ga.
*Bus signup in Campus Life, Student Amenities Center - Free with FVSU ID


Thursday, October 23, 2014

12 p.m.
Connie  O. Smith Queen's Brunch
Student Amenities Center
Invitation-Only

7 p.m.
Coronation
Health and Physical Education Complex



Friday, October 24, 2014

8:30 a.m.
 FVSU NAA Inc. Golf Tournament
Location: The Landings Golf Club - Warner Robins, Ga.

11 a.m. - 12 p.m.
FVSU Class Registration/Meet and Greet
C. W. Pettigrew Center, 110

12 p.m.
Gladyce C. Sampson Memorial Scholarship Luncheon
C. W. Pettigrew Center, 103-104

FVSU NAA, Inc. Fish Fry
C. W. Pettigrew Center, Lawn

2 p.m.
FVSU NAA Inc. Business Meeting
C. W. Pettigrew Center, Auditorium


5:30 p.m. - 7:30 p.m.
FVSU Class of 1969 Meeting
C. W. Pettigrew Center, 107


6 p.m.
FVSU NAA, Inc. Lifetime Membership Reception
Student Amenities Center

7 p.m.

FVSU NAA Inc. Hunt Bond Troup Gala
Student Amenities Building

FVSU Class of 1974 Reunion Celebration
Pettigrew Center 110


9 p.m.
FVSU NAA, Inc. Hospitality
Perry Arts Center
Perry, Ga.


9 p.m.
FVSU NAA, Inc. Warner Robins Chapter “Old School Jam”
VFW Corder Road
Warner Robins, Ga.


9 p.m. – until
FVSUNAA, Inc. Carolinas Alumni Chapter “Dance”
American Legion Post 172
Warner Robins, Ga.





Saturday, October 25, 2014 

7:30 a.m.
43rd Annual FVSU Agricultural Alumni Breakfast
Pettigrew Center, 103 - 104

9 a.m.
Homecoming Parade
Downtown Fort Valley

10:30 a.m. – 11 a.m.
FVSU Class of 1964 Brunch
Georgia Room

11 a.m. -1:30 p.m.
FVSU Class of 1974 Meet and Greet
Pettigrew Center, 110

11 a.m. – 1 p.m.
FVSU Class of 1965 Class Planning Meeting
Pettigrew Center, 106


FVSU Class of 1970 Planning Meeting
Pettigrew Center, 104


FVSU Class of 1975 Class Planning Meeting
Pettigrew Center, 107


FVSU Class of 1984 Class Planning Meeting
Pettigrew Center, 103


FVSU Class of 1985 Class Planning Meeting
Pettigrew Center, 102


2 p.m.
Homecoming Game
FVSU Wildcats vs.  Paine College Lions

6 p.m.- 9p.m.
FVSU NAA, Inc. Hospitality
Miller-Murphy Howard Building
Georgia National Fairgrounds & Agri-center, Perry, Ga.

8p.m.
Stepshow (Stompfest 2014)
Health and Physical Education Complex



Catch the latest Wildcat Coaches Show

This week's episode features FVSU Wildcats Head Football Coach Donald Pittman speaking about the latest game highlights from the FVSU vs. Clark Atlanta University football game.


Past Episodes: 
FVSU vs. Savannah State University
FVSU vs. Delta State University





CLICK BELOW FOR YOUR FVSU

FALL SPORTS SEASON SCHEDULES


WOMEN'S VOLLEYBALL

WOMEN'S BASKETBALL

MEN'S BASKETBALL

WOMEN'S CROSS COUNTRY

MEN'S CROSS COUNTRY



OTHER UPCOMING FVSU EVENTS


OCT. 18 - FVSU HOSTS OPEN HOUSE 





Ricardo Lockette, Seattle Seahawk and FVSU alum

FVSU in the News

 Read the latest stories published about Fort Valley State University from local and national news outlets.






















Sunday, September 7, 2014

Wildcat Dreams - Vol. 2, No. 2


Sunday, September 7, 2014 • Vol. 2, No.2

Wildcat Dreams is Fort Valley State University President Ivelaw Lloyd Griffith’s tri-weekly e-newsletter. As an additional resource to stay connected to FVSU, Wildcat Dreams highlights various campus activities and updates about new initiatives and programs. Readers are encouraged to share with friends and family. We welcome your feedback. Please send comments to fvsu_pr@fvsu.edu. Thank you and happy reading!

Read more news on the FVSU Review. 


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Thelma Madzima, FVSU Alum of the Month

FVSU Alum Spotlight: Thelma Madzima 


This month, Fort Valley State University is featuring alum Dr. Thelma F. Madzima in our alum spotlight. Madzima is currently a post-doctoral research associate in the McGinnis Laboratory in the Department of Biological Science at Florida State University. Her research focuses on understanding how changes in chromatin (the complex of DNA and proteins in the nucleus of the cell) affect gene expression in maize. The FVSU alum, who graduated in 2004, is currently seeking a position as an assistant professor on a college campus.

Read the entire article here.


 


FVSU's Economic Impact in Georgia? - $139 million says research group 

A recent economic impact study found that Fort Valley State University is boosting the state’s economy by millions by providing jobs and helping to launch businesses. 

In its “Economic Impact of Fort Valley State University” report, the Hanover Research firm found the university had a state-wide financial impact of $139 million that supported more than 1,300 jobs in Georgia. 

The impact figure reflected an initial input of $59 million by FVSU and $25 million by students. The group also found the greatest source of the total impact came from the institution’s employee payroll expenditures with a $66 million impact statewide.

To read more, click here.

A stilt walker entertains the crowd at the International Cultural Festival and Soccer Exhibition.

First festival and soccer exhibition a success


During Labor Day weekend, Middle Georgia sampled savory food and enjoyed live cultural performances from around the world at Fort Valley State University’s inaugural International Cultural Festival and Soccer Exhibition.

 “I consider this year’s International Cultural Festival and Soccer Exhibition a great success,” said Dr. Ivelaw Lloyd Griffith, president of Fort Valley State University. “People who came out to the festival not only enjoyed delicious food from a variety of cultures, but learned of the wonderful academic programs that our campus has to offer. I look forward to this festival becoming a signature destination event for both our university and Middle Georgia. Indeed, planning already has begun on the second festival.”

Read the entire article here.
To view additional festival photos, click here.
To view a special online slideshow from our community supporter and local Hispanic publication, Que Pasa, visit Que Pasa Galeria of FVSU's International Cultural Festival and Soccer Exhibition








FVSU president announces measures to address enrollment challenges

Fort Valley State University President Dr. Ivelaw Lloyd Griffith discusses measures being taken to address the institution's challenges related to dwindling enrollment in a special video. 
Also visit a special webpage to get additional questions answered and find out more details about the Reduction in Force and other long-term and short-term measures being taken by clicking here







Brenda Maddox, Fort Valley State University’s Marion County extension agent, displays the proper use of a car seat to Jacquelyn Rumph of Fort Valley and Ponda Ball of Dry Branch in the Health and Physical Education Complex during a recent Cooperative Extension Centennial Celebration 

FVSU Extension Centennial Celebration attracts hundreds to campus


More than 300 parents, children and seniors recently flocked to Fort Valley State University’s Health and Physical Education Complex to attend the institution's Cooperative Extension Centennial Celebration. 

The celebration, held on Saturday Sept. 6, from 10 a.m. -1 p.m.,  commemorated the signing of the 1914 Smith-Lever Act. This act helped to establish the Cooperative Extension System at land-grant universities. 

"This wonderful event was another powerful demonstration of our university's economic and social impact on lives and livelihoods in our great state," said FVSU president Dr. Ivelaw Lloyd Griffith. "It also was a great way to combine the celebration of this important legislative milestone with education and fun, for both the kids and the adults who attended the event. Not only did we have free cake and coat milk ice c ream, but I saw kids and adults bowling - electronically - and participating in demonstrations and mini-seminars about energy conservation, the dangers of smoking risks sustainable agriculture and many other subjects."

The Cooperative Extension System is a national educational network comprised of universities like Fort Valley State University and the University of Georgia. FVSU’s Cooperative Extension Program (CEP) operates regional offices in more than 25 Georgia counties.  

Free research based programming and services are offered to farmers, small business owners, youth and seniors by 14 FVSU county extension agents, two FVSU program assistants and additional FVSU CEP personnel. 

To read more, click here


Wildcats Football Head Coach Donald Pittman 

FVSU to debut new Wildcat Coaches Show - Sept. 9

Wildcat fans and sports enthusiasts can snack on hot wings, sandwiches and other treats while watching Wildcat coaches discuss game day highlights and future strategies during a new show that will be televised live in a downtown Fort Valley restaurant.

Starting Tuesday, Sept. 9, Fort Valley State University will be launching the Fort Valley State University Coaches Show featuring Donald Pittman. The show, which will be hosted by WMAZ sports anchor Marvin Jones, will be filmed at the Main Street Grill in downtown Fort Valley, Ga. on Tuesdays at noon. It will air on Thursday nights at 10 p.m., and Friday nights at 6 p.m. on ComSouth Channel 100.

Read the entire article here.



FVSU awarded first-generation scholarship program 

First-generation students will be able to complete their college studies at Fort Valley State University thanks to funding from a prominent, national organization.

The Thurgood Marshall College Fund recently selected Fort Valley State University to receive funding from its TMCF’s First Generation Scholars Program. The program, which is sponsored by the Coca-Cola Foundation, will provide financial support to four university students attending the college in the amount of $3,125. Each scholarship is renewable for four years for a total investment of $50,000.

Read the entire story here.

The Blue Machine Marching Band plays for a crowd of Wildcat fans at last year's homecoming.

FVSU Blue Machine Marching Band begins practice

Fort Valley State University’s Blue Marching Machine Band will have a familiar face as its new director.

President Ivelaw Lloyd Griffith recently announced that Leonard Giles, associate professor of music, will take over as FVSU’s BMMB interim band director. Giles is a 30-year veteran of directing bands across the southeast and has previously served as interim band director.

The marching band recently provided an awesome preview of what's to come for the coming football season during its performance at the mini-parade and pre-soccer exhibition for the International Cultural Festival in Wildcat Stadium. 

Read the entire article here.



Dr. Samuel Gyapong, a Fulbright professor of marketing and business, will serve as the new chair for the university's Department of Business Administration and Economics. 

Department of Business Administration and Economics gains new chair


Fort Valley State University’s new Department of Business Administration and Economics chair is a Fulbright Scholar and seasoned professor with a vast amount of experience in supply chain management, research and teaching who plans to boost enrollment by implementing new programs and creating job opportunities for FVSU business graduates.

 Dr. Jessica Bailey, Provost and Vice President for Academic Affairs, recently announced that Dr. Samuel Gyapong, professor of marketing and business logistics, will serve as the new chair.

Read the entire article here.



Dr. Angela Harris will serve as the interim vice president of the Office of Student Success and Enrollment Management

Harris named interim vice president for Division of Student Success and Enrollment Management 


Fort Valley State University President Ivelaw Lloyd Griffith recently named Dr. Angela S. Harris as the interim vice president of student success and enrollment management. Harris was named to the position after Lynn McCraney stepped down this fall.

 “I’m delighted that Dr. Harris has accepted my invitation to lead this vital division - Student Success and Enrollment Management,” Dr. Griffith said. “She has had an extensive career as an experienced administrator in the area of enrollment management. She’s a dreamer and a doer, and I’m confident of her ability to lead the innovations and efficiencies needed in our recruitment, registration, financial aid, and other important areas of our enterprise.”

Read the entire article here.



Dr. Morteza Sadri, Public Service Director

FVSU hires new Public Service Director

Fort Valley State University’s new Public Service Center director is a seasoned professional with an extensive background in education, business and public service.  
 
As the new head of the center located in downtown Fort Valley, Ga., Dr. Morteza Sadri will oversee signature community programs– the University Today Scholar’s Program, the Educational Talent Search, the Entrepreneur Center, and the FVSU Community Development Corporation.
To read more, click here

The U.S. Air Force Winds Spectrum will perform at Fort Valley State University's Memorial for Sept. 11 victims.

Campus to host 9/11 Memorial


Thirteen years ago, 19 al-Qaeda terrorists hijacked four airliners and launched suicide attacks against national targets that included the World Trade Center and Pentagon.

More than 3,000 people died in the attacks including 400 firefighters and police officers. On Thursday, Sept. 11, Fort Valley State University will hold a memorial to honor the 9/11 victims in the C.W. Pettigrew Center at 11 a.m. The 9/11 commemoration will feature keynote speaker Major Gen. James E. Dodd, Chairman of the Board for Georgia’s State Board of Pardons and Paroles.

Read the entire article here.





Achieving the academic dream in paradise: "Along the Tropical Road to Scholarly Research"

Special report from FVSU student Brandon C. Beaty

After leaving Atlanta, we arrived in Detroit with just enough time to get onto the next plane headed towards Tokyo-Narita, Japan. After 17 hours of travel from Atlanta to Detroit and finally landing in Japan, we arrived at the airport where I was nothing but astonished. 

A layover consisting of 2 hours allowed us to stretch our muscles, explore this new place, and relax before boarding the next plane to our final destination in Manila, Philippines. Sleep came easy at this point, and once we arrived in the Philippines I awoke refreshed and ready to take on any task that came my way. 

We first made our ways to The Heritage Hotel which allowed for a very easy transition through its comfortable accommodations. Manila was very beautiful and offered everything that any other big city could; however, traveling 30 minutes in any direction would lead you to places that you couldn’t experience in the U.S. 

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 Kena Torbert, Fort Valley State University's Family Life Specialist, received a community service award recently from the Fred Douglas Mason Lodge #143 and Pride of Fort Valley Chapter 480.

FVSU Extension Specialist Receives Award from Civic Group

A local civic group recently honored a Fort Valley State University extension specialist for her service to the Middle Georgia Community.

The Fred Douglas Masonic Lodge #143. PHA and Pride of Fort Valley, Chapter #480, Order of the Eastern Star recently awarded FVSU family life specialist Kena Torbert, a Community Service Award for her service to the local community. Both organizations are members of the Prince Hall Grand Lodge and Chapter. It has approximately 500,000 members across the Jurisdiction of Georgia.

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Professors showcased their work at last year's Celebration of Scholarship Day.

FVSU to host second annual Scholarship Day 


Fort Valley State University will be showcasing the scholarly research of some of its faculty and researchers during the upcoming Celebration of Scholarship Day 2014.

This is second annual celebration of this event, which will be held this year on Thursday, September 25, at 11 a.m. in the C.W. Pettigrew Center.

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Homecoming 2014 Schedule of Activities


Friday, October 24, 2014

8:30 a.m.
 FVSU NAA Inc. Golf Tournament
Location: The Landings Golf Club - Warner Robins, Ga.

11 a.m. - 12 p.m.
FVSU Class Registration/Meet and Greet
Pettigrew Center, 110

12 p.m.
Gladyce C. Sampson Memorial Scholarship Luncheon
Pettigrew Center, 103-104

FVSU NAA, Inc. Fish Fry
Pettigrew Center, Lawn

2 p.m.
FVSU NAA Inc. Business Meeting
Pettigrew Center, Auditorium


5:30 p.m. - 7:30 p.m.
FVSU Class of 1969 Meeting
Pettigrew Center, 107


6 p.m.
FVSU NAA, Inc. Lifetime Membership Reception
Student Amenities Center

7 p.m.
FVSU Class of 1974 Reunion Celebration
Pettigrew Center 110


7:30 p.m.
FVSU Class of 1969 Meeting
Pettigrew Center, 107


9 p.m.
FVSU NAA, Inc. Hospitality
Perry Arts Center
Perry, Ga.


9 p.m.
FVSU NAA, Inc. Warner Robins Chapter “Old School Jam”
VFW Corder Road
Warner Robins, Ga.


9 p.m. – until
FVSUNAA, Inc. Carolinas Alumni Chapter “Dance”
American Legion Post 172
Warner Robins, Ga.


Saturday, October 25, 2014 

7:30 a.m.
43rd Annual FVSU Agricultural Alumni Breakfast
Pettigrew Center, 103 - 104


9 a.m.
Homecoming Parade


10:30 a.m. – 11 a.m.
FVSU Class of 1964 Brunch
Georgia Room


11 a.m. -1:30 p.m.
FVSU Class of 1974 Meet and Greet
Pettigrew Center, 110


11 a.m. – 1 p.m.
FVSU Class of 1965 Class Planning Meeting
Pettigrew Center, 106


FVSU Class of 1970 Planning Meeting
Pettigrew Center, 104


FVSU Class of 1975 Class Planning Meeting
Pettigrew Center, 107


FVSU Class of 1984 Class Planning Meeting
Pettigrew Center, 103


FVSU Class of 1985 Class Planning Meeting
Pettigrew Center, 102


2 p.m.
Homecoming Game
Paine College Lions vs FVSU Wildcats


6 p.m.
FVSU NAA, Inc. Hospitality
Georgia National Fairgrounds & Agri-center, Perry, Ga.


9 p.m. - 1 a.m.
FVSU NAA, Inc. Alumni Dance
Georgia National Fairgrounds & Agri-center Perry, Ga.







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FALL SPORTS SEASON SCHEDULES


WOMEN'S VOLLEYBALL

WOMEN'S BASKETBALL

MEN'S BASKETBALL

WOMEN'S CROSS COUNTRY

MEN'S CROSS COUNTRY



OTHER UPCOMING FVSU EVENTS


SEPT. 18 - THIRD WALL OF WISDOM UNVEILING ON CAMPUS
11 a.m. in Founders Hall. For details, call 478.825.6319

OCT. 18 - FVSU HOSTS OPEN HOUSE 





FVSU senior Dalia Grey was recently interviewed by local media about the International Cultural Festival and Soccer Exhibition.

FVSU in the News