A $50,000 grant from the National Wild Turkey Federation is helping more Mississippi 4-Hers get involved in outdoor activities. Part of a $1 million national allocation to the 4-H Field and Stream Youth and Development Program, Mississippi’s 4-H program is receiving its portion in equal installments over 10 years. The state chapter of the National Wild Turkey Federation is providing Mississippi’s funds, which they raise through their banquet program. Dean Stewart, Extension associate with the Department of Wildlife and Fisheries, said the money is being used to purchase equipment for shooting ranges, targets, ammunition, archery backdrops, and firearms for counties to use. "The money will support both the county and state level 4-H shooting sports activities that we have," Stewart said. The youth development program is designed to introduce 4- Hers to shooting sports, wildlife and fisheries management, natural resources conservation, hunting, and fishing. "We introduce youths to these activities through county clubs where adult leaders trained in the various disciplines work with the kids, holding shooting events and wildlife competitions," Stewart said.

In August 1998 , Curtis E. "Skip" McCollough and his wife Julie established the South Mississippi Forest Products Annual Scholarship in the College of Forest Resources. Skip McCollough is a 1979 forestry graduate. The McColloughs own and operate South Mississippi Forest Products in Hattiesburg, which they founded in 1990. He also is president of Southern Timber Resources of Louisiana Inc. The company buys timber and provides timber management assistance to private landowners throughout South Mississippi. The McColloughs decided to establish the scholarship at CFR to ensure that the education they received at MSU could be even better for tomorrow's students. The scholarship covers tuition and fee expenses for two students enrolled in any of the three departments within the college. "I feel that I attended the greatest College of Forest Resources in the country and to maintain its high standards and offer more and better opportunities for all will take efforts like this from all alumni and friends," McCollough said. "You can not undervalue the importance of giving something back to the college where we as alumni and friends have gained so much." The two say that they are proud and honored to give an annual scholarship as they "know and understand that a college education is not cheap." The McColloughs know this firsthand because daugher Stephanie currently is an MSU sophomore. McColloughs said his family has started a tradition of attending MSU and this makes them very proud. He met his wife while they were students at the university. "Skip and Julie's generosity is to be commended," said CFR Interim Dean Bob Karr. "Giving back to your college at this level at their age while running a private business and sending a daughter to college is very unusual. I hope it inspires others to do the same." McCollough said that for his family MSU not only is a tradition but also a way to a wonderful life. "Always on my mind are the days I spent at MSU. These memories are some of my fondest. The College of Forest Resources offered me the opportunity to earn my treasured degree and establish many friendships. Some days were long and difficult, but the lessons I learned have given me the knowledge to be where I am today," McCollough said.

Established an endowed scholarship in memory of an alumnus and longtime friend of the College of Forest Resources has been established. The Bynum Meeks Memorial Scholarship honors the Brookhaven resident who died in September 1999. Meeks earned his bachelor's degree in forestry from MSU in 1958. He worked as a fiber basin manager at Georgia-Pacific at the time of his death. He served as Mississippi Forestry Association president in 1987 and received a Meritorious Service to Forestry Award in 1996. He also was a member of the Society of American Foresters, and the Lincoln County Forestry Group. In addition, Meeks served on the steering committee for the Mississippi State University School of Forest Resources Building Campaign. He also was chairman of MFA's College of Forest Resources Operating Committee. He is survied by his wife Anne, sons Lee and John, and daughter Caroline, and well as his mother, a sister, and two grandchildren. "This scholarship was endowed in record time, because of very generous contributions from Mr. Meeks' family and friends," said Keith Gaskin, CFR director of development.

Georgia Pacific continues its support of the Wood Magic Science Fair mobile classroom with a recent donation of $10,000. The "classroom" is a 44-foot trailer equipped with all the supplies and materials needed to produce a mini-WMSF on site at schools, forestry field days, and expositions. Georgia Pacific Corp. has contributed more than $100,000 towards the mobile classroom, which reaches approximately 6,000 students annually. For more information on supporting Wood Magic, contact Keith Gaskin at 662-325-381

Bruce Leopold, head of the university’s wildlife and fisheries department in the College of Forest Resources, is one Mississippi State faculty member who believes in giving back to the institution. For a number of years, Leopold has consistently supported the university through financial commitments. The reason he gives is quite simple—the 20-year faculty veteran says he’s reciprocating the commitment Mississippi State has made in him. "MSU and its administration welcomed me into its fold from the first day I walked into my office and has continued with that level of support. My professional development as a research scientist, then as department head since 2000, is because of the tremendous support I received from MSU," Leopold said. A recent gift of property from Leopold—approximately 140 acres in Noxubee County—will become part of Mississippi State’s Bulldog Forest program, which allows landowners to create a lasting heritage by giving land to the College of Forest Resources. The Bulldog Forest properties are used as living laboratories in which forest management practices provide teaching, research and demonstration opportunities for students of all ages. The land holds special meaning for Leopold. "There is something magical each time I walk on it, and I realize that it belongs to me. Also, land is one commodity that is limited on this planet, but it continually produces products such as wildlife and timber," he explained. "I know the College of Forest Resources will take good care of the land and will enjoy the income it will generate through its natural resources many, many years after I pass on," Leopold said. "It’s a way of ensuring that groups of young professionals will benefit from my good fortune and success as a wildlife biologist, and it is the one way I can return something to an institution that I love deeply." Future earnings from the property will support an endowed scholarship for wildlife and fisheries majors. Additional proceeds will endow the Leopold Fund for Excellence which may support endowed positions, scholarships and fellowships, faculty development, equipment, and other enhancements within the Department of Wildlife and Fisheries. Leopold, a predator ecology specialist, was honored with the outstanding alumnus award of the University of Arizona’s School of Renewable Resources, where he completed his doctorate. He holds a bachelor’s degree from Pennsylvania State University and a master’s from Mississippi State. A longtime Wildlife Society member, he will serve as the 2009 president for the international organization. There are numerous options for supporting the College of Forest Resources. For more information, contact Jeff Little, the college’s development director, at jlittle@foundation.msstate.ed or 662.325.8151.

The nation’s largest trade organization for furniture manufacturers recently pledged $25,000 to support the distance learning capabilities of MSU’s Institute of Furniture Manufacturing and Management. The American Furniture Manufacturers Association of High Point, N.C., is making the contribution through its foundation. AFMA is dedicated to fostering growth and development of the furniture industry in the United States. Housed in the newly-constructed Franklin Center, the distance learning capabilities are extremely important for accomplishing the objectives of the IFMM, particularly in providing technical assistance, workforce education and training and providing an effective means for manufacturers, suppliers and distributors, to interact with students, educators and researchers. The primary goal of the institute is to enhance the long-term competitiveness of the furniture industry. In the near future, many of the research and educational programs of the IFMM will be housed in the Franklin Center, a 35,000-square-foot campus facility. The facility will provide state-of-the art laboratories for engineering and automation, quality testing and assurance, lean manufacturing systems, and other areas of emphasis and it will include a showroom to highlight outstanding products and services of furniture and supplying industries and associations. The IFMM is a collaborative effort of several colleges and units at MSU,including the College of Business and Industry, the Bagley College of Engineering, the College of Architecture, the College of Forest Resources, MSU Extension Service’s Food and Fiber Center, and the Forest and Wildlife Research Center.

Mickey Little, information resources manager for Georgia-Pacific Corp., presented MSU President Malcolm Portera a donation of $30,000 for the Wood Magic Science Fair mobile classroom. The "classroom" is a 44-foot trailer equipped with all the supplies and materials needed to produce a mini-WMSF on-site at schools, forestry field days, and expositions. The moble classroom has travled to more than 30 towns in Mississippi, as well as locations in Kentucky, Arkansas, South Carolina, Virginia, Tennessee, Pennsylvania, Indiana, and Georgia. More than 18,000 individuals have participated in the traveling classroom's Wood Magic programs. In 1996, another Georgia-Pacific donation helped purchase the mobile classroom. The latest gift by the pulp, paper and building products business brings its total Wood Magic contributions to more than $100,000.

The inaugural Bynum Meeks Memorial Scholarship Fund Golf Tournament hosted 96 golfers at two locations. A tournament was held in Jackson last October, followed by one at the MSU Golf Course in December. Together they raised more than $18,000 for the Meeks scholarship at CFR. The tourneys were hosted by Georgia-Pacific Corp. to honor the memory of Meeks, a long time GP employee. Meeks earned his bachelor's degree in forestry from MSU in 1958.

A Mississippi Forestry Commission employee who died in the line of duty is being honored by a corporate gift to Mississippi State's College of Forest Resources. The $5,000 memorial gift in support of forestry education is part of Stihl Inc.'s 2001 National Forestry Heroism Award program honoring John Paul Pritchett Sr. of Webster County. Pritchett is recognized for extraordinary courage during a Webster County wildlife in August 2000. The commission crew chief received fatal second- and third-degree burns when a sudden wind shift trapped him in what became a pine plantation inferno. An international manufacturer of chain saws and other portable power tools based in Virginia Beach, Va., Stihl created the National Forestry Heroism Award in 1996 to honor the brave actions of individuals working in or devoting significant portions of their time to the forestry industry. James Malone of Stihl Southwest presented the check in October 2001 during the College of Forest Resources' annual Advisory Committee banquet. Company representatives earlier presented Pritchett's family a plaque, a monetary gift, an MS 440 Magnum chain saw, and a trip to the Stihl Timbersports competition in Branson, Mo. In addition to the MSU gift, Stihl is donating to a charity of the family's choice. "We deeply appreciate the gift Stihl is making to the College of Forest Resources," said Dean Sam Foster. "These funds will be used to establish a scholarship in the college for majors in forestry, forest products, or wildlife and fisheries."

For LaRon and Ester Gober, a gift of forestland seemed like the perfect way to give back to Mississippi State. The Gobers donated 283 acres in Attala County to the College of Forest Resources and the Bagley College of Engineering. The Gobers made the gift in honor of the engineering career enjoyed by LaRon, as well as the enjoyment they received from the forestland. Students in both colleges benefit from the LaRon and Esther Gober Endowment Fund. "We love the idea of using this land to benefit forestry and engineering students. It was a great way to give back to Mississippi State University," said Ester Gober. The Gobers are just one example of individuals creating a legacy with gifts of land at MSU. Gifts of land can benefit any of the university’s nine colleges. The donated properties are managed by the College of Forest Resources using the best management practices for growth and harvest of timber. "Forest and wildlife management professionals at MSU provide professional management and assessment of each donated property," said Jeff Little, CFR development officer. "Funds generated from the properties provide needed support to the university for scholarships, equipment and faculty development." The properties also are used as living laboratories where forest management practices provide teaching, research and demonstration opportunities for students, farmers and landowners. "The College of Forest Resources and the MSU Foundation work with landowners and their professional financial planners to arrange the terms of gifts to suit individual needs," Little said. "A carefully planned gift of forestland will give financial benefits for the donor, including a lifetime income, a shield from capital gains and estate taxes, and income tax deductions, among others." For more information on donating your land to the university, contact Jeff Little at (662) 325-8151 or jlittle@foundation.Msstate.edu.

A recent pledge by Starkville resident Bryce Griffis will establish an endowed scholarship in his name. Griffis, president of Sturgis Timber Co., is a longtime supporter of the College of Forest Resources and has actively promoted higher education in Mississippi. The Delta State University alumnus was a member of the state Board of Trustees, Institution of Higher Learning from 1980 until 1992, and served a one-year term as president. He is a past president of the Southeastern Lumber Manufacturers' Association, Mississippi Forestry Association, and the Mississippi Lumber Manufacturers' Association. In 1998, he was elected president of the Mississippi State Foundation board and is currently serving in that post. The Bryce Griffis Endowed Scholarship will be available to all full-time students in the College of Forest Resources. Students must demonstrate acceptable academic achievement (a minimum 3.0 grade point average) and be one of good moral character. Candidates also must illustrate leadership ability and show potential for an outstanding career in forestry, wildlife and fisheries, or in forest products. "The College of Forest Resources is grateful for the generous pledge made by Bryce. We are very proud of his commitment to forestry and Mississippi State University," said Bob Karr, interim dean.

A recent $1 million gift from a state furniture executive will help Mississippi State build a new career center for furniture manufacturing and management. The gift from Hassell H. Franklin, founder and president of Franklin Corp. in Houston, will supplement the $3 million in state funding appropriated last year for the building. Franklin Corp. is a national leader in producing reclining chairs and motion furniture. It is one of the nation's largest independently owned furniture manufacturing companies. An MSU alumnus, Franklin serves on the Furniture Research Unit Advisory Board. The Furniture Research Unit in the Forest Products Laboratory was established in 1987 by the Mississippi Legislature and is currently the largest furniture research program in North America. Research conducted by the unit is estimated to save the state's manufacturers more than $3 million annually. The university will propose to the state Board of Trustees, Institutions of Higher Learning, that the building be named the Franklin Center for Furniture Manufacturing and Management. The center will house an indisciplinary program to draw on the strengths of the colleges of forest resources, business and industry, and engineering. The planned 30,000 square foot facility will contain research laboratories, classrooms, an auditorium, and office space. Architects are currently designing the building with construction scheduled to begin in spring 2001.

The College of Forest Resources recently held a luncheon honoring the Johnsons for their continued support through private gifts. In February, Col. Kenneth D. Johnson and his wife Catherine gave more than 120 acres of Scott County timberland to the CFR. This gift is part of the 400 acres in Scott and Leake counties valued at more than $1 million that the Johnsons have bequeathed to the college through the MSU Foundation. Future funds generated from the proper management of the timber will be added to the Col. Kenneth ’K.D.’ Johnson Endowment for Excellence which he established in 1998. Over time, the endowment will be used to establish faculty chairs, professorships, fellowships, and other general enhancements for the Department of Forestry. The Johnsons also have endowed a scholarship in both of their names to support students majoring in forestry, as well as making contributions to support the CFR’s international studies program. In November 1942, while an engineering student at MSU, Johnson joined the Army Enlisted Reserve Corps. One of Mississippi’s most decorated military men, he served in the military for more than three decades. Upon his retirement, he was awarded the Legion of Merit, one of the highest awards presented to U.S. military personnel. After leaving the Air Force, he personally began to convert his family farmland to timberland. Johnson participated in the forestry summer field program under the direction of Dr. John Switzer. "K.D. and Catherine have become members of the CFR family," said Interim Dean Bob Karr. "We consider it an honor to be associated with such a fine family and we felt that if the colonel made it through summer camp with Dr. Switzer, that he had more than earned a spot as an honorary member in the CFR Alumni Society."

Perhaps it is genetic or the result of years of listening to his father’s words of wisdom. Whatever the reason, there is no denying Walt Starr’s love for natural resources. Walt is the son of beloved professor and the first Bulldog forester, John W. Starr. Starr began his 25-year career with MSU in 1948 as an assistant forester. In 1978, the school forest was renamed the John W. Starr Memorial Forest in his honor. While Walt chose a different career path than his father—periodontics—his love for the College of Forest Resources is evident. In 1991, Walt and wife Lee Ann funded the John and Caroline Starr Memorial Scholarship in Forest Management, making it the largest endowed scholarship in the college. In 1997, the Starrs donated a two-acre tract of land in Ridge Lakes, a subdivision in Starkville. Most recently, the Starrs donated a 2.5-acre lot in Prairie Waters, a subdivision in Lowndes County. "I am so grateful for the time I spent walking in the woods and listening to my father teach me about the natural world," Walt said. "My father left a legacy for me and my children, every time we drive down Highway 25 in Starkville and see the forest that bears his name, we are grateful for the lessons he left us." "I want to leave a legacy also. The gifts that I leave, whether it is a scholarship or property for the Bulldog Forest, will help educate our future leaders in the forestry industry," Walt added. To find out how you can create a legacy through the College of Forest Resources, contact Jeff Little at 662-325-8151.

An endowment in the Forest and Wildlife Research Center is assisting with the process of developing eco-friendly wood preservatives. Funded by a land gift from Harold C. and Claire Lucas, the endowment has been used to establish the Lucas Laboratory for Advanced Biodeterioration Research. The vision for the laboratory is to be a leading force in the development of environmentally friendly methods for understanding and controlling the biodeterioration of wood products. Through this endowment, scientists have the resources to study the complex process of wood biodeterioration. The result will be better ways to protect wood products. The lab also will study the positive side of wood decay processes.

A longtime friend of the College of Forest Resources and an MSU alumnus recently contributed $100,000 to establish the Davis and Ann Mortensen Endowed Scholarship. Davis, a 1956 graduate of MSU, recently retired from Georgia-Pacific Corp. During his tenure at GP, he advanced from being a young industrial engineer in Crossett, Ark., to having responsiblity for almost half of GP's 52,000 employees, the company's six million acres of timber holdings, its manufacturing facilities, and the sales and distribution of products. In 1989, Davis received Georgia-Pacific's coveted Distinguished Service Award for the "important role he played in helping GP grow and prosper." Davis and Ann have been lifelong friends to the College of Forest Resources. In 1993, the Mortensens contributed to the construction of Thompson Hall and a laboratory bears a plaque recongnizing the couple. When establishing the scholarship, Davis said, "There are a lot of high school students who may not have the opportunity to go to college without a scholarship. We hope we are helping some worthy students who might not be able to attend Mississippi State, otherwise." The College of Forest Resources is grateful to the Mortensens for their continuted support. "The Mortensens have been friends of the college for many years and most recent gift reaffirms their passion for natural resources and the College of Forest Resources," said Bob Karr, associate dean. The scholarship is open to all CFR students. Applicants must be full-time students, have a composite ACT score of 26 or greater, have records of academic achievement, and demonstrate leadership skills.

Waterfowl- and wetlands-related teaching, research and service are being greatly enhanced at Mississippi State through a significant gift from the chairman of Cox Enterprises Inc. James C. Kennedy recently established an endowed professorship in the university’s College of Forest Resources to focus specifically on the two areas. The Kennedy Chair is the first of its kind for the academic program that came together in the mid- 1950s as the School of Forestry. Expanded and renamed the School of Forest Resources in 1967, it was elevated to college status in 1996 and remains the only one of its kind at a Mississippi institution of higher learning. "This gift demonstrates Mr. Kennedy’s dedication to conservation and his support of waterfowl and wetland resources," said college Dean George Hopper. An endowed chair is a prestigious faculty position filled by a nationally prominent scholar and teacher. A minimum of $1.5 million is required to create an endowed MSU chair. A native of Hawaii, Kennedy is a longtime conservationist and philanthropist. His love and respect for waterfowl is well-known, both internationally and in Mississippi. York Woods, his 5,500-acre conservation-easement property, is located near Charleston in Tallahatchie County. When Kennedy is not in Atlanta, Ga., leading Cox Enterprises—one of the nation’s major media companies and automotive service providers—he may be found on his North Delta property. "I find great pleasure in restoring land and improving habitat for waterfowl and other wildlife," Kennedy said. His passion for conservation also is demonstrated through service on the executive board of Ducks Unlimited Inc. and as former president of Wetlands America Trust for 15 years. "The endowed chair at MSU is one way that I can give back and ensure that future generations will have waterfowl and wetlands, and people to study and steward these valuable natural resources," Kennedy explained. Hopper said the Kennedy Chair also holds distinction as "the first endowed waterfowl and wetlands university chair among the 14 states of the Mississippi Flyway, which includes land around the Mississippi River and its tributaries." The Magnolia State is recognized by wildlife researchers and hunters alike for its strategic location on the waterfowl migration path stretching between Canada and the northern United States and warmer winter climates found in the southern states and beyond. Taking advantage of this natural geographic circumstance, MSU researchers have, over the decades, worked hard to develop a nationally respected program in wildlife science and management. "For that reason alone, it seems fitting for our college to house the chair," Hopper observed. Throughout much of North America, university-based programs focusing on waterfowl and wetlands conservation are declining in number. "This decline in programs was one of Mr. Kennedy’s major reasons for establishing the chair," added Hopper, an alumnus of the MSU college.

A Georgia-based company is doing much more than building upscale residences these days. Scenic Homes, a family owned business, also is working to further waterfowl and wetland conservation through a $424,000 scholarship endowment recently established at Mississippi State. The owner and partners of the construction firm—which also has offices in Mississippi, Louisiana, and North and South Carolina—have established the Scenic Homes "Dr. Richard M. Kaminski" Scholarship in Waterfowl and Wetlands Conservation at the university. The academic award will provide qualified students with $8,000 annually for tuition and fees, housing, books, and supplies. "We are excited about the opportunity to provide scholarships for students interested in a professional career as a waterfowl or wetlands ecologist, manager, or conservationist," said Scenic Homes owner Paul Meng. A former Natchez resident now residing in Atlanta, Meng also is an outdoors enthusiast and wildlife conservationist. Scenic Homes/Kaminski Scholars must be enrolled full time in pursuit of a bachelor’s degree in wildlife and fisheries science from the College of Forest Resources. An MSU grade-point average of 3.0 or higher (based on a 4.0 scale) and involvement in professional and leadership organizations in their field of study also are required. "The scholarship is timely, considering that many waterfowl teaching and research programs in the U.S. and Canada are disappearing," said Kaminski, the nationally known MSU wildlife and fisheries professor the scholarship is honoring. "Data from a recent survey indicate the availability of college-level training, including research opportunities, for aspiring waterfowl biologists could be halved within a decade," he added. Kaminski said the Scenic Homes scholarship endowment will help ensure that MSU students can "continue engaging their passion for waterfowl and wetlands ecology and management." In addition to a cover letter and resume, applicants should provide a three-page essay explaining reasons and needs for the award, as well as short- and long-term professional and personal goals. Since 1990, Scenic Homes has constructed over 6,000 homes throughout the Southeast and is considered one of the top 100 builders in the U.S. As a member of the National Association of Home Builders, the company has been honored with the QBW Golden Achievement and QBW Builder of Integrity Awards in 2003 and 2004, respectively. For more information about the scholarship or to apply, contact Dr. Bruce D. Leopold, head, Department of Wildlife & Fisheries, MSU; 662-325-3830 or bleopold@cfr.msstate.edu

With a commitment of $25,000, the Greater Jackson Chapter of the National Wild Turkey Federation recently established the Boyd Burrow Greater Jackson Chapter National Wild Turkey Federation Endowed Scholarship. In 1990, a group of Jackson-area sportsmen concerned about the future of wild turkey in Mississippi formed the Greater Jackson Chapter. After becoming one of the state's best fund-raising conservation organizations, producing hundreds of thousands of dollars for state and national turkey research, the Greater Jackson Chapter, led by long-time member and passionate turkey hunter Boyd Burrow, sought ways to raise revenue for more instate projects. Thus was born the Wild Turkey Scramble golf tournament in 1994. Upon Burrow’s sudden death in 1996, the tournament was renamed the Boyd Burrow Memorial Wild Turkey Scramble, with the goal of using proceeds to establish a scholarship program. In 2004, after its most successful year, the Greater Jackson Chapter established the Boyd Burrow Greater Jackson Chapter NWTF Endowment Fund at Mississippi State University’s College of Forest Resources. Boyd Burrow Greater Jackson Chapter National Wild Turkey Federation scholars must be full-time students at MSU enrolled in the college. Students must be classified as sophomores, juniors or seniors and demonstrate acceptable academic achievement and show promise of an outstanding career in forestry, wildlife and fisheries, or forest products. The Greater Jackson Chapter of the NWTF also established the Boyd Burrow Greater Jackson Chapter NWTF Annual Scholarship which will be awarded until the endowed scholarship is fully funded and can be awarded. The NWTF is a 525,000-member, grassroots, nonprofit organization with members in 50 states, Canada and 11 other foreign countries. It supports scientific wildlife management on public, private and corporate lands, as well as wild turkey hunting as a traditional North American sport.

A recent contribution by the Mississippi Forestry Association is facilitating the establishment of the Ozier Endowed Scholarship. The gift to the College of Forest Resources helps establish a scholarship in memory of Ann Ozier and in honor of Dr. Terry Ozier of Brandon. Longtime friends to the CFR, the Oziers are being recongnized for their commitment to forestry in Mississippi. Dr. Ozier, a veterinarian, first became interested in tree farming for the long-term investment aspects it provides. In 1958-59, the Oziers bought their first tract of land - 1,800 acres of crop land and unproductive forest land in Rankin County. The husband and wife partners immediately set out pine trees, planting most of the seedlings by hand. They also applied herbicide to their forest, conducted prescribed burns on the property and calculated forest inventories. Some 30 years after starting their tree farm, the Oziers were named the Mississippi OutstandingTree Farmers of the Year and then went on to be named the Nation's Outstanding Tree Farmers of the Year. The CFR is proud to be associated with tree farmers such as the Oziers and honors them for their commitment to forestry.

To help Mississippians realize the full range of benefits available from their natural resource, Theodore and Katherine Plair of Walnut Creek, Calif., established a charitable remainder trust naming the MSU Foundation Inc. beneficiary. The gift will provide financial support for the College of Forest Resources to ensure a margin of excellence in teaching, research and service. Proceeds of the $250,000 gift established the Illahee Tree Farm Endowment for the CFR. The assets for the endowment were derived from the wise management and stewardship of a 760-acre tree farm owned by the Plairs in Washington County, Ore. Known as The Illahee Tree Farm, the property is named for a Chinook Indian word meaning "beautiful country." "Mr. and Mrs. Plair had a strong desire to assist our college in its focus and commitment to comprehensive teaching, research and service programs in forestry, forest products and wildlife and fisheries," said Interim Dean Bob Karr. "This new endowment, in their memory, will help take us to the next level of excellence." According to Keith Gaskin, CFR director of development, the earnings from the endowment will be used to meet the priority needs of the college. "These types of planned gifts can transform a good program into a national leader," Gaskin said. "This generous gift will have a major impact on our students and faculty." Open for use in all three departments, the Plairs stipulated that the dean can direct the funds to be used for student enhancement, professional renewal and recognition of faculty, equipment upgrades or other opportunities to improve the quality of programs in the college. Mr. and Mrs. Plair also wanted the gift to be used as challenge for other individuals or forest-based industries to match their support for the betterment of the CFR. Ted Plair was born in Jackson and graduated from high school in Philadelphia in 1925. He graduated from MSU in 1929 with a general science degree. He was encouraged by his professors to study forestry and transferred to the University of California School of Forestry at Berkeley where he completed requirements for both a bachelor’s and master’s degree in forestry. He received a fellowship for advanced study in forest land economics, which he completed in 1932 and 1933. Plair worked seasonally on field studies for the U.S. Forest Service Experiment Station at Berkeley during his fellowship. Following its completion, he was employed by the National Park Service as a forester for the western division headquartered in Berkeley. In 1935, he transferred to the USDA Soil Conservation Service as regional forester for the Pacific Southwest. At the time of his retirement, he was the head woodland conservationist. During his tenure, he received the Superior Service Award for Soil Conservation Service by the Secretary of Agriculture. He was cited for unusually effective leadership in developing the concept of soil forest site relationship from a theory to an accepted and widely used procedure with profound effects on forestry and soil science. Plair died in 1998 at the age of 93. Mrs. Plair died in January 2003 at the age of 94. They are survived by their daughter Gaynl Keefe.

Mississippi State recently dedicated the John and Jane Player Walnut Facility near the Natchez Trace Parkway. The dedication ceremony was held in April at the facility, located near the parkway's mile marker 132, with the Players in attendance. The couple donated the 59 acres adjoining the parkway in Madison County to further walnut research in the state. The players also made the initial $1 million pledge during Mississippi State's first capital campaign. The College of Forest Resources received the gift to create the Jane and John Player Endowment to support walnut research and technology development at Mississippi State. The fund was established for funding research and graduate instruction applicable to production of black walnut. The players have devoted considerable time, effort, and resources to the growing of walnut trees on their farm in Madison and on surrounding land owned in Madison County. Mr. Player, a retired consulting geologist and a 1940 graduate of the University of Colorado at Boulder, began experimenting with walnut trees more than a decade ago as a hobby. He approached Mississippi State to further the project, he said, because of the university's strong program in forestry. "John and Jane Player have had a vision for the growth and production of walnut trees and their products as a source of economic development in the rural parts of Mississippi," said Dr. Sam Foster, dean of the College of Forest Resources. "Their generous gift to the college will aid future generations of Mississippi citizens as they seek ways to gain value from their land." The university and the college also recognized the Players during a spring campus event that outlined walnut research progress. "The foresight and generosity of the Players in establishing and endowment for walnut research has made possible the work in conservation, improvement, and regeneration of this highly-valued native tree species," said Dr. Emily B. Schultz, associate professor of forestry. "Black walnut has received very little attention in the Deep South except for the harvest of highly valued individual trees. Very little is known about its distribution, growth, and site requirements in Mississippi, but its potential for providing income opportunities for landowners is substantial," she said. Schultz said Mississippians have expressed increasing interest over the last several years in growing walnut trees, and the comprehensive research program funded by the Players' gift will help landowners identify proper planting sites, employ appropriate management practices, and project economic returns. "Identification of superior natives trees coupled with efforts in regeneration and improvement will help assure the conservation of one of Mississippi's valuable natural resources," she said. Without the Players' gift, this new income opportunity for Mississippi landowners would not be realized," Schultz said.

Friends and family of the late Mark A. Schmoll have established the Mark A. Schmoll Memorial Endowed Scholarship in the College of Forest Resources. Schmoll was an undergraduate student in the Department of Wildlife and Fisheries. On April 9, 1998, Schmoll died in a drowning accident while radio-tracking wood duck broods at the Noxubee National Wildlife Refuge. Schmoll's family and friends established the scholarship in memory of his passion for wildlife and dedication to the wildlife profession. "We are very appreciative of the leadership role that Dr. Rick Kaminski took in soliciting and securing the funds needed to endow this scholarship," said Keith Gaskin, CFR director of development. The endowed scholarship will be awarded annually to an outstanding Mississippi State undergraduate student in wildlife science/ management who shows promise of an outstanding career in the wildlife profession.

Confucius once said, "Choose a job you love and you'll never have to work a day in your life." This could be a good description of Steve May's job as chief forester and vice president of Delaney Development Inc. A 1977 graduate in Forest Resource management, May has worked for the Delaney family for around 17 years and hasn't tired of what he does. "I love my job and my work is probably nearer my hobby than anything you will find," he said. May's job is to manage some 65,000 acres of timberland owned by the Delaneys through their myriad of corporations based in Mobile, Ala. Delaney Development is owned by three siblings: W.R. and J.R. Delaney, and Darlene Frost. Their timberland is located in both Mississippi and Alabama. "Delaney Development Inc. is one of the largest, non-industrial timberland holdings in Alabama," May said. "The Delaneys manage their land to both maximize recreational income through hunting leases and for aesthetics." In fact, Delaney Development leases hunting land to approximately 34 hunting clubs and manages timber stands of all ages. This includes pine saw timber approximately 80 years old and hardwood logs up to 150 years old. The bulk of the land that the Delaneys own was purchased by May in his role as vice president and chief forester. "The Delaneys have a strong interest in bottomland hardwoods. The corporation owns approximately 15,000 to 18,000 acres of prime bottomland hardwood along the Tombigbee River in Alabama," May said. Thanks to May's influence on his employers, the Delaney Foundation recently contributed more than $20,000 towards Dr. Andy Ezell's research in bottomland hardwood management. "The Delaneys have provided the support and an outstanding opportunity for research on oak regeneration that will benefit landowners throughout the South," said Ezell. "They have provided us with hardwood forested areas to work in, and they have made a commitment to us to use these areas over a prolonged period of time." In addition to encouraging the Delaneys to support Ezell's research, May has also made an effort to give back to his alma mater. "The College of Forest Resources means everything to me," May said. "I think it is important to give back to the college. Alumni owe their profession to this school."

For the first time this fall, a scholarship is available to CFR students in recongnition of longtime employee Susan Jordon. Susan died in 1997 at the age of 43. Susan's family and friends established the Susan Jordon Endowment Memorial Scholarship to honor her and recognize her 15 years of service to CFR. The scholarship is offered to full-time forestry majors who have demonstrated academic achievement, good moral character, and leadership ability by their involvement in student organizations. During her years as staff assistant in the Office of Student Services, Susan epitomized the spirit of service to the university, the college, and the students. She recruited and advised students, kept the faculty up-to-date on changes in academic policy, maintained all student records (by hand), processed all transfer credits, organized college-wide scholarship program, and made sure students met their degree requirements. Susan was the first person most students met upon their arrival, and she was the last person they saw as they made their way to graduation. In between, she was the preson students turned to for advice, counsel, or just to get something off their chests. To the students, she was part mother, part big sister. To the faculty, she was simply "The Answer Lady." In addition to her official duties, Susan was the unofficial coordinator of all of the CFR's student organizations. She had the greatest respect and admiration for those students who worked hard for such organiations while they maintained high grade-point averages. Anyone wishing to contribute to the Susan Jordon Endowed Memorial Scholarship may contact Keith Gaskin at 662-325-3815 or at kgaskin@cfr.msstate.edu.

Private support to the CFR is on the rise and a significant deferred gift from a Laurel couple is creating a winwin situation for all involved. Tom and Page Harris have given the CFR approximately 430 acres of timberland in Newton County, with an estimated value of more than $1million. The Harris family has owned the property since 1932. The College of Forest Resources will manage the property, and funds generated from its management will be used to create a two-life charitable gift annuity for the Harrises, providing them with a lifetime income. Tom Harris, the retired president of Harris, Wilcock Timber, is a 1957 graduate of MSU’s forestry program. "The future growth of our college depends on significant contributions such as this," said Sam Foster, CFR dean and director. "Timberland is dynamic and renewable, and this very generous gift will have a lasting impact on our college." Future funds generated from the proper management of the timber will be used by the college to establish the Tom and Page Harris Endowment for Forestry Excellence. The land will be used as a teaching tool for forestry students and as a demonstration forest for forestry extension activities. "We are committed to being good stewards of the land we receive," said Foster. "Therefore, the CFR will establish a management plan for the property using the best science-based forestry principles and practices." Over time, the income will be used to create endowed faculty chairs and professorships, purchase equipment, and establish scholarships and fellowships, as well as to fund faculty development and other general program enhancements. "Acquiring gifts of timberland is a major focus of our fund-raising efforts," said Keith Gaskin, CFR director of development. "We hope this example set by the Harrises will encourage others to do the same. I believe this gift from Mr. and Mrs. Harris demonstrates their commitment to the tradition of yesterday, plus a strong vision for tomorrow."

A special ceremony was held recently at Mississippi State to honor Ponototc native Shannon Carter. Carter donated an antique tool collection to the College of Forest Resources and the Pontotoc County Historical Society. An avid wood worker, Carter founded Carter Wood Products in Starkville, which later became Howard Furniture Manufacturing Company.

Urban forestry is becoming increasingly important throughout the nation as cities and towns consider the numerous benefits of trees. In Mississippi alone, 29 communities have been designated as Tree City, USA, by the National Arbor Day Foundation. As the need for trees in towns becomes more apparent, demand for trained urban foresters continues to rise. "Currently, there are not enough urban foresters to fill the numerous positions available in cities and towns across the nation," said Steve Grado, professor in the department of forestry. "A scholarship to encourage students to pursue urban forestry is both timely and relevant." In August 2006, the Professional Arborist Association of Mississippi and the Mississippi Urban Forest Council established the Arboriculture/Urban Forestry Memorial Scholarship at MSU to address need for trained professionals in urban forestry. "The scholarship is for a junior or senior student in the urban forestry option of the forestry major with an interest in arboriculture and a grade-point average of at least 3.0," said Sue Buckalew, secretary/treasurer of the arborist association. The scholarship honors deceased members of the association, Buckalew added. The recipient should be a junior or senior, and preference will be given to junior college transfer students and students whose interests lie in tree care and urban forestry. The Professional Arborist Association of Mississippi is a nonprofit organization dedicated to ensuring the future health and vitality of urban forests by promoting public awareness, good stewardship, continuing education, professional training and adherence to best practices in the field of arboriculture. Mississippi Urban Forest Council is a nonprofit organization aimed at fostering and promoting proper management of urban forests for social, economic and environmental benefits to people through innovation, leadership, communication and educational services. If you are interested in contributing to the Arboriculture/ Urban Forestry Memorial Scholarship, contact Jeff Little at 662-325-8151 or jlittle@foundation. Msstate.edu.

A new endowed scholarship established at Mississippi State is a memorial by his sisters to former Starkville businessman Clyde Patrick "Pat" Wade. Mary Martha Morgan and Carol Lynn Crouse of Starkville, and Betty Hilton of Huntsville, Texas, created the endowment for students in the university’s College of Forest Resources. Wade, a 1982 MSU business administration graduate, owned Starkville Fence Co. Following his retirement in 1999, the Oktibbeha County native turned his attention to the tree farm he had begun in the early 1980s. He died in 2005 and also is survived by his parents, SFC founder Clyde and Martha Wade. Though he had no children of his own, Pat Wade constantly worked to teach his nieces and nephews the values of conservation, as well as the enjoyment of the land and its resources. "Many good students do not have the financial resources to enable them to complete a university education," observed Jim Shepard, head of MSU’s Forestry Department. "This generous gift in memory of Mr. Wade will help a deserving student learn the knowledge and skills for a rewarding professional career in forestry." The Wade Memorial Endowed Scholarship is available to majors in forestry or wildlife and fisheries. Candidates also must have achieved at least sophomore classification with a 3.0 overall grade-point average (based on a 4.0 scale). "Pat would be very pleased to know that he was lending a hand to a young person to study the subject he loved so dearly," a family member added. For more information, contact Jeff Little, director of development for the College of Forest Resources at 662.325.8151 or jlittle@foundation.msstate.edu.

A gift from the Weyerhaeuser Co. Foundation is helping Mississippi State’s Institute of Furniture Manufacturing and Management deliver educational programs to the state's furniture manufacturers. A $25,000 grant will provide distance-learning equipment and technologies for the university's Franklin Center that officially opened in January. Providing workforce education and training that will maintain the state's international competitiveness is the institute’s primary focus, said director Steve Bullard. "Manufacturing industries, including furniture companies and their suppliers, have been impacted in recent years by imports," Bullard said. "Primarily, this involves countries where wages are much lower and production costs are less because of fewer regulations in areas such as the environment and working conditions." Created in 2001, the furniture institute is a multi-disciplinary effort involving Mississippi State's colleges of Business and Industry, Forest Resources, Engineering, and Architecture, Art and Design, along with the Forest and Wildlife Research Center and Extension Service. The institute builds on a 17-year history of wood-product research, technical assistance and continuing education the university has provided to the state and region. "We have the largest furniture research program in North America," said Bob L. Karr, dean of the College of Forest Resources, which this year celebrates its 50th anniversary. "We are grateful for all of the financial support provided by the Weyerhaeuser Co. and Foundation over the years." Previous partnerships between the university and Weyerhaeuser have included forest management, wildlife research and the development of ChoiceFrame, a joint-by-joint furniture frame strength tool. "It’s been a good relationship and partnership between MSU and Weyerhaeuser over the years," said Ben Jones, manager for Weyerhaeuser’s Mississippi-Alabama timberlands region. "Weyerhaeuser is proud to be able to provide these funds to further support furniture education in Mississippi." Since 1948, the Weyerhaeuser Foundation has directed more than $162 million to the communities where Weyerhaeuser employees live and work. Nationwide, the foundation’s annual philanthropic budget totals $10 million. For further information, contact Jeff Little of MSU at 662-325-8151 or e-mail jlittle@foundation.msstate.edu.