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TWU Graduate Student Geethanjali Ravindranathan Ravindranathan, representing the College of Arts and Sciences, will receive one of four Virginia Chandler Dykes Scholarships at the annual leadership luncheon on Feb. 21

Four Scholarship Awards to be presented at 16th Annual TWU Virginia Chandler Dykes Leadership Award Luncheon

Honoring Norman Bagwell for his leadership in the community and his commitment to education

 

With a love for science, first ignited by her grandmother during her childhood, Geethanjali Ravindranathan, an aspirant from India, is pursuing her master’s in biology from Texas Woman’s University, with a 4.0 GPA and plans to graduate in May. Ravindranathan is receiving one of four prestigious scholarships given by Texas Woman’s University at the 16th Annual Virginia Chandler Dykes Leadership Award Luncheon, presented by Bank of Texas, Texas Woman’s University, and the Texas Woman’s University Foundation, February 21, at noon, at The Belo Mansion and Pavilion. 

“While studying in second grade in a small town in India, my grandma used a globe, a tennis ball and a flashlight in a dark room to teach me about eclipses,” said Ravindranathan. “That was the night the seed of my passion for science was sown. When she passed away from a combination of diabetes and liver disease, I resolved to take a career path wherein I would be able to understand the basis of diseases and identify treatments by manipulating the most basic component of humans that hold all the information: their genes.”

Ravindranathan is a third-year biology graduate research student working toward her master’s.  She would like to work for a research institute dedicated to population genetics, a field that studies variations in genes of a population with a particular disease and uses that information to treat and cure that disease.

“Ultimately, I would like to become a professor with my own lab setup so that I can continue my passions for both research and teaching and hopefully influence other young minds to pursue this amazing field of study,” added Ravindranathan.

She received her undergraduate degree in biotechnology in India. Due to the lack of research in her field of interest in India, she looked for higher education abroad and chose TWU.  She became the first female in her family to ever pursue a graduate degree and in a foreign country.

“I became an example and inspiration to my younger female cousins,” she added.  “My parents were very supportive and ensured their children’s educations were always prioritized.  They were very proud of me when I excelled at math and sciences.”

“My family is proud that I am receiving this scholarship and grateful for the financial assistance,” she added. “The visionary woman Virginia Chandler Dykes is one of my idols. It is an extreme honor to receive this scholarship, established by her, primarily for what it stands for. To know that I have been deemed worthy of this honor is a wonderful, life-changing and defining feeling.  It confirms that my career decisions and the paths I am taking are headed in the right direction.”

Ravindranathan is grateful for the many opportunities TWU has provided to help her to grow intellectually, professionally, and socially. 

“TWU is a wonderfully nurturing environment with people always ready to help,” she added. “It is one of the best universities in the nation, not just in terms of costs efficiency but also the value of the educational experience. My time here has been an amazing journey.”

Ravindranathan resides in Denton. She is a member of numerous professional organizations, an active volunteer, and holds several leadership roles, including serving as a student senator representing the biology department of TWU for the Graduate Student Council. Additionally, she serves as the current vice president of excellence within the council. She is also the president of the biology graduate student organization.

In addition to Ravindranathan, graduate students from the remaining three TWU colleges will be honored at the luncheon as recipients of Virginia Chandler Dykes scholarship funds:Dawn Murphy, College of Nursing; Lorraine Cadwallader, College of Professional Education (COPE); and Kaye C. Rubio, College of Health Sciences (Occupational Therapy).

In the past 15 years, more than $700,000 has been raised for scholarships from the proceeds of this luncheon.  TWU’s 16th Annual Virginia Chandler Dykes Leadership Award Luncheon, on February 21 at the Belo Mansion and Pavilion, will honor Norman P. Bagwell, CEO of Bank of Texas and Executive Vice President of BOK Financial, as the 2018 recipient of the Virginia Chandler Dykes Leadership Award.  Tickets are $175 for silver patron; $250 for gold patron.  For more information, call 940-898-3872, visit www.twu.edu/vcd, or email TRupani@twu.edu.

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TWU Graduate Student Lorraine Cadwallader Cadwallader is the TWU graduate student from College of Professional Education who will receive the Virginia Chandler Dykes Scholarship at this year's Virginia Chandler Dykes Leadership Award Luncheon

 

Four Scholarship Awards (recognizing one graduate student from each of TWU's Four Colleges) to be presented at 16th Annual TWU Virginia Chandler Dykes Leadership Award Luncheon Honoring Norman Bagwell for his leadership in the community and his commitment to education

 

A teacher for 25 years with a long-term goal to make the world a better place, Lorraine Cadwallader is pursuing a master’s degree in counseling and development with an emphasis in clinical mental health counseling to become a licensed professional counselor. She has maintained a 4.0 GPA and will graduate this spring. On February 21, she will receive one of four prestigious scholarships given by Texas Woman’s University at the 16th Annual Virginia Chandler Dykes Leadership Award Luncheon, presented by Bank of Texas, Texas Woman’s University, and the Texas Woman’s University Foundation, at The Belo Mansion and Pavilion. 

During her final semester of graduate school, she will continue to work at two sites for her internship: “The TWU Play Project” (providing play therapy to young elementary children in Denton ISD) and with alcoholics and addicts in an intensive outpatient program at CCD Counseling, PA, a private counseling agency in Denton.

Cadwallader received her bachelor’s degree in international studies from Earlham College in Richmond, Indiana, in 1983.  During her sophomore year she spent a semester in Mexico – an experience that changed her world view and prompted her to design her own major with an emphasis in Latin America.  She spent her senior year in Bogotá, Colombia, where she became fluent in Spanish. Cadwallader received her first master’s degree in education from TWU in 1990, graduating magna cum laude. Then she began a teaching career of 25 years focused on bilingual early childhood education in Dallas and Denton ISD.

“Enjoying meaningful work is something I learned from my parents and grandparents,” said Cadwallader. “My parents, both of whom are now retired college professors, provided me with a strong sense of personal ethical responsibility and the idea that ‘of course’ I would do something to make the world a better place.  The most important part of my job as a teacher was creating strong relationships with my students and their families. From my first day in the classroom, I wished I had some counseling skills in order to be more effective. Making differences in people’s lives is crucial for me – not only improving individual lives, but also improving society at large, starting with the Denton community and expanding to Texas, the United States, and the world.”

Cadwallader comes from a long line of strong women and is the third generation of women in her family with professional careers.  Her grandmother earned her PhD in chemistry in 1922, and her mother earned her PhD in philosophy in 1972. 

“It was unusual for women to earn advanced degrees in those fields during that time,” she added. “I’m grateful TWU is facilitating my following in their footsteps.”

In addition to teaching, Cadwallader has also served as a staff development trainer for Denton ISD and on many campus and district committees. As a teacher mentor of students at UNT, she was invited to be a presenter at the Velma E. Schmidt Conference and is the author of an article published in two early childhood textbooks. Additionally, after writing nine successful grants for innovative teaching methods, she became Denton ISD’s top Denton Public School Foundation grant recipient. She has also been an active volunteer in the community, often utilizing her Spanish skills.

Cadwallader has been recognized by her peers three times: at Tomás Rivera Elementary as “Teacher of the Year” (2007), as the Denton ISD District “Elementary Teacher of the Year” (2008) and as “Bilingual Teacher of the Year” at Obadiah Knight Elementary in Dallas ISD (1992). She has also been the recipient of numerous scholarship awards beginning with her undergraduate years.  She is a member of several professional organizations and Chi Sigma Iota, the counseling honor society, as well as Phi Kappa Phi.

Her journey has not been without challenges. 

“As an older graduate student working on my second master’s degree in a second career, one of the obstacles I have had is learning how to balance the demands of graduate school with family, work, and volunteering in the community,” added Cadwallader.  “I do believe that when my children see me work so hard and long, it must inspire them to believe that it is never too late to follow your dreams and make them a reality.”

“I am so honored to receive the Virginia Chandler Dykes Scholarship,” added Cadwallader. “It is allowing me to finish graduate school and pursue my career in counseling during an especially challenging time for my family as my husband is suffering from a critical illness.”

Cadwallader’s experiences at TWU have been very positive, as shehas found that TWU cares more about people than programs.

“My professors are not only extremely knowledgeable about the content they teach but also passionate about helping us to become the best counselors we can be,” added Cadwallader. “From secretaries to administrators, one experiences a ‘going the extra mile’ spirit. I am proud to be a part of a place where respect for diversity is highly valued.”

Cadwallader and her husband of 31 years (Sculptor Jerry Daniel) live in Denton.  They have four children.

In addition to Cadwallader, graduate students from the remaining three TWU colleges will be honored at the luncheon as recipients of Virginia Chandler Dykes scholarship funds: Kaye C. Rubio, College of Health Sciences (Occupational Therapy); Dawn Murphy, College of Nursing; and Geethanjali Ravindranathan, College of Arts and Sciences.

In the past 15 years, more than $700,000 has been raised for scholarships from the proceeds of this luncheon.  TWU’s 16th Annual Virginia Chandler Dykes Leadership Award Luncheon, on February 21 at the Belo Mansion and Pavilion, will honor Norman P. Bagwell, CEO of Bank of Texas and Executive Vice President of BOK Financial, as the 2018 recipient of the Virginia Chandler Dykes Leadership Award.  Tickets are $175 for silver patron; $250 for gold patron.  For more information, call 940-898-3872, visit www.twu.edu/vcd, or email TRupani@twu.edu.

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TWU Virginia Chandler Dykes Announcement Reception Ralph Hawkins, chair, 16th Annual TWU Virginia Chandler Dykes Leadership Award Luncheon; Dr. Carine Feyten, president and chancellor, TWU; Norm Bagwell, 2018 recipient of the TWU Virginia Chandler Dykes Leadership Award; Virginia Chandler Dykes; Bob White, Bank of Texas, presenting sponsor of the luncheon; Marilyn Mansfield, Dr. Stephen Mansfield, hosts of the announcement reception. Dr. Mansfield was the recipient of the 2017 VCD Leadership Award

Norman P. Bagwell, CEO of Bank of Texas and Executive Vice President of BOK Financial, has been named the recipient of the 16th Annual Virginia Chandler Dykes Leadership Award, presented by Bank of Texas and Texas Woman’s University and the Texas Woman’s University Foundation. The announcement was made at the home of last year’s award recipient Stephen Mansfield on November 15.  Texas Woman’s University Chancellor and President Dr. Carine M. Feyten will present the award at the Virginia Chandler Dykes luncheon event Feb. 21, 2018, 11:15 a.m. to 1:15 p.m., at the Belo Mansion and Pavilion, 2101 Ross Ave., Dallas, Texas, 75201.

“An inspirational leader known for his business acumen, positive attitude, and devotion to the community, Norm Bagwell is a beloved and highly respected member of this community,” said Dr. Carine M. Feyten, Texas Woman's chancellor and president. “Through his leadership at Bank of Texas, Norm Bagwell demonstrates a commitment to serve others, which is evident in Bank of Texas’ partnership with this annual event since 2007. We are honored to present him with the 16th Annual Virginia Chandler Dykes Leadership Award for his ongoing commitment to improving life for others including helping so many to achieve their dreams through education.”

Norm Bagwell, the CEO of Bank of Texas and the executive vice president of BOK Financial, is responsible for all regional banks, commercial banking, business banking and treasury services across the eight-state footprint. Recently, he was named chairman of the Baylor Healthcare System Foundation and appointed trustee of the Salesmanship Club Foundation. Bagwell serves on several boards including the Board of Directors for Bank of Texas, Junior League of Dallas, and Panola Company LTD, and he is chairman of the CEO Council of the Dallas Arboretum and past chairman of the Dallas Regional Chamber. He is a member of the Salesmanship Club, Maverick Chapter WPO, Dallas Assembly and Dallas Citizens Council. 

Bagwell is the recipient of numerous honors, including the Chairman’s Leadership Award from the Dallas Regional Chamber of Commerce, the Distinguished Alumni award from Southern Methodist University and Cox School of Business, and the Torch of Conscience award from the American Jewish Congress. In 2013, Bagwell and his wife, Robin, received the Margaret Sharpe Award for Community Service. He received his B.A. and B.B.A. degrees from Southern Methodist University, where he is a distinguished alumnus from the Cox School of Business.

Established in 2002, the Virginia Chandler Dykes Leadership Award is given annually to Dallas leaders with a lifelong commitment to improving the quality of life in the community and to furthering the importance of education. The award recognizes the life work of TWU alumna Virginia Chandler Dykes as an outstanding health care provider whose professional and civic achievements represent a lifetime committed to helping others.  Past award recipients are Stephen L. Mansfield, 2017; Frances Anne “Francie” Moody-Dahlberg, 2016; Ralph Hawkins, 2015; Mary Brinegar, 2014; Patricia and Curtis Meadows, 2013; Myrna D. Schlegel and Kimberly Schlegel Whitman, 2012; Joel Allison, 2011; Kathleen Mason, 2010; Caroline Rose Hunt, 2009; T. Boone Pickens, 2008; Lindalyn Bennett Adams, 2007; Marnie and Kern Wildenthal, 2006; Gretchen Minyard Williams and J.L. “Sonny” Williams, 2005; Geraldine “Tincy” Miller, 2004; and Susan and Charles Cooper, 2003. 

“I have a long admired the work of TWU and Virginia Chandler Dykes.  Both have been at the forefront of building tomorrow’s workforce,” said Norm Bagwell, the 2018 Virginia Chandler Dykes Leadership Award recipient. “The university and its programs have been a real difference maker in our community.  To be associated with Virginia Chandler Dykes, Dr. Feyten, and those previously recognized is a tremendous honor.  I am very humbled to be the recipient of the 2018 Leadership Award.” 

The Virginia Chandler Dykes Award namesake, Virginia Chandler Dykes, is known internationally for her work in occupational therapy. In 2012, Virginia and her late husband Roland were honored by the American Occupational Therapy Association for their sustained philanthropic service to Occupational Therapy Education, and in 2011, they were honored with the Texas Occupational Therapy Distinguished Service Award. Locally, she is known for her leadership in many cultural and charitable organizations. She was named the 2016 Visionary Woman by the Juliette Fowler Communities, and in 2014 she was honored as one of six Women of the Year by Les Femmes du Monde. In 2005 she was appointed by Gov. Rick Perry to serve on the Texas Woman’s University Board of Regents, where she served until 2011.

Mrs. Dykes completed the graduate occupational therapy program at TWU in 1954 after earning her bachelor of arts in art and psychology from Southern Methodist University. She was the director of the Occupational and Recreational Therapy Department at Baylor University Medical Center for 25 years. In 2002, she established The Virginia Chandler Dykes endowed scholarship fund at TWU for occupational therapy students.  Net luncheon proceeds provide additional scholarships for each of TWU’s four colleges: College of Health Sciences (Occupational Therapy), Nursing, Professional Education (COPE), and Arts and Sciences. Mrs. Dykes and her late husband Roland also helped to establish the Fanny B. Vanderkooi Endowed Lectureship for the School of Occupational Therapy at TWU, which has grown to be one of the premier continuing education offerings in Texas. She is also well known for her leadership in organizations such as The Dallas Opera, the Dallas Arboretum’s Women’s Council and the Fort Worth Opera.

“In addition to honoring outstanding individuals in the community, the Virginia Chandler Dykes luncheon provides scholarships for four outstanding graduate students, while continuing to grow the Virginia Chandler Dykes Endowment and helping the Dallas community better understand the value of TWU graduates to Dallas’ professional workforce,” added Dr. Feyten.

The following graduate students from four colleges will be honored at the luncheon as recipients of scholarship funds: Kaye C. Rubio, College of Health Sciences (Occupational Therapy), Dawn Murphy, College of Nursing, sponsored by Luther King Capital Management; Lorraine Cadwallader, College of Professional Education (COPE); and Geethanjali Ravindranathan, College of Arts and Sciences.

In the past 15 years, more than $700,000 has been raised for scholarships from the proceeds of this luncheon. 

Tickets for the February 21 luncheon are $175 for silver patron; $250 for gold patron.  For more information, call940-898-3872, visit www.twu.edu/vcd, or email TRupani@twu.edu.

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Norman P. Bagwell, CEO of Bank of Texas and Executive Vice President of BOK Financial, has been named the recipient of the 16th Annual Virginia Chandler Dykes Leadership Award, presented by Bank of Texas and Texas Woman’s University and the Texas Woman’s University Foundation. The announcement was made at the home of last year’s award recipient Stephen Mansfield on November 15.  Texas Woman’s University Chancellor and President Dr. Carine M. Feyten will present the award at the Virginia Chandler Dykes luncheon event Feb. 21, 2018, 11:15 a.m. to 1:15 p.m., at the Belo Mansion and Pavilion, 2101 Ross Ave., Dallas, Texas, 75201.

“An inspirational leader known for his business acumen, positive attitude, and devotion to the community, Norm Bagwell is a beloved and highly respected member of this community,” said Dr. Carine M. Feyten, Texas Woman's chancellor and president. “Through his leadership at Bank of Texas, Norm Bagwell demonstrates a commitment to serve others, which is evident in Bank of Texas’ partnership with this annual event since 2007. We are honored to present him with the 16th Annual Virginia Chandler Dykes Leadership Award for his ongoing commitment to improving life for others including helping so many to achieve their dreams through education.”

Norm Bagwell, the CEO of Bank of Texas and the executive vice president of BOK Financial, is responsible for all regional banks, commercial banking, business banking and treasury services across the eight-state footprint. Recently, he was named chairman of the Baylor Healthcare System Foundation and appointed trustee of the Salesmanship Club Foundation. Bagwell serves on several boards including the Board of Directors for Bank of Texas, Junior League of Dallas, and Panola Company LTD, and he is chairman of the CEO Council of the Dallas Arboretum and past chairman of the Dallas Regional Chamber. He is a member of the Salesmanship Club, Maverick Chapter WPO, Dallas Assembly and Dallas Citizens Council. 

Bagwell is the recipient of numerous honors, including the Chairman’s Leadership Award from the Dallas Regional Chamber of Commerce, the Distinguished Alumni award from Southern Methodist University and Cox School of Business, and the Torch of Conscience award from the American Jewish Congress. In 2013, Bagwell and his wife, Robin, received the Margaret Sharpe Award for Community Service. He received his B.A. and B.B.A. degrees from Southern Methodist University, where he is a distinguished alumnus from the Cox School of Business.

Established in 2002, the Virginia Chandler Dykes Leadership Award is given annually to Dallas leaders with a lifelong commitment to improving the quality of life in the community and to furthering the importance of education. The award recognizes the life work of TWU alumna Virginia Chandler Dykes as an outstanding health care provider whose professional and civic achievements represent a lifetime committed to helping others.  Past award recipients are Stephen L. Mansfield, 2017; Frances Anne “Francie” Moody-Dahlberg, 2016; Ralph Hawkins, 2015; Mary Brinegar, 2014; Patricia and Curtis Meadows, 2013; Myrna D. Schlegel and Kimberly Schlegel Whitman, 2012; Joel Allison, 2011; Kathleen Mason, 2010; Caroline Rose Hunt, 2009; T. Boone Pickens, 2008; Lindalyn Bennett Adams, 2007; Marnie and Kern Wildenthal, 2006; Gretchen Minyard Williams and J.L. “Sonny” Williams, 2005; Geraldine “Tincy” Miller, 2004; and Susan and Charles Cooper, 2003. 

“I have a long admired the work of TWU and Virginia Chandler Dykes.  Both have been at the forefront of building tomorrow’s workforce,” said Norm Bagwell, the 2018 Virginia Chandler Dykes Leadership Award recipient. “The university and its programs have been a real difference maker in our community.  To be associated with Virginia Chandler Dykes, Dr. Feyten, and those previously recognized is a tremendous honor.  I am very humbled to be the recipient of the 2018 Leadership Award.” 

The Virginia Chandler Dykes Award namesake, Virginia Chandler Dykes, is known internationally for her work in occupational therapy. In 2012, Virginia and her late husband Roland were honored by the American Occupational Therapy Association for their sustained philanthropic service to Occupational Therapy Education, and in 2011, they were honored with the Texas Occupational Therapy Distinguished Service Award. Locally, she is known for her leadership in many cultural and charitable organizations. She was named the 2016 Visionary Woman by the Juliette Fowler Communities, and in 2014 she was honored as one of six Women of the Year by Les Femmes du Monde. In 2005 she was appointed by Gov. Rick Perry to serve on the Texas Woman’s University Board of Regents, where she served until 2011.

Mrs. Dykes completed the graduate occupational therapy program at TWU in 1954 after earning her bachelor of arts in art and psychology from Southern Methodist University. She was the director of the Occupational and Recreational Therapy Department at Baylor University Medical Center for 25 years. In 2002, she established The Virginia Chandler Dykes endowed scholarship fund at TWU for occupational therapy students.  Net luncheon proceeds provide additional scholarships for each of TWU’s four colleges: College of Health Sciences (Occupational Therapy), Nursing, Professional Education (COPE), and Arts and Sciences. Mrs. Dykes and her late husband Roland also helped to establish the Fanny B. Vanderkooi Endowed Lectureship for the School of Occupational Therapy at TWU, which has grown to be one of the premier continuing education offerings in Texas. She is also well known for her leadership in organizations such as The Dallas Opera, the Dallas Arboretum’s Women’s Council and the Fort Worth Opera.

“In addition to honoring outstanding individuals in the community, the Virginia Chandler Dykes luncheon provides scholarships for four outstanding graduate students, while continuing to grow the Virginia Chandler Dykes Endowment and helping the Dallas community better understand the value of TWU graduates to Dallas’ professional workforce,” added Dr. Feyten.

The following graduate students from four colleges will be honored at the luncheon as recipients of scholarship funds: Kaye C. Rubio, College of Health Sciences (Occupational Therapy), Dawn Murphy, College of Nursing, sponsored by Luther King Capital Management; Lorraine Cadwallader, College of Professional Education (COPE); and Geethanjali Ravindranathan, College of Arts and Sciences.

In the past 15 years, more than $700,000 has been raised for scholarships from the proceeds of this luncheon. 

Tickets for the February 21 luncheon are $175 for silver patron; $250 for gold patron.  For more information, call 940-898-3872, visit www.twu.edu/vcd, or email TRupani@twu.edu.

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TWU Celebration - Women in Leadership Christopher and Sue Bancroft, second and third from the left, are joined by, from left, Nolan E. Perez, M.D., vice chairman of the Texas Woman’s University Board of Regents, University Ambassador Chad Wick, TWU Chancellor and President Carine M. Feyten and Anna Maria Farias, Esq., chair of the TWU Board of Regents

Texas Woman’s University announces and celebrates the generosity of Sue S. Bancroft and Christopher Bancroft, who have invested $2 million toward creating programs focused on cultivating women’s leadership opportunities at the university.

To recognize their commitment and leadership, TWU hosted a special reception in their honor on June 1 in Old Parkland’s Pecan Room in Dallas. Sue is a former chair of TWU’s board of regents, and her husband, Christopher, has been in the investment management business privately for more than 35 years and currently manages a family trust. The reception featured special remarks by Hilda Galvan, chair of the board of the Dallas Chamber, who addressed the importance of women in leadership in the Dallas community; Carine M. Feyten, chancellor and president, TWU, who talked about the Bancrofts’ incredible leadership at TWU; and Sue Bancroft, who talked about her own career path, those who have supported her – including her husband, Christopher – and TWU, a university that ‘speaks to her’ that she and her husband are proud to support.

This $2 million gift follows the Bancrofts’ underwriting of the university’s recently completed strategic plan, which identified four areas of distinction:  women’s leadership, health, veterans and experiential learning. 

“Sue has been a longtime friend and supporter of Texas Woman’s University and is known across North Texas for her community leadership in education and the arts,” said Carine M. Feyten, chancellor and president.  “For many years, she has both mentored and sponsored countless women to lead in business, education, the arts, community development and politics.”

Feyten also said Sue has worked tirelessly to find ways to leverage TWU’s distinctive heritage as the nation’s largest university primarily for women as part of her commitment to advancing women’s leadership in Texas, the U.S. and beyond.

“We are extraordinarily grateful for the Bancrofts’ ongoing support and encouragement and will do everything we can to exceed their expectations.  They, and their families, exude leadership DNA,” added Feyten, noting that Sue’s mother was one of Michigan’s first nurse practitioners and that her sister served as the head intensive care nurse in the cardiac unit at University Hospital in Cleveland and is now a veterinarian in Columbus, Ohio.  Christopher served on the board of Dow Jones & Co., publisher of the Wall Street Journal, which today is owned by Rupert Murdoch’s News Corporation.

Sue Bancroft is a retired North Texas music professor and a former professional musician/bassoonist, who has performed with the Dallas Symphony, Dallas Opera Orchestra and Dallas Ballet Orchestra and other performance organizations in Michigan, Ohio, Massachusetts, and Montana. She was a first-generation college student who worked her way through school and who experienced early generosity and support from caring faculty who helped advance her musical talents and career.

“I learned early on of the generosity and compassion of teachers who selflessly invest in students’ opportunities and passion to succeed,” said Bancroft.  “I owe a lot to those who helped me, and it’s in this spirit of paying it forward that my husband and I are investing in supporting women who desire to lead in the boardroom, in the arts, in community organizations, and in political and policy arenas.  I believe in the findings of TWU’s strategic plan: Educate a woman, empower the world.”

Bancroft, who also has served as president of the Argyle Independent School District Board, the Texas Winds Musical Outreach and the Festival Ballet of North Texas, has held various offices during her appointment to the Texas Commission on the Arts.  She’s been a member of the Dallas Symphony Orchestra board, the Greater Denton Arts Guild, the Children’s Advocacy Center for Denton County Advisory Board, the Greater Dallas Youth Orchestra Advisory Board and the Advisory Board for Denton Community Health Clinic, and is a loyal supporter of Our Daily Bread in Denton.

She received a bachelor’s degree from Central Michigan University, a master’s degree in music performance from the University of Michigan, where she also was a teaching fellow, and an honorary doctorate from Central Michigan University.

“We have a number of women’s leadership initiatives at TWU that the Bancrofts’ generous gift can help us pull together for greater impact,” Feyten said.  “We look forward to working with them to explore ways we can advance our Center for Women in Business, our Leadership Institute, the Texas Women’s Hall of Fame, our national work with the WASPs and a number of other historic linkages with TWU women who held leadership roles with NASA, hospitals and the like.”

Attendees included:  Lyn Barlow; Dolores Barzune; Mike Buzzard; Kathryn Cantwell; Hilda Galvan; Jamie Lavin; Anne Griffith and Bruce Leadbetter; Sara Madsen Miller; Marilyn and Harbert Mulherin; Don McGuire; Cookie and Dan Owen, and Bob White.

 

 

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TWU Virginia Chandler Dykes 15th Annual Luncheon Bob White, Bank of Texas; Ralph Hawkins, Luncheon Chair and 2015 Virginia Chandler Dykes Leadership Award Recipient; Virginia Chandler Dykes; Dr. Carine Feyten; Dr. Stephen Mansfield

CELEBRATING 15 YEARS!

Dr. Stephen Mansfield, president and CEO of Dallas-based Methodist Health System, received the 15th Annual Virginia Chandler Dykes Leadership Award, presented by Bank of Texas and Texas Woman’s University and the Texas Woman’s University Foundation. Texas Woman’s University Chancellor and President Dr. Carine M. Feyten presented the award at the Virginia Chandler Dykes luncheon March 8, 2017, at the Belo Mansion and Pavilion. Luncheon chair was Ralph Hawkins, the 2015 recipient of the Virginia Chandler Dykes Leadership Award.

“The City of Dallas and its renowned medical community have been critical partners in TWU’s success for more than 50 years,” said Dr. Carine Feyten, TWU Chancellor and President. “TWU is honored to recognize Dr. Stephen Mansfield as the 15th Annual Virginia Chandler Dykes Leadership Award Recipient for the important role he has played in this partnership. Under his leadership, Methodist Health System has tripled in size, increasing both capacity and services offered and providing an incredible environment for our students and graduates to work and thrive. His inspirational leadership extends into the community, demonstrating his ongoing commitment to improving the quality of life, driving improvements to education and advancing partnerships.”

Established in 2002, the Virginia Chandler Dykes Leadership Award is given annually to Dallas leaders with a lifelong commitment to improving the quality of life in the community and to furthering the importance of education. The award recognizes the life work of TWU alumna Virginia Chandler Dykes as an outstanding health care provider whose professional and civic achievements represent a lifetime committed to helping others.  Past award recipients are Francie Moody-Dahlberg 2016; Ralph Hawkins, 2015; Mary Brinegar, 2014; Patricia and Curtis Meadows, 2013; Myrna D. Schlegel and Kimberly Schlegel Whitman, 2012; Joel Allison, 2011; Kathleen Mason, 2010; Caroline Rose Hunt, 2009; T. Boone Pickens, 2008; Lindalyn Adams, 2007; Dr. and Mrs. Kern Wildenthal, 2006; Gretchen Minyard Williams and J.L. “Sonny” Williams, 2005; Geraldine “Tincy” Miller, 2004; and Susan and Charles Cooper, 2003. 

Dr. Mansfield has served as president and CEO of Dallas-based Methodist Health System since 2006. During his tenure Methodist Health System has tripled in size and was acknowledged by Modern Healthcare as one of the 40 fastest growing health systems in the nation. Methodist also has been recognized by Thomson Reuters as one of the nation’s top healthcare performance improvement leaders. Committed to community involvement, Dr. Mansfield is an active member of the Dallas Regional Chamber of Commerce, which he chaired in 2014. He is also the 2015 recipient of the Texas Association of Business’s Distinguished Business Leader Award. He was recognized by D Magazine as Healthcare Executive of the Year in 2014 and was included as “Top Newsmakers to Watch for 2013” by the Dallas Business Journal. In 2012, he was awarded “Entrepreneur of the Year” by Ernst & Young, and in 2009 he was selected as “Outstanding Volunteer Fundraiser” by the March of Dimes.  He serves on the board for The Dallas County Community College District Foundation, Dallas Citizens Council, Institute of Healthcare Executives and Suppliers, Dallas Medical Resources, the American Hospital Association’s Governing Council, and State Fair of Texas Board of Directors. He is also a board member for his alma mater, the University of Tennessee at Martin. He and his wife, Marilyn, and their daughter reside in Dallas.

“As a huge fan of TWU and Dr. Feyten; an admirer of the great work of Ms. Dykes; and given the esteem I have for past recipients of the award, I am deeply humbled and honored to be the 2017 recipient of the Virginia Chandler Dykes Leadership Award,” said Dr. Mansfield.

As he accepted the award, Dr. Mansfield spoke of how this was a team award and highlighted what a joy it was to work with more than 100 board members in volunteer roles and 8,000 employees.  “You go nowhere without people to help and support you and correct you if you are not going in the right direction,” said Mansfield.

The Virginia Chandler Dykes Award namesake, Virginia Chandler Dykes, is known internationally for her work in occupational therapy. In 2012, Virginia and her late husband Roland were honored by the American Occupational Therapy Association for their sustained philanthropic service to Occupational Therapy Education, and in 2011, they were honored with the Texas Occupational Therapy Distinguished Service Award. Locally, she is known for her leadership in many cultural and charitable organizations. She was named the 2016 Visionary Woman by the Juliette Fowler Communities, and in 2014 she was honored as one of six Women of the Year by Les Femmes du Monde. In 2005 she was appointed by Gov. Rick Perry to serve on the Texas Woman’s University Board of Regents, where she served until 2011.

Mrs. Dykes completed the graduate occupational therapy program at TWU in 1954 after earning her bachelor of arts in art and psychology from Southern Methodist University. She was the director of the Occupational and Recreational Therapy Department at Baylor University Medical Center for 25 years. In 2002, she established The Virginia Chandler Dykes endowed scholarship fund at TWU for occupational therapy students.  Net luncheon proceeds provide additional scholarships for each of TWU’s four colleges: College of Health Sciences (Occupational Therapy), Nursing, Professional Education (COPE), and Arts and Sciences. Mrs. Dykes and her late husband Roland also helped to establish the Fanny B. Vanderkooi Endowed Lectureship for the School of Occupational Therapy at TWU, which has grown to be one of the premier continuing education offerings in Texas. She is also well known for her leadership in organizations such as The Dallas Opera, the Dallas Arboretum’s Women’s Council and the Fort Worth Opera.

“In addition to honoring outstanding individuals in the community, the Virginia Chandler Dykes luncheon provides scholarships for four outstanding graduate students, while continuing to grow the Virginia Chandler Dykes Endowment and helping the Dallas community better understand the value of TWU graduates to Dallas’ professional workforce,” added Dr. Feyten.

The following graduate students from all four colleges will be honored at the luncheon as recipients of scholarship funds: Laurie Stelter, College of Health Sciences (Occupational Therapy), sponsored by Edgemere – Dallas/SQLC Charitable Foundation; Katheryn Courville, College of Nursing, sponsored by Luther King Capital Management; Julie Southward, College of Professional Education (COPE); and Danielle “Kamica” King, College of Arts and Sciences.

Bank of Texas was the presenting sponsor with a $20,000 gift. Sponsors included: $5,000:  Sue and Christopher Bancroft, Baylor Scott & White Health, Virginia Chandler Dykes, Luther King Capital Management, Melissa D. Tonn, M.D.; $4,000: Methodist Health System, SQLC Charitable Foundation/Edgemere; $2,500: Locke Lord LLP, J.P. Morgan; $1,500: Amegy Bank, Children’s Health System of Texas, Lori and John Collins, Sharon and Steve Folsom, Ebby Halliday, Realtors, Minyard Founders Foundation, Nancy P. and Ted Paup, Southwestern Medical Foundation/UT Southwestern Medical Center, Thompson & Knight Foundation, TWU Foundation, TWU School of Occupational Therapy, Sharon Venable, Westwood Trust.

Guests enjoyed a lunch of spinach and butter lettuce with brie and julienne of apple with sweet sherry vinaigrette along with herb dusted filet beef accompanied by Boursin cheese mashed potatoes, asparagus and a roasted tomato with milk chocolate mousse for dessert.

In the past 15 years, more than $650,000 has been raised for scholarships from the proceeds of this luncheon. 

Visit www.twu.edu/vcd, or email TRupani@twu.edu for more information about this annual event.

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Laurie Stelter Laurie to receive TWU Virginia Chandler Dykes Scholarship for the College of Health Sciences

With more than 17 years of experience as an occupational therapist and a passion to empower and create accessible environments and opportunities for people often marginalized by society, Laurie Stelter, OTR, MA, is pursuing her doctorate in OT from Texas Woman’s University with a 4.0 GPA, which she has maintained throughout her undergraduate and graduate school career.  She plans to graduate in the fall of 2018. Stelter is receiving one of four prestigious scholarships given by Texas Woman’s University at the 15th Annual Virginia Chandler Dykes Leadership Award Luncheon, presented by Bank of Texas, Texas Woman’s University, and the Texas Woman’s University Foundation, March 8, at noon, at The Belo Mansion and Pavilion.  Stelter’s scholarship is sponsored by Edgemere –Dallas/SQLC Charitable Foundation.

“My love of occupational therapy grew from personal experiences of various family members living with an intellectual disability, recovering from a mental illness, or recovering from traumatic physical injuries,” said Laurie Stelter. “I was impacted by the power of meaningful and purposeful occupation to influence recovery and quality of life for people.”

After receiving her bachelor’s in OT from Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, where she graduated Summa Cum Laude, Stelter worked as an OT in a psychiatric prison in Lubbock from 1999-2003.  From 2003-2005, she worked as a case manager in the Garza County Juvenile Detention Center, as well as at a skilled nursing facility and with a home health organization.

“Working as an OT in prisons with persons with severe and persistent mental illness as well as with adults with intellectual disabilities in both institutional and community settings fueled my interests in this area of practice.”

Stelter received her master’s in OT from Texas Woman’s University in 2004 and is currently a full-time assistant professor and the academic fieldwork coordinator for the Master of Occupational Therapy program at Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center. 

“I pursued service in mental health practice because I have such a passion for this population,” added Stelter. “I decided to pursue a PhD in OT in order to maximize my knowledge and skill in research and the scholarship of practice.  I hope to influence students pursuing OT as a career and communicate the power of OT for impacting the lives of people.”

Her dissertation is on the impact of an occupation-based intervention for incarcerated women with intellectual disabilities.  Upon completion of her PhD she would like to continue to impact the lives of students and clients through her work as a professor and an occupational therapist.

“I have developed an occupational therapy program for a women’s prison in Gatesville, Texas, that houses approximately 100 incarcerated women who have an intellectual or developmental disability,” added Stelter. “This program is a collaboration with TWU, the Texas Department of Criminal Justice, UTMB, and the Radford & Patricia Crocker Foundation, who is funding the program.  I am excited that the project is currently in the hiring and soon-to-be-implemented phase.”

 In addition to pursuing her PhD, developing a program, and working full time, Stelter and her husband are raising two young daughters, ages 8 and 11. Raised on a farm in Anton, Texas, Stelter is the first in her family to graduate from college.

“My life outside of my career and academic pursuits is devoted to faith and family,” added Stelter.  “They are the foundation that makes everything else work.”

Stelter praises TWU for consistently and impressively supporting her throughout the completion of her master’s degree and now as she pursues her PhD.

“I feel completely honored and blessed to receive this scholarship,” added Stelter. “It further strengthens the already positive relational and academic support I have experienced working with the incredible mentors and professors in the program.  As an occupational therapist, I have always had a great admiration and respect for Virginia Chandler Dykes.  It makes this honor all the more special to be associated with her name.”

In addition to Stelter, graduate students from the remaining three TWU colleges will also be honored at the luncheon as recipients of scholarship funds: Danielle “Kamica” King, College of Arts and Sciences; Julie Southward, College of Professional Education (COPE); and Katheryn Courville, College of Nursing, sponsored by Luther King Capital Management.

Stelter and her family reside in Lubbock.

TWU’s 15th Annual Virginia Chandler Dykes Leadership Award Luncheon, March 8 at the Belo Mansion and Pavilion, will honor Dr. Stephen Mansfield, president and CEO of Dallas-based Methodist Health System, as the 2017 recipient of the Virginia Chandler Dykes Leadership Award.  Tickets are $175 for silver patron; $250 for gold patron.  For more information, call 940-898-3872, visit www.twu.edu/vcd, or email TRupani@twu.edu.

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Kamica King TWU Virginia Chandler Dykes Scholarship Recipient for the College of Arts and Sciences

An inspirational singer-songwriter, entrepreneur and first generation American (daughter of Trinidadian parents) with a goal to reach the world through music and a mission to help the overlooked and underserved, Kamica King, of Dallas (75206), is pursuing her master’s in Music Therapy from Texas Woman’s University with a 4.0 GPA and plans to graduate in December 2017.  She is receiving one of four prestigious scholarships given by Texas Woman’s University at the 15th Annual Virginia Chandler Dykes Leadership Award Luncheon, presented by Bank of Texas, Texas Woman’s University, and the Texas Woman’s University Foundation, March 8, at noon, at The Belo Mansion and Pavilion. 

“I’ve always been interested in the arts, and my parents say I’ve been singing since the age of 2,” stated Kamica King. “At the same time, I developed a love for helping others and a heart for service. Music therapy gives me the opportunity to work with many populations while utilizing music to address therapeutic needs and individualized goals – whether social, cognitive, physical or emotional.”

King is a board certified music therapist and the founder and CEO of King Creative Arts Expressions, a music therapy and performing arts company. Her passion for helping others through music first developed while in high school in her hometown of Stamford, Connecticut.  She met a young lady with special needs including visual impairment.  The young lady loved to read and was a good student, and their interaction spurred King’s interest in special education. Ultimately, King chose to study music but also minored in psychology to understand cognitive function.

“My goal at that time was to find a way to use music as a learning tool for special needs kids,” added King. “The same way we learn our ABCs in song, I felt like there were other academic concepts that could be embedded in music.  During college, people would ask me if I had ever heard of music therapy, but I never thought much about it until after I graduated.”

In the spring semester of her senior year of at Western Connecticut State University, she participated in a leadership program and created the Western Connection Incorporation Project – a social and leadership programming series that provided Western Connection students (students, ages 18-21 with special needs such as ADHD, Tourette’s Syndrome, Autism) opportunities to more fully experience the offerings of WCSU and interact with same-age peers who were fully matriculated into the university. These students audited courses, had campus jobs, student mentors and social skills groups.

“I could see that these students were not branching out much beyond the office and the classroom,” added King.  “When organizers of the women’s history month coffeehouse event were looking for more students to perform, I thought it would be the perfect opportunity to add an evening outing to the Incorporation series. I remembered that there was musical talent amidst the Western Connection group, so I auditioned and coached a few students to perform.  The night of the coffeehouse show was the first time that I had seen how equalizing the arts were when it came to promoting inclusion for people with special needs. The stigma was erased – they weren’t known by their “disability” that night but rather by their talent. One male student with ADHD and Tourette’s syndrome sang a Beatles song so well that there was an encore, and he had not one involuntary movement (tic) while singing. Another young lady with mental health needs was a published poet with such eloquent words – words you may not have connected with her from her shy exterior. There was a transformative and connective power on display that night through the arts, and I knew that I wanted to recreate moments like that as a career."

King experienced some obstacles along her education path that actually ended up being for her benefit.  While she wasn’t accepted into the WCSU music program when first auditioning, she did get into the university, and the music department encouraged her to audition again the following year. This path gave her many new opportunities.

“It was actually a blessing in disguise,” added King. “Having that undeclared year afforded me the opportunity to apply for and be accepted to the honors program, receive a merit scholarship based on academics, add two minors to my degree program, and be very involved on campus.

I also took a few intro-level music skills courses and private voice lessons for a semester, which got me into the music program the second time around. ”

King graduated Magna Cum Laude from WCSU with a bachelor’s in music (concentration voice) and double minors in communications and psychology with a university scholar designation.  She is a 2013 alumna of Southern Methodist University Music Therapy Equivalency Program and has received numerous scholarships and awards in music therapy for academics and songwriting from regional and national organizations alike, including the National Federation of Music Clubs and the Southwestern and Western Regions of the American Music Therapy Association.  Her professional paper for her master’s from TWU focuses on the identification and analysis of widely used songs in music therapy across psychosocial and physiological needs areas, as well as client populations. With that, King seeks to identify common themes with regards to what gives these widely used songs universal appeal and fosters therapeutic impact in the music therapy setting. Additionally, she plans to publish a songwriting for music therapy guide based on findings.

“With a background as a songwriter in addition to being a music therapist, I realized that based on my writing style and content, I could use certain original compositions in a number of ways, altering the way I used them from delivery style to therapeutic intent based on client need. The songs really functioned as a template that I could adapt as needed. As I’ve presented on songwriting and also won awards for it within music therapy over the years, I became interested in also exploring the elements that make a pre-composed, popular song a universal and a  “go-to” resource for music therapists during sessions.”

A classically trained singer-songwriter, King has performed at the US Open, Carnegie Hall, The Potter’s House and her song “Live, Love, Dream” is featured in the documentary “Signs of Humanity.”  She also gives presentations throughout the nation on topics such as music therapy, songwriting and wellness. She is a former member of the Board of Directors for SMU’s Young Leaders in Education and currently serves as the Southwestern Region Committee Member on the American Music Therapy Association's Diversity and Multiculturalism Committee.  She is also a former Education Programs Coordinator for the Dallas Regional Chamber where she managed and helped develop education outreach programs to benefit the students of Dallas ISD.  Through her company, King Creative Arts Expressions, she started Bridge Beats at the Bridge Homeless Recovery Center- a music therapy and arts program for those experiencing homelessness. Music Therapy groups there focus on psycho-social support and the skills needed for homeless recovery, such as stress management, emotional expression, and the identification and implementation of positive coping skills. Visit http://www.kamicaking.com.

 “I feel incredibly honored and excited to receive this scholarship,” added King. “It is helping to propel me towards degree completion and more globally, my future, in a major way. Virginia Chandler Dykes is a pioneer in her field of occupational therapy who has helped and served many. In a similar fashion, I seek to continue to break ground- planting programs and advancing the field of music therapy. “

In addition to King, graduate students from the remaining three TWU colleges will also be honored at the luncheon as recipients of scholarship funds: Laurie Stelter, College of Health Sciences (Occupational Therapy), sponsored by Edgemere – Dallas/SQLC Charitable Foundation; Julie Southward, College of Professional Education (COPE); and Katheryn Courville, College of Nursing, sponsored by Luther King Capital Management.

“TWU has enabled me to take my music and music therapy practice to another level,” added King. “What has been particularly helpful is that outside of core courses, I have flexibility to customize my degree plan.  My company serves a range of people, and I love that I was able to add courses such as addictions counseling, intro to autism and even music entrepreneurship, which directly relates to the scope of my work as a board certified music therapist and a recording artist.”

TWU’s 15th Annual Virginia Chandler Dykes Leadership Award Luncheon, March 8 at the Belo Mansion and Pavilion, will honor Dr. Stephen Mansfield, president and CEO of Dallas-based Methodist Health System, as the 2017 recipient of the Virginia Chandler Dykes Leadership Award.  Tickets are $175 for silver patron; $250 for gold patron.  For more information, call 940-898-3872, visit www.twu.edu/vcd, or email TRupani@twu.edu.

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Julie Southward

 

Julie Southward, MA, of Richardson is pursuing her doctorate in special education from Texas Woman’s University with a 4.0 GPA and plans to graduate in May.  She is receiving one of four prestigious scholarships given by Texas Woman’s University at the 15th Annual Virginia Chandler Dykes Leadership Award Luncheon, presented by Bank of Texas, Texas Woman’s University, and the Texas Woman’s University Foundation, March 8, at noon, at The Belo Mansion and Pavilion. 

 Southward, a practicing diagnostician for the past 15 years, works in Richardson ISD as an educational diagnostician and a lead evaluator in the Richardson High School area as well as a mentor for new educational diagnosticians.

 Southward’s dissertation is on the effectiveness of repeated reading as an intervention for high school students with a specific learning disability. From her teaching experience she has learned the importance of having strong reading skills upon graduation from high school, but she has found little research on the effectiveness of reading interventions with high school students. After receiving her Ph.D., Southward plans to continue research  with the hope of working for a university. 

Southward received her bachelor’s in social work from the University of Texas in Arlington in 1989 and a master’s in special education from Texas Woman’s University in 2001.

“It took me ten years to earn my undergraduate degree and a few more to decide to continue on to get my master’s which I earned in four years,” added Southward.  “I love working with students who have been identified with a disability, and I feel like I can make a difference.  When I was in high school, I was not the one who was supposed to get a college degree so my counselors did not talk to me about college.  I was the first in my family to receive a college degree!  So, when my students express a desire to attend college, I always encourage them!”

 “There is nothing better than helping students gain an understanding of their disabilities and discover that they can learn,” said Southward. “I wanted to pursue additional education to learn more about disabilities and how they affect students both in and out of school.  I also love the idea of researching – finding what works and what does not work.  The research portion of my Ph.D. studies has been such an eye-opener and a favorite part of my studies.”

Southward has also worked in Dallas ISD and Frisco ISD and has multiple professional certifications including registered professional educational diagnostician; educational diagnostician, grades PK-12; secondary reading, grades 6-12; and generic special education, grades K-12.  She is a member of the Texas Educational Diagnosticians’ Association, Texas Professional Educational Diagnosticians (TPED), Council on Learning Disabilities, and Council for Exceptional Children.  She is also the recipient of several scholarship awards from TWU.

“I am very honored to receive the Virginia Chandler Dykes Scholarship,” said Southward. “It means that my decision to return to school to focus on research was the right decision.  It also means that my professors and advisors have faith in me and my abilities to contribute to the profession.  I could not have come this far without their support.”

Southward and her husband live in Richardson.  They have three children and four grandchildren. 

“My youngest daughter is in her first year of teaching fourth grade,” added Southward.  “She loves it, and it warms my heart to see the light in her eyes when she talks about the students she is teaching.”

 In addition to Southward, graduate students from the remaining three TWU colleges will also be honored at the luncheon as recipients of scholarship funds: Danielle “Kamica” King, College of Arts and Sciences; Laurie Stelter, College of Health Sciences, sponsored by Edgemere –Dallas/SQLC Charitable Foundation; and Katheryn Courville, College of Nursing, sponsored by Luther King Capital Management.

 TWU’s 15th Annual Virginia Chandler Dykes Leadership Award Luncheon, March 8 at the Belo Mansion and Pavilion, will honor Dr. Stephen Mansfield, president and CEO of Dallas-based Methodist Health System, as the 2017 recipient of the Virginia Chandler Dykes Leadership Award.  Tickets are $175 for silver patron; $250 for gold patron.  For more information, call 940-898-3872, visit www.twu.edu/vcd, or email TRupani@twu.edu.

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Katheryn Courville TWU Virginia Chandler Dykes Scholarship Recipient for College of Nursing

 

Inspired by her background as a nurse educator and her desire to become a nursing scholar, Katheryn Courville, RN, MSN, BSN, BBA, is pursuing her doctorate in nursing from Texas Woman’s University with a 4.0 GPA and plans to graduate in 2017. Courville is receiving one of four prestigious scholarships given by Texas Woman’s University at the 15th Annual Virginia Chandler Dykes Leadership Award Luncheon, presented by Bank of Texas, Texas Woman’s University, and the Texas Woman’s University Foundation, March 8, at noon, at The Belo Mansion and Pavilion.  Courville’s scholarship is sponsored by Luther King Capital Management.

 

“It is my hope to advance nursing education so that undergraduate and graduate nursing students get the highest quality education,” added Courville.  “I love to teach, and I want to have an impact on curriculum and raise the bar of nursing education so that our graduates are not only clinically proficient, but also professionally prepared to work in healthcare teams.”

 

Courville is a full-time clinical instructor at University of Texas at Tyler in Longview and also teaches courses in the undergraduate and graduate programs at Montana State University.  She also serves as a part-time nurse at Good Shepherd Medical Center in Longview.   She received a bachelor’s in business administration in finance from The George Washington University in Washington, DC in 1988; a bachelor of science in nursing from the University of Texas at Tyler 2004; a master’s of science in nursing from Texas Woman’s University in 2009.

 

Her dissertation at TWU focuses on how mobile technology affects inter-professional team-based care in acute care settings.  She is studying both the anticipated and unanticipated outcomes of implementing this technology while looking at the responses of healthcare workers to the resources offered by the mobile application.

 

“At the hospital where I work as an emergency room nurse, we utilize a mobile application to coordinate the care of stroke and heart attack patients,” added Courville.  “Studies have shown that this app reduces the time of the patient’s symptom onset to intervention.  However, the studies do not mention other consequences of using the app – both good and bad. I hope to learn more about the underlying mechanisms that make the app work as well as how the app influenced inter-professional team-based care.”

 

“I am so honored to receive the Virginia Chandler Dykes Scholarship,” added Courville. “I am currently working three jobs to pay for each semester for my doctoral degree and when I start my study, I will have other expenses including travel and lodging. When I learned I would not have to pay tuition this semester, I was so relieved and grateful.”

 

In addition to Courville, graduate students from the remaining three TWU colleges will also be honored at the luncheon as recipients of scholarship funds: Danielle “Kamica” King, College of Arts and Sciences; Julie Southward, College of Professional Education (COPE); and Laurie Stelter, College of Health Sciences, sponsored by sponsored by Edgemere –Dallas/SQLC Charitable Foundation.

 

TWU’s 15th Annual Virginia Chandler Dykes Leadership Award Luncheon, March 8 at the Belo Mansion and Pavilion, will honor Dr. Stephen Mansfield, president and CEO of Dallas-based Methodist Health System, as the 2017 recipient of the Virginia Chandler Dykes Leadership Award.  Tickets are $175 for silver patron; $250 for gold patron.  For more information, call 940-898-3872, visit www.twu.edu/vcd, or email TRupani@twu.edu.