Congratulations to Dr. Hong Zhou, professor of statistics, co-author of an article published in Communications in Statistics – Simulation and Computation. The authors proposed a new sieve method for dividing a family of null hypotheses into subfamilies, and developed a web application to implement the method. The approach is applicable in clinical trials, and will be of special interest to statistical researchers and data scientists.

Dr. Gregory Hansen, professor of folklore and English, presented a paper to the 38th annual International Country Music Conference in Nashville. His online presentation, titled “Kenneth Burke Meets the Flop-Eared Mule,” focused on the analysis of rhetorical form within old-time fiddle tunes. This tune dates back at least two centuries, and Hansen's presentation demonstrated the value of using Burke's theories for ethnomusicological analysis.

Angela Gibson, Payroll Services, was recognized as this year’s recipient of the Team Player Award during the 28th annual Distinguished Performance Awards ceremony in May. Her nominator noted Gibson is known for frequently going “above and beyond,” jumping in to assist colleagues both in her department and others across campus with various projects outside her normal job responsibilities.

Congratulations to Jeff Pittman, professor of business law, who has decided to wind up his A-State career after 38 years of faculty service. A graduate of the University of Iowa School of Law, Pittman directed the Small Business Development Center early in his career in addition to teaching business law. He further developed his professional knowledge through the consulting work he did for business clients and law firms.

Best wishes to Dr. Joe Nichols, professor of educational leadership, whose retirement was recognized at Faculty Convocation after completing 20 years at A-State. His tenure here capped his career of almost 47 years in education. At A-State he served as director of the district-level educational leadership program and director of the doctoral program in educational leadership. Previously he was a teacher, principal and superintendent in Missouri schools.