Alumna Relates To Letter, Story In Fall Issue
I enjoyed the fall 2008 issue of the alumni magazine. Like Frank Sayles, whose letter appeared in the Mailbag, I too had Dr. McNally for American Literature in BAL, and remember him bounding into class just as described!

I’m also working with Dr. James Sweeney and others on a project to survey archival sources for school integration, so I plan to share his article, “Heroes of Integration,” with my colleagues here at the Library of Virginia.
– Jennifer Davis McDaid ’87
Local Records Appraisal Archivist
Library of Virginia

Kudos For Profiles On Music Department Faculty
I would like to thank Old Dominion University magazine for an excellent profile of the music department’s faculty members [fall 2008]. As a music performance graduate, it was especially gratifying to note the continuing presence of Professor Emeritus Harold Protsman, who is the only remaining faculty member from my time as a student.

The ODU music department has been successful in recent years in its efforts to recruit highly qualified faculty and I commend Professor Dennis Zeisler for his work in this area while serving as department chairman.

For many years prior to the opening of the Diehn Fine and Performing Arts Center, the music department struggled with inadequate facilities and a lower level of funding as compared to other Virginia state-supported universities. Continued support from ODU’s administrators and the community will be needed to enable the music department to continue on a harmonious path of progress.
– Martin F. Smith ’74
Annapolis, Md.

Toomey Also A Talented Arranger And Producer
I enjoyed reading the profiles of ODU music department faculty members in your latest magazine. I recently had the pleasure of working with John Toomey on my new CD, “Change Your Mind,” and wanted to share with the alumni community that his musical talents extend far beyond the realm of jazz, in which he is so highly renowned.
John served as co-producer and pianist on “Change Your Mind,” adding remarkable harmonic dimension to the project that was very well-suited to the modern-folk style of my music. As a songwriter, I was especially impressed that he gave such careful consideration to the mood and message of each piece in determining which musicians to involve in the project. Much of the artful instrumentation on the record can be attributed to John’s expert music direction as co-producer.
I believe John Toomey has the ability to dramatically transform any recording project, and although I may find myself waiting in a much longer line outside his door, it seems only fair to spread the word about this valuable resource right here in our midst. He’s a world-class musician, arranger and producer whose talent and dedication are by no means limited to the jazz arena.
– Julie Clark ’89
Norfolk, Va.

Thanks For Magazine
I greatly appreciate receiving Old Dominion University magazine. It has helped me to unite with old classmates, as well as find referrals for some clients.
– Geneva Vanderhorst ’92
Attorney
Washington, D.C.

To send a letter to the editor, an update for the Class News section or a change-of-address notice, you may contact us via e-mail, sdaniel@odu.edu; fax, 757-683-5501; or by regular mail, Editor, Old Dominion University magazine, 100 Koch Hall, Old Dominion University, Norfolk, VA 23529.

You may reach us by phone at:
Alumni Association and Alumni Relations Office: 757-683-3097 or 888-ODU-3435
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