November 22 , 2004

Dr. Thomas D. Bolden, professor of chemistry at Alcorn State
University, and Cynthia Newland, chair of dance at Belhaven College, were both recently appointed to the board of directors for the USA International Ballet Competition. As members of the board, Bolden and Newland will help create policy for the organization, guide the direction of the competition’s growth and aid in fund raising efforts for the quadrennial event.

Bolden, who received his Ph.D. from Kansas State University, has taught at Alcorn State University since 1983. He has also taught at Florida A&M University and conducted research at the U.S. Army Missions Command, Edgewood Arsenal in Maryland. Research interests include the use of enzymes as tool for chemistry, biochemistry and biotechnology. Specifically, Bolden is pursuing
the conversion of the sweet potato into an ethanol-producing plant. This development, he maintains, would reduce our petroleum dependence without the sacrifice of cereal grain crops.

“We’re so pleased that Tom decided to accept a position on our board,” said Sue Lobrano, executive director of the USA IBC. “He has been a strong supporter of our mission in the past, and I
know he will make a valuable contribution to our board leadership.”

Newland, who holds degrees in dance from both George Mason University and Arizona State University, began teaching at Belhaven College this year. Previous teaching experience includes positions
with Project Dance in New York City and the Christians in Theatre Arts National Conference in California, in addition to ongoing work in churches and schools. Newland has performed at a variety of
events throughout the world, including the Christian Dance Fellowship Australia National Conference, Dance Ad Deum in Texas and the Dance Concert of Praise in California. Her choreography and directing experience includes work with New Trails of Collage, Spirit Movers and Daring to Dance.

“Cynthia will make a wonderful addition to our board of directors,” said Sue Lobrano, executive director of the USA IBC. “She has extensive experience as a performer, teacher and choreographer, so she is already familiar with many of the artistic aspects of the work we do at the USA IBC.”

Both Bolden and Newland have already attended their initial board meetings.