Arkansas State University extends a hearty welcome to all faculty and staff who are coming on board this week to begin the 2016-17 academic year. Approximately 30 new faculty members are attending orientation sessions that started Monday and continue through today. The annual Faculty Conference is Wednesday in Centennial Hall. To subscribe (or re-subscribe) for weekly distribution of Inside A-State, click here. Send news tips to news@astate.edu.

Congratulations to Bob Simpson, department chair in theatre and director of Fowler Center, as he winds down a 34-year career at Arkansas State. Simpson is retiring to pursue personal interests. Tim Bohn, associate professor of theater, is picking up duties as interim department chair, while Dr. Don Bowyer, professor of music and former dean, is interim director of Fowler Center. Details are in a news release.

The athletic bands, including the Sound of the Natural State, now have a new director. Dr. Polly Middleton, new director of athletic bands and assistant director of bands, comes to A-State from Virginia Tech. Dr. Sarah Labovitz, director the past four years, is taking on new responsibilities made necessary by the larger number of instrumental music majors. She is associate director of bands and coordinator of instrumental music education. Details about the changes are in a news release.

Dr. Jason Penry, vice chancellor for University Advancement, was one of two recipients of the Medal of Public Service, the highest honor extended to healthcare leaders by New York Institute of Technology College of Osteopathic Medicine. The medal is awarded to individuals who have made significant contributions and provided leadership in areas such as health workforce development, medical education and community advocacy. Penry also was featured in Sunday's Jonesboro Sun.

Congratulations to Mendy Hendrix, assistant to the vice chancellor in University Advancement, who received the Standard of Excellence Award from New York Institute of Technology College of Osteopathic Medicine. During the white coat ceremony on Aug. 2, Hendrix was recognized for her pivotal role as facilitator of administrative and academic system planning that helped establish the medical school in only three years.