Dr. Robert Elliott

"...to help...to be involved...to give something back..." These are words that describe a program created over a decade ago at Delta State University by Drs. Robert and Mary Elliott of The Elliott-Elliott-Head Breast Cancer Research and Treatment Center, Baton Rouge, Louisiana. Former graduates of Delta State, the Elliott's have developed a "Program of Excellence" for current undergraduate students at their alma mater. The program comprises three interactive arenas where students, faculty, and research scientists come together to explore advances in the sciences: the annual Elliott-Nowell-White Science Symposium, a research fellowship program, and a scholarship program

The Elliott-Nowell-White Science Symposium

Each fall, Drs. Robert and Mary Elliott return to Delta State to participate in The Elliott-Nowell-White Science Symposium. Inaugurated in 1992, the symposium was established to introduce Delta State students and faculty to outstanding scientists of international stature whose careers in research serve as models for students majoring in the sciences, or as Dr. Elliott says: "to light a fire in today's students in the same manner a fire was lit in me by those who influences my life when I was a student at Delta State."

Past symposium speakers include: Dr. Arthur Guyton, a Mississippian who many consider the foremost medical physiologist of the late twentieth century; Dr. Harold J. Isard, who is credited with saving the lives of so many women through his invention of a low-dose mammographic technique; Dr. Henry Laws, a pioneer in the field of laparoscopic surgery; Dr. James D. Hardy, who is recognized for his pioneering role in transplantation surgery; and Dr. Gertrude Elion, who received the Nobel Prize in Medicine for her work the use of metabolic inhibitors for treatment of various diseases. The symposium schedule also includes presentations given by Delta State students who have participated in research experiences at the Elliotts' research center.

Research Fellowship Program

Each summer, Delta State students are given the opportunity to participate in cancer studies at the Mastology Research Institute in Baton Rouge, Louisiana. The ten-week fellowship gives students first-hand experience working in a laboratory dedicated to the detection and treatment of breast cancer. Students draw on the skills they have learned in DSU undergraduate classes and laboratories and also learn new state-of-the-art techniques. Students can publish their work in medical journals in collaboration with the Elliotts and other members of the Center's research team.

Although learning is a prime goal of this aspect of the Elliott Program, Dr. Elliott adds: "I think the internship program is a great way for me and the members of my staff to receive some personal stimulation from young students coming to our facility, and I believe the experience is a tremendous asset for Delta State University and its students."

Research fellows work closely with Dr. Jonathan F. Head, Director of Research at the Center. Dr. Head has been instrumental developing several of the Center's chemotherapy and immunotherapy programs.

This unique opportunity is offered exclusively at Delta State and will continue to be a stepping stone for its students. It has stimulated some students to pursue careers in medicine. Former Elliott research fellows have gone on to study at medical schools across the country, including the University of Mississippi Medical Center and The Kansas City University of Medicine and Biosciences.

Applications for the Elliott Fellowship Program are made available in the early Spring Semster and are available in the Division Office (Walters Hall 150) or can be downloaded from the Web.

»Download fellowship application

Elliott Scholars Program

The third facet of the Program of Excellence is a scholarship program in the Division of Biological and Physical Sciences. Outstanding Delta State can compete for this prestigious award. Recipients receive full scholarships are honored with the title of "Elliott Scholar."

Recipients are selected by the Elliott Committee, which includes members of the Delta State science faculty. Applicants are selected based on their personal commitment to excellence in their chosen major, demonstrated motivation to learn, and dedication to their future careers. These scholarships cover all educational expenses at Delta State, including tuition, books, room, and board.

Applications for the Elliott Scholarship are made available in the early Spring Semster and are available in the Division Office (Walters Hall 150) or can be downloaded from the Web.

»Download scholarship application

The Elliott's reunion with Delta State University has been one of incredible benefit for all involved. Their Program of Excellence is a constant stimulant for the students, faculty, and of Delta State University. In the words of Kristen Balius, a recent Elliott Scholar: "The scholarship has been incredible for me...without having to worry about earning money for school over the summer, I was able to concentrate on what would help my career path." Elliott research fellow Reginald Herrington says: "The Elliott Fellowship has made my career at Delta State unique. I get to apply a lot of the things I learn in the classroom to a lab setting." Drs. Robert and Mary Elliott have given of there finances, their careers, and themselves to make the Program of Excellence a success. Their dedication to DSU is a shining example of loyalty to one's alma mater.

To be considered for the Research Fellowship Program or Elliott Scholars Program, Delta State students should contact:

Dr. John Tiftickjian
Division of Biological and Physical Sciences
Delta State University
Cleveland, MS 38733
Email: jtift@deltastate.edu

For more information about the Elliott-Elliott-Head Breast Cancer and Treatment Center, visit their web site at www.breastoncology.com