Latest news with #McPhee
Yahoo
a day ago
- Business
- Yahoo
MTSU Mondays: Student aviation training, alum's company donates LED screen
Here's the latest news from Middle Tennessee State University. Middle Tennessee State University and the Commonwealth of the Bahamas have signed an agreement that will foster academic ties and collaboration between the country's aviation ministry and MTSU's Department of Aerospace. The agreement was recently signed by MTSU President Sidney A. McPhee and Bahamas Deputy Prime Minister I. Chester Cooper, who also leads the Ministry of Tourism, Investments and Aviation, will create cultural and academic exchanges in education and research. It specifically calls for a program to facilitate Bahamian students to attend MTSU and train in aerospace; a summer immersion program for Bahamian students on the MTSU campus; a fast-track program geared for working professionals; and online courses geared for Bahamian students. McPhee, a native of the Bahamas, pointed out that "MTSU has been the choice of many students from the Bahamas seeking higher education opportunities." "The ties between the commonwealth and our university are strong and constant and, indeed, students from this nation represent a significant percentage of our international enrollment," McPhee said. Cooper, who was joined in his visit to the MTSU campus by representatives from the University of the Bahamas, called the signing "an important occasion." "It's a monumental step for the advancement of the aviation industry in the Bahamas and the aviation education landscape in the Bahamas," he said. "We're excited about this possibility, and we consider this only the beginning of more great collaborations between the University of the Bahamas and MTSU and the Bahamas at large." MTSU Aerospace, with 20 full-time faculty members, 100+ flight instructors, and over 1,200 students, is among the largest of the nation's collegiate aviation programs. MTSU's total aerospace enrollment, including all seven undergraduate concentrations and three graduate concentrations, makes up about 6% of the university's total student population. Students from 32 states and 16 foreign countries are enrolled in the program. The future is getting brighter for Middle Tennessee State University film and television students in the College of Media and Entertainment thanks to a newly donated 400-panel LED screen by Chicago-based Fuse Technical Group. 'This gift will greatly aid our tour production and XR/VR (extended reality and virtual reality) filmmaking classes, which helps train and place our students into those industries,' said Bob Gordon, associate professor of video and film production and interim chair in the Department of Media Arts. Patrick Eaton, a 2009 graduate of MTSU's then Radio and TV Production Program, visited campus to donate the billboard-sized screen and calls the official presentation a 'full circle moment' as he connects the past and present. 'This is surreal, and it seemed like a great opportunity to have kids continue learning on what is being actively used in the industry right now, you know,' said Eaton, who credits MTSU as the foundation of his 15-year career in event production. 'And it's great because Fuse acknowledges that investing in the future generation is the only path forward.' Panels can be configured into smaller screens, big screens or a single large surface. The high-resolution video panel can be used for various applications, including digital scenery and live visuals for concerts, Eaton explained. Eaton's ties to MTSU have remained integral to his career in production. Over the years, the companies he's worked for have hired dozens of MTSU graduates. Fuse Technical Group is no stranger to that continuing tradition. 'The bonds that I built in that first semester here are folks that I work with across the industry,' Eaton said. He's also stayed close to his classmate, Mike Forbes, director of MTSU Technical Systems and an adjunct media arts lecturer, who was instrumental in facilitating the most recent donation. 'At the College of Media and Entertainment, we pride ourselves on giving our students real-world, hands-on experience,' Forbes said. 'This donation only emphasizes the importance of giving our students an advantage from others entering the industry by knowing and understanding the technology used in live entertainment. Our students truly grasp how it works.' MTSU Mondays content is provided by submissions from MTSU News and Media Relations. This article originally appeared on Murfreesboro Daily News Journal: Student aviation training, alum's company donates LED screen
The Courier
22-05-2025
- The Courier
Kinross-shire landscaper tried to swindle Alzheimer's patient out of £4,500 in blank cheque scam
A Kinross-shire workman tried to scam an elderly Alzheimer's patient out of £4,500 in a swiftly-rumbled cheque scam. Landscaper Mark McPhee took a blank cheque he had been given to buy materials but instead tried to cash the four-figure sum at a bank. The boozed-up crook wasn't given a penny and his victim was promptly notified of his callous attempt. He appeared at Perth Sheriff Court via a video link from HMP Perth and was sentenced to a community payback order. McPhee, 34, of St Serf's Place in Crook of Devon, previously pled guilty to committing the forgery offence on February 6 last year, while he was on bail. He uttered as genuine a cheque on which the name had been forged and tendered it to Bank of Scotland hoping to receive £4,500. Fiscal depute Andrew Harding said: 'The complainer in this matter is elderly, suffering early onset Alzheimer's. 'On February 7 2024, a friend of the complainer noticed that the complainer's handbag was not where it normally would be. 'It was found that three cheques were missing from the complainer's cheque book. 'On February 8, the complainer received a letter advising that one of these cheques had been attempted to be cashed, to the value of £4,500. 'The cheque was written payable to Mark McPhee.' Solicitor Alan Davie said: 'Mr McPhee advises that he had previously carried out work for the complainer. 'He had been at her address about a job and that he was provided with the blank chequebook by the complainer. 'He tells me it was his intention to purchase materials. 'Later in the day, he unfortunately consumed a quantity of alcohol – he's someone who has a significant alcohol dependency. 'He made the decision to fill out the cheque and try to pay that to himself. It's clearly not a very sophisticated fraud. 'It's fortunate that the bank were alert to this and he was unable to obtain any funds as a consequence. 'It's a breach of trust. Had he been sober, he wouldn't have acted in that way. 'Clearly alcohol is a feature in him making that terrible decision. 'He can only apologise for his conduct there and very much regrets that, he recognises that custody will be an option.' Mr Davie labelled the offence 'serious' and explained his client has been on remand since April 30. Sheriff Clair McLachlan placed McPhee under supervision for 18 months and ordered him to complete 250 hours of unpaid work in the next year. The sentence, imposed as a direct alternative to custody, also includes an alcohol treatment requirement. She said: 'I think you've recognised that this was a breach of trust involving a vulnerable adult.' McPhee was also sentenced for four other offences. He was admonished for three bail breaches and placed on a three-month 7pm to 7am curfew for acting in a threatening or abusive manner. On December 10 in 2023, he arrived at his partner's home in Saline at 1.50am uninvited, repeatedly struck the door demanding entry, stating there was a warrant out for his arrest.
Finextra
13-05-2025
- Business
- Finextra
Backbase appoints Adrian McPhee as chief technology officer
Backbase, the global leader in AI-powered banking technology, announces the appointment of Adrian McPhee as Chief Technology Officer (CTO). 0 McPhee, an accomplished digital, technology, and data leader with a proven track record in scaling global technology organizations, joins Backbase at a pivotal moment as the company accelerates its vision following the launch of the world's first AI-powered Banking Platform. Strategic appointment to drive next-gen banking transformation With over two decades of experience driving technology transformation across fintech, retail, mobility, and digital marketplaces, Adrian McPhee brings a unique blend of entrepreneurial energy and enterprise expertise. McPhee previously served as Global CTO for LeasePlan, one of the world's leading leasing companies with presence in 28 countries. At LeasePlan, which also has a significant banking division, and operated under the regulation of the European Central Bank (ECB), McPhee led a technology organization of over 1,000 and spearheaded the company's award-winning digital transformation. More specifically, he architected and delivered a next-generation digital architecture and scaled engineering teams from 25 to 500+, establishing leading data, AI and analytics platforms. McPhee's leadership was instrumental in advancing technology and business outcomes for LeasePlan, with achievements that grew the business, realized operational efficiencies and earned the 2022 IDC Award for Data Management Excellence. His overall experience spans building high-performing engineering cultures, modernizing legacy systems, data & AI, and launching new digital propositions at scale. Powering Backbase's AI-first strategy McPhee's appointment reinforces Backbase's commitment to attracting world-class talent to support its mission of putting banks in growth mode in the era of AI. Following the recent launch of its next-generation AI-powered Banking Platform, Backbase is delivering on its promise to put banks at the forefront of the AI revolution, driving sustainable, profitable growth for its clients. 'Adrian's track record in scaling technology organizations and delivering transformative digital platforms makes him the ideal CTO for Backbase as we lead the industry into the AI-powered future of banking,' said Jouk Pleiter, CEO & Founder of Backbase. 'His leadership will be instrumental as we continue to innovate and help banks unlock growth'. Driving innovation and customer impact As CTO, McPhee will oversee Backbase's global technology and data strategy, product engineering, and innovation agenda, ensuring the company remains at the forefront of the industry. His mandate includes advancing Backbase's Intelligence Fabric, expanding the capabilities of Agentic AI, and supporting the rapid adoption of the AI-powered Banking Platform across global markets. 'Joining Backbase at such a transformative time for the banking industry is a challenge I'm looking forward to taking on,' said McPhee. 'Looking at Backbase's technology, combined with its industry-wide adoption, we're uniquely positioned to lead the next wave of AI-driven transformation for financial institutions. I look forward to working with the leadership team and exceptional Backbase talent around the world to deliver breakthrough value for our customers and help banks realize the full potential of AI.'
Hamilton Spectator
06-05-2025
- General
- Hamilton Spectator
Three North Shore residents honoured with Women of Distinction Awards
Three North Shore women are among the recipients of an award celebrating their superb achievements and community contributions. Winners of the 42nd annual YWCA Women of Distinction Awards were announced last week, with individuals and organizations earning recognition for their outstanding contributions that foster well-being, strength and future of the community, the organization said in a press release. Annita McPhee took home the award in the Reconciliation in Action category, where there were six other nominees. She is the principal and owner of conference provider Annita McPhee Strategies, launching the company in 2015. After its launch, McPhee's company quickly became a 'leading conference provider and community facilitator for First Nations, Indigenous women, industry and government bodies.' On top of that, McPhee is also recognized for her advocacy work. She is the founder of Protect Our Indigenous Sisters, a society that addresses violence, abuse and inter-generational trauma while also bringing awareness about missing and murdered Indigenous women and girls. In the Education, Training & Development category, Kim van der Woerd won the award. She is the founder and lead for strategy and relations at Reciprocal Consulting , 'which aims to contribute to the ongoing well-being, self-determination and Nation-building of Indigenous communities,' the press release said. Founded in 2003, the company offers research and evaluation services. Through her work, more than 1,200 researchers, evaluators, funders and professionals have been trained in understanding the continuing impacts of colonization, the press release said. Cindy Beedie won the award for being a 'Community Champion,' a category recognizing women who have initiated meaningful change using their own time and resources. Beedie is the executive director of the Beedie Foundation and is a leader in philanthropic work in the community, supporting initiatives in cluding housing projects, women's education and health-care facilities. A few years ago, she co-founded Beedie Rocks, a music festival that raised more than $2 million for the Greater Vancouver Food Bank and nearly $1 million for the YWCA Metro Vancouver. But the work hasn't stopped there, as she's chaired projects and raised funds for the VPD Foundation and the women-only shelter Powell Place in Vancouver. She is also the naming donor for YWCA Cindy Beedie Place, which provides affordable housing for more than 50 low-income single mothers and their children. The awards were formally presented at the Women of Distinction Awards Gala at the Westin Bayshore in Vancouver on April 28. To see the other 2025 YWCA Metro Vancouver Women of Distinction Award winners, head to their website . Abby Luciano is the Indigenous and civic affairs reporter for the North Shore News. This reporting beat is made possible by the Local Journalism Initiative .
The Courier
29-04-2025
- The Courier
Court orders destruction of 'banned breed' dogs after Kinross attack
A sheriff has ordered the destruction of two 'banned breed' Pitbull-type dogs who mauled a pensioner's puppy to death during a deadly rampage in Kinross. The dogs Kushka and Zeus savaged a little Shih Tzu puppy called Tai and threw him around 'like a ragdoll' as he was being walked by 71-year-old owner Yvonne McPhee. Perth Sheriff Court heard how they set upon the small dog before he even had a chance to bark. Ms McPhee said: 'I have never experienced grief like it.' The court heard how, later that day, Kushka and Zeus attacked two German pointer dogs. The Pitbull-type dogs' owner Alistair MacDonald had originally denied allowing his dog to be 'dangerously out of control' near his home in the town's Burns-Begg Street on October 20 last year. He changed his plea to guilty midway through his trial. Returning to the dock this week for sentencing, the 29-year-old was told his dogs represented a danger to the public. Sheriff William Wood said: 'I have had the benefit of hearing from the witnesses in this trial, also seeing the fairly graphic CCTV and recorded images. 'They are nothing other than harrowing.' He told MacDonald: 'Ms McPhee suffered the somewhat traumatic destruction of her dog right in front of her, when your dogs attacked it. 'They then caused injury to her by pulling her over. 'That changes the balance regarding the future of your dogs.' The sheriff added: 'There doesn't seem to be any evidence of your whereabouts at the time of these incidents and that is because the trial stopped before we got to your case. 'But it is set out in the social worker's report that you were not there at the time and as the dogs' owner, the responsibility is entirely yours.' He ordered MacDonald to pay £1,500 compensation to Ms McPhee and a further £500 to David Mcilroy, the owner of the pointers. MacDonald was also placed on supervision for a year. 'In relation to the dogs, it is impossible to reach the conclusion that they do not represent a danger to public safety. 'And in these circumstances, I will make an order for their destruction.' The sheriff said he would not impose an order to restricting MacDonald's ability to keep animals but added: 'You would be well advised to avoid this breed or dogs like it in future.' Prosecutors had claimed Kushka and Zeus were banned breeds. The court heard both 'shared substantial characteristics with a prohibited breed'. Solicitor David Duncan, defending, said MacDonald lived an 'isolated lifestyle'. 'He relies on family members and his pets for company,' he added. 'There was nothing in the previous behaviour of these dogs that would have led him to perceive something of this nature could arise.' Mr Duncan asked the court to consider rehoming the dogs, rather than putting them to sleep. MacDonald, who has a Labrador at home, 'remains more concerned about his pets than himself,' the solicitor said. Ms McPhee previously told the court she had taken Kai for his first walk in Kinross after a stay in kennels while she was away on business. Ms McPhee was on her way home with Kai at around midday when she saw the two larger dogs off their leads. 'Before I could turn around, both dogs locked onto Kai. 'Kai didn't even get a chance to bark.' Ms McPhee said the dogs locked their jaws around her pet's neck and she screamed for help while trying to pull them away. She was dragged to the ground twice as she tried to pull on her dog's lead. When police arrived, they used batons to beat the Pitbull-type dogs back. Ms McPhee then saw Kai lying limp on the pavement. 'He had been flung about like a rag doll. 'I just hope when he went, it was at the first point of contact,' she said.
