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Abbey Clayton ’26 Carries on a Family Legacy at Virginia Wesleyan
Graduating senior continues a proud family tradition while preparing for a future dedicated to helping others
University News | May 13, 2026
For graduating senior Abbey Clayton ’26, attending Virginia Wesleyan University was more than a college decision—it was the continuation of a family legacy deeply rooted in the institution’s history.
Abbey’s grandfather, Stephen S. Mansfield, joined the history faculty at then Virginia Wesleyan College in 1968. Over the course of his distinguished career, he served as chair of the Social Science Division and later as vice president for academic affairs and dean of the college. Following his retirement, he organized the college archives, and today the Stephen S. Mansfield Special Collections and University Archives bear his name. He also chronicled the institution’s history in his book, "Wisdom Lights the Way: Virginia Wesleyan College’s First Half Century."
“VWU has been part of my family since before I was born,” Abbey reflected. “The love my grandfather has for this school is infectious, and being able to connect with him over going here has been very wholesome.”
A psychology major from Midlothian, Virginia, Abbey chose VWU because it offered the perfect balance of athletics, academics, and community. “I wanted to play volleyball for a great program while also focusing on my academics,” she said. “I also loved how close it was to the beach and not too far from my family.”
Abbey spent her first year as a member of the University’s volleyball team before transitioning into the role of team manager and practice player in subsequent years. Outside of athletics, she immersed herself in campus life through Off The Hook events, especially the popular trivia nights that became a favorite tradition among friends.
When reflecting on her most memorable experiences at VWU, Abbey points not to a single event, but to the relationships she built along the way.
“The most memorable thing about my time here is all the time I spent hanging out with the friends I made,” she said. “Those are memories I will cherish forever, and I’m so grateful that VWU brought us all together.”
One of her favorite places on campus was the quad nestled among the academic buildings, where she and her friends gathered for impromptu volleyball games, spikeball matches, and afternoons spent enjoying the beauty of campus life.
Academically, Abbey credits several professors with shaping her college experience and inspiring her future career path. She recalls Dr. Bond as the professor who deepened her appreciation for history and its importance in understanding the present. Dr. Myers, her advisor, guided her throughout her academic journey and opened doors to meaningful opportunities. And Dr. Martorell, who taught many of her psychology courses, instilled in her a new appreciation for the field through her enthusiasm and passion for teaching.
On May 16, Abbey will graduate with a Bachelor of Arts degree in psychology before continuing her education at Virginia Commonwealth University, where she plans to pursue a master’s degree in social work.
Her long-term goal is clear: to make a difference in the lives of others.
“I want to be a social worker and help as many people as I can,” Abbey said. “Ideally, I would love to work with children and help set them on a path for success.”
As she prepares to leave the University that has long been intertwined with her family’s story, Abbey hopes others will embrace every part of the college experience.
“There is no way to fully prepare for college and all that it throws at you,” she said. “But if you embrace it and fully commit to where you are, it becomes a really amazing thing.”