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Two Degrees, One Purpose: Debra Buckalew ‘26 Pursues a Future in Research and Advocacy
Psychology and Gender Studies graduate reflects on resilience, community, and the power of pursuing your dreams at any age
University News | May 11, 2026
When Debra Buckalew walks across the stage during Virginia Wesleyan University's 2026 Commencement Ceremony on May 16, she will celebrate an achievement years in the making: earning both a Bachelor of Science in Psychology and a Bachelor of Arts in Gender, Women, and Sexuality Studies (GWSS).
For Buckalew, the milestone represents far more than completing coursework. It reflects resilience, determination, and a passion for understanding people and improving the lives of others.
A Virginia Beach native, Buckalew pursued majors in Psychology and Gender, Women’s, and Sexuality Studies while also completing minors in History and Sociology. Her academic path was driven by a deep curiosity about human behavior and a desire to advocate for women and marginalized communities.
“I have a passion for humans and what makes us think, behave, and feel the ways we do,” Buckalew said. “I especially want to focus on women’s and gender studies because I know how hard it is to be a woman with the world seemingly against you. I want to make a difference in the lives of women and those of alternative genders.”
Her dedication to scholarship and advocacy earned her the 2025 Sharon L. Payne Award for Excellence in Gender, Women, and Sexuality Studies, presented during the University’s Honors Convocation by Jennifer Slivka, Associate Professor of English and Coordinator of Gender, Women’s, and Sexuality Studies.
Buckalew’s journey at VWU has also been uniquely inspiring because she pursued her education as a non-traditional student. At 42 years old upon graduation, she brought a different perspective to the classroom while finding meaningful connections with classmates and faculty.
“My experience as a non-traditional student has been one of tremendous gratitude,” she shared. “I have never felt out of place or othered because of my age.”
During her six years at VWU, Buckalew also navigated personal health challenges, experiences she says strengthened her resilience and determination.
“I have learned a lot about resilience and how strong I really am because of these challenges,” she said.
She credits VWU’s close-knit learning environment with helping her thrive academically and personally. The University’s small class sizes and strong sense of community made a lasting impression.
“I love forming relationships with other students and professors, and VWU has given me that opportunity,” she said.
Among her favorite places on campus is Hofheimer Library, a quiet refuge where she spent countless hours studying and writing papers over the years.
“It’s my little home away from home,” she said with a laugh.
Buckalew also points to Dr. Taryn Myers and Dr. Jennifer Slivka as two professors who profoundly shaped her academic experience.
“They were always so enthusiastic about the material, not to mention brilliant,” she said. “They have also been an enormous inspiration as humans.”
Following graduation, Buckalew plans to take a gap year while researching graduate programs. Her long-term goal is to pursue a Ph.D. in social psychology with a concentration in gender studies and eventually build a career centered on research.
“I have always wanted to know everything about everything, and I am a natural researcher,” she said. “I want to make a difference in this world, so I have big dreams.”
As she prepares to leave VWU, Buckalew hopes her story encourages others to pursue their goals no matter their age or circumstances.
“You can absolutely do anything you set your mind to,” she said. “School is hard, and it takes a ton of work, but your dreams are achievable and so ready for you.”
Watch the 2026 Commencement Ceremony on the VWU Digital Broadcasting Network.