News Briefs

Congratulations to sophomore Evelyn Weaver for receiving a NOAA Hollings scholarship. The Hollings Scholarship Program provides awards that include academic assistance for two years of full-time study and a 10-week, full-time paid internship at a NOAA facility during the summer. Evelyn’s internship will be during the summer of 2024. Evelyn is the third VWU student to receive the competitive scholarship. Previous VWU recipients include Erin Foreman, who received one in 2021 and did ornithology research at Narragansett Bay National Estuarine Research Reserve on Prudence Island, Rhode Island, for her internship; and Seth Antozzi, a 2015 recipient, who studied climate change impacts on downslope winds at the Earth System Research Laboratory in Boulder, Colorado. Seth is currently working on his master’s degree in mechanical engineering at Colorado State University. Well done!

 

VWU has been awarded a composite bench from NexTrex for collecting 500 pounds of plastic over six months. The bench is located on the Wesleyan Woods trail between Brock Village and Honors Village. Wesleyan Engaged will continue collecting plastic in the NexTrex boxes located in Clarke Hall, Batten Student Center, Hofheimer Library and Greer Environmental Sciences Center.

The Academic Symposium, hosted by The Lighthouse: Center for Exploration and Discovery, is a signature Virginia Wesleyan event that celebrates the academic achievement of students completing research, internships, performance, and global engagement. On Thursday, April 27,  students will share their work with a professional oral, poster, or panel presentation. As part of the discussions following these presentations, students are encouraged to reflect upon their experiences and offer advice to other students who are preparing to undertake their own experiences. VWU will also host the annual Spring Honors Convocation as a part of the Academic Symposium at 2:30 p.m. in the Susan S. Goode Fine and Performing Arts Center. View the schedule and make plans to attend to support student scholars.

Each year, VWU Softball hosts a Strike Out Cancer event to raise money for the American Cancer Society. This year, the team raised $42,067 during their double-header against Roanoke College last weekend. Congratulations to Head Coach Brandon Elliott and all the players, families, and fans that supported this effort!

VWU President Scott D. Miller has announced VWU’s supplemental membership in the Reconciling Ministries Network (RMN), an organization whose own mission and vision aligns with the University’s as it relates to the intersection of faith and the inclusion and acceptance of members of the LBGTQIA+ community.  
 
“Virginia Wesleyan believes that we must always work and strive to deepen our understanding and sensitivity regarding all perspectives surrounding diversity,” said President Miller. “As a residential campus, we provide our students the ability to practice living, learning, and collaborating with others in an environment that is both challenging and supportive in all aspects. 
 
Founded in 1984, RMN is an organization committed to the equitable treatment and acceptance of all United Methodist community members including full participation of LGBTQIA+ people. Since its beginning, RMN has worked to address institutionalized homophobia in the United Methodist Church and its influence now spans four continents, five countries, 1,378 churches, organizations, and campuses, and includes 45,108 individual registrants. RMN has affiliations with the Parents Reconciling Network, with whom they co-host a series of informational conversations about gender identity for parents, and the United Methodist Alliance for Transgender Inclusion, which is dedicated to its visionary policy of being a Church free from gender discrimination at every level.

Congratulations to all the student-athletes and seniors honored at last week’s Athletic Awards and Senior Banquet, especially Geni Roberts, this year’s recipient of the Norfolk Sports Club Award. Geni is a 3-time National Runner-Up and 7-time All-American in Track & Field events, the most in Marlin history. Well deserved!

Congratulations to George “Chip” Tsantes, Class of 1983 and member of the VWU Board of Trustees, on his upcoming book release. “Cybertax: Managing the Risks and Results,” co-authored by James Ransome, is targeted toward business executives, business owners and board members to guide them in managing cybersecurity. Tsantes has nearly 40 years of experience in building technical infrastructure and cybersecurity. This is his first book.

The inaugural Louis and Prudence Ryan Environmental Research Symposium for the Ryan Environmental Prize for Excellence in Research will take place Thursday, April 27. During the symposium, students from the fall and spring Batten Honors College senior seminars will present research on innovative approaches to addressing issues of the environment and sustainability. The event will feature a poster session and public presentations from the three student finalists.

The initiatives are gratefully named for longtime Virginia Wesleyan friends and benefactors. Louis Ryan, a member of the VWU Board of Trustees since 2007, said in a March 2021 Virginian-Pilot article, “We had decided a number of years ago to support our primary areas of interest—the environment and education.” Along with serving on the VWU Board of Trustees, Ryan has served since 2006 on the board of directors of the Elizabeth River Project, an important partner of VWU and the Batten Honors College.

 

Congratulations to Virginia Wesleyan University Camerata and Vox Vera for being named as National Semi-Finalist Choruses for 2023 in the collegiate choral ensembles division of the American Prize competition. The American Prize is a national non-profit competition in the performing arts, designed to evaluate, recognize, and reward the best performers, ensembles, composers, directors, and administrators in the United States. Finalists, runners-up and winners will be selected from the 2023 semi-finalists. VWU's Camerata and Vox Vera perform under the direction of Associate Professor of Music and Chair of the Fine and Performing Arts Dr. Bryson Mortensen. Well done!

Virginia Wesleyan has been awarded a Silver rating from the Association for the Advancement for Sustainability in Higher Education (AASHE) in the Sustainability Tracking, Assessment & Rating System (STARS). STARS is a transparent, self-reporting framework for colleges and universities to measure their sustainability performance. STARS is intended to engage and recognize the full spectrum of higher education institutions, from community colleges to research universities. The framework encompasses long-term sustainability goals for already high-achieving institutions, as well as entry points of recognition for institutions that are taking first steps toward sustainability.

Dr. Elizabeth Malcolm, Professor of Ocean and Atmospheric Sciences and Director of Sustainability, led this important initiative with support from Shane Boyd, Amber Gruszeczka, Skyler Lattuca, Tim Lockett, Kayleigh Poggioli, Dr. Maynard Schaus, and Bethany Tsiaris. VWU’s STARS report will be used to advance sustainability efforts at the university.

 

Virginia Wesleyan University was honored with 2022 Tree Campus Higher Education recognition by the Arbor Day Foundation for its commitment to effective urban forest management. The Arbor Day Foundation is the world’s largest membership nonprofit organization dedicated to planting trees. Its Tree Campus Higher Education program began in 2008 to encourage colleges and universities to plant trees on their campuses. Trees on campus and in urban spaces can lower energy costs by providing shade cover, cleaner air and water, and green spaces for students and faculty. In addition, trees improve students' mental and cognitive health, provide an appealing aesthetic for campuses, and create shaded areas for studying and gathering.

"Trees not only play a vital role in the environment but also in our daily lives,” said Dan Lambe, chief executive of the Arbor Day Foundation. “Having trees on college and university campuses is a great way to show a commitment to students and faculty’s overall wellbeing.”

The Tree Campus Higher Education program honors colleges and universities for effective campus forest management and engaging staff and students in conservation goals. VWU achieved the distinction by meeting Tree Campus Higher Education’s five standards, including maintaining a tree advisory committee, a campus tree-care plan, dedicated annual expenditures for its campus tree program, an Arbor Day observance, and student service-learning project. Currently, there are 411 campuses across the United States with this recognition.

More information about the program is available at treecampushighered.org.

Join panels of VWU faculty members for a slice of the liberal arts and a slice of pizza. Learn more about declaring a major; possible careers in a major; securing an internship; and pathways available for graduate school in a major. Members of the faculty will discuss these topics and more during the following "Spotlight on Marlin Majors:"

A Slice of Criminal Justice/Sociology Panel Discussion: March 22 at 6 p.m. in Brock Commons
A Slice of the Humanities: March 23 at noon in The Lighthouse, Clarke Hall
A Slice of Psychology: March 30 at noon in The Lighthouse, Clarke Hall

For more information contact Nancy Rechkemer in the Learning Center in Clarke Hall: 757.455.2127 or nrechkemer@vwu.edu.

Virginia Wesleyan University senior Geni Roberts earned his second National Runner Up finish in the men's long jump at the NCAA Division III Indoor Track & Field Championship meet in Birmingham, Alabama, on March 10. Roberts jumped a new personal best and school record of 7.36 meters. He went on to finish third in the men's triple jump, earning All-American honors for both events. "We are so proud of Geni's continued success and the spotlight he brings to our track & field program, led by Director of Men's and Women's Cross Country and Track & Field Cameia Alexander," said VWU President Scott D. Miller. "Geni has been a model student-athlete, striving for excellence in the classroom and on the field. Congratulations to him on another tremendous indoor season!" Read More

Virginia Wesleyan University has formally accepted an invitation to join the Eastern College Athletic Conference (ECAC), President Scott D. Miller has announced. The ECAC is an 80-year-old organization with more than 200 institutions that compete at the NCAA Division I, II and III levels, mostly in the Mid-Atlantic and New England states. The ECAC will serve as a secondary membership for VWU, which remains a member of the NCAA Division III Old Dominion Athletic Conference (ODAC). Most of the ECAC’s members also belong to another conference, which is often the school’s primary conference. Joining the ECAC will provide additional postseason selections for VWU athletic programs that are postseason worthy, but don't qualify for the NCAA Division III regional or national tournaments. The conference will also provide additional honors for Marlin athletes through player of the week accolades and all-ECAC postseason teams. For VWU Esports, joining ECAC means not only competing in National Association of Collegiate Esports (NACE) sanctioned events and tournaments, but also ECAC Esports Conference ones as well. The ECAC runs two esports seasons (fall and spring) in which VWU will compete in the following game titles: Rocket League, Overwatch, League of Legends, and Fortnite. 

Tyler Costello, formerly Assistant Sports Information Director at Tiffin (OH) University, has been named Director of Athletic Communications at Virginia Wesleyan University, according to Andrea Hoover-Erbig, Executive Director of Intercollegiate Athletics. While at Tiffin, Costello helped support 23 intercollegiate programs by assisting with game day operations, statistics, press releases and game programs.  He also oversaw the planning, production and implementation of the department's social media, graphic design and video efforts.  Under his oversight, Tiffin Athletics' social media accounts saw a dramatic increase in followers, impressions and accounts reached. Costello received a Bachelor of Science degree in Sports Management from Southern Connecticut State University and Master of Science in Sports Management from the University of New Haven.  He has served as Assistant Sports Information Director at SCSU and as an External Communications Intern at Sacred Heart University and as a Strategic Communications Intern at Yale University. At VWU, Costello will support 23 varsity programs as well as a co-ed cheer program. 
 
Marlins athletic teams have experienced much success collecting five national championships, several national runner-up finishes in both individual and team sports, including a run to the Final Four by the women's soccer team this fall. The Marlins also field a co-educational Esports team. 

Read Virginia Wesleyan University President Scott D. Miller's March President's Letter, "New Programs, New Champions, New Season."

Virginia Wesleyan alumna Meghan (Betz) Ashburn '07 has released a new book designed to ease the divide between autistic advocates and parents of autistic children. Published in January 2023, “I Will Die On This Hill—Autistic Adults, Autism Parents, and the Children Who Deserve a Better World” is co-authored by Ashburn and Jules Edwards, who describe themselves as "co-conspirators in the pursuit of disability justice." Ashburn earned her degree at VWU in elementary education, and her son has committed to study and play soccer at the University this fall. She recently visited campus for the winter Marlins Day Open House, where she met and shared her recent accomplishments with VWU President Scott D. Miller (view photo). Her book is available at Amazon.com.

Virginia Wesleyan University will hold its 13th annual “Love Liberally” symposium during the last two weeks of February. The yearly event, held around Valentine’s Day, celebrates love as it relates to the liberal arts. The event is coordinated by Dr. Takeyra Coats, assistant professor of sport and recreation professions and chair of Innovative Teaching and Engaged Learning (INTEL).

“This year's symposium highlights VWU faculty who represent different disciplines within VWU's liberal arts curriculum, as they showcase love through different perspectives," said Coats. "The symposium provides students, faculty and staff with the opportunity to engage in learning by attending a class or viewing a film or by engaging in an in-person or virtual lecture."

The 2023 symposium will feature several faculty presentations including: "The Archaeology of Love in Archaic Greece," a virtual lecture by Associate Professor of Classics Ben Haller; "Love for the Dismal Science: Understanding Humanity through Economics" with Assistant Professor of Management, Business, and Economics Dr. Garrett Wood; "Love for Pets" with Professor of Sociology Kathy Stolley; and a screening of "Hollywood Teach Us to Pray," an engaging, fun, and meaningful film produced and directed by C.S. Lewis Endowed Chair in Communication and Christian Thought and Professor of Communication Terry Lindvall and Professor of Communication Stu Minnis. View the schedule.

Kelly Cordova, chief of staff, and Dr. Antje Schwennicke, dean of the Birdsong School of Social Science and associate professor of political science, have been selected to participate in the New American Colleges and Universities (NACU) Emerging Leaders Institute, a series of workshops designed to help individuals understand and hone their leadership skills. Read more about the NACU Emerging Leaders Institute.

Dr. Jeffrey Toussaint has been promoted to associate professor of sociology and criminal justice with tenure, an action approved during the winter meeting of the Virginia Wesleyan University Board of Trustees, according to Dr. Scott D. Miller, President of the University. Toussaint arrived at VWU in 2017 as an assistant professor of sociology and criminal justice. He holds a Ph.D. from Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University and a B.S. and M.A. from Old Dominion University.

Virginia Wesleyan University is freezing tuition for the sixth consecutive year. During its winter meeting on February 2, the VWU Board of Trustees approved the decision for all full-time students to pay the same rate of tuition in the 2023-2024 Academic Year, according to Dr. Scott D. Miller, President of the University. Virginia Wesleyan has adopted a wide variety of measures to remain affordable and financially support students. In addition to capping tuition and fees at their current level for six years in a row, the University has established an on-campus student work program; launched the Batten Honors College, which fully or partially funds 40 new academically talented students each year; created three-year degree pathways for 27 of its bachelor’s degree programs, allowing interested students to complete their degree in a more accelerated and affordable format; widened access to early- and dual-enrollment programs; made January Term affordable; added online summer courses and expanded institutional grants and scholarships. VWU offers competitive financial aid packages and assists students in identifying other sources of aid as well, with 98 percent of students receiving financial assistance. Special discounted tuition is also offered for students in the Evening and Weekend Program and VWU Online, where rates are almost 75 percent less than tuition for traditional day students. “At Virginia Wesleyan, our longtime commitment to providing an affordable education has been a crucial differentiator that helps us appeal to financially responsible students who are looking to start their careers without the heavy burden of unreasonable student loans,” Dr. Miller said. Read More

Read Virginia Wesleyan University President Scott D. Miller's February President's Letter, "Love for the Liberal Arts."

The University recently partnered with Healthier757, creators of an educational gaming platform designed to improve health literacy. Students, faculty, and staff across campus may have seen table tents, posters, and flyers promoting Rewards for Healthy Living. The platform makes learning about healthy living informative and fun. Profiles are based on each user’s individual needs and interests. Participants are entered into monthly raffles for cash prizes based on engagement. 

VWU Vice President for Enrollment Heather Campbell was quoted in The Virginian-Pilot on why Virginia Wesleyan has remained test-optional in the wake of the pandemic. Dr. Kathleen Casey, VWU Associate Professor of History, was recently published in Ms. Magazine with her article, "The Renaissance of Feminist Bookstores.” The article connects with the Gender, Women, and Sexuality Studies Program’s keynote speaker for Women's History Month, Erin Dougherty, the owner of Eleanor's Norfolk. Dr. Ben Dobrin, VWU Professor of Social Work and Dean of the D. Henry Watts School of Professional Studies, was featured in a WTKR news segment about the Special Olympics Polar Plunge at the Virginia Beach oceanfront. Dr. Dobrin served as a volunteer diver at that event. Dr. Taryn Myers, VWU Professor of Psychology, was recently featured in Study.com's Mental Health Guide for College Students. Dr. Myers shared her advice and experiences regarding working through academic stress, maintaining good mental health, and supporting peers struggling with mental health issues.

The spring 2023 schedule for the Westminster/Wesleyan Lifelong Learning Institute includes 12 courses. This unique partnership between Virginia Wesleyan University and Westminster-Canterbury on Chesapeake Bay offers non-credit courses in art, history, political science, psychology, religion, popular culture, and other subjects each semester. Taught by Virginia Wesleyan faculty, programming for the initiative—a component of Virginia Wesleyan University Global Campus—is coordinated by Dr. Ben Fraser, the Westminster-Canterbury Fellow for Religious Studies and Lifelong Learning, in collaboration with Virginia Wesleyan’s Robert Nusbaum Center. 

The VWU/Sentara joint Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) Program hosted a reception to celebrate the second cohort of pre-BSN students on Monday, January 23 in Brock Commons. Congratulations to Joana Robles, Rayven Amaya, Olivia Winslow and Sophia Bourassa who will transition to the Sentara College of Health Sciences for the specialized nursing and clinical coursework needed to complete their degrees. The joint BSN program was initiated in February 2020, when VWU first signed an agreement with Sentara College of Health Sciences.

Virginia Wesleyan University Provost and Vice President for Academic Affairs Susan Larkin has shared the passing of Rev. Dr. William R. Shealy Jr., one of Virginia Wesleyan's first faculty members, who taught in the Department of Religious Studies from 1968 to 1997. He served as Division Chair for the Social Sciences in the 1970s, and he developed an extensive teaching collection for his students. "He brought creativity and enthusiasm to his pedagogy, he influenced generations of students and Methodist clergy, and we are grateful for the ways he shaped us," says Dr. Larkin. He is pictured here (second from left) at the 1980 Commencement Ceremony, where he received the first-ever Samuel Nelson Gray Distinguished Teaching Award. Also pictured are President Lambuth Clarke, award donor Virginia Clarke Gray, and Dean Bill Wilson. A memorial event will be held on the VWU campus (5817 Wesleyan Dr., Virginia Beach) on Friday, February 3, from 12-1 p.m. in the Barclay Sheaks Gallery in Hofheimer Library. Alumni, campus, community, and all friends of Dr. Shealy are invited. An obituary is available here. 

“Give light and the people will find their own way.” The corporate motto for Scripps, the parent company of WTKR News 3, was the inspiration behind a mural created by Professor of Art John Rudel during winter break. His magnificent, four-story work of art is now on display on Boush Street in Norfolk. He says that the project was a fun, but taxing challenge, one that helped him to overcome his fear of heights!

President Scott D. Miller, Executive Director of Intercollegiate Athletics Andrea Hoover-Erbig and Faculty Athletics Representative Jill Sturts (view photo) served as the Virginia Wesleyan University delegation to the NCAA Convention in San Antonio, Texas, January 11-14. Dr. Miller attended a Presidents’ Agenda Day, allowing for more direct conversation on athletics issues with NCAA leadership. Coach Hoover-Erbig attended the Old Dominion Athletic Conference (ODAC) meeting during the convention, and Dr. Sturts took advantage of special programming for Faculty Athletics Representatives. Each year, NCAA members travel from campuses and conferences nationwide to attend the NCAA Convention. College sports leaders gather to vote on rule changes, which are developed by members and committees throughout the year in an effort to best support student-athletes. The Convention also provides an opportunity to celebrate the achievements of current and former athletes, coaches and administrators. This year’s convention also acted as the introduction of incoming President Charlie Baker to member institutions, who attended a productive discussion with NCAA Division III presidents. Division III members also voted on 12 proposals during governance meetings.

Virginia Wesleyan Esports will host Collision on the Coast, an in-person Rocket League tournament, on Saturday, February 25, in the Jane P. Batten Student Center. Matches will begin at 9 a.m. and feature a double-elimination style tournament bracket. Team registration is open now. Collision on the Coast is open to the public. Tickets can be purchased the day of the event at the ticket booth in the Batten Student Center—$20 seniors, military, students; $30 general admission. Free for VWU faculty, staff and student spectators. 

Virginia Wesleyan University President Scott D. Miller has shared the Fall 2022 President's List and Dean’s List. Congratulations to the 103 students on the President’s List who achieved a 4.0 grade point average and to the 250 students on the Dean’s List who achieved a 3.5-3.99 grade point average for the fall semester. To qualify for these honors, students must have full-time status and have taken at least nine semester hours of traditionally-graded courses. "These individuals demonstrate a remarkable level of dedication to their academic pursuits, and we’re so proud of them," said Dr. Miller. "Congratulations to all!"

Virginia Wesleyan University’s steadfast friend, supporter, and Trustee Emeritus George Birdsong H’16 will be honored by the Urban League of Hampton Roads during the virtual 39th Annual Martin Luther King Community Leaders Awards on Monday, January 16. Since 1984, the MLK Community Leaders Awards have honored individuals and groups who exemplify service, demonstrate the values modeled by Dr. King, and make significant contributions to the Hampton Roads community. Among the honorees are additional VWU friends: U.S. Representative Bobby Scott; Shawn Avery, President and CEO of the Hampton Roads Workforce Council; and Virginia State Senate Representative Louise Lucas. Registration for this virtual event is free and open to the public.

Virginia Wesleyan's annual Martin Luther King Jr. Day commemoration will take place on Monday, January 16. It will begin with a Day of Service, hosted by Wesleyan Engaged, in the Jane P. Batten Student Center. Virginia Beach City Councilman Aaron Rouse will join the University for a special luncheon, hosted by VWU Athletics. The program will also include the presentation of the Mavis McKenley ’11 Award to a student who embodies the ideals of Dr. King. The day will culminate with a Peace Walk from VWU to Haygood United Methodist Church. Classes will not be held on MLK Day, but Marlins are invited to make plans to participate in one or more of these campus events.

Virginia Wesleyan Softball will host its Second Annual First Pitch Dinner on Friday, February 3, featuring a keynote address from legendary University of Michigan coach Carol Hutchins. View ticket and event information.

Virginia Wesleyan University has joined CommonApp, which allows students to apply to multiple colleges at once. Being part of CommonApp will further enhance the University's goal of access when it comes to prospective students applying to VWU. The CommonApp will streamline the process for prospective students and is available at no cost. Learn More

Read Virginia Wesleyan University President Scott D. Miller's January President's Letter, "It's a Great Year to be a Marlin."

Virginia Wesleyan University’s annual Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Day commemoration event will be held on Monday, January 16, at 12 p.m. in the Joan P. Brock Room of Brock Commons. The special luncheon, sponsored by VWU Athletics, will feature Virginia Beach City Councilman and former NFL player Aaron Rouse as keynote speaker. 

Councilman Rouse was born and raised in Virginia Beach and graduated with a bachelor’s degree from Virginia Tech. He was drafted by the Green Bay Packers in the 2007 NFL Draft and also played for the New York Giants and Arizona Cardinals. After retiring from the National Football League, he returned home to Virginia Beach to begin his career in public service. He served as a coach and a mentor before founding Rouse’s House, a nonprofit organization that serves to establish education as the foundation for today’s youth, with a primary goal of exposing youth and families in the community to a broader world of learning. In 2018, he was elected to the Virginia Beach City Council as an at-large member. He has also served as vice chair, Hampton Roads Planning District Commission. 

Among Rouse’s many accolades are the Changemaker of the Year Award from Volunteer Hampton Roads, the 2020 African-American Creative Community Series Distinguished Lifetime Achievement Award, and the History Maker Award from the Virginia Beach chapter of the NAACP in 2019. He resides in Virginia Beach with his wife Jennifer, a VWU alumna from the Class of 2008, and son and daughter. 

The annual program also includes the presentation of the Mavis McKenley ’11 Award to a student who embodies the ideals of Dr. King. 

Virginia Wesleyan University President Scott D. Miller has been elected as chair of the Board of Directors of the Council of Independent Colleges in Virginia (Virginia Private Colleges) for 2023. The Board consists of the presidents of the 27 independent colleges in Virginia. Two years ago, Dr. Miller was chair of the Council of Presidents of the Virginia Foundation of Independent Colleges, and he has also served as chair of the Board of Directors of Washington, DC-based Academic Search, Inc. He was also recently elected vice president of Virginia Beach Vision (VBV), an organization of Virginia Beach corporate leaders with a mission to create a vision and advance initiatives necessary to the City of Virginia Beach and the Hampton Roads region’s future development, prosperity and quality of life. Read More

Bishop Sue Haupert-Johnson, the newly appointed bishop to the Virginia Annual Conference of the United Methodist Church, will serve as Virginia Wesleyan University’s 2023 Baccalaureate speaker. Originally from Florida, Bishop Haupert-Johnson has a bachelor's degree from the University of Florida, a law degree from the University of Florida College of Law, and a Master of Divinity from the Candler School of Theology at Emory University. Baccalaureate will be held at 5:30 p.m. on Friday, May 12 in the Joan and Macon Brock Theatre of the Susan S. Goode Fine and Performing Arts Center as a part of the Spring 2023 Commencement Exercises. This prelude to Commencement is a service of worship in celebration of and thanksgiving for lives dedicated to learning and wisdom.

Two distinguished Virginia Wesleyan University faculty members received awards during the VWU Global Campus Commencement Ceremony held on December 17 in the Goode Fine and Performing Arts Center. The 2022 Faculty Award for Distinguished Scholarship was presented to Dr. William McConnell, Associate Professor of Education, and the 2022 Faculty Award for Campus Service was presented to Dr. Elizabeth Malcolm, Professor of Ocean and Atmospheric Sciences. Read more about the day and view the photo gallery.

This semester’s last edition of The Pharos is available now. Enjoy learning more about VWU's talented faculty and staff members, who continue to make important contributions to their respective fields through publications, presentations, and more.

Virginia Wesleyan University President Scott D. Miller has been elected as vice president of Virginia Beach Vision (VBV). In this role, he will work alongside VBV President Delceno Miles and VBV Executive Director Martha McClees (view photo). Composed of 120 corporate directors, VBV’s mission is to create a vision and advance initiatives necessary to the City of Virginia Beach and the Hampton Roads region’s future development, prosperity and quality of life. More

Renovations and updates to Clarke Hall as part of Virginia Wesleyan University’s workforce and talent development initiatives continue to move along. President Scott D. Miller highlighted several projects in the December 12 edition of Nota Bene. He shared that the Beasley Foundation Technology Center will have a completely different look. The redesign will provide ample space for collaboration and productivity, featuring eight workspaces, each equipped with new modern computers. Two full-length counters looking out onto campus will frame in the space and comfortable furniture will create wonderful spaces to read or work from laptops. New auto adjusting window shades will adjust throughout the day to provide proper lighting. The IT Help Desk housed within will feature a tech bench to accommodate computer repair and work study apprenticeships. In addition, a new garage door style deposit window will give users a place to drop off their equipment. Dr. Miller also shared that the Learning and Advising Center will have a new look. In addition to new furniture, paint, and carpeting throughout, the center will include a new reception desk, eight testing stations with new computers and a closed-circuit monitoring system, an interactive projector system, and three huddle rooms that accommodate four people for group collaboration or private tutoring. The project is scheduled to be completed in late January 2023. 

President & Mrs. Scott D. Miller and the students of "Sport & Recreation Program and Event Principles" hosted the annual Children's Brunch With Santa on December 10 for children and grandchildren of Virginia Wesleyan University community members. The event was held on campus in Brock Commons. View the photo gallery, with images by Joey Mueller '22. 

The annual Christmas Tree Lighting took place on December 1, 2022, celebrating the official start of the holiday season at Virginia Wesleyan University. View the photo gallery

Provost and Vice President for Academic Affairs Susan Larkin has shared with the Marlin community the November 29 passing of Professor Emeritus of English L. Anderson Orr. Andy Orr devoted 32 years to Virginia Wesleyan, teaching not only British literature, but also topics such as etiquette, French cooking, and origami during January Term. He was a beloved colleague and teacher to so many in the VWU community. A memorial service will be held at Christ & St. Luke’s Church, Norfolk, on December 16 at 2 p.m. with ashes to be interred at McLeod Magnolia Cemetery, Leakesville, Mississippi at a later date.

Read Virginia Wesleyan University President Scott D. Miller's December President's Letter, "Do You Hear What I Hear?"

The latest edition of Ms. Magazine features an article written by VWU Associate Professor of History and Chair of the Gender, Women, and Sexuality Studies Program Kathleen Casey. In “Teaching the Deep Roots of Abortion in America,” Dr. Casey addresses “the special obligation historians have to challenge the Supreme Court’s narrow view of the history of abortion in the U.S.” Read all about it: https://bit.ly/3gYy6G2

The Marlin community showed up in a BIG WAY on #GivingTuesday, with 491 gifts totaling more than $31,000! Thank you to those who participated; we are grateful for your generosity. Your support will have such an impact on our students, faculty and the University as a whole. GivingTuesday, a national day of giving and radical generosity, was created in 2012 as a simple idea: a day that encourages people to do good. Since then, it has grown into a year-round global movement that inspires hundreds of millions of people to give, collaborate, and celebrate generosity. 

 

Read the latest news from VWU athletics in the November 29 edition of SportSplash.

Faculty in the Department of Management, Business, and Economics hosted the Sigma Beta Delta induction ceremony on November 15 during the Marlin Business Conference. Congratulations to this year's inductees: Alexandra Brewster, Sarah Guzzo, Ashleigh Lockard, Emily Moody, Aaron Oman, Emily Purdin, and Jennifer Walsh. They join returning members Marlese Boyer, Melina Cabral, Connor Merk, Gavin Prouty, Evie Trinh, Barbara Washer, and Doris White.

Sigma Beta Delta is the International Honor Society for Business, Management, and Administration that promotes personal and professional improvement and a life distinguished by honorable service to humankind. Students are invited to membership as juniors, seniors, and graduate students based on grade point averages. 

“It is the highest academic honor that we faculty can offer a student,” said Assistant Professor of MBE and faculty advisor for Sigma Beta Delta Elaine Dessouki. 
 

Read Virginia Wesleyan University President Scott D. Miller's November President's Letter, "A Season of Beauty and Gratitude."

Bruce Thompson, CEO of Gold Key - PHR, a Virginia Beach-based hospitality company that owns hotels, restaurants, and condominiums, will serve as keynote speaker at the opening session of the Marlin Business Conference on November 15 at 6:00 p.m. in the Joan P. Brock Room of Brock Commons. The fall conference theme is “Creating Careers for Change” and will take place November 15-19. Thompson has been a leader in the travel industry for more than 30 years. His first venture grew to become the largest ski operator on the East Coast. That company evolved into Professional Hospitality Resources (PHR) as Bruce expanded into hotels and restaurants. In 1986, he entered the vacation ownership industry, co-founding the highly successful Gold Key Resorts. Today, his companies generate annual revenues exceeding $140 million and employ over 2,400 associates. The Marlin Business Conference is the culmination of months of hard work by students in the VWU business course, "Principles of Management." Students coordinate all aspects of the event, exercising key management skills like product development, networking, and project and financial planning. Conference activities are free and open to the public. 

Virginia Wesleyan University will hold its annual Veterans Day Ceremony in honor of Marlin veterans and active duty service members at noon on Friday, November 11. Cory Franklin '20, VWU adjunct faculty member and Marine Corps veteran, will serve as special guest speaker. Franklin earned a Bachelor of Arts in Music from VWU and his Master of Music Education from Old Dominion University. As a Marine Corps veteran, his Military Occupational Skill was 2823 Technical Control Chief with 20 years of tactical telecommunications experience in management, integration, network system repair, and operations. He engineered, analyzed, and optimized long-haul telecommunication networks, converging secure and non-secure voice, data, and video networks, leading co-workers to accomplish tasks with deadlines and limited resources. The Veterans Day Ceremony will take place on campus at the Veterans Memorial Monument behind Godwin Hall.

Students enrolled in the "Directing" course (TH 412) this semester, taught by Professor of Theatre Dr. Sally Shedd, present the culmination of their work during the One Act Festival in Susan T. Beverly Hall on November 12 at 7:30 p.m. Plays directed by students include: "Post-Its (Notes On a Marriage)" by Paul Dooley directed by Sophia Kaminaris; "A Tall Order" by Sheri Wilner directed by Tucker Barco; and "Marred Bliss" by Mark O’ Donnell directed by Hannah Carmona. The student directors have been preparing for the festival throughout the semester by engaging in activities such as applying for rights, holding auditions, analyzing scripts, hosting casting sessions, and learning rehearsal techniques. 

Senior art major Alison Coutu’s ceramic sculpture has been selected for display in the Virginia Museum of Contemporary Art's exhibition "Made in Virginia." Out of 532 entries, only 31 artists were selected for this exhibition. Alison's piece is one of three sculptures in the exhibition, and the only work made of ceramics. The exhibition was juried by Bana Kattan, Associate Curator of the Chicago Museum of Contemporary Art. Congratulations, Alison!

Wesleyan Engaged will host Kate Slayton from Virginia21, on Vote Early Day on Friday, October 28. Slayton will address the topic, “The Importance of Your Vote,” at an event on campus in The Grille in the Jane P. Batten Student Center from 1-2 p.m. Students will be encouraged to make the most of their vote by making a voting plan, getting to the polls, and holding elected officials accountable. Virginia21 is a statewide, non-partisan organization that brings young Virginians together to tackle the challenges of today — and tomorrow. Their mission is to empower college students and young Virginians to be engaged citizens and advocates for issues important to them and Virginia’s future.

 

The Virginia Wesleyan University Board of Trustees held its Fall Meeting October 5 in the Board of Trustees Suite in the Boyd Dining Center. Following two weeks of staggered Board committee meetings and the full Business Session, members met to hear reports and take action on a variety of issues. The opening session was an extensive presentation about the University's new partnership with the Virginia Beach Police Department from Dr. Susan Larkin, Provost and Vice President for Academic Affairs; Dr. David R. Black, Chancellor of VWU Global (Japan); and Heather Campbell, Vice President for Enrollment. "The Board was excited and appreciative for the program," VWU President Scott D. Miller said, "as it fills a need in our community and sets Virginia Wesleyan at the forefront of innovative programming to attract students of all ages and backgrounds." Among the Board actions during the Fall Business Session: Heard detailed reports from the following committees: Trusteeship, Audit, Finance and Endowment, Campus Affairs, and University Relations; Affirmed the selection of Dr. Susan E. Larkin as provost and vice president for academic affairs; Affirmed the promotion of Dr. Keith Moore as senior vice president (previously vice president for campus life and operational management) and Kelly Cordova as chief of staff and assistant secretary to the Board of Trustees (previously executive assistant to the president); Heard progress reports on institutional planning: Financial Sustainability Plan, “Great Goals!”, and “Forging the Future: Building on Strength;” Accepted the final report of the “Transformation Now!” capital campaign and discussed a new $40 million fundraising plan campaign to grow the endowment; Approved the updated Fiscal Year 2022-23 budget; Recognized Geni Roberts ‘23 (pictured) as the National Runner Up in the  men’s triple jump at the NCAA Outdoor Track & Field Championships; Received an update on the work of the new Graduate Council and the addition of new programs; Heard a report from Brown Advisory on the endowment; and received updates on recently completed construction projects and upcoming projects like the Watts Fieldhouse, the Blocker Youth Center, and the Kenneth R. Perry Field locker room. Read more about the Virginia Wesleyan University Board of Trustees.

Read Virginia Wesleyan University President Scott D. Miller's October President's Letter, "President's Letter: Exciting Announcements and Valued Traditions."

President Miller is featured in the first episode of the third season of NACU’s podcast, Connect, Collaborate, Champion. A veteran college president with 32 years of experience at four different institutions, President Miller started his career as a sports writer. During the podcast, he talks about differentiating one’s campus in a congested marketplace, expanding into new markets, and how today’s presidents can be successful master generalists. The NACU podcast features a unique perspective from higher ed insiders, private industry experts, and other voices to capture new ways of thinking about higher education.

The September 2022 edition of The Pharos is now available. Read more about the professional accomplishments and best practices of VWU faculty and staff.

Friday, September 30, will mark the official kick-off of the Marlin Family Campaign for Faculty and Staff, which is an opportunity for employees to contribute financially to the University. The institution strives to meet goals in academics, enrollment, fundraising, student life, and more. Every member of the faculty and staff is invaluable to achieving these goals. This year’s early bird drawing features four tickets to Disney World in Orlando! Make your gift by Thursday, September 29, to be entered to win. An exclusive VWU Therm-O Super Snack Lunchbox will be offered as a gift for those who contribute $50 or more to the University priority of their choice before October 30.

The adventure of learning continues this fall through the Westminster/Wesleyan Lifelong Learning Institute. The unique partnership between Virginia Wesleyan University and Westminster-Canterbury on Chesapeake Bay offers  non-credit courses in a variety of topics. Taught by Virginia Wesleyan faculty, the courses are offered at no cost to Westminster-Canterbury members on site, as well as on the Virginia Wesleyan campus. Programming for the initiative—a component of Virginia Wesleyan University Global Campus—is coordinated by Dr. Ben Fraser, the Westminster-Canterbury Fellow for Religious Studies and Lifelong Learning, in collaboration with Virginia Wesleyan’s Robert Nusbaum Center.

View the fall 2022 schedule.

The Virginia Wesleyan University team of Kyle Forker (captain), Devin Calpo, Anna (Ash) Dobrenen and Casey Lang analyzed and presented data on ant biodiversity at the four-hour Datathon, hosted by the Slover Library on September 16. The team, advised by Professor of Computer Science John Wang, presented the dataset collected by Devin Calpo as part of his undergraduate research project last year. Though Datathon has existed at the state level for many years, this was the first competition to be held locally. The VWU team represented the University with distinction during their inaugural year while gaining valuable experience throughout the process. Well done!

The Robert Nusbaum Center of Virginia Wesleyan University will host a special Constitution Day event on Thursday, September 22, as Dr. Eric Mazur, VWU Gloria and David Furman Professor of Judaic Studies and the Robert Nusbaum Center Fellow for Religion, Law, and Politics, presents “The American Fetish: Constitution-Love and the Nation’s Way of Being.” In his presentation, Dr. Mazur will describe the role of "'The Constitution' in American Civil Religion": its constituent elements, its expressions in contemporary America, and its benefits and dangers in a modern democratic society. September 17 is designated as Constitution Day to commemorate the signing of the U.S. Constitution on that same day in 1787. Each September, educational institutions throughout the U.S. hold programs about the U.S. Constitution and draw attention to our commitment to the rights and obligations of citizens. Read More

Virginia Wesleyan University will induct the fourteenth class of the VWU Athletic Hall of Fame on Saturday, October 8, at 5:30 p.m. in the Joan P. Brock Room of Brock Commons during Homecoming and Family Weekend. The event will celebrate athletic greats Randy E. Lott ’14, Ronald J. Yuhasz, Jr. ’01, and the 2017 NCAA Division III National Championship Softball Team, as well as VWU benefactors O.L. “Butch” Everett and John A. Trinder, who will be honored for their decades of support to the University’s intercollegiate athletics program. Register to attend by Friday, September 23.

Cecelia “Cee Cee” Tucker has accepted the role of senior advisor to the president on diversity and inclusion, Virginia Wesleyan University President Scott D. Miller has announced. Tucker will assist in furthering the University's action plan with the Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Council and advise senior leadership on related topics. Many know Tucker from her extraordinary 30-year career as assistant to the president and director of community relations at Old Dominion University. "She has been a pillar of the Coastal Virginia community, " said Dr. Miller, "working tirelessly to extend educational opportunities to underserved populations in our area. Through her good work as an educator, a non-profit director, and a community liaison, Cee Cee has defined herself as a leader focused on equity and inclusion." Dr. Miller has worked with Tucker on numerous projects, most recently with the Virginia Center for Inclusive Communities. 

The Greater Norfolk Corporation has invited Virginia Beach Vision to partner in a regional mentorship program teamed with local colleges and universities. The program aims to provide meaningful engagement with senior executives, offer hands-on experience in the business community, and further develop students’ leadership and communication skills. The goal is to provide 15 mentors to each of the four partner institutions—Virginia Wesleyan University, Norfolk State University, Old Dominion University, and Tidewater Community College. In total, the initiative is in need of 60 mentors who will (1) meet with their mentee approximately once a month, in person when possible, for the duration of the program September/October to May; (2) provide meaningful exposure to corporate life including formal and informal meetings; (3) invite the mentee for a job shadowing experience, pending availability; and (4) be an active listener and provide constructive feedback. "Attracting and retaining workforce talent is one of this region’s most pressing challenges," says VWU President Scott D. Miller, who serves on the boards of both Virginia Beach Vision and Greater Norfolk Corporation. "To be a competitive location for new and growing businesses, the region must be able to attract and retain the highly educated graduates that are coming out of our local colleges and universities." For more information, contact Linda Peck at 757.622.2242 or lpeck@greaternorfolkcorp.net. 

Read Virginia Wesleyan University President Scott D. Miller's September President's Letter, "A New Academic Year Begins."

VWU's Math Lounge is featured in the August/September edition of the Mathematical Association of America's magazine, MAA Focus. This thriving community space in Eggleston Commons provides students with academic and social support and builds relationships among faculty and students. Professors Lydia Kennedy, Audrey Malagon, and Margaret Reese make sure the space is equipped with materials and resources. Drop by Eggleston Commons to work a calculus problem or sketch of Putnam-problem solutions. Read More

 

Each August, prior to the start of the fall semester, Virginia Wesleyan University President Scott D. Miller delivers a State of the University address to the campus community. The address includes highlights, initiatives and significant accomplishments from the past year, recognition of faculty and staff, points of pride, current campus projects, and the strategic direction of the University’s future. The 2022 State of the University Address will take place on August 19 at 12:10 p.m. The University will welcome Trustees, faculty, staff, and many friends in person. For our students and alumni, the State of the University will be livestreamed on the VWU Digital Broadcasting Network.

Virginia Wesleyan University senior Brooke Underwood has been chosen to serve as one of a select group of students statewide on the State Council of Higher Education for Virginia (SCHEV) Student Advisory Council. She will represent VWU and the Council for Independent Colleges in Virginia (CICV). Underwood is a fellow in the Batten Honors College, double majoring in business and music. She is a leader in VWU’s Student Ministries and also a member of the Vox Vera student choir. She represented VWU this past spring in the International Endowments Network’s Student Corporate Engagement Competition, taking first place in the Undergraduate Division, competing against teams from Arizona State University, Bard College, Central Washington University, New York University – Stern School of Business, Presidio Graduate School, Ryerson University, University of California Berkeley – Haas School of Business, and University of Minnesota. In addition to her involvement on campus, Underwood recently completed an internship at Haygood United Methodist Church, where she taught weekly music classes to preschoolers and organized a community outreach service program. 

Virginia Wesleyan University and the Virginia Beach Police Department’s 3rd Precinct hosted National Night Out on campus at the Trinder Center on August 2. The nationwide event serves as an annual community-building campaign that promotes police-community partnerships and neighborhood camaraderie to make neighborhoods safer, more caring places to live. Members of the campus and surrounding community enjoyed an evening of games, fun (including a bomb squad with robots), and food from Nothing Bundt Cakes, Mission BBQ, and Starbucks. VWU President Scott D. Miller was pictured with Virginia Beach Police Chief Paul Neudigate and friends, and also pictured with City Manager Patrick Duhaney and Captain Jeffery Wilkerson, Commanding Officer of the 3rd Precinct.

Read Virginia Wesleyan University President Scott D. Miller's August President's Letter, "A Productive Summer Underway."

The Batten Honors College of Virginia Wesleyan University is a program of national distinction, one of only 147 honors colleges in the United States. Enrolling a highly selective group of 160 scholars, the Batten Honors College’s mission focuses on Environmental Stewardship, Global Engagement, and Leadership. It boasts of an $80.2 million endowment that funds scholarships, environmental, global and leadership opportunities for scholars and supports teaching faculty. VWU President Scott D. Miller has announced faculty with Batten distinction for the 2022-2023 Academic Year:

  • Travis Malone, Dean of the Batten Honors College and Batten Professor of Theatre
  • Jill Sturts, Assistant Dean of the Batten Honors College, Chair of Sport and Recreation Professions, and Batten Associate Professor of Sport and Recreation Professions
  • Joyce Howell, Batten Professor of Art History
  • Larry Hultgren, Batten Professor of Philosophy
  • William McConnell, Director of Teacher Education and Batten Associate Professor of Education
  • John Rudel, Director of Undergraduate Research, Curator of Exhibitions for the Neil Britton Art Gallery, and Batten Professor of Art
  • Maynard Schaus, Director of Graduate Programs, Coordinator of Sustainability Management, and Batten Professor of Biology and Environmental Science
  • Sally Shedd, Chair of Political Science and Batten Professor of Theatre
  • Antje Schwennicke, Dean of the Birdsong School of Social Science, Coordinator of NATO Partnership, and Batten Associate Professor of Political Science

The Batten distinction is a renewable term appointment (July 1-June 30) afforded to full-time faculty teaching in the Batten Honors College for the corresponding academic year. Those teaching short-term study away courses are not eligible.

Virginia Wesleyan University President Scott D. Miller has announced the recipients of the 2022 Alumni Awards, an honor the VWU Alumni Council bestows upon graduates in recognition of outstanding professional and personal accomplishments. This year's recipients are Michael J. White ’81 (Distinguished Alumnus Award), Brandon L. Adair ’12 (Alumni Service Award), and Jessie K. Dawe ’08 (The Beacon Award). The 2022 Alumni Awards will be celebrated as part of the University’s annual Founders Day celebration on Thursday, September 8, which will be livestreamed on the VWU Digital Broadcasting Network. The Founders Day keynote speaker will be the Honorable Deborah Paxson, Virginia Wesleyan Class of 1975 and member of the VWU Board of Trustees. Congratulations to these alumni on this well-deserved distinction that recognizes their many accomplishments since graduation!

Read Virginia Wesleyan University President Scott D. Miller's July 2022 President's Letter, "Action Continues on Campus This Summer."

June 28 marks the 319th birthday of John Wesley, the founder of the United Methodist Church. Wesley’s legacy lives on through the Church, his many writings and sermons, and the affiliated universities and colleges inspired by his message of hope, tolerance, and mutual understanding. A statue of Virginia Wesleyan's namesake is located on the Gamble Plaza at the Monumental Chapel and Beazley Recital Hall on campus. In honor of his birthday, check out some Wesley-inspired fun facts.

Virginia Wesleyan University's ability to prosper and grow is rooted in the generosity of alumni and friends. Your gifts are an investment in students and will echo throughout the lives of every student touched by your generosity. Make your tax-deductible gift by midnight on June 30 to give students unique and valuable experiential opportunities that help prepare them for their lives and careers beyond the classroom. Special thank you to those who have already made their fiscal year gift. View The Excellence Fund Honor Roll of Donors.

Virginia Wesleyan University will welcome Dr. Derek Aday, Dean and Director of the Virginia Institute of Marine Science at The College of William & Mary (VIMS), as the Batten Honors College Convocation keynote speaker on September 8. Dr. Aday earned his M.S. in Aquatic Ecology from Louisiana State University and his Ph.D. in Ecology & Evolutionary Biology from the University of Illinois. Prior to becoming Dean & Director of VIMS, his research focused on aspects of aquatic ecology, conservation biology, fishery science, and environmental toxicology. He has been published in numerous journals, currently serves as Editor-In-Chief for Transactions of the American Fisheries Society, and has been selected for many honors and awards throughout his distinguished career. Virginia Wesleyan's unique partnership with the Virginia Institute of Marine Science promotes enrollment of graduating Batten Honors College students in the Master of Arts in Marine Science program at VIMS. Each year one seat in the master's program is reserved for a BHC graduate who meets admission criteria. Since the founding of the distinctive Batten Honors College in the fall of 2017, an intimate recognition ceremony has been held for the newest scholars. A ceremonial pinning of each student represents their completion of orientation and formal induction into the program. The BHC has flourished, and the ceremony has grown to reflect this. This fall, all four classes of the Batten Honors College will attend the Batten Honors College Convocation for the first time on Founders Day.

Virginia Wesleyan University's Opus summer program, a Work and Learn initiative, is back. Now in its fifth year, the Opus program is designed to assist students with outstanding financial obligations to the University and has helped more than 150 Marlins continue their educational pursuits. Participating students work alongside the University's Facilities Management team on corrective and preventative maintenance, as well as beautification projects throughout campus. Projects include residence hall preparation and maintenance for summer camps and conferences, parking lot painting, and work with the grounds team. Thanks to the generosity of Trustee David Kaufman H’19 and The Landmark Foundation, Opus continues to assist eligible students in making their education affordable.

Now in its 17th year, YMCA Camp Red Feather kicks off its 2022 summer camp season next week. With its headquarters on campus in the Frank Blocker Youth Center, YMCA Camp Red Feather exposes youth ages 5 to 17 with their natural surroundings, unplugging them from the digital world. Virginia Wesleyan's 300 acre park-like campus is the perfect setting for this long-time partnership, as campers participate in arts and crafts and archery, canoe on Lake Taylor, climb the 55-foot Alpine Tower, and explore Virginia Beach and beyond.

Virginia Wesleyan University President Scott D. Miller has announced the Spring 2022 President's List and Dean’s List. Congratulations to the 93 students on the President’s List who achieved a 4.0 grade point average and to the 213 students on the Dean’s List who achieved a 3.5-3.99 grade point average for the spring semester. To qualify for these honors, students must have full-time status and have taken at least nine semester hours of traditionally-graded courses. "These individuals demonstrate a remarkable level of dedication to their academic pursuits," said Dr. Miller, "and we are so proud to have so many students recognized on these lists. Well done!"

Construction will begin in June on "The Cove," a multi-use outdoor dining and event space adjacent to Harbor Grill, just outside of the Jane P. Batten Student Center. The latest addition to VWU’s quad, The Cove will feature outdoor picnic and Adirondack-style seating, café lighting, and a natural gas fire pit. The open-air community gathering space will be perfect for a snack in between classes, concerts and other VWU traditions, or catching up with friends around the fire. The Cove is expected to be completed and ready when Marlin Nation returns for the Fall 2022 Semester.

An anonymous donor has provided a $150,000 gift to the Joan P. Brock School of Mathematics and Natural Sciences to upgrade instrumentation for a human anatomy and physiology laboratory in Blocker Hall. "Given our recent programmatic growth in the health sciences with our partnership with Sentara College for Health Sciences, our new major in Allied Health, and more, we are grateful to our donor for meeting student needs in these high-demand areas of study," said VWU President Scott D. Miller. Dr. Miller thanked Dr. Victor Townsend, Kenneth R. Perry Dean of the Joan P. Brock School of Mathematics and Natural Sciences, for his role in facilitating the donation. "Alumni often share with me the strength of the sciences at Virginia Wesleyan," he said, "and many refer to Vic as 'the father of the sciences at VWU.'”

The Frank Blocker, Jr. Foundation has provided a planning grant to Virginia Wesleyan University for the construction of additional educational space at the Frank Blocker Youth Center. This addition will allow the University's partners at Tidewater Collegiate Academy and Camp Red Feather of the YMCA of South Hampton Roads to expand enrollment and offerings to young learners in the community. During his lifetime, Frank Blocker, Jr. was a longtime Trustee and benefactor of the University.

Read Virginia Wesleyan University President Scott D. Miller's June 2022 President's Letter, "Pomp, Circumstance and Purpose as VWU's Year Comes to a Close."

Virginia Wesleyan University President Scott D. Miller has been selected to Inside Business' Power List 2022. Dr. Miller is recognized by the publication for transitioning Virginia Wesleyan to university status and elevating its reputation nationally, establishing the Batten Honors College, adding a campus in Tokyo, more than doubling the endowment, and $110 million in capital improvements since he became president in 2015. Read more in Inside Business.

Virginia Wesleyan hosted the spring meeting of the State Council of Higher Education for Virginia (SCHEV)—the Commonwealth’s coordinating body for higher ed—on campus May 16-17. SCHEV has regular meetings on public college campuses throughout Virginia, but once a year they hold their spring session on a private college campus for their annual Private College Advisory Board meeting. Virginia Wesleyan was selected to host this meeting, originally scheduled for May 2020, and the University was pleased to show its beautiful campus to the SCHEV Council members, employees, and other private college presidents in attendance. The two-day event included a reception at DeFord Manor and dinner in the Henry and Eleanor Grand Lobby and Gallery of the Susan S. Goode Fine and Performing Arts Center. Among the special guests that evening were Aimee Guidera, Virginia’s Secretary of Education; Robert Lambeth, President of the Council of Independent Colleges in Virginia; and Delegate Cliff Hayes, 77th district. "I thank all of those at Virginia Wesleyan who worked hard to show SCHEV our signature Marlin spirit and hospitality as well as our beautiful campus grounds and meeting spaces," said VWU President Scott D. Miller. View the event photo gallery.

The No. 9 Virginia Wesleyan University softball team claimed the Regional Champion Title after defeating the Amherst College Mammoths 9-2 in the final game of the 2022 NCAA Amherst Regional Bracket. Junior catcher Caitlin Myers was named the Most Outstanding Player of the tournament, while Emily Seale, Ariana Rolle, and Julia Sinnett all earned All-tournament accolades as well. The Marlins return to the field next weekend when they face No. 1 Christopher Newport University in the NCAA Division III Super Regional. The Friday, May 20, game time is set for 2 p.m. at Christopher Newport University. The Saturday, May 21, game time is set for 1 p.m. If needed, game three will follow. Tickets will be sold cash only at the door for $10 each (children 2 and under are free). Read more and follow the action at vwuathletics.com.

The Virginia Wesleyan University Board of Trustees held their Spring Meeting May 11 in the Shafer Room (Board of Trustees Suite) in the Boyd Dining Center of Brock Commons. Among the actions, the Board: Approved actions of Board Committees, February to May, 2022; Approved the 2022 List of Graduates; Approved tuition and fees for the 2022-23 Fiscal Year; Approved the FY 2022-23 Budget; Accepted the Endowment Report of Brown Advisory and approved modifications to the Endowment Policy Statement; Affirmed Officers of the Board, Officers of the University, ex-officio representatives, financial authorizations (for the period beginning July 1, 2022); Affirmed signature policies (Virginia Wesleyan University Mission Statement, Virginia Wesleyan University Environmental Guiding Principles, The Wesleyan Creed, Virginia Wesleyan University Quality Service Pledge, and the Virginia Wesleyan University Athletics Mission Statement); Approved Policy Documents for the period beginning July 1, 2022 (Virginia Wesleyan University Faculty Handbook, 2022-23, Virginia Wesleyan University Policy and Procedure Manual, 2022-23, Virginia Wesleyan University Academic Catalog, 2022-23, Virginia Wesleyan University Online Degree and Graduate Catalog, 2022-23, Virginia Wesleyan University Student Handbook,  2022-23, VWU Student-Athlete Handbook, 2022-23, VWU Athletic Department Policy and Procedure Handbook, 2022-23); Approved Faculty Emeritus/a Status for June 30, 2022 retirements: William “Bill” Gibson, Ph.D., Professor of Political Science, Wayne Pollock, Ph.D., Associate Professor of Sport and Recreation Professions, and Vivian Teter, M.F.A, Lambuth M. Clarke Professor of English; Accepted detailed written reports from Colleges, Schools and Departments of the University; Approved resolutions recognizing: Virginia Wesleyan University women’s soccer for winning the 2021 Old Dominion Athletic Conference Championship and advancing to the NCAA Tournament (March 2022), Virginia Wesleyan University student-athlete Geni Roberts for his NCAA national runner-up finish in the men’s long jump at the 2022 NCAA Division III Indoor Track & Field Championships (May 2022), and the Virginia Wesleyan University Batten Honors College student team of Edward McDonald, Connor Merk, Rowan Stuart, Kai Trehan, and Jessica Wilson for winning the 2022 Intentional Endowments Network “Student Corporate Engagement Competition” (May 2022).
 

Congratulations to the newly elected Student Government Association officers for the 2022-2023 academic year: President - Edward McDonald (Chesapeake, VA), Vice President - Joseph Mueller (Woodbridge, VA), Treasurer - Hollyn Pleasants (Scottsville, VA), Secretary - Jennaphur Nixon (Williamsburg, VA), and Events Coordinator - Elseanne Richardson-Garris (Hampton, VA). Class of 2023: Senator - Breanna Wimbush (Virginia Beach, VA), Senator - Jordan Gilliam (Newport News, VA). Class of 2024: Senator - Ashleigh Lockard (Vienna, VA), Senator - James Johnson (Centreville, VA). Class of 2025: Senator - Comfort Tambaya (Bowie, MD).

Virginia Wesleyan University is one of just 40 institutions selected by the Institute of International Education (IIE) to receive an IIE American Passport Project grant, which will enable up to 25 VWU students to obtain a U.S. passport to support their study abroad journeys. According to VWU Director of Global Engagement Mandy Reing, “This program will remove one of the top barriers to studying abroad and encourage more students to see study abroad as a possibility, when it may not have even been a consideration previously.” Eligible students will be invited to participate in the program. Reinig will hold workshops and advising sessions for selected students to assist them with the application process and with their future study abroad plans. 

Read Virginia Wesleyan University President Scott D. Miller's May 2022 President's Letter, "Celebrating a Spring of Success."

Scholars from the Batten Honors College of Virginia Wesleyan University have been selected to join an elite group nationwide to present at the Intentional Endowments Network’s Student Corporate Engagement Competition. The competition invites student teams to develop a pitch for an investment in a publicly traded company including a shareholder engagement strategy focused on addressing inequality and the climate crisis. The 10 student teams from colleges and universities across the U.S. and Canada represent: Arizona State University, Bard College, Central Washington University, New York University – Stern School of Business, Presidio Graduate School, Ryerson University, University of California Berkeley – Haas School of Business, University of Minnesota, and Virginia Wesleyan University – Batten Honors College. Congratulations to Travis Malone, Dean of the Batten Honors College, and the student team of Stephanie Hoke, Connor Merk, Benjamin Olson, Rowan Stuart, Kainant Trehan, Brooke Underwood, and Jessica Wilson. Marlins everywhere are invited to watch the competition on April 29 from 3:00-5:00 p.m. VWU’s endowment has grown to $126 million this year with $83 million designated for the Batten Honors College. Utilizing IEN standards, the VWU endowment is entirely invested in an environmentally friendly way with Brown Advisory of Baltimore, Maryland.

Virginia Wesleyan University is one of nine colleges and universities nationwide named as an awardee of the Acceleration Fund by Second Nature. The awarded schools are: Cal Poly Humboldt (Arcata, California), California State University, Monterey Bay (Seaside, California), California State University, Sacramento (Sacramento, California), Chatham University (Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania), The University of Arizona (Tucson, Arizona), The University of California, Los Angeles (Los Angeles, California), University of Illinois, Chicago (Chicago, Illinois), University of Mississippi (Oxford, Mississippi), and Virginia Wesleyan University. The Acceleration Fund is dedicated to supporting climate action activities driven by colleges and universities. It supports projects that advance decarbonization and/or campus-community partnerships and resilience goals. Second Nature is especially excited to support projects that clearly articulate how the work relates to advancing principles of climate justice and equity. The Acceleration Fund was first introduced at the 2020 Higher Education Climate Leadership Summit. Funding for this Third Round was made possible by an anonymous foundation. 

The Academic Symposium (formerly known as Port Day) will be held on Thursday, April 28 starting at 9:00 a.m. Hosted by The Lighthouse: Center for Exploration and Discovery, this signature Virginia Wesleyan event celebrates the academic achievement of students completing a variety of academic experiences, including research, internships, performance, and global engagement. The Academic Symposium is a conference-style event held on campus. Students share their work with a professional oral, poster, or panel presentation. As part of the discussions following these presentations, students are encouraged to reflect upon their experiences and offer advice to other students who are preparing to undertake their own experiences. View the schedule and make plans to attend to support student scholars.

Virginia Wesleyan University will celebrate the retirements of faculty, staff, and friends in contract services in a campus-wide celebration on May 5. The celebration will follow the traditional tree planting ceremony for retiring faculty members. The University community is proud to celebrate: Elaine Aird ’96, former Accounts Payable Bookkeeper; Bernice Bledsoe, Housekeeper; Bill Brown, Director of Counseling Services; Bill Gibson, Ph.D., Professor of Political Science; Brian O’Neil, VWU/Norfolk Botanical Garden Director of Living Landscapes; Wayne Pollock, Ph.D., Associate Professor of Sport and Recreation Professions; Shelia Rouson, Housekeeper; Vivian Teter, Lambuth M. Clarke Professor of English; and Deborah Ware, Housekeeper. 

Faculty gathered to celebrate their professional accomplishments at the annual Feathers in Your Cap Recognition event on April 14. The celebration, sponsored by Innovative Teaching and Engaged Learning (INTEL) and Hofheimer Library, recognized faculty for their publications, art works, conference presentations and participation, performances and shows, grants, positions and awards from professional organizations and community engagement. Read editions of The Pharos, a monthly email newsletter, for a complete listing of professional accomplishments and view a photo gallery from the event.

On Thursday, March 31 at 12:00 p.m., Deirdre Gonsalves-Jackson, Professor of Biology and Dean of the VWU Global Campus, will share her personal journey of becoming a marine biologist, connect how her journey has led to engaged work with underrepresented groups in STEM, and reflect on her identity as an administrator-scholar. This webinar speaks directly to faculty seeking to unite their scholarly work with engaged community work, and to all those interested in the sciences or engaged in STEM education. Register to attend this free webinar.

VWU Online has made some valuable changes to its online Master of Business Administration, redesigning the curriculum with an added focus on leadership. "There is a high demand today for employees who can bring both business and leadership skills to the table," said Dr. Scott D. Miller, President of the University. "Our MBA course content has been adjusted to reflect that demand, and seeks to develop leaders committed to creating sustainable, social, environmental, and economic value through effective and responsive business practices." Applicants do not need a business degree to enter VWU's MBA program. It is designed to enhance leadership skills and lay the foundation for success in any field, regardless of a student’s background. Upon graduation, students will have the communication and teamwork skills necessary to compete in a global environment, a firm understanding of advanced business concepts, knowledge of relevant emerging business trends, and key leadership skills necessary for managerial roles. The 10-course program can be completed in as little as 12 months, and students may enroll on either a full-time or a part-time basis. The next start date for our online MBA is May 16. Learn more at online.vwu.edu.

The student-led Marlin Business Conference is scheduled for April 11-14. The theme for this semester is “Commerce Reimagined.” Conference presenters will include VWU Trustee and Co-Owner/Chief Executive Officer of Taste Jon Pruden; Senior Vice President of Programs and Communications for the Hampton Roads Chamber Priscilla Monti, Executive Director of the Greater Norfolk Corporation Linda Peck; and others. Stay tuned for the complete conference schedule. 

On April 7, Professor of Ocean and Atmospheric Sciences and VWU Director of Sustainability Dr. Elizabeth Malcolm, will lead a panel discussion along with two colleagues from the Virginia Foundation for Independent Colleges. The session entitled, “Virginia Heat Watch: Heat Mapping to Assess Vulnerability and Address Inequity in Virginia Communities,” is a part of the 2022 Higher Education Leadership Summit, hosted by Second Nature and the Intentional Endowments Network. The focus will be on how institutions are using the data to develop equitable community-based climate initiatives. Learn more

The Batten Honors College of Virginia Wesleyan University has recently entered into an agreement with the International College of Innovation of the National Cheng Chi University (NCCU), Taiwan, R.O.C. NCCU is one of the top research institutions in Taiwan and ranks in the Top 100 of Asia Institutions, including Top 150 in University World Rankings. NCCU has more than 16,000 students in undergraduate, master's, and doctoral-level programs and is home-away-from-home for more than 780 international students and 900 students in Chinese language studies. The agreement allows for the exchange of students to study at each campus, faculty development, and mutual research opportunities.

Read Virginia Wesleyan University President Scott D. Miller's March 2022 Letter, "Exploration, Reflection and Distinction."

Virginia Wesleyan University has been awarded the National Science Foundation (NSF) Robert Noyce Teacher Scholarship Program, according to Dr. Scott D. Miller, President of the University. This program seeks to encourage talented science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) majors and professionals to become K-12 mathematics and science (including engineering and computer science) teachers. The grant will provide $1.16 million in funds dedicated to this initiative over a five-year period. Dr. Miller thanked Clair Berube, VWU Assistant Professor of Education and member of the Class of 1983, for leading the proposed project, “Transforming Effective Educators of Mathematics and Science in Southeast Virginia,” as well as Bill McConnell, VWU Associate Professor Education and Director of Teacher Education; Lydia Kennedy, VWU Associate Professor of Mathematics and Chair of Mathematics; Deirdre Gonsalves-Jackson, VWU Associate Professor of Biology and Dean of VWU Global Campus; and Maury Howard, VWU Professor of Chemistry and Director of Nursing and Allied Health, for their dedication and collaborative efforts in preparing highly qualified and experienced STEM secondary educators.

Virginia Wesleyan University President Scott D. Miller has announced that the Board of Trustees, at its Winter Business Meeting, elected new officers for terms beginning July 1, 2022—Jonathan E. Pruden (Chair), Nancy T. DeFord (Vice Chair), J. Timothy Bailey ’83 (Treasurer), and Mavis E. McKenley ’11 (Secretary). In 1996, the board established the policy that no chair or vice chair serve more than a three-year term in that position. "We sincerely thank John F. Malbon and Susan S. Goode for their outstanding service these last three years as chair and vice chair, respectively, during extremely difficult and unusual times," said Dr. Miller. Malbon and Goode will be honored with special recognitions during the May 2022 Commencement exercises and will remain on the board following the conclusion of their leadership terms. The board also re-elected the following Trustees whose terms were to expire on June 30, 2022: Gary D. Bonnewell ’79, H’16, David L. Kaufman H’19, Howard P. Kern, Kenneth G. Trinder II, George K. Tsantes III ’83, Anthony O. Walters, and Michael J. White ’81.

Jill Sturts has been named assistant dean of the Batten Honors College, according to Virginia Wesleyan University President Scott D. Miller. Sturts replaces Antje Schwennicke who was recently named dean of the Birdsong School of Social Science. She will continue to serve as associate professor and chair of the Department of Sport and Recreation Professions. She holds a B.A. from Baldwin-Wallace College, an M.Ed. from Bowling Green State University, and a Ph.D. from Indiana University. She has served on the Virginia Wesleyan University faculty since 2015. 

Virginia Wesleyan University will recognize the retirements of faculty, staff and contract service employees in a campus-wide celebration on May 5 (Reading Day) at Brock Commons. The celebration will follow the traditional tree planting ceremony for retiring faculty members. VWU is proud to celebrate: 

Elaine Aird, Accounts Payable Bookkeeper, 34 years
Bernice Bledsoe, Housekeeper, 35 years
Bill Gibson, Professor of Political Science, 35 years
George Jackson, Professor of Management, Business, and Economics, 8 years
Wayne Pollock, Associate Professor of Sport and Recreation Professions, 22 years
Shelia Rouson, Housekeeper, 35 years
Vivian Teter, Lambuth M. Clarke Professor of English, 35 years 
Deborah Ware, Housekeeper, 31 years

Students in the Batten Honors College will compete against teams from 12 other universities across the U.S. and Canada in the Intentional Endowments Network‘s (IEN) Student Corporate Engagement Competition. The VWU team will work with a professional mentor and develop a pitch for an investment in a publicly traded company, including a shareholder engagement strategy focused on addressing inequality and the climate crisis. The VWU Batten Honors College student team includes Stephanie Hoke, Connor Merk, Benjamin Olson, Rowan Stuart, Kainant Trehan, Brooke Underwood, and Jessica Wilson. The final competition will be held at the end of April. Go Marlins!

The Virginia Wesleyan University Board of Trustees wrapped up two weeks of committee meetings with the Winter Business Meeting on February 9. Actions from the meeting included: Accepted the independent audit report provided by Brown Edwards of Roanoke, VA; Affirmed Dr. Susan Larkin as Vice President for Academic Affairs; Approved promotion and tenure actions: Nadia Nafar to Associate Professor with Tenure, Amber Gruszeczka to Librarian II, Deirdre Gonsalves-Jackson to full Professor, and Taryn Myers to full Professor; Accepted the mid-year budget review; Approved all final actions regarding the recent major gift to the University’s endowment, the transition of all endowment funds to Brown Advisory of Baltimore, MD, the adoption of the Outsourced Chief Investment Officer (oCIO) model, and a new endowment spend policy; Accepted the draft semi-final accountability report for the “Transformation Now!” Capital Campaign that concludes June 30, 2022; Accepted a report on construction projects including: DeFord Manor, Clarke Hall, Tassos Paphites Soccer Complex, Betty S. Rogers Track and Field Center, TowneBank Park, and Brock Commons; and Approved special recognitions for the May 2022 Commencement. The next meetings of the VWU Board of Trustees will take place in May.

Congratulations to Associate Professor of Biology and Dean of VWU Global Campus Dr. Deirdre Gonsalves-Jackson for being selected as the 2022 Alumna Legacy Awardee for the Florida Institute of Technology Alumni Association’s Women Inspiring Success and Excellence (WISE) Award. She will be honored at a luncheon on Florida Tech’s campus on March 3.

VWU Global in Tokyo and its partner, Lakeland University Japan, have a new campus location as of January 17, according to President Scott D. Miller. Acceptance of Lakeland’s invitation to partner more than two years ago was based on a strategic plan that included relocating the campus from its corporate center to an urban site surrounded by parks, water and educational institutions. Twenty-five classrooms are equipped with state-of-the art technology. Parks, ponds, and a nearby river offer students learning opportunities in a real-world urban laboratory. Surrounding museums and culture centers ensure an added experiential dimension to teaching and learning, due the district’s business and governmental centers. Lakeland has operated a junior college in Tokyo since 1991, enrolling students from more than 30 countries. Japan’s closed-border response to Covid-19 has restricted enrollment to in-country and online students only during the last two years, but the University looks forward to a return of students from across Asia and the world soon, with a number of them completing baccalaureate degrees at VWU in Virginia Beach. Nine students have joined the VWU community in Virginia Beach from LUJ/VWU Global (Japan) during the 2021-2022 Academic Year.

Read Virginia Wesleyan University President Scott D. Miller's February 2022 Letter, "The Spring Semester Starts with Snow."

The adventure of learning continues in the spring semester through the Westminster/Wesleyan Lifelong Learning Institute. Seven courses are offered in spring 2022 as a result of the unique partnership between Virginia Wesleyan University and Westminster-Canterbury on Chesapeake Bay. These non-credit courses, taught by Virginia Wesleyan faculty, include a variety of topics that are open to members of the Westminster-Canterbury community. Programming for the initiative—a component of Virginia Wesleyan University Global Campus—is coordinated by Dr. Ben Fraser, the Westminster-Canterbury Fellow for Religious Studies and Lifelong Learning, in collaboration with Virginia Wesleyan’s Robert Nusbaum Center.

View the spring 2022 schedule for the Westminster/Wesleyan Lifelong Learning Institute.

Colby DelBene has been named head cross country coach and assistant director of track and field at Virginia Wesleyan University, according to Cameia Alexander, director of men's and women's cross country and track and field. DelBene spent the last six seasons as the head coach of Jefferson Forest High School in Forest, Virginia. He led the transformation of the Cavaliers to annual statewide contenders, winning the state championship title in 2020. In addition to his experience as a high school coach, DelBene served as an assistant at the University of Lynchburg during the 2015-2016 season. He holds a Bachelor of Science in communication from Central Connecticut State University and received his master's in teaching from Liberty University. His wife, Renee, and two sons, Miles and Landon are excited to join the extended Marlin family. Constructed in 2018, the Marlins compete at the Betty S. Rogers Track and Field Center, an eight-lane outdoor track and field facility. Read more at vwuathletics.com.

Virginia Wesleyan University's annual Martin Luther King Jr. Commemoration Ceremony will now be presented in a virtual format on Monday, January 17 at 6:00 p.m. on the VWU Digital Broadcasting Network. The keynote speaker will be Dr. Veleka Gatling, ODU Director of Diversity Initiatives. The program will also include the presentation of the Mavis McKenley ’11 Award to a student who embodies the ideals of Dr. King. 

Virginia Wesleyan University and Chatham University’s Falk School of Sustainability and Environment (Pittsburgh, PA) have agreed to priority admission for their Master of Sustainability (MSUS) program and Master of Arts in Food Studies (MAFS). Eligible students must maintain an overall minimum GPA of 3.3 for the MSUS program or 3.0 for the MAFS program and have completed at least 110 total credit hours at VWU. This agreement gives Marlins the opportunity to continue their studies and interest in sustainability and the environment at one of the earliest schools of its kind. The relationship with Chatham University originated from both universities’ active involvement in the Climate Leadership Network. For more information on this new agreement, as well as VWU’s agreement with the Duke University Nicholas School of the Environment, visit Accelerated Degrees/Preferred Admission.

Congratulations to the 77 students on the President's List who achieved a 4.0 grade point average and to the 262 students on the Dean’s List who achieved a 3.5-3.99 grade point average for the fall semester! To qualify for these honors, students must have full-time status and must have taken at least nine semester hours of traditionally-graded courses. These students demonstrate a remarkable level of dedication to their academic pursuits. Well done!

 

Jane Batten, the University’s incredible friend, supporter, and Trustee Emerita, will be honored by the Urban League of Hampton Roads during the 38th Annual Martin Luther King Community Leaders Awards on Monday, January 17 at 8:00 a.m. Since 1984, the MLK Community Leaders Awards have honored individuals and groups who exemplify service, demonstrate the values modeled by Dr. King, and make significant contributions to the Hampton Roads community. Grammy Award-winning artist and philanthropist Pharrell Williams will serve as the event’s keynote speaker. Registration for this virtual event is free and open to the public.

Check out recent news from Virginia Wesleyan University Athletics in the January 4 edition of Marlins SportSplash.

Read Virginia Wesleyan University President Scott D. Miller's January President's Letter, "Great News for the New Year."

Due to concerns associated with the spread of the COVID-19 omicron variant, the Virginia Wesleyan University athletics spectator policy has been updated as of December 29, 2021. Read more at vwuathletics.com.

Ryley van der Velde has been named head field hockey coach at Virginia Wesleyan University, according to Andrea Hoover-Erbig, Executive Director of Intercollegiate Athletics. Prior to joining Virginia Wesleyan, van der Velde coached field hockey at Rocky Hill Country Day School in East Greenwich, Rhode Island. She is also a former assistant coach at NCAA Division III Salve Regina University in Newport, Rhode Island. With the Seahawks, van der Velde was responsible for individual skills, player development and academic success. She was involved in program operations, formulating practice plans and planning film breakdown and evaluation sessions. She holds a Bachelor of Arts degree in human development from Connecticut College and is pursuing her master's degree in clinical rehabilitation and mental health counseling from Salve Regina University. Read more at vwuathletics.com.

Virginia Wesleyan University's annual Marlin Family Campaign for faculty and staff was held during the month of October. "Be the Ripple That Starts the Wave" inspired over $45,000 of giving from 141 faculty and staff members across campus. A noteworthy accolade from the campaign is that it had 100 percent participation from Athletics, Enrollment, Finance, and Advancement. The University is grateful to have such an engaged community of faculty and staff supporting VWU through their gifts of time, talent, and treasure. Special thanks to campaign ambassadors Elaine Aird, Chris Francis, Linda Ferguson, Randy Lott, Michelle Vachris, Jason Seward '05, and Trey Delpo '17.

Cameia Alexander has been named director of Men’s and Women’s Cross Country and Track & Field at Virginia Wesleyan University. Alexander has been the assistant director since 2020. In her first season with the Marlins, she guided two athletes to the NCAA Division III Outdoor National Championship meet. She holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Health & Human Services from Troy University and a Master of Science in Rehabilitation Counseling with a concentration in Clinical Mental Health from Troy University. She previously spent four seasons as an assistant coach at NCAA Division I Troy University, where she worked primarily with the sprints and hurdles for the Trojans. Read more at vwuathletics.com.

The fall 2021 edition of the Batten Honors College publication Excelsis is now available online. The Batten Honors College selectively enrolls approximately 160 scholars and is one of just 146 honors colleges nationwide.

Virginia Wesleyan University earth and environmental sciences majors Emily Smith '22 and Ryan Westpfahl '22 are conducting research alongside Professor of Ocean and Atmospheric Sciences Elizabeth Malcolm to quantify the amount of carbon stored in campus forests. Conserving and planting forests worldwide is vital for reducing carbon dioxide levels and mitigating climate change. The students have begun their measurements in the old growth beech forest on campus, a rare example of a mature hardwood forest in Hampton Roads. Their project is modeled after research by Colgate University to quantify the annual rate of carbon sequestration by Colgate's forests. Reductions in greenhouse gas emissions, carbon sequestration by forests on campus, as well as investments in off-campus conservation have enabled Colgate to reach carbon neutrality. Removal of atmospheric carbon dioxide is just one benefit of the VWU campus forests and natural habitats as we look to reach our own carbon neutrality. 

The University recently learned of the passing of Emily H. Filer, a member of the VWU Board of Trustees from 1979-2001, at the age of 85. Of her many professional and philanthropic contributions to the Hampton Roads area, perhaps her most personal and significant cause was Lee’s Friends, a foundation created in memory of her daughter to offer needed emotional and practical support to cancer patients and their families. Losing her daughter at a young age gave Filer a passion for helping young people, which led her to decades of good work at Virginia Wesleyan. Her extraordinary life will be remembered by all who knew her. 

Read about faculty and staff accomplishments and best practices in the November 2021 edition of The Pharos.

Check out recent news from Virginia Wesleyan University Athletics in the November 9, 2021 edition of SportSplash.

Dr. Patricia Sullivan, Virginia Wesleyan University Professor Emerita of French, has passed away at the age of 85. Dr. Sullivan was born in Lausanne, Switzerland, and lived all over the world before settling in the United States. She received her bachelor’s degree at Georgetown University and her master’s and doctorate at the University of Virginia. When she joined Virginia Wesleyan in 1972, she was the only female faculty member—a true pioneer. Understanding the importance of a global student experience, Dr. Sullivan successfully juggled a full teaching load while also serving as the Director of International Programs and coordinating the study abroad experiences of many students for many years. She retired in 2000 after serving the University for 28 years. Dr. Sullivan cared deeply about her students and was well loved by many. In 2012, her former student, Billy Spain ’79, established the Dr. Patricia R. Sullivan Endowed Scholarship in Foreign Language in her honor. Thanks to his foresight and generosity, Dr. Sullivan’s legacy at Virginia Wesleyan will continue to live on. 
 

Read the more about The Robert Nusbaum Center's November Events: "Controversial Women and Religious Conflict."

Read more about the latest news in VWU Athletics in this week's edition of SportSplash.

Read Virginia Wesleyan University President Scott D. Miller's November President's Letter, "A  Time of Gratitude."

Catch up on all the latest news and events at VWU in the October 29, 2021 edition of The Wesleyan Review.

Mark your calendars for these upcoming performances in November and December 2021 featured in The Arts at VWU.

The VWU Martin Luther King Jr. Commemoration Committee is seeking student nominations for the Mavis McKenley ’11 Award, which is presented annually on Martin Luther King Jr. Day (January 17, 2022). Nominated students should live up to the ideals set forth by Dr. King, including courage and conviction in valuing differences, commitment to seeing beyond borders by building inclusion, compassion for humanity, and commitment to social change. Nominations are due on December 15.

The Virginia Wesleyan University Board of Trustees held its Fall Meeting October 13 in the Board of Trustees Suite in the Boyd Dining Center. Following two weeks of staggered meetings by the seven Board Committees, members met to hear reports and take action on a variety of issues. The opening session was an extensive presentation about the present and future of the Batten Honors College, featuring Dean Travis Malone, scholar Criofan Shaw ’23, and Executive-in-Residence David Black. During the business session, the Board voted to make Brown Advisory the University's new outsourced Chief Investment Officer (oCIO). Brown Advisory is one of 100 financial institutions who are members in the Intentional Endowments Network, a group committed to investing for an equitable, low-carbon, and regenerative economy. Other Board actions included:
  • Approved updates to procedural documents relative to the recent significant growth of the endowment. 
  • Approved the new Bachelor of Arts in Allied Health Studies
  • Approved updates to the Policy and Procedure Handbook
  • Approved the FY 21-22 Budget (The final budget approval had been delayed as a result of a variety of revenue sources impacted by the pandemic)
  • Approved the University’s Name, Image and Likeness (NIL) policy in regards to the NCAA affiliation

Read Virginia Wesleyan University President Scott D. Miller's October President's Letter, "The Return of Tradition."

Dr. Charles Kessler, Virginia Wesleyan University Professor Emeritus of Religious Studies, passed away on September 30 at the age of 95. Dr. Kessler was with the Virginia Wesleyan religious studies faculty from 1971 to 1993. He received a Bachelor of Arts from Northwestern University, a Master of Divinity from Garrett Theological Seminary, and a Doctor of Philosophy from Northwestern University. In 1983, he received Virginia Wesleyan's Samuel Nelson Gray Award for Exemplary Teaching, making him one of the first recipients of this prestigious campus award. The Kesslers were members of the Lambuth M. and Alice A. Clarke Heritage Society, leaving a lasting legacy at Virginia Wesleyan University. "We are so grateful for all they have done for this campus over the last 50 years," said VWU President Scott D. Miller. "Please keep your thoughts and prayers with the Kessler family during this difficult time." A celebration of life for Charles Kessler and his late wife of 63 years, Viola Kessler, will be held on Saturday, October 30 at 1:30 p.m. in Monumental Chapel/Beazley Recital Hall. Dr. Stephen Mansfield and Dr. Craig Wansink will lead the service. All members of the campus community are invited to attend. Please contact Dr. Mansfield with any questions at 757.233.8776 or smansfield@vwu.edu.

Signage has been added to the new Norfolk pathway to the Trails at Wesleyan Woods. Nearly a mile in length, the new trail starts on Norfolk Lane (leading to Facilities Management) on the west side of campus and has been cleared and is open for pedestrian access. The path leads to the fence adjacent to I-64 and loops past Lake Taylor. Since its founding, Virginia Wesleyan has enjoyed a rich heritage of abundant biodiversity and natural resources. Located on a picturesque, park-like, 300-acre campus bordered on the west by Lake Taylor, the University has ponds and mature forests which can be enjoyed by walking, hiking, jogging, or biking through our extensive trail system. 

Read more about the latest news from Virginia Wesleyan Athletics in SportSplash: September 21, 2021 edition.

VWU recently signed on as a private college partner in the Passport and Uniform Certificate of General Studies programs. The agreement supports VWU's efforts to be as transfer-friendly as possible. The programs assist students by maximizing their credit acceptance toward their general education requirements when transferring prior to earning a transfer associate degree or when participating in dual enrollment programs in high school.

Many of our nation’s founders considered slavery ethically immoral, but other factors—particularly economic ones—influenced them to embrace it. To that end, the Constitution they created—our DNA—has shaped economic and social structures, laws, and public policy in ways that have disadvantaged certain groups. It has shaped us in meaningful ways, but also in ways that have fallen short of our highest ideals relating to race and gender. Learn how the Constitution frames our understanding of American democracy and how we as a country continue to be shaped through changes like the 15th and 19th Amendments during a a Constitution Day event hosted by the Robert Nusbaum Center of Virginia Wesleyan University on Thursday, September 23. Eric W. Claville, J.D., M.L.I.S. will present "The DNA of the United States: The U.S. Constitution" at 11 a.m. in the Susan S. Goode Fine and Performing Arts Center. Claville serves at Norfolk State University as the Interim Executive Advisor to the President for Government Relations and as the Director of the Center for African American Public Policy (CAAmPP). The Center focuses on how public policy affects African Americans and communities of color. More

The Batten Honors College of Virginia Wesleyan University is a program of national distinction, one of only 147 honors colleges in the United States. Enrolling a highly selective group of 160 scholars, the Batten Honors College’s mission focuses on Environmental Stewardship, Global Engagement, and Leadership. It boasts of an $80.2 million endowment that funds scholarships, environmental, global and leadership opportunities for scholars and supports teaching faculty. VWU President Scott D. Miller has announced faculty with Batten distinction for the 2021-22 Academic Year: 

  • Travis Malone, Dean of the Batten Honors College and Batten Professor of Theatre 
  • Antje Schwennicke, Assistant Dean of the Batten Honors College, Batten Associate Professor of Political Science, and Coordinator of NATO Partnership
  • Joyce Easter, Batten Professor of Chemistry
  • William Gibson, Batten Professor of Political Science and Chair of Political Science
  • Joyce Howell, Batten Professor of Art History
  • Larry Hultgren, Batten Professor of Philosophy 
  • Elizabeth Malcolm, Batten Professor of Ocean and Atmospheric Sciences, Director of Sustainability, and Chair of Earth and Environmental Sciences
  • Margaret Reese, Batten Associate Professor of Mathematics and Thomas R. Fanney Distinguished Associate Professor of Mathematics
  • John Rudel, Batten Professor of Art, Curator of Exhibitions for the Neil Britton Art Gallery, and Director of Undergraduate Research
  • Sally Shedd, Batten Professor of Theatre
  • Sara Sewell, Batten Professor of History
  • Craig Wansink, Batten Professor of Religious Studies, Joan P. and Macon F. Brock, Jr. Director of the Robert Nusbaum Center, and Chair of Religious Studies

Read more about the latest news and events at VWU in the September 17 edition of The Wesleyan Review.

Read about Virginia Wesleyan faculty and staff accomplishments and best practices in the September 2021 edition of The Pharos.

The adventure of learning continues this fall through the Westminster/Wesleyan Lifelong Learning Institute. The unique partnership between Virginia Wesleyan University and Westminster-Canterbury on Chesapeake Bay offers  non-credit courses in a variety of topics. Taught by Virginia Wesleyan faculty, the courses are offered at no cost to Westminster-Canterbury members on site, as well as on the Virginia Wesleyan campus. Programming for the initiative—a component of Virginia Wesleyan University Global Campus—is coordinated by Dr. Ben Fraser, the Westminster-Canterbury Fellow for Religious Studies and Lifelong Learning, in collaboration with Virginia Wesleyan’s Robert Nusbaum Center.

View the fall 2021 schedule.

The Marlin Esports team is kicking off a new season of competition! Having just completed tryouts for the 2021-2022 season, the Marlins will begin competition on Tuesday, September 7, in both Rocket League and Overwatch. The Marlins will also compete in League of Legends later this year. Still the fastest growing worldwide sport, over 20 new student gamers entered Virginia Wesleyan in this year’s incoming class. Equipped with high-performance gaming PCs and MSI Optix gaming monitors, the Marlin Esports Arena is a premier venue for all the fast-paced digital action. Catch all the action on the Marlins Twitch Channel.

Read the latest news from Virginia Wesleyan University in the September 3, 2021 edition of The Wesleyan Review.

Read the Robert Nusbaum Center's latest news and events for September 2021: Issues of Race in Coastal Virginia/Constitution Day.

Read Virginia Wesleyan University President Scott D. Miller's September President's Letter: "Growing a Stronger Tomorrow."

Read the latest news from Virginia Wesleyan University Athletics in the August 31, 2021 edition of SportSplash.

For the second year, Tidewater Collegiate Academy at Virginia Wesleyan University is offering a program to provide meaningful, personal, and affordable educational options for students. Project Amplify is an online, pre-college program designed to equip college-bound students for success in the transition to college through authentic, thought-demanding, hands-on, community-based learning experiences. TCA at VWU is now accepting applications from rising 11th graders who will join a two-year cohort. Students will engage in a series of coursework based on the TCA innovative learning model and take dual-enrollment classes at VWU concurrently. This will include one VWU class their first fall semester, and then two courses the next three semesters. Students will graduate with an Advanced High School Diploma and potentially 28 college credits. For more information, please contact Dr. Wendy Scott, Founder and Director of TCA.

VWU's new Virginia Beach Business Collaboration Studio will be ready for students this fall. The studio, located off of the O’Rourke Foyer in Clarke Hall, is a part of a larger renovation project on the first and second floors of the building. The renovations are funded through a grant collaboratively developed with Virginia Wesleyan's partners at the Virginia Beach Department of Economic Development. The upgrades to Clarke Hall include new classroom space to accommodate VWU’s growing business department and workforce development courses. The studio also provides office and meeting space for four members of the faculty and a group collaboration area.

For many years, the University has held a recognition reception for mid-year graduates and encouraged them to return to campus for formal recognition during May Commencement Ceremonies. While these learners are typically considered graduates at the conclusion of their respective terms, the jubilation of celebrating their accomplishments and receiving their actual degree has been delayed. VWU's Strategic Planning Committee, in updating the comprehensive plan last year, recommended the addition of formalization of the former mid-academic year reception into a formal December Commencement, hosted by VWU Global Campus. All learners graduating between May and December—including traditional and VWU Global—will be invited to participate. The first VWU December Commencement will take place on Saturday, December 18 at 10:00 a.m. in the Joan and Macon Brock Theatre of the Susan S. Goode Fine and Performing Arts Center.   

The Virginia Wesleyan University Emergency Response Team continues to monitor COVID-19 conditions and guidance, and the University is planning for as normal of an academic year as possible. To assist with student, faculty and staff acclimation to campus for the fall semester, a series of Frequently Asked Questions has been compiled to address what life will look like at VWU during the 2021-22 Academic Year. The VWU community is asked to read these FAQs carefully, and keep in mind that this information is subject to change. The University may at any time revise expectations related to masking, social distancing, social gatherings, COVID-19 testing, quarantine, and isolation. Thank you for your attention and adherence to these guidelines. Your efforts to keep the campus community safe and healthy are appreciated.

Everyone's favorite VWU summertime gathering is back at Ballyhoos (2865 Lynnhaven Dr., Virginia Beach) on Wednesday, August 25 from 5-7 p.m. Appetizers and drink specials will be availalble for Marlins and their guests. Faculty, staff, alumni, and friends are all invited. Support the community by bringing non-perishable canned goods to help Marlins Athletics win a conference-wide collection competition. Hope to see you there! 

The Neil Britton Gallery is proud to present “Journeys in Art, Music, and Folklore” by Margo Newmark Rosenbaum and Art Rosenbaum from August 23-December 7. The exhibition will feature large scale paintings, photographs and drawings that reflect on decades of travel to play and document American Roots Music. The Neil Britton Gallery and the new adjacent Barclay Sheaks Gallery are located on the first floor of Hofheimer Library. Both are open to the public during regular library hours.

Read Virginia Wesleyan University President Scott D. Miller's August President's Letter, "Ready for the Return of Normal": conta.cc/3BREAwh

Due to weather, the Norfolk Tides game at Harbor Park celebrating Virginia Wesleyan University's 2021 National Championship softball team has been rescheduled to Tuesday, July 27 at 7:05 p.m. National Player of the Year Jessica Goldyn will throw the first pitch. Marlins fans are welcome to purchase tickets for the game to join in the celebration. If you’d like to support our national champions but cannot attend the game, please consider making a gift to the championship rings campaign. 

The latest publication from the Robert Nusbaum Center of Virginia Wesleyan University is now online here. The publication’s new title, Understanding, reflects the expanded focus of the Nusbaum Center beyond religious freedom to broader matters of diversity, faith, and freedom.

Each August, prior to the start of the fall semester, Virginia Wesleyan University President Scott D. Miller delivers an annual State of the University address to the campus community. The address includes highlights, initiatives and significant accomplishments from the past year, recognition of faculty and staff, points of pride, recent University news and information, current campus projects and direction for the future of the University. This year's State of the University will be delivered on Friday, August 20, at 12:15 p.m. The program will be streamed and archived on the VWU Digital Broadcasting Network.

Read Virginia Wesleyan University President Scott D. Miller's July President's Letter, "Marlin Pride": conta.cc/2U0ELnA

According to the U.S. Department of Education National Center for Education Statistics, nearly one-third of each year's incoming students are first-generation college students (defined as a domestic student whom neither parent or guardian has graduated with a four-year college degree). While these students are academically skilled, they typically do not have the experienced support of their parents in navigating higher education policies, terms, and procedures. To help Virginia Wesleyan University's first-generation college students and their parents, the University has launched VWU First, an initiative designed to answer questions and provide resources that assist with navigating this new experience. "We are proud of our first-generation students and hope this is a helpful tool as they pursue their college education," said VWU President Scott D. Miller. Read more about VWU First.

Congratulations to WC Carpenter Floor Coverings on its Gold Award for work in the recently renovated Boyd Dining Center. WC Carpenter is owned and operated by alumna Kaddy Hamilton, Class of 1985, who has been an incredible partner of the University for many years. The award presentation will take place during the 2021 Starnet Commercial Flooring Design Awards in October in San Diego. Well done, Kaddy! 

Read the latest news from Virginia Wesleyan University in the June 25, 2021 edition of The Wesleyan Review.

Read about the latest faculty and staff accomplishments and best practices in the June 2021 edition of The Pharos.

The complete series is now available in the 2020-2021 installment of President to President, a thought leadership publication written by and for university presidents and edited by VWU President Scott D. Miller and Dr. Marylouise Fennell. This year’s book, titled “Fostering a Culture of Innovation,” features unique ideas and creative approaches to the myriad challenges higher education institutions now face, many of which were once considered unimaginable. It re-examines what it means to be truly innovative, especially in times of crisis and recovery. Look for the next President to President installment this fall.

Virginia Wesleyan University President Scott D. Miller announced on June 7 the newest members of the VWU Alumni Council:

  • Samantha L. Bull ’11, Attorney, Shannon & Associates, PC
  • Chiereme D. Fortune ’13, Executive Assistant to the President, K. Neal Truck and Bus Center
  • Katie Giwa-Osagie ’14, Director of Student Engagement, Virginia Union University
  • William “Bill” R. Gobble ’03, Analyst, American Funds Service Company
The principal purpose of the Alumni Council is to strengthen the bond between graduates and the University. New members will help to expand alumni outreach, engagement, and participation. On behalf of the University, President Miller expressed gratitude to Alisa W. Crider ’10 for her leadership as Council Chair during an unusual year of virtual meetings. "Alisa led virtual Council meetings with poise," he said, and also hosted bi-monthly Virtual Wesleyan Wednesdays, and facilitated discussions with Thomas W. Taylor ’00, Vice Chair, Dominique M. Fowler ’12, Secretary, and the Office of Alumni and Parent Relations to create the new slate of members.

Virginia Wesleyan University will welcome 24 high school students from Mexico and Virginia for a special marine science program June 13-July 2. The students are coming from The Harkness Institute (Puerto Vallarta, Mexico and San Luis Potosi, Mexico), The Hague School (Norfolk), the International Baccalaureate program at Granby High School (Norfolk), and the Health Sciences Center at Maury High School (Norfolk). Participating students will live together on campus while taking an intensive three-week oceanography course (EES 200) with evening programs offered by VWU Student Activities. The dual-enrollment program is led by Dr. Deirdre Gonsalves-Jackson, Dean of VWU Global Campus and Associate Professor of Biology.  

The Greer Environmental Sciences Center was one of six projects recognized in the 2021 Education Facility Design Awards by the American Institute of Architects (AIA). The Education Facility Design Awards program—presented by AIA and its Committee on Architecture for Education—represents the state-of-the-art education environments being developed in today's learning spaces. Read more about the awards.

Read Virginia Wesleyan University President Scott D. Miller's June President's Letter, "A Month of Milestones": conta.cc/3yTWXyS

Congratulations to students on the Spring 2021 President's List and the Fall 2020 Dean’s List! This is a commendable accomplishment, especially given the challenges presented by the pandemic, for the 112 students on the President’s List who achieved a 4.0 grade point average and the 283 students on the Dean’s List who achieved a 3.5-3.99 grade point average for the spring semester. To qualify for these honors, students must have full-time status and have taken at least nine semester hours of traditionally-graded courses.


The Virginia Wesleyan University Board of Trustees wrapped up a busy and unusual year of virtual meetings with its Spring Meeting in early May. During the meeting, the Board recognized Jean Jenkins, Class of 1989, and Rev. M. Wayne Snead, retiring Elizabeth River District Superintendent from the United Methodist Church, for their many years of service on the Board. The Board also recognized Hanna Hull, Class of 2020 and current MBA candidate, for her outstanding career as a student-athlete on the award-winning VWU softball team. Hull was especially recognized for her recent accolade as the NCAA Division III all-time winningest softball pitcher with 127 wins and counting. She is currently two wins higher than the previous record-holder. Among the Board’s action items for the Spring Meeting was the adoption of the budget for the next fiscal year. "As always, I thank all of our Board members for their special attention and continued support of Virginia Wesleyan University," said Dr. Scott D. Miller, VWU President.

Dr. Arthur S. Pantelides will join the Virginia Wesleyan University faculty as Associate Professor of Marketing, Business, and Economics in the new academic year, President Scott D. Miller has announced. Dr. Pantelides comes to VWU from the American University in Bulgaria, a small liberal arts university which boasts a top-rated business program in Southeast Europe. Prior to his post abroad, Dr. Pantelides taught at George Washington University in Washington, D.C., and worked in international business for over 30 years. He earned his Ph.D. in Engineering Management and Master of Science in Engineering Management from George Washington University and a Bachelor of Science and Master of Science in Mechanical Engineering from Boston University.

Read Virginia Wesleyan University President Scott D. Miller's May President's Letter, "A Remarkable Year": conta.cc/3gVNhh6

Orientation for new Virginia Wesleyan University students will once again take place in person this summer. Given the University's commitment to health and safety, and in compliance with state regulation, four sessions will be offered with 100 incoming students each. The dates for the sessions will be June 21, June 25, June 28, and July 2. The Office of Campus Life will share more detailed information as the dates approach. Read more information for Admitted Students.

Virginia Wesleyan University cadets were honored April 22 at the virtual U.S. Army ROTC Monarch Battalion Spring Awards Ceremony. Congratulations to VWU students Gabriel Jessup, recipient of the National Sojourners Award; Toby Somers, recipient of the Sons of the American Revolution Award; Emily Imhopf, recipient of the Daughters of the American Colonists Award; and Robert Mazingo, recipient of the Special Forces Award and the Outstanding VWU Cadet Award. Mazingo is a senior cadet who will be commissioned into the U.S. Army during a special ceremony on Friday, May 7.

Construction is complete on the new Barclay Sheaks Gallery in Henry Clay Hofheimer II Library. The new gallery is much larger than the previous space and provides greater security and access. Paintings will soon be placed in their new home and then available to the public in the extended hours of the library. Established in 1999, the Barclay Sheaks Gallery is named after nationally renowned painter and founder of the Art Department at Virginia Wesleyan University, Barclay Sheaks. Sheaks is best known for his acrylic paintings of waterfront scenes, wetlands, farmlands and people of the Chesapeake Bay. His work is "eloquent testimony to how perseverance and diligence combine with creativity and inspiration to create lasting objects," notes Joyce Howell, Professor of Art History. As an artist and teacher, Sheaks had a profound and lasting effect not only on the arts community but on the many students he inspired and mentored. The Barclay Sheaks Gallery is now located adjacent to the Neil Britton Gallery. It features the University's permanent collection of works by Sheaks. The 1,200 square-foot Neil Britton Gallery opened in 2009 and is committed to engaging both the Coastal Virginia and University communities in the visual arts. Changing exhibitions and programs include the work of both professional artists and students.

Rev. Kotosha Griffin has been named pastor of Heritage United Methodist Church (located on the east side of campus) and chaplain at Virginia Wesleyan University, President Scott D. Miller has announced. Rev. Griffin comes from McGaheysville United Methodist Church in the Shenandoah Valley. Her husband, Bertrand, is also a minister and will serve as the pastor of Aldersgate United Methodist Church in Norfolk. He previously served on Bishop Sharma D. Lewis’s staff at Wesley Chapel UMC in the North Georgia Conference. Through the leadership of Bishop Lewis, Rev. Griffin is enhancing her leadership capacity by participating in a cohort offered by Mosaix. This cohort helps leaders to "establish healthy multi-ethnic and economically diverse, culturally intelligent, socially just, and financially sustainable churches to express God’s love to all people." Rev. Griffin is an ordained elder in the Virginia Annual Conference of the United Methodist Church. She received her Bachelor of Arts in political science/pre-law at Barber-Scotia College. She received a Master of Divinity at Wesley Theological Seminary. "Bishop Lewis commented that VWU 'will be blessed by Kotosha and Bertrand,' and we are thrilled to welcome the Griffins to the Marlin family," said Dr. Miller. "We look forward to a fruitful partnership of fellowship and service between VWU and Heritage UMC." He also thanked Bishop Lewis, District Superintendent Wayne Snead and Don Ziegler, Chair of the Board of Directors at Heritage UMC, for their assistance in making this “win-win” collaboration possible.

John Rudel, Professor of Art and Curator of Exhibitions for the Neil Britton Art Gallery, has been appointed as Director of Undergraduate Research, President Scott D. Miller has announced. Rudel received his Master of Fine Arts degree from the University of Georgia in 2002. In 2003 he served as a Visiting Lecturer of Art at Clemson University, and in 2004-2005, he was an Assistant Professor of Art at William Carey College in Gulfport, Mississippi. "We hope that John’s appointment to this role shows students that undergraduate research is for all majors and disciplines of study," said Dr. Miller. He also thanked Dr. Soraya Bartol, Professor of Marine Biology, for her hard work and commitment to the University's undergraduate research program for the last several years.

Virginia Wesleyan Univeristy President Dr. Scott D. Miller and Executive Director of Intercollegiate Athletics Joanne Renn have announced Karissa Cumberbatch as the new head volleyball coach the end of this current season, following the pending promotion of Andrea Hoover-Erbig to executive director of Intercollegiate Athletics. Cumberbatch has been an assistant with the program since 2019. The Greeley, Colorado, native came to Virginia Wesleyan with a plethora of volleyball knowledge having played at both the NCAA Division I and II levels and having coached at the club and high school levels for 11 years. Since 2010, she has been the 18 National Coach and Recruiting Coordinator for Coastal Hampton Roads VBC. She has helped over 100 high school student athletes achieve their dream of playing at the next level while helping them prepare mentally and physically for the challenge of playing collegiate volleyball. She is also the Assistant Director/Volleyball Coordinator of the Coastal Hampton Roads Sportsplex helping grow the game of volleyball on the peninsula. Prior to joining the Marlins volleyball coaching staff, Cumberbatch was the Grafton High School Head Girls Volleyball Coach from 2013-2019. Her guidance helped lead the squad to the Final Four in five straight years and the state finals in 2017 and 2018. Over that span, she was also crowned Regional Champions twice, Regional Coach of the Year three times, and District Coach of the Year three times. She was a member of the VHSL Coaches Advisory Committee and holds a personal/group training certification from the Athletic and Fitness Association of America. Cumberbatch attended Northridge High School where she was a four-year starter, captain, and current record holder. Her club team, Five Star Volleyball Club (of Brighton, Colorado), qualified for the Junior Olympics twice and finished in the top 15 in the open division. She continued her playing career at the University of South Florida before transferring to Western State College of Colorado where she earned her degree in sports and fitness management. She currently lives in Ocean View with her husband Christian and daughter Khloey. vwuathletics.com

Starting in the new academic year, the University will partner with Akademos for its textbook needs. As a best-in-class online college bookstore and course materials solution provider, Akademos makes multiple formats, delivery options, and subscription-based materials available through a personalized, efficient and cost-effective service with 24x7x365 accessibility. Akademos integrates all course materials and delivery options into one seamless platform. The vast selection of low-cost options includes a Marketplace, rental program, and OER titles, plus the option to choose between new, used or digital textbooks. Students also receive free economy shipping on retail orders of new and used books over $49 and will have the freedom to ship books directly to their homes or our campus store for convenient pick up. Akademos will provide a full online experience for students and faculty, much like Amazon. But what makes Akademos the best solution for VWU is the student experience. The program will be fully integrated with VWU’s internal systems, including Blackboard, ensuring that students who purchase through Akademos have exactly the right textbooks and materials they need for each course. Furthermore, students can select "guaranteed buyback" from Akademos so that those who want to sell back books at the end of each semester will know their net price upfront. Akademos is supported by Virginia Private Colleges (a.k.a. Council of Independent Colleges in Virginia). More will be shared about this program as it is implemented for the Fall 2021 Semester. 

Clayton Singleton, VWU Class of 1994, was paired with the St. Paul's Community Development Corporation for the Virginia MOCA exhibition Nourish. In this video by Jeremy Bates Film, Singleton shares what he learned about food deserts and how it changed the direction of his work. The exhibit at the MOCA is free and open to the public. Singleton is a recipient of Virginia Wesleyan's 2018 Alumni Service Award. 

The Virginia Wesleyan men's and women's track and field teams hosted the inaugural Betty S. Rogers Track and Field Meet on April 3. The women's athletes claimed 13 top-5 finishes while the men's athletes claimed 14. The meet was the first meet ever hosted at the Betty S. Rogers Track and Field Complex. All times and marks on the day became facility records for future athletes to chase. Read more about the inaugural meet.

On April 2, in a small ceremony in Godwin Hall, President Scott D. Miller declared April 5-9 as “NCAA Division III Week at Virginia Wesleyan University,” joining other Division III institutions in promoting and celebrating the philosophy of the division and its student-athletes. Virginia Wesleyan University is a proud member of the NCAA Division III and the Old Dominion Athletic Conference (ODAC). In this volatile time in NCAA Division I athletics, it is noteworthy that Division III is distinctly different. According to the Division III website, “Division III athletic programs are non-revenue-generating, extracurricular programs that are staffed and funded like any other university department. They feature student-athletes who receive no financial aid related to their athletic ability. Division III is the NCAA's largest division with around 450 member institutions, which are 80% private and 20% public. The median undergraduate enrollment of DIII schools is about 2,750, although the range is from 418 to over 38,000. Approximately 40% of all NCAA student-athletes compete in DIII.” Joining Dr. Miller for the signing of the declaratory resolution was Joanne Renn (Executive Director for Intercollegiate Athletics Emerita), Andrea Hoover-Erbig (Senior Woman Administrator and Executive Director for Intercollegiate Athletics-designate), and Skyler Lattuca '21 (President of the Student Athlete Advisory Committee and student representative on the Athletics Management Council). "The resolution recognizes our student-athletes’ hard work on the field, in the classroom, and within the community at large," said President Miller. "From back-to-back national championships for softball to an individual championship in golf to recognition by our student-athletes for diversity and academic excellence, Virginia Wesleyan is a leader in the comprehensive approach to intercollegiate athletics." Learn more about Marlin athletics at vwuathletics.com.

In an effort to continue prioritizing the health and safety of student-athletes and game day personnel during the COVID-19 pandemic, limited attendance for home fans will be allowed at Birdsong Field, Trinder Center/Foster Field, TowneBank Park's Broyles Field and Perry Field, Rogers Track and Field Center, and Everett Tennis Center. Updates to the home spectator and attendance policy for all outdoor intercollegiate athletic competitions became effective Friday, March 19, 2021.

Corin “Cori” Jackson, VWU Enrollment Counselor, has been appointed as VWU’s Athletics Diversity and Inclusion Designee (ADID). According to the NCAA, “The ADID is a staff member designated by the chancellor/president, who serves as the conduit for information related to national-, local- and campus-level issues of diversity and inclusion and supports diverse and inclusive practices related to athletics.” Cori is a member of the VWU Class of 2020 and majored in English. As a Marlin, Cori played on the field hockey team and was named ODAC All-Conference in 2017, 2018, and 2019. She was also named to the National Field Hockey Coaches Association (NFHCA) National Academic Squad all four years and to the ODAC All-Academic team.

Virginia Wesleyan University and the Boston University School of Theology (STH) have entered into an agreement offering priority admission to interested and eligible graduating seniors or VWU alumni for the STH Master of Divinity (M.Div.) or Master of Theological Studies (MTS) degree programs. STH is a seminary of the United Methodist Church and shares VWU’s commitment to the education of future ordained and lay leaders of the Church and its ecumenical partners. This pathway enables students to progress from a baccalaureate program to a theology degree program through a guaranteed admissions program with scholarship opportunities. For more information on this new agreement, as well as VWU’s agreements with the Duke Divinity School at Duke University and the Candler School of Theology at Emory University, visit the Accelerated Degrees/Preferred Admission webpage.

 

The 13th Class of the VWU Athletic Hall of Fame will be celebrated on Saturday, October 2 during Homecoming and Family Weekend. The new date offers an increased likelihood of holding the event in-person in a manner befitting the inductees’ achievements. Stay tuned for more information.

Susan T. Beverly Hall continues to improve thanks to generous gifts and grants. The new Digital Media Lab has 17 terminals ideal for creating and composing various forms of digital content. The Alison J. and Ella W. Parsons Fine Arts Entrance and Lobby now has beautiful new murals completed by Professor of Art John Rudel and the Art 306 class. The mural reflects Amanda Gorman's poem "The Hill We Climb," focusing on the lines: "For there is always light, if only we're brave enough to see it. If only we're brave enough to be it."

This week, Virginia Wesleyan hosts the virtual Model NATO Challenge as part of the Norfolk NATO Festival on Wednesday, March 17. The Model NATO Challenge is a scholarship competition in which the top 30 high school applicants are chosen to participate in a mock global-crisis simulation, confronting issues facing today’s NATO Alliance. Student diplomats are chosen to represent each of the NATO Member Nations and must work together to address a crisis scenario such as piracy, immigration, or another issue that faces the NATO Alliance today. Diplomats are assigned mentors—military officers from each of the countries—who assist in preparing them for the challenge while teaching about the country's culture, national military resources, and political backgrounds. While the virtual format will be new this year, VWU's partnership with NATO is ongoing.

VWU students will be invited to participate in the National Assessment of Collegiate Campus Climates (NACCC) survey this month (March 23). The NACCC is a survey with content based on more than a decade of the USC Race and Equity Center’s qualitative climate studies at colleges and universities across the country. Students will receive a unique invitation link and are encouraged to take the completely confidential survey and be an active participant in improving the racial climate on campus and the experiences of all students. Learn more about the NACCC survey here. The survey is sponsored by the Liberal Arts Colleges Racial Equity Leadership Alliance (LACRELA). Virginia Wesleyan is joining 68 colleges/universities categorized as National Liberal Arts Colleges as charter members of LACRELA. Washington & Lee University, University of Richmond, Randolph College, Hollins University, and VWU are the five participating Virginia institutions. 

Read about the latest faculty and staff accomplishments and best practices in the March 2021 edition of The Pharos.

Read the latest news from Marlin Athletics in the March 9, 2021 edition of SportSplash.

The Virginia Wesleyan University Board of Trustees wrapped up their mid-academic year meetings last week with the Winter Business Session — held via Zoom because of the pandemic. Over the past three weeks, the Board has held a variety of meetings including a thorough presentation by the Emergency Response Team/COVID Action Team and committee meetings for trusteeship, academic affairs, student life, investment, administration and finance, advancement, enrollment, and audit. The Board re-elected officers for the 2020-21 academic year: Chair – John F. Malbon; Vice Chair – Susan S. Goode; Secretary – Mavis E. McKenley ’11; and Treasurer – J. Timothy Bailey ’83. They also re-elected several Trustees whose terms were scheduled to expire on June 30: J. Timothy Bailey ’83, Susan S. Goode, Sharon S. Goodwyn, Robert W. McFarland, Eric C. Nyman ’94, Jonathan E. Pruden, and Joseph R. Thomas. As a result of the pandemic, most of the discussion focused on operational and financial issues; however, the Board did approve a variety of personnel-related matters, including granting promotion to associate professor with tenure to Dr. Jill Sturts (Sport and Recreation Professions), Dr. Annette Clayton (Social Work), and Dr. Antje Schwennicke (Political Science), and granting promotion to full professor to Dr. Kellie Holzer (English), Dr. Margaret Reese (Mathematics), and Dr. Maury Howard (Chemistry). 

Virginia Wesleyan University and Heritage United Methodist Church, located on the east side of campus, have reached an agreement that has been called a “win-win” by leaders of the church, VWU, and the Virginia Conference of the United Methodist Church.
 
The most significant aspect of the agreement is the appointment of a new minister that will serve in the joint capacity of Pastor of HUMC and Chaplain of Virginia Wesleyan University. A collaboration team from the church and university have also agreed that VWU students would play a prominent role supporting the community outreach endeavors of the church, giving service-learning opportunities to Marlins involved in campus ministry, our religious studies department, civic engagement and service learning, and our music program.  
 

 “Campus757” has been developed by Visit Norfolk and the presidents of the five local colleges and universities over the past two years. With implementation now led by the Hampton Roads Workforce Council, Campus757 has been launched to retain local college students in the region after graduation. Program Manager Maegan Barnes says, “Campus757 is developing a centralized hub connecting students with employers and tastemakers throughout the region. We inform and guide students with programs and resources to launch their careers, establish a home base in Hampton Roads, and leave a lasting impact in the community. To simplify, we want students to stay!”
 
Campus757 exists to expand young professionals’ outlook on and familiarity with the 757 region and help them connect to local businesses in pursuit of their ideal career. The program is creating a seamless transition for college students from their campuses and studies to the real world. From professional resources to job opportunities, the organization helps students find a home for their future in Hampton Roads.
 
As one of the earliest partners of Campus757, Virginia Wesleyan has been privy to much of the behind-the-scenes action. Campus757 and VWU staff are working together to make sure that VWU students are represented and heard in the early development of this program.
 
Campus757 is closing the gap between graduation and the workplace, and VWU students have the opportunity to become involved now. Students who are interested should contact Sarah Guzzo, Director of Student Activities, at sguzzo@vwu.edu. 

Read the latest news from Marlin Athletics in the March  2, 2021 edition of SportSplash.

Read the latest news from Marlin Athletics in the February 23, 2021 edition of SportSplash.

Virginia Wesleyan University’s new WesBridge program will serve as a bridge for select students between high school and the start of their college careers. It will give students the opportunity to jump-start their college education and further develop needed academic skills to make their transition to college is as smooth as possible. Participation will also help students prepare for the non-academic part of college. "We want our students to have the support they need to be a successful member of Marlin Nation," said VWU President Scott D. Miller, "and we believe WesBridge is the right start." The program will offer two classes for credit over the summer to ease students into their college education and help them build the skills needed to succeed at VWU. Courses will be taught by VWU faculty, who will support students every step of the way. Upon successful completion of the program, students will start the fall semester with five credit hours already completed toward graduation requirements. Read More

 

Kim Hammer, Virginia Wesleyan University Vice President for Advancement and Special Assistant to the President, has been selected as a Pittsburgh Professional Women 2021 Influential Leader and will be honored during a virtual program on March 8. Prior to joining VWU in November, Hammer had been living in Pittsburgh since 1991, serving in various positions in and around the city, including Carlow University, Robert Morris University, The Pittsburgh Promise, the Children’s Hospital Foundation of Pittsburgh of the University of Pittsburgh Medical Center, and the Pittsburgh Foundation. "Much of her development career has been dedicated to serving a city she loves, so it’s wonderful that she has been distinguished in this way," said VWU President Scott D. Miller. "We’re delighted that she has brought her many talents to Virginia Beach and the Virginia Wesleyan University family!"

 

As a part of VWU's virtual Wesleyan Wednesdays series, the Office of Alumni Relations will present “A Decision to Be Impactful” by Chavon Thomas ‘11 on Wednesday, February 24, at noon. Thomas ended 2020 as a #1 Amazon bestselling author of "Undeterred: Success Stories of Female Leaders Who Pursued a Seat at the Table," a book she co-authored with other women in leadership. Her chapter was titled, “Becoming an Educator for the Next Generation.” As a first-generation college student, she is passionate about helping others overcome obstacles by providing the foundational knowledge found in her original book "Turning High School into a Launching Pad" and sharing other women's stories of triumph in her talk show. Register to attend this free event.

 

The privately funded renovation of the “front porch” of the Center for Enrollment in Godwin Hall has begun. As previously announced, the Barclay Sheaks Art Gallery will move to a more accessible, larger and functional space adjacent to the Neil Britton Art Gallery in Hofheimer Library. That will enable the current Sheaks Gallery space to become the enrollment waiting area. The former waiting area will become the enrollment group visitation room, and the current conference/group visitation room will be converted to be the outreach center. The Welcome Desk area has been relocated to the new waiting area and the former space is being converted to a Work and Learn Program work area. This transformation of campus space also includes a new name, VWU President Scott D. Miller has announced. The David L. Kaufman Center for Enrollment will honor longtime friend and former chair of the Board of Trustees. "David has been an unsung hero at VWU for far too long," said Dr. Miller, "having privately funded many important projects in campus life including the Opus student-work initiative which has now become the Work & Learn Program. He has been a tremendous ally and supporter of Virginia Wesleyan, and we are delighted to recognize his many contributions in this way."

Read the latest news from Virginia Wesleyan University in the February 19, 2021 edition of the Wesleyan Review.

Out of an abundance of caution and for the continued health and safety of our students, faculty and staff, Virginia Wesleyan University will extend the current policy of not allowing any fan and spectator attendance for all on-campus intercollegiate athletic related activity to include practices, competitions and meetings/events until further notice. Only game essential personnel will be allowed in or around practice and competition sites, both indoors and outdoors. This policy applies to all Virginia Wesleyan community members as well as visiting fans of the opposing teams. We appreciate your understanding of our decision and hope you will continue to enjoy our webcast and streaming of our sports when possible. Please refer to www.vwuathletics.com for the most recent updates.  

Read about the latest faculty and staff accomplishments and best practices in the February 2021 edition of The Pharos.

Read the latest news from Marlin Athletics in the February 9, 2021 edition of SportSplash.

A new, larger Barclay Sheaks Gallery will be constructed, through private funds, adjacent to the Neil Britton Art Gallery in the Henry Clay Hofheimer II Library, President Scott D. Miller has announced. The new gallery will provide increased space to display a larger number of paintings, and will provide greater access to students and friends as the library is open longer hours and more days per year than the gallery’s current location. Construction will occur this spring. Barclay Sheaks (1928-2010) founded the art program at Virginia Wesleyan University in 1967. He taught on the Virginia Wesleyan faculty for 36 years, retiring as Associate Professor and Distinguished Artist in Residence in 2006. He donated approximately 50 of his paintings to Virginia Wesleyan University to establish a permanent gallery, which opened in the summer of 2000. Read more about Barclay Sheaks (pictured) and view the collection. 

Trey DelPo '17 has been named the new director of the Susan S. Goode Fine and Performing Arts Center. Following graduation, Delpo earned his Master of Arts (Theatre) from Bowling Green State University. He was a crew member for Major League Baseball (MLB), the National Football League (NFL), CBS Sports, and Fox Sports and served as a stage manager for Busch Gardens in Williamsburg. He was also a production assistant for Netflix. He brought his wealth of knowledge and talent back to VWU in the Center for Enrollment before being named Operations Manager and Technical Director for the Goode Center and Susan T. Beverly Hall. Dedicated in 2019, the Goode Center is a 23,200-square-foot facility that features the impressive glass-enclosed Eleanor and Henry Watts Grand Lobby and Gallery and the Joan and Macon Brock Theatre. Support spaces ring the stage, including a scene shop, dressing rooms, green room, costume, prop, and equipment storage. The Susan Beverly Grand Terrace and Pond serves as a serene space for outdoor programming. The Goode Fine and Performing Arts Center was the first phase of a new arts complex at Virginia Wesleyan. The University is finishing renovation of studio spaces and classrooms in the original Fine Arts Building (recently renamed Susan T. Beverly Hall). These updates enhance the University’s fine and performing arts facilities and showcase the prominence of our arts program to the community. In addition to the new name, several other newly-named areas of the facility recognize donors to the project: The Robert G. Cabell III and Maude Morgan Cabell Foundation Visual Arts Studios, The Mary Morton Parsons Foundation Ensemble Rehearsal Room, Alison J. and Ella W. Parsons Fund Fine Arts Entrance & Lobby, and the James A. Hixon Music Studios. Finally, the historic Hofheimer Theatre is receiving some much-needed attention as the finishing touch. Students interested in the arts are afforded the opportunity to live in Louise W. Eggleston Hall, adjacent to the arts complex.

On Feburary 10, as part of the University's virtual Wesleyan Wednesday series and VWU's Black History Month celebration, Dr. Craig Wansink, Professor of Religious Studies and Joan P. and Macon F. Brock, Jr. Director of the Robert Nusbaum Center, will present “Nevertheless, They Persisted: How Three Defiant Women Confronted Race in America.” In his presentation, Wansink will discuss three 19th-century examples of heroism—Sojourner Truth, Elizabeth Cady Stanton, and Emma Lazarus—and how their spiritualism, atheism, and Judaism brought them to defy racism in the United States. This event is free and open to VWU alumni and friends on Wednesday, February 10 at 12:00 p.m. Hosted by VWU Alumni Council Chair Alisa Crider ‘10. Register Here

Virginia Wesleyan University has finalized a priority admission agreement with the Appalachian School of Law, President Scott D. Miller has announced. The agreement gives students from the western part of the state the opportunity to return home to pursue their law degree in a cost-efficient manner. Located in Grundy, Virginia, Appalachian School of Law also has a concentration in Natural Resources and Energy Law, an area of increasing interest to students enrolled in VWU environmental programs. 

Read Virginia Wesleyan University President Scott D. Miller's February 2021 President's Letter, "United in Purpose and Hope."

The University will operate on a normal schedule on Thursday, January 28. Conditions may vary widely throughout the region, and those traveling to and from campus should use their best judgment. Should you have difficulty making your way to campus, contact your professors or supervisor accordingly. Please consult the University website, email, and social media for the most current information.

The adventure of learning continues at Westminster-Canterbury on Chesapeake Bay, a Virginia Beach life-care community for active retirees. This spring, members can once again engage in Virginia Wesleyan University course offerings in religion, history, communication, political science, and more through the Westminster/Wesleyan Lifelong Learning Institute. The classes offered each semester bring non-credit courses to the members at no cost to them. The courses are taught by Virginia Wesleyan faculty through a unique partnership between Virginia Wesleyan and Westminster-Canterbury that formally began in 2017. The Institute is coordinated by Ben Fraser, Westminster-Canterbury Fellow for Religious Studies and Lifelong Learning.

View the full schedule for spring 2021.

Read the latest news from Virginia Wesleyan University in the January 22, 2021 edition of The Wesleyan Review.

Congratulations to students on the Fall 2020 President's List and the Fall 2020 Dean’s List!

The 102 students on the President’s List who achieved a 4.0 grade point average and the 292 students on the Dean’s List who achieved a 3.5-3.99 grade point average for the fall semester earned a commendable accomplishment, especially given the challenges presented by the pandemic. To qualify for these honors, students must have full-time status and have taken at least nine semester hours of traditionally-graded courses. These individuals demonstrate a remarkable level of dedication to their academic pursuits. Well done!

 

Virginia Wesleyan University will commemorate the legacy of Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. on Monday, January 18, at 11 a.m. during a virtual ceremony on the VWU Digital Broadcasting Network. In addition to the presentation of this year’s Mavis McKenley '11 Award, the ceremony will feature two speakers—Dr. La Francis Rodgers-Rose will present "Then and Now: The Redemptive Morality and Radical Practices of Martin Luther King, Jr.," and Rev. Dr. Melvin T. Blackwell will discuss how Coastal Virginians can live and promote the ideals of Dr. King in the region.

Clayton Singleton, VWU Class of 1994 and the 2018 recipient of the VWU Alumni Service Award, was named “Mural Artist of the Year'' by Veer Magazine. Clayton’s most recent mural, “Black Lives More Than Matter,” is a collaboration piece with fellow teaching artist Nicole Harp and can be seen in the NEON District of downtown Norfolk. 

The following reflection by VWU President Scott D. Miller was originally shared in the January 11 edition of Nota Bene:

Pipe bombs, broken windows, Nazi flags, Confederate flags, a hangman’s noose, and so much more in Washington, D.C. For people of faith, Epiphany (January 6) wasn’t characterized by frankincense as much as by tear gas. Not characterized by Herod killing innocent children, but by paramilitary domestic terrorists climbing walls, breaking windows, and storming the Capitol. The day after, on Thursday, I took part in a discussion with 53 private college presidents on the horrible events that occurred. As we discussed the shocking display of violence and vandalism, it was and still is hard to believe that this is where the road has led us—a siege on our Capitol and on the very democracy being conducted inside the complex. 

It was a surreal day, made all the more surreal by the recognition that if these insurrectionists or rioters had been people of color, our history has shown that they likely would have faced a much harsher response.

Discord is inevitable; Jefferson and Madison expected it and accounted for it. However, disorder and violence is not.

Like many of you, I feel grief, pain, and anger at this assault. I also feel resolve about who we—as a university—are called to be in the middle of all of this.

Civic engagement is a pillar of our University mission. How we help students become engaged citizens is important. We need to be a community that continues to promote productive political participation, meaningful dialogue, and conscientious dissent.

There are different visions of what it means for America to be great. To love this nation is to respect the people and laws that have been voted for by the people. We know this at VWU, and we will continue to promote and affirm our commitment to justice, hope, and peace for all. 

From Inauguration Day (January 20) through mid-March, the Neil Britton Gallery in the Hofheimer Library along with the Robert Nusbaum Center will be hosting the Unity Flag Project, artwork from around the nation that focuses on what Americans have in common, and on what the word “united” means in our nation’s name. Across campus—in classes and co-curricular events—students will be coming together to discuss what it means to be American.

During a time when the fragility of democracy has been clearly exposed, we need to re-commit ourselves to helping students become engaged citizens and responsible leaders.

The Lighthouse: Center for Exploration and Discovery continues its initiative to connect alumni who have completed internships, study away, and/or undergraduate research with current and prospective students. The goal is to show the impact experiential learning can have on personal, civic, and professional lives. The latest entry for "Where are they now? Alumni Messages: The Power of Experiential Learning" comes from Hope (Hess) Black ’15. Hope’s internship involved working with the Victim Witness Assistance Program at the Adams County Courthouse in Gettysburg, Pennsylvania. Read her message to students here.

The pandemic has caused Virginia Wesleyan University officials to revisit plans for the future. Dr. Maynard Schaus, Vice President for Academic Affairs, led a planning initiative in the fall semester to update the University’s strategic plan: Forging Our Future: Building on Strength 2020-2030. The updated strategic plan is an interactive document with VWU's 10-year Facilities Master Plan, which was developed in 2016 utilizing a space utilization study and facility condition assessment. The insitution's five-year financial business model is being revised now based on the changes to the strategic plan.

Virginia Wesleyan University is dedicated to Building a Campus Culture of Diversity and Inclusion, and a timeline has been created that documents the University’s efforts to do so since 2015. This timeline has been made public to show VWU's commitment to its students, alumni, and friends for this ongoing priority of the University. Read More

The VWU Department of Art is proud to offer four virtual galleries which have generated hundreds of views online and provided the department the chance to learn and improve in the digital age: Student Art Showcase Virtual Art Gallery; Neil Britton Retrospective for the Marlin Fringe Festival; Barclay, Modernity, and the Environment: Barclay Sheaks Gallery at 20 years; and the visiting exhibit, Good Trouble by Christopher Noxon.

President Scott D. Miller has added his signature to the National Climate Statement, joining Virginia Wesleyan with other U.S. communities, businesses, and institutions who are “still in” even after the United States officially exited the Paris Climate Agreement on November 4. The statement, which affirms commitment to global climate action on the fifth anniversary of the Paris Agreement, was released during this critical moment for U.S. climate action. It speaks to high-level climate actions that the Biden/Harris Administration or Congress can take and makes calls for enhanced partnership and leadership across federal and non-federal public/private sector entities. The “America Is All In” declaration is organized by We Are Still In, a coalition in support for climate action and a pledge to uphold the United States commitments to reduce emissions under the Paris Agreement.

TCA Research Symposium Proceeds Virtually

Students in the VWU Master of Arts in Education program participated in the second annual TCA Research Symposium with VWU's partners at Tidewater Collegiate Academy last week via Zoom Virtual Meeting. Students presented two papers that were submitted for publication: Transformative Learning: How Graduate Students of Tidewater Collegiate Academy Reflect on the Influence of Transformative Learning on their Educational Experiences and Lives Post-Graduation and Adolescents' Perceptions of Media Consumption Resulting from a Service-Learning Project. Congratulations to participating VWU students and to Dr. Wendy Scott, Founder and Director of TCA!

Virginia Wesleyan University will celebrate the Class of 2020 during a virtual Commencement Ceremony on Friday, December 4, at 7:00 p.m. on the VWU Digital Broadcasting Network. All are invited and encouraged to tune in. "I offer my sincerest congratulations, once again, to these very special graduates and the family, friends, and faculty and staff members who helped them along the way," said VWU President Scott D. Miller. "We will always remember the Class of 2020 for their resilience and adaptability. These qualities, along with their world-class liberal arts education from VWU, will help them achieve their personal and professional goals." Read more and view the 2020 Commencement Ceremony Program.

 

Dr. Craig Wansink, Joan P. and Macon F. Brock Jr. Director of the VWU Robert Nusbaum Center, Chair of Religious Studies, and Senior Pastor of Second Presbyterian Church in Norfolk, published an editorial, "Lessons from a surreal few weeks at Virginia Wesleyan," in the Virginian-Pilot on November 23. Dr. Wansink’s piece stresses the importance of meaningful dialogue surrounding politics, religion, gender, sexuality, and more. In the piece, he writes, “When I was young, people would say that you should never talk about politics or religion in polite company. That advice is like saying that married couples should not talk about finances or parenting. Talking about important issues can lead to trouble unless we are careful in how we discuss them and — maybe more importantly — how we disagree.” Read More

Virginia Wesleyan University has again been honored by the Elizabeth River Project as a Sustained Distinguished Performance River Star Business. This achievement underscores the special care and attention the University has devoted to environmental issues and impact dating back to the 1980s and culminating in the construction of the Greer Environmental Sciences Center and creation of the Batten Honors College. Beyond its national niche programs, the University boasts student organizations like Marlins Go Green and initiatives like the Marlin Meadows Community Garden that contribute to the overall sustainability efforts of our campus community. More

Virginia Wesleyan University President Scott D. Miller shared an update November 23 following the recent change in leadership for VWU Global Campus. For the interim period, Dr. Maynard Schaus, Vice President for Academic Affairs, will assume direct oversight responsibility for this area.

Dr. David R. Black, a university president for nearly 30 years and Executive-in-Residence at VWU the last five years, will assume responsibility for the Lakeland University Japan and VWU Global (Japan) program. Recently retired from a three-year term as interim President of Lakeland University’s parent campus in Sheboygan, Wisconsin, he will provide leadership for the curriculum, marketing and enrollment teams at both institutions. During his time at VWU, Dr. Black has played a key role in a variety of initiatives, including the establishment of the Batten Honors College, the Work and Learn Program, and the formation of the LUJ/VWU Global collaborative. In 2013 he retired after 15 years as President at Eastern University in Pennsylvania and was President of Lakeland from 1989 until 1998. He was the founder of the campus in Japan.

Dr. Michelle Vachris, a Professor of Management, Business, and Economics at Virginia Wesleyan University, will serve as Director of the Master of Business Administration program. Dr. Vachris earned a B.A. in Economics from the College of William and Mary and an M.A. and a Ph.D. in Economics from George Mason University. Before arriving at VWU, she taught economics at Christopher Newport University where she holds the rank of Professor Emerita. Dr. Vachris began her career as an economist with the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) in the International Price Program where she worked on export and import price indexes and purchasing power parities. She has since served as a consultant on international statistics for the BLS and the International Monetary Fund. Dr. Vachris is a past-president and Distinguished Fellow of the Virginia Association of Economists and co-editor of the Virginia Economic Journal. Her publications include articles and book chapters on public choice economics, teaching pedagogy and economics in literature.

"As we transition to new leadership in this program," said Dr. Miller, "we remember that our campus community is one that is fostered on meaningful relationships that are built through respect, listening, and understanding. We must be led by individuals who cherish and nurture this. As we move forward, we will continue to strive to be an inclusive and caring community."

Last week, Dr. Paul Ewell resigned as Dean of Virginia Wesleyan University Global Campus. Today, the University accepted his resignation as Professor of Management, Business and Economics.

The University is aware of a recent comment made on social media by a member of the campus community. These views and opinions are expressly the individual’s own. Civic engagement and religious freedom are at the core of the University’s values, and we remain an inclusive and caring community that empowers meaningful relationships through listening, understanding, and communication.

Virginia Wesleyan University's on-going partnership with North Atlantic Treaty Organization- Allied Command Transformation (NATO-ACT), which formally originated in 2013, continues to expand. From October 26 – 29, Virginia Wesleyan was the host site for the International Concept Development and Experimentation Conference, NATO’s annual forum to discuss current issues of concept development and experimentation in the capability development process. The virtual event, originally planned as a 20th anniversary experience in Paris, was altered due to the exceptional circumstances caused by the COVID-19 pandemic. The event was sponsored by Headquarters, Supreme Allied Commander Transformation, and is normally co-hosted by the Ministry of Defense of a host nation. 

The Virginia Wesleyan University Board of Trustees held its Fall Business Session October 28. Actions from the meeting, according to a campus message from VWU President Scott D. Miller, included the approval of a tuition freeze for the fourth year in a row (for the 2021-22 Academic Year), acceptance of the final revised 2019-20 fiscal year budget that will be submitted to the University’s auditors, and the approval of the proposed revised 2020-21 budget. The Board offered a special welcome to Alisa Crider '10, an ex-officio member as the new Alumni Council Chair, and also recognized long-time Trustee and benefactor D. Henry Watts H'07 with the distinction of Emeritus. During a workshop held earlier this month, the Board also discussed various academic initiatives, including the Lakeland University Japan and VWU Global collaboration in Tokyo and new online and noncredit programs of VWU Global Campus. They heard reports from the University’s outsourced Chief Investment Officer at Commonfund and an update on the recent construction projects on and around campus: Susan T. Beverly Hall, Coastal 61 at Oxford Village, Brock Commons, and DeFord Manor. Finally, trustees held discussion surrounding the social justice movement, Black Lives Matter, racial and political tensions on college campuses nationwide and the current national situation regarding the United Methodist Church. “As always, I thank our Trustees for their time, guidance, and caring stewardship of Virginia Wesleyan University and its students,” said President Miller.

President Scott D. Miller has announced a condensed academic schedule for Virginia Wesleyan's in-person Spring 2021 Semester, sharing that members of the Emergency Response Team and President’s Cabinet reviewed a wide variety of options with respective working groups before coming to consensus on the topic.

The schedule for in-person instruction for the Spring 2021 Semester is as follows: 

January 25: Spring 2021 Semester Begins
April 27: Last Day of Classes
April 28: Reading Day
April 29-May 4: Final Exams
May 8: Commencement 2021 (format may depend on COVID)
May 16: VWU Global Campus Commencement 2021 (format may depend on COVID)

“I thank our students, faculty, and staff for their resilience and understanding,” said Dr. Miller, “and trust that they will continue their commitment to the safety and health of this campus during the spring semester.”

In this format, PORT Day will be held virtually over the course of a week, and to mitigate the spread of COVID-19 on campus, there will be no spring break. This schedule is for courses traditionally held in-person, and the course schedule for VWU Global Campus will continue as originally planned.

On behalf of Virginia Wesleyan University, President Scott D. Miller has added his signature and support, along with 100+ businesses, investors, and higher education institutions, urging U.S. states to join the Memorandum of Understanding for the Transportation & Climate Initiative (TCI). The Initiative, a regional collaboration of 11 Northeast and Mid-Atlantic states and the District of Columbia, seeks to improve transportation, develop the clean energy economy and reduce carbon emissions from the transportation sector. Read the publicly shared letter and learn more at ceres.org/tci.

 
 

Virginia Wesleyan University President Scott D. miller announced on October 19 several new additions to the VWU Alumni Council: Brandon Adair, Class of 2012, Virginia Beach, VA; Myles Baynard, Class of 2018, Chesapeake, VA; Ksera Dyette, PsyD, Class of 2011, Boston, MA; Taylor “Tip” Major, Class of 2020, Parksley, VA; George Rogers, Class of 2003, Lake Mary, FL; and Jaclyn Ruelle, Class of 2004, Richmond, VA. The principal purpose of the Alumni Council is to strengthen the bond between our graduates and the University. "With these new members, the University is excited for the opportunity to expand alumni outreach, engagement, and participation," said Dr. Miller. "I thank the Alumni Council for their tireless efforts on behalf of the University, and Lori Simpers Harris '94, Associate Vice President for Advancement and Executive Director of Alumni Relations, for her outstanding leadership of this area." More

 

The adventure of learning continues at Westminster-Canterbury on Chesapeake Bay, a Virginia Beach life-care community for active retirees. This fall, members can once again engage in Virginia Wesleyan University course offerings in religion, history, political science, and more through the Westminster/Wesleyan Lifelong Learning Institute. The classes offered each semester bring non-credit courses to the members at no cost to them. The courses are taught by Virginia Wesleyan faculty through a unique partnership between Virginia Wesleyan and Westminster-Canterbury that formally began in 2017. The Institute is coordinated by Ben Fraser, Westminster-Canterbury Fellow for Religious Studies and Lifelong Learning.

View the full schedule for fall 2020.

VWU President Scott D. Miller, along with presidents of Tidewater Community College, Norfolk State University, Eastern Virginia Medical School, and Old Dominion University, have played an active role in the founding of Campus 757, an initiative modeled after Philadelphia's highly successful Campus Philly. These leaders of the five local campuses have been working since 2015 to develop a similar concept for Coastal Virginia.

Campus 757 is a talent development initiative that markets to current and prospective students the diverse range of opportunities and offerings available to those that live, study, and work in the Coastal Virginia area. While the area’s universities seek to attract and retain the best and brightest students from around the country, Campus 757 works with these universities to keep recruited students in the Coastal Virginia area long after graduation.

Kurt Krause, President and CEO of VisitNorfolk, was instrumental in getting this worthwhile initiative off the ground, and the City of Norfolk and the Hampton Roads Workforce Council have provided seed money for the initiative.

Jason Seward ’05, Associate Vice President for Campus Life and Operational Management, will serve as VWU’s institutional representative to the organization. Read more here.

VWU professors Kathy Merlock Jackson, Kathy Shepherd Stolley and Lisa Lyon Payne have published a new book! "Animals and Ourselves" features essays on the various ways that human and animal lives are intertwined and constantly evolving. The book also includes chapters by Wesleyan professors Terry Lindvall and George Jackson, as well as late Senior Vice President Mort Gamble. Read more: https://mcfarlandbooks.com/product/animals-and-ourselves/

President Scott D. Miller has announced that Alisa Crider ’10 has accepted the role of Chair of the VWU Alumni Council. Crider is the Director of Investor Relations at the Hampton Roads Alliance. She joined the Alumni Council in 2018 after receiving the VWU Graduate of the Last Decade (GOLD) Award that same year. She gave the Alumni Welcome at the 2019 December Graduate Recognition Ceremony, where she encouraged our newest alumni to stay connected to their alma mater and to pursue lives and careers in a spirit of service, leadership, achievements, and contributions of many kinds.

A commitment to citizenship and civic engagement has been a critical element in the mission of Virginia Wesleyan University since its founding. "Marlins Vote," the University's campus election engagement initiative, promotes a variety of academic and social activities designed to encourage students and the broader campus community to become active participants in the electoral process at the local, state, and national level. In-person early voting for the 2020 election has begun throughout the commonwealth and the campus community is preparing. Members of Wesleyan Engaged have created and distributed voter registration packets for the campus community and members of Marlins Go Green and the Student Government Association (SGA) recently hosted a voter registration table in the Jane P. Batten Student Center on National Voter Registration Day. Shuttle rides for students who want to vote early and in-person at Bayside Recreation Center are available for those who register for a ride. The University’s civic engagement efforts, led by Brian Kurisky, Executive Director of Civic Engagement and Service Learning and Chief Diversity Officer, are part of the ALL IN Campus Democracy Challenge (ALL IN), which joins Virginia Wesleyan with more than 160 college presidents and chancellors in committing to full student voter registration and participation in all elections. Visit the Wesleyan Engaged webpage for information on civic engagement and the upcoming 2020 election, including local and national candidate information, a Virginia Beach sample ballot, and a listing of the proposed amendments to the Constitution of Virginia.

The resurfacing of the courts at the Everett Tennis Center has been completed. The tennis center is named for Virginia Wesleyan University Trustee Emeritus and former Board Chair (2010-2013) O.L. “Butch” Everett and his wife Carol. Along with the lead gift to fund the athletic facility in 2012, the Everetts also created an endowment to fund future needs of the Center. The University is grateful for their foresight and looks forward to the return of competitive play on the resurfaced courts.

Coastal 61 at Oxford Village, the new eight-building, 244 luxury-apartment community located on the north side of campus on Wesleyan Drive, is now open. Seven of the nine buildings are either complete or are to be finished soon. The other two buildings, on the west side of the complex, are scheduled for completion in the next two months. The new community expands the University's presence to both sides of Wesleyan Drive. Learn more about Coastal 61 at Oxford Village.

Virginia Wesleyan University Vice President for Academic Affairs Maynard Schaus and Associate Vice President for Academic Affairs Sue Larkin have initiated the University’s membership in the Consortium for Faculty Diversity (CFD). The Consortium is committed to increasing the diversity of students, faculty members and curricular offerings at liberal arts colleges with a particular focus on enhancing the diversity of faculty members and of applicants for faculty positions. Membership in CFD will help the University continue to actualize the diversity priorities set forth three years ago. The Consortium was founded as an association of liberal arts colleges committed to strengthening the ethnic diversity of students and of faculty members at liberal arts colleges. The early goals of the Consortium with regard to faculty diversity included encouraging members of underrepresented minority groups to complete their graduate programs and to consider faculty employment in liberal arts colleges. The Consortium invites applications for dissertation fellowships and post-doctoral fellowships from those who will contribute to increasing the diversity of member colleges by increasing their ethnic and racial diversity, maximizing the educational benefits of diversity and/or increasing the number of professors who can and will use diversity as a resource for enriching the education of students. "Virginia Wesleyan shares the commitment of the Consortium’s member institutions to enhancing its faculty, student body, and curriculum, as well as upholding the teacher-scholar career model essential to the success of small colleges and universities," said VWU President Scott D. Miller. "The University looks forward to working with CFD member institutions to make VWU, as well as the larger organization, stronger and more significant."

Build That Wall: A Deist President, Connecticut Baptists, and Religious Freedom (Virtual Event)

In commemoration of Constitution Day 2020 on Thursday, September 17 from 6:00 p.m. - 7:30 p.m., Dr. Craig Wansink will speak on Thomas Jefferson, the Constitution, and the term "wall of separation," which frequently is used to describe the relationship between church and state. In better understanding religious liberty and American politics today, we need to return to October 7, 1801 and January 1, 1802, to a letter correspondence between the Danbury Baptist Association of Danbury, Connecticut, and the new American President, Thomas Jefferson. Together, these odd bedfellows led America to see a “wall of separation” between religion and government as a critical starting place for reflection on the unique religious identity of the American experiment. 

To register for the virtual event, please contact the Robert Nusbaum Center at 455-3129.

Dr. Craig Wansink is the Joan P. and Macon F. Brock, Jr. Director of the Robert Nusbaum Center, and a Professor of Religious Studies at Virginia Wesleyan University

 

 

In recognition of Constitution Day on Thursday, September 17, the Robert Nusbaum Center is releasing a series of video vignettes to draw attention to major anniversaries of milestone decisions in our country’s ongoing struggles for civil rights, and to remind us to remain ever vigilant in efforts to protect and preserve our rights and freedoms. The series of four vignettes may be viewed on the Robert Nusbaum Center website beginning on Constitution Day 2020. The videos feature VWU students and highlight the: 1) 150th anniversary of the 15th Amendment, granting black men the right to vote; 2)  100th anniversary of the 19th Amendment, giving women the right to vote; 3) 65th anniversary of the Immigrtion and Naturalization Act of 1965, abolishing  a quota system based on natural origin; and 4) 30th anniversary of the Americans with Disabilities Act, prohibiting discrimination of Americans with disabilities in all areas of public life.

September 17 is recognized in the United States as Constitution & Citizenship Day to commemorate the formation and signing of the U.S. Constitution on September 17, 1787.

President Miller recently led the first President's Council for Inclusive Communities (PCIC) meeting of the 2020-21 Academic Year, welcoming new members and sharing the council’s charge for the year ahead. Since its inception, the mission of the PCIC has been to foster a campus community where everyone feels welcomed, valued, and included regardless of race, religion, color, creed, gender, national or ethnic origin, age, marital status, covered veteran status, handicap, sexual orientation, or any other legally protected status. The council plans to continue this mission and to also join with the many voices calling for an end to systemic racism and discrimination. The PCIC discussed this charge and the current events in the country and, more specifically, on campus. Members recognized the need to be proactive rather than entirely reactive in its mission. With that in mind, the council will begin by identifying a clearer sense of the needs and the perceptions of students, staff, and faculty through a campus climate study and through initiatives such as a bias incident form, to increase communication among the community and adapt diversity/inclusion best practices to the VWU campus. Visit the PCIC webpage for more information.

The Series Foreword is now available in the 2020-2021 installment of President to President, a thought leadership publication written by and for university presidents, and edited by President Miller and Dr. Marylouise Fennell. This year's series, "Fostering a Culture of Innovation," will examine how leading colleges and universities are finding creative solutions to new challenges, including the myriad issues created by the COVID-19 pandemic and its aftermath. In the foreword, Dr. Barbara K. Mistick, President of the National Association of Independent Colleges and Universities, elaborates on this year's series and the significance it will have in providing perspective during these challenging times.

Mr. Rogers has long been a comforting voice during times of crisis. After 9/11, and at other times of national tragedy, many turn to Fred Rogers’ quote, “When I was a boy and I would see scary things in the news, my mother would say to me, ‘Look for the helpers. You will always find people who are helping.’ To this day, especially in times of ‘disaster,’ I remember my mother’s words and I am always comforted by realizing that there are still so many helpers - so many caring people in this world.”

On Friday, September 11th at 9:03 a.m., the campus community is invited to gather in the Peace Garden outside of Clarke Hall for a brief 9/11 Remembrance. 

Representatives from Marlin Ministries, ROTC, Robert Nusbaum Center, and Wesleyan Engaged will reflect on the healing power of ‘helpers.’  Join us as we gather to pay tribute to the helpers, and remember the  2,996 lives lost during four separate plane crashes on the morning of  September 11, 2001 (8:46 a.m. Flight 11 crashes into the North Tower of the World Trade Center, 9:03 a.m. Flight 175 crashes into the South Tower of the WTC, 9:37 a.m. Flight 77 crashes into the Pentagon, and at  10:03 a.m. Flight 93 is crashed in Somerset County, Pennsylvania).

 

The professional accomplishments of VWU faculty and staff were celebrated on August 21 in Hofheimer Library during VWU’s annual "Feathers in Your Cap" event. The celebration recognized faculty, adjunct professors, librarians, and staff members who in the last year have published a book or professional publication, completed artwork, obtained a grant, received tenure and/or a promotion, and contributed to teaching and scholarship.

The “Faculty Scholarship and Creative Works” display is located in the Reading Room, on the first floor of Hofheimer Library, through the end of the academic year. The campus community is invited to visit the display which showcases faculty and staff accomplishments included in The Pharos from May 2019 to June 2020.

 

 

The Virginia Center for Inclusive Communities (VCIC) recently hosted its 56th Annual Humanitarian Awards Ceremony. Each year, awards are presented to individuals and organizations who demonstrate a commitment to the promotion of respect and understanding among people of diverse racial, ethnic, and religious backgrounds. Held virtually this year, the honorees recognized included VWU Trustee Sharon S. Goodwyn, Jay M. Klebanoff, Amy K. Milligan, Toiya A. Sosa, James M. Wood, Jr., and the Association of American Physicians of Indian Origin Hampton Roads. Congratulations!

Since 2017, VWU has hosted the Hampton Roads office for VCIC on campus. And in that same year, VWU's Dr. Craig Wansink, Joan P. and Macon F. Brock, Jr. Director of the Robert Nusbaum Center, was honored during the VCIC Humanitarian Awards. In 2018, VWU President Scott D. Miller served as chair of the VCIC's 54th Annual Humanitarian Awards.

Learn more and watch the 56th Annual Virginia Center for Inclusive Communities Humanitarian Awards here. 

 

The Virginia Wesleyan Education Department has partnered with the Virginia Institute of Marine Science (VIMS) in Gloucester on their capacity building NOAA-funded project, "VA TIDES: Virginia Teachers Innovating and Designing Experiential Science." This project is a collaborative endeavor of several Virginia organizations and institutions (VIMS, Virginia Wesleyan, William and Mary, James Madison University, and Old Dominion University) to provide aspiring educators with the knowledge and skills to engage K-12 students in meaningful watershed educational experiences. VWU students who complete the project will receive a stipend and present their work to a state-wide audience of educators. Virginia Wesleyan initiatives such as the Downstream Collaborative Project, the Virginia Wesleyan Environmental Institute, and a partnership with YMCA Camp Red Feather contribute to Virginia Wesleyan's active involvement on this project. 

Virginia Wesleyan President Scott D. Miller has announced that Greg Skinner will join the University in October as chief information officer. An information technology and higher education veteran, Skinner has previously served in multiple roles at York College, Lehigh University, and Ursinus College, all in Pennsylvania, and most recently served as director of enterprise information and chief privacy officer. He holds a Bachelor of Science in Computer Information Systems from York College and a Master of Science in Information Systems: System Design and Programming from Capella University. Additionally, he completed the EDUCAUSE Institute Management Program and CLIR/EDUCAUSE Leading Change Institute. 

The Virginia Foundation for Independent Colleges (VFIC)—of which Virginia Wesleyan is one of 15 member institutions—has been chosen by the National Council for Community and Education Partnerships (NCCEP) as the Gear Up Community Partner of the Year. The VFIC was honored for being quick to engage in a unique collaboration, with the Virginia Latino Higher Education Network (VALHEN) and GEAR UP Virginia, to bring Latino students from across the state to higher education institutions and provide a view of the college experience that is culturally sensitive to this student population in Virginia. Virginia Wesleyan is proud to work together toward the shared mission of the VFIC and congratulates the organization on this well-deserved distinction. Read more here.

Virginia Wesleyan University's partners at Sentara Healthcare have signed a letter of intent with Cone Health, headquartered in Greensboro, North Carolina, to combine organizations. Sentara Healthcare and Cone Health are both regional, community-based health systems with similar missions, cultures, strategies and visions for transforming the future of healthcare. Their joint commitment is simple: to bring together two strong industry leaders into a unified, transformative and value-driven organization at the forefront of change that will be a model for the rest of the nation's healthcare systems. Virginia Wesleyan is proud of Sentara for their tireless innovation and VWU congratulates CEO Howard Kern, a VWU Trustee, for his strong leadership. Read more in the press release.

Tidewater Collegiate Academy at Virginia Wesleyan University is offering a new program to provide meaningful, personal, and affordable educational options for students during COVID-19. Project Amplify is an online, pre-college program designed to equip college-bound students for success in the transition to college through authentic, thought-demanding, hands-on, community-based learning experiences tailored specifically for individual students to explore their passions and meet their goals. TCA at VWU is now accepting applications from rising 11th graders that will join a two-year cohort. Students will engage in a series of coursework based on the TCA innovative learning model and take dual enrollment classes from VWU concurrently. This will include one VWU class their first fall semester, and then two courses the next three semesters. Students will graduate with an Advanced High School Diploma and potentially 28 college credits. For more information, please contact Dr. Wendy Scott, Founder and Director of TCA.

The Virginia Wesleyan Esports team began its official competition schedule in early 2020, playing in a total of 33 matches against colleges and universities from around the country (including a victory over cross-town rival Old Dominion University). The team is ready for fall competition in the University's state-of-the-art Marlin Esports Arena, which is equipped with 17 high-end gaming PCs featuring ASUS Prime Z390-P motherboards, Intel 9th Gen i7 processors, 16gb ADATA Gammix RAM, MSI GeForce RTX 2070 Armor GPU's, and MSI Optix 24-inch gazing monitors. The Marlins will compete this fall in League of Legends, OVERWATCH, Rocket League, and Magic the Gathering Arena. They'll be led by coaches Glenn Johnson and Zak Peeler, as the world's fastest growing competitive sport continues to grow its roots at VWU. Follow the Esports action on the Marlins' Twitch Channel.

Virginia Wesleyan has finalized a new affiliation agreement with William & Mary's School of Marine Science at the Virginia Institute of Marine Science (VIMS). This unique partnership promotes enrollment of graduating Batten Honors College students in VIMS' Master of Arts in Marine Science program. Interested students should contact the Dean of the Batten Honors College Dr. Joyce Easter.

Virginia Wesleyan University will welcome Marie Porter to the Marlin Family on August 1 as the new University Chaplain. Porter has served as the director of youth ministry at the neighboring Haygood United Methodist Church since 2009 and will join VWU in a part-time capacity while continuing her service at the church. She is Lay Person Certified by the Virginia Conference of the UMC, Elizabeth River District. This partnership developed due to reduced funding from the Church and the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic. "Marie's energy, enthusiasm, and interest in serving our campus community is inspiring and I look forward to her joining us," said VWU President Scott D. Miller.

Joanne Renn, who came out of retirement in the spring to serve as Virginia Wesleyan's interim executive director of Intercollegiate Athletics, will remain in that capacity for the 2020-21 academic year. The search for a permanent athletic director has been temporarily suspended due to uncertainty regarding the 2020-21 season. "With continuously changing messages from both the NCAA and the ODAC...it is important for us to maintain a level of consistency in our Office of Intercollegiate Athletics," said VWU President Scott D. Miller. "Acclimating a new athletics director under the current circumstances would not be ideal for anyone." After 11 years as athletics director and 25 years total with the Marlins, Renn retired in 2018. She provided active leadership in expansion and improvement of the institution's athletic facilities: Birdsong Field, the Betty S. Rogers Track and Field Center, development of the outdoor athletic complex, upgrades and naming of Kenneth R. Perry Field, a new East Gate campus entrance and the adjoining Marlin Way, and TowneBank Park. Renn was also instrumental in the initiation of men's and women's swimming, a relationship with Harlaxton College of England, and establishment of the Batten Honors College. She led the planning, secured the funding, and supervised the construction of the Everett Tennis Center in 2011. Renn Reserve and Pond, in the heart of Virginia Wesleyan's outdoor athletic complex, was named in her honor upon her retirement. VWU sponsors 22 intercollegiate sports programs and a staff of more than 55 coaches, administrators, and support personnel.

On July 6, U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) announced concerning new regulations banning international students from remaining at American colleges and universities that, due to the pandemic, have chosen to operate entirely online this fall. While Virginia Wesleyan's plan is to hold in-person and remote courses this semester, which may exclude the University's international students from these regulations, this information is still an upsetting disruption during an already stressful time. "I feel for these students and all of higher education as the administration is making a very difficult situation even more so," said VWU President Scott D. Miller in a message to the community. "These actions are in direct opposition with our beliefs, values, culture, and mission." For that reason, Dr. Miller joined colleagues on the Presidents' Alliance on Higher Education and Immigration in issuing a position statement and signing on to the amicus brief in support of the Harvard/MIT lawsuit challenging the ICE Student and Exchange Visitor Program (SEVP) guidance. The amicus brief will be submitted on behalf of higher education associations seeking to enjoin the directive. Dr. Miller also signed, on behalf of the University, a letter to Congress coordinated by the American Council on Education asking for assistance in rescinding the regulation. "I want to express my strong support and admiration for our international students, who are valued and important members of our University community," he said. "We have been communicating directly with those affected not only by the COVID-19 crisis but also these restrictive new regulations. We will do everything we can to advocate for and support our international Marlin family, and we will keep the VWU community informed as additional details become available."

Virginia Wesleyan University's new Work and Learn Program (WLP) website is now live. The user-friendly resource allows students to explore all options available for on-campus employment experiences through the Campus Cooperative, Federal Work-Study (FWS), Opus, and Residential Leadership programs. The WLP is dedicated to providing students with meaningful work opportunities that allow them to better engage with the Virginia Wesleyan community. Students will develop the skills and experiences necessary to be competitive in today's job market while also having the opportunity to actively contribute toward the cost of their education. Students can earn up to $2,500 annually through both FWS and the Campus Cooperative. Students selected to serve as a Resident Assistant in the Residential Leadership Program will earn $4,200 annually. The WLP supports the University's focus on affordability of a Virginia Wesleyan education, expanding reach and providing a longer-term plan that will support students and the University community on many levels. View the Work and Learn Program website.

Virginia Wesleyan Athletics has launched a multi-year partnership with industry leader SIDEARM Sports. As part of the new partnership, the athletics website (vwuathletics.com) is undergoing a redesign that will go live on August 12. SIDEARM Sports is one of the biggest brands in collegiate athletics, partnering with numerous colleges and universities across all three NCAA divisions as well as NAIA and the NJCAA. The new design will be fully responsive, allowing users to easily access the website on multiple platforms (mobile, desktop, tablet). It will also feature new looks to the team roster and statistical pages, larger images on story pages, and easy navigation to specific areas for fans and prospective student-athletes, while still providing the comprehensive coverage of Virginia Wesleyan's 22 athletic teams.

Each August, prior to the start of the fall semester, Virginia Wesleyan University President Scott D. Miller delivers an annual State of the University address to the campus community. The address includes highlights, initiatives and significant accomplishments from the past year, recognition of faculty and staff, points of pride, recent University news and information, current campus projects and direction for the future of the University. This year's State of the University will be delivered virtually on Friday, August 21. The program will be streamed and archived on the VWU Digital Broadcasting Network.

Two programs within Virginia Wesleyan's Campus Life division have an updated look, a refreshed focus, and a new administrative location. Formally known as RecX and the Wesleyan Activities Council (WAC), VWU's Recreation and Wellness (UREC) program and the Off The Hook student programming board have been redesigned to enhance the student experience through participation and leadership opportunities in programs, activities, and events. Willie Harrell '97, Director of Recreation and Wellness, will lead the UREC program with the primary mission of promoting personal growth, social fellowship, and healthy lifestyle choices through participation in challenging and fun activities regardless of skill or experience. The UREC office is located across from Scribner University Store in the Batten Student Center. Off The Hook will provide social, educational, and community-building activities on campus, with a focus on weekend events. It will continue to provide quality entertainment for the VWU community and promote campus traditions including the beloved Mud Games, Christmas Tree Lighting, and Late Night Breakfast. Off the Hook is part of the Office of Student Activities, which also has a new look and a new home in the Alumni Galleria (across the hall from the Office of Finance and Administration). Learn more about UREC, Off The Hook, and Campus Life at Virginia Wesleyan.

A recent feature in Virginia Business highlights the opening of the Sentara Brock Cancer Center in Norfolk, just a few miles from campus. The patient treatment and care facility broke ground in March 2018 and officially opened its doors on June 1. The Center is named for VWU Trustee Emerita Joan Brock and her late husband Macon. A three-time cancer survivor, Joan Brock was treated within the Sentara Cancer network. "We are grateful for Joan, her generosity, and continued support of our community," said VWU President Scott D. Miller.

Campus construction projects are steadily continuing this summer at Virginia Wesleyan University. The main dining room and service area in Boyd Dining Center have been gutted, and renovation has started. Completion of this phase is expected by August 5 (view recent photos here). Renovation recently began on Susan Beverly Hall (formerly the Fine Arts Building). The front area of the building—containing The Mary Morton Parsons Foundation Ensemble Rehearsal Room, the Alison J. and Ella W. Parsons Fund Fine Arts Entrance & Lobby, and the James A. Hixon Music Studios—has been gutted and the new central heating and cooling system is nearing completion. Installation of the new roof will be finalized this month. The building will be renovated in thirds to accommodate ongoing building use and work. The three-week installation process on the stands at TowneBank Arena continues (view recent photos here). Coastal 61 at Oxford Village is progressing (view recent photos here) and The Franklin Johnston Group has provided new information about apartment availability at coastal61.com. The complex is a Public Private Partnership (P3) of the University and is designed to provide housing for VWU graduate students and faculty/staff, as well as the Virginia Beach community. Completion of the new roof on Monumental Chapel and Beazley Recital Hall is expected to be done in the next two weeks. Earlier this spring, the inside of the facility received an extensive upgrade. Finally, modifications continue on the plans for the construction of DeFord Manor, with final plans expected to be completed and submitted through the City of Virginia Beach planning process in the next two months. Construction is expected to begin in late fall.

Congratulations to the 307 Marlins named to Virginia Wesleyan University's Spring 2020 Dean's List. The Dean's List recognizes undergraduate students who achieve a grade point average of 3.5 or above during a given semester. To qualify for this honor, students must have full-time status and have taken at least nine semester hours of traditionally graded courses. These individuals demonstrate a remarkable level of dedication to their academic pursuits.

Congratulations to the 123 Virginia Wesleyan University students named to the Spring 2020 President’s List, which recognizes full-time students who earned a 4.0 grade point average for the semester. To qualify for this honor, students must have taken nine semester hours of traditionally graded courses and have no grades of F or incomplete. A reception will be held during the Fall 2020 Semester to honor these outstanding students. Well done!

VWU President Scott D. Miller has announced members and priorities of the President's Council for Inclusive Communities (PCIC) for the 2020-21 Academic Year. Since its inception, the mission of the PCIC has been to foster a community at Virginia Wesleyan University where everyone feels welcomed, valued, and included regardless of race, religion, color, creed, gender, national or ethnic origin, age, marital status, covered veteran status, handicap, sexual orientation, or any other legally protected status. "Today, we want not only to continue this mission," said Dr. Miller, "but to also join with the many voices calling for an end to systemic racism and discrimination on any front...As a campus community, we are committed to promoting the equitable participation of all, to acknowledging and removing barriers, and to ensuring that everyone has a voice and is heard." In addition to its ongoing mission, he said, PCIC is charged this year with focusing special attention on supporting Black members of our community. View the full list of PCIC priorities and members.

As a learning community located in the rich and unique ecosystems of Coastal Virginia and the Chesapeake Bay watershed, Virginia Wesleyan University is committed to promoting and developing the next generation of environmental stewards. The ongoing sustainability efforts of the University reflect a larger commitment to ethical conduct and social responsibility through environmental stewardship and education. As an affirmation of this commitment and to ensure this remains a priority for the University under all leadership (current and future), the VWU sustainability team has developed the Environmental Guiding Principles of Virginia Wesleyan University. The guidelines were approved by the Board of Trustees at their spring meeting.

President Scott D. Miller has announced that the original Fine Arts Building will be renamed "Susan T. Beverly Hall" in honor of alumna Susan Beverly '72—longtime Trustee, benefactor and friend of Virginia Wesleyan. Additional charitable namings of facilities within the building include: The Robert G. Cabell III and Maude Morgan Cabell Foundation Visual Arts Studios; The Mary Morton Parsons Foundation Ensemble Rehearsal Room; Alison J. and Ella W. Parsons Fund Fine Arts Entrance & Lobby; and the James A. Hixon Music Studios. The building was originally constructed in 1966 and has long served as home to art, music, and theatre instruction and performances in the Edward D. Hofheimer Theatre (1981) and its various art studios, music studios and practice rooms, acting studios, and a multi-media room. The Susan S. Goode Fine and Performing Arts Center, which complements the original building, opened on campus in 2019.

A virtual Commissioning Ceremony for the Army Reserve Officers’ Training Corps (ROTC) program will be held on Saturday, May 16, at 10 a.m. Two Virginia Wesleyan University cadets will be commissioned as a second lieutenants in the United States Army—Matthew R. Improta (Corps of Engineers) and Zachary A. Raymond (Infantry). The Marlin Company was formalized on campus in 1998 and operates as part of the Old Dominion University Monarch Battalion. Through elective classes and field training, students receive valuable tools, training, and leadership experiences that lead to military service and are assets in any career field. View the event invitation and Zoom meeting information.

Virginia Wesleyan University's 2020 senior capstone exhibition, "Artistic Vision," is now on display in a virtual gallery. The exhibit features the works of art majors Zachary Burkhardt, Collin Jones, Jessica Houlker, Miciah Brown, Michelle Clark, Tina Stafford, Darius Brown, Marissa Gross, Jennifer Evans, and Diana Jackson. This capstone project enables students to envision, plan and create art that reflects what is meaningful to them.

At its spring meeting on April 29, the Virginia Wesleyan University Alumni Council elected new officers and several new members. The University extends its sincere gratitude to Troy DeLawrence '93 as his term ends as Council Chair. Troy has served on the Alumni Council for nine years and was a driving force in the reorganization and strengthening of the Council three years ago. Current Vice Chair Rob Kohler '93 will assume the role of Council Chair on July 1. Rob Gillikin '00 becomes Vice Chair, and Sydney Covey '15 has been appointed Secretary. The Alumni Council welcomes five new members: Jordan Bondurant '12, Kadija Corinaldi '15, Nicholas Hipple '18, Julie Kissel '82, and Andrew Petrey '15. 

This year the campaigning and elections for the VWU Student Government Association (SGA) were conducted virtually. All Marlins were able to nominate candidates for positions through social media polls and by email. Candidates created digital flyers, campaign videos, and contacted various campus offices to post their campaign materials on their respective social media platforms to spread the word far and wide. Director of Student Activities Sarah Guzzo shared that once elections went live, votes poured in. Congratulations to this year's elected Student Government Association Officials for the 2020-21 academic year!
 
EXECUTIVE BOARD:
 
Sabrina "Bri" Jones, President
Hometown: Fredericksburg, Virginia
Rising class and major: Senior, Criminal Justice with Sociology minor
Campus Involvement: Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Resident Assistant, women's basketball, Batten Center Staff 
"I am excited to be a part of SGA this year because I believe that the student body is very important and their voices matter. I want it to be my job, to make sure they are heard and this coming year to be the best year yet at VWU!"
 
Alaira Groomes, Vice President 
Hometown: Germantown, Maryland
Class and Major: Rising Senior; Business
Campus Involvement: Tri Sigma Sorority, Resident Assistant, Debate Club President, Student Activities Office, Wesleyan Activities Council Event Supervisor
"To listen to the voices of the students and make changes that are both feasible and effective"
 
Issac Guzman, Secretary
Hometown: Passaic, New Jersey
Class and Major: Rising Senior; Communication with a Business Minor 
Campus Involvement: Marlin Ministries, Coastal Market Staff
"The main reason to be excited to be an SGA member is being able to be in a leadership role with pioneering minds. The people in the SGA community are known for their diligence in the classroom and for the student community, also not to mention, how much we care for the student administration in their collaborations to make Virginia Wesleyan great!"
 
Joey Mueller, Treasurer
Hometown: Woodbridge Virginia
Class and Majors: Rising Sophomore; Political Science and Theatre
Campus Involvement: Batten Honors College 
"I am excited to continue the work we started last year and to make sure our entire student body feels heard and included."
 
Allison Churchman, Special Events Coordinator
Hometown: Chesapeake, Virginia
Class and Major: Rising Senior; Business.
Campus Involvement: Resident Assistant, President of Tri Sigma Sorority, Wesleyan Ambassador, Wesleyan Activities Council Event Supervisor, Debate Club 
"I'm excited to be a part of SGA because I am excited to represent the true interests of the student body."
 
CLASS OFFICIALS: 
 
Eric Fisher III, Senior Class President
Hometown: Virginia Beach, Virginia
Major and Class: Rising Senior; Sports and Recreation Management
Campus Involvement: Men's Track and Field, Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, Homelessness Shelter Student Organization 
"I enjoy being a part of SGA because I think it's cool to be a contributing factor to the upcoming freshmen's experience."
 
Dazjae Johnson, Senior Class Vice President 
Hometown: Chesapeake, Virginia
Major: Social Work
Campus Involvement: Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, National Society of Leadership and Success, Resident Assistant, Homecoming Queen of 2018-2019
"This is my third year having the absolutely amazing opportunity of being a part of SGA, and every year I find that I become more connected with the student body. The best part has been taking the students' concerns back to the meetings, and watching all the leaders of SGA as well as Jason and Keith work so diligently to come up with solutions. The care that this group of individuals have for the student body is truly so angelic! I'm excited for another year to give back to the campus through the wonderful works of SGA!"
 
Landry Moffo, Junior Class President 
Hometown: Stafford Virginia  
Major: Recreation and Leisure Management
Campus Involvement:  Men's Track and Field, Debate Club 
"Last year we started some new Wesleyan traditions and I'm excited to reintroduce those ideas again ( in hopes of getting more participation) as well as start some new ones and develop a positive subculture at Virginia Wesleyan. I'm also excited to see all of the changes that can occur for the student body as they voice their opinions throughout the year to myself and the rest of the reps."
 
Danielle "D'Arcy" D'Arcy, Junior Class Vice President 
Hometown: Williamsburg, Virginia
Majors: Elementary Education and Business
Campus Involvement : Tri Sigma Sorority
"I am so excited to be a part of SGA this year because I have always wanted to be a part of it and I have many ideas to help our school and our student body thrive even in these difficult times. I can't wait to get started!"
 
Wesley Burton, Sophomore Class President 
Hometown: Fredericksburg, Virginia
Major: Business
Campus Involvement: Carribean Student Association, African Student Association 
"I'm excited to be able to make an impact on the school and increase campus involvement."
 
Phoebe Cox, Sophomore Class Vice President
Hometown: Bridgewater, Virginia
Major: History 
Campus Involvement: Batten Honors College 
"I'm excited to be a part of SGA in order to continue spreading positive change throughout campus."

Dr. Steven Emmanuel, Professor of Philosophy at Virginia Wesleyan University, has been named as the next Dean of the Susan S. Goode School of Arts and Humanities. Dr. Emmanuel is a longtime and highly respected member of the Virginia Wesleyan faculty. He has received many awards for teaching, research and public service throughout his career, including the Outstanding Faculty Award from the State Council of Higher Education for Virginia (SCHEV)—the Commonwealth's highest honor for faculty at Virginia public and private colleges and universities. In a message to the campus community, VWU President Scott D. Miller thanked Dr. Travis Malone, the inaugural Dean of the Susan S. Goode School of Arts and Humanities, for his outstanding leadership, most notably his service as the academic liaison for the construction of the Susan S. Goode Fine and Performing Arts Center and the fundraising campaign for the original Fine Arts Building. "Dr. Malone has done a truly remarkable job since its establishment in 2016," said Dr. Miller. "As his term will end with the academic year, I want to express my sincerest thanks for his dedication and service during this time of growth and change. The arts at Virginia Wesleyan have positively thrived under his leadership and he has been a valued adviser. I know the program will remain in good hands under Dr. Emmanuel's deanship."

Catch the latest in Marlin athletics in this week's edition of SportSplash.

Since the founding of the distinctive Batten Honors College in the fall of 2107, an intimate recognition ceremony has been held for the newest Batten Fellows and Shumadine Scholars. A ceremonial pinning of each student represents their completion of orientation and formal induction into the elite Batten Honors College of Virginia Wesleyan University. As the program has grown and the highly selective Batten Honors College has flourished, the ceremony has also grown to reflect this. This fall, all four classes of the Batten Honors College will attend the Batten Honors College Convocation and Dr. Ian Solomon, Dean of UVA's Frank Batten School for Leadership and Public Policy, will serve as keynote speaker. This special event will be held on Founders Day, September 10. 

The spectacular Gardens of the Greer have been captured in photos taken by Marisa Cousin, horticulturist for Norfolk Botanical Garden and VWU. Cousin has photographed the beauty of the living landscapes and gardens surrounding the environmental sciences center and provided a detailed description for each photo that includes botanical and common names, locations and information about each native plant. “I try to capture what is happening in the landscape during the various seasons as well as give information regarding the native plants that are growing at the Greer,” said Cousin. “I also post the photos on the Brock School of Mathematics and Natural Sciences Facebook page and on my personal social media site to educate others. I hope to create more environmental awareness for the public who are unable to have access to the Greer landscape.” Cousin says that it’s important to share this unique concept. “Picture a 2.5 acre landscape on a college campus that creates this beautiful wildlife sanctuary for various animals while also acting as a learning landscape for all of the natural science students. They're able to apply what they are learning in the classroom to a natural area right outside their lecture hall.” Read more about the gardens and Earth Week at VWU.

During Earth Week, Director of Campus Sustainability and Professor of Ocean and Atmospheric Sciences Elizabeth Malcolm reported VWU’s RecycleMania results. Virginia Wesleyan is one of several schools who had to end competition early due to the coronavirus, so the participation period was adjusted accordingly. Virginia Wesleyan ranked 77th in the nation, and placed second in the Old Dominion Athletic Conference (ODAC) and second in Virginia. For pounds recycled per person, VWU ranked 31 in the nation, first out of Virginia schools, and second in the ODAC.

“Thanks to all the students and housekeeping staff who helped out and especially junior Skyler Latuca who organized and conducted the weekly estimates and organized a dorm competition,” said Dr. Malcolm. “Micaela Morris and Ashley Roehrman worked to improve recycling from the facilities side and Director of Civic Leadership and Service Learning Brian Kurisky collected and recycled electronic waste.”

During the six-week period, VWU’s recycling was estimated to have reduced the equivalent of 42 Metric Tons of CO2, or eight cars off the road, or the energy consumption of four households. During that time the University recycled a total of 17 lbs. per person and had a recycling rate of 35 percent. Way to go Marlins!

The VWU Sustainability Leaders program is a new initiative, announced during Earth Week, that will “green” bachelor degrees at Virginia Wesleyan. The program will recognize students who have completed volunteer service and coursework focused on real-world issues of sustainability and the environment. At VWU’s December Commencement Ceremonies, each student who has applied for this distinction and met the requirements will receive a green graduation cord. “To complete the Sustainability Leaders Program and receive a green graduation cord, students must earn at least 10 points of sustainability achievements and submit the required application,” explained Director of Campus Sustainability and Professor of Ocean and Atmospheric Sciences Elizabeth Malcolm. “Points can be earned throughout all undergraduate years of study at Virginia Wesleyan University and are awarded on a scale. We are excited to offer this important distinction to our graduates.”

 

Catch the latest news form Virginia Wesleyan Athletics in the April 21 edition of SportSplash. 

Read the latest news from Virginia Wesleyan University in the April 17, 2020 edition of The Wesleyan Review.

Explore. Accelerate. Online or on campus.

Summer Session at VWU is for everyone, whether you’re behind in coursework or planning to graduate early. Summer at VWU gives you an opportunity to engage in specialty courses, complete General Education requirements, or advance in your major. Students can also engage in independent research with a faculty member, without distraction from other coursework. How will you spend your summer? Catch up or get ahead at VWU.

The April edition of "The Pharos" shares the latest faculty and staff accomplishments and best practices. Read more at https://conta.cc/3b7XLEe.

Read the April 14 edition of SportSplash to learn more about how Virginia Wesleyan honors senior class athletes and more at https://conta.cc/2K3v6Ek.

Read the latest edition of SportSplash. SportSplash provides Marlin fans and friends with the most up-to-date information on Marlin athletics. Go Marlins!

On April 6, President Miller will host a private Fireside Chat exclusively for faculty and staff on the University's Coronavirus Crisis Action Plan. After a short break, he will hold a public chat for VWU's wider community to announce a significant new initiative. 

From President Miller's Town Hall Update on the impact of the Coronavirus to features on faculty, rescheduled events and campus happenings, the April 3, 2020 edition of the Wesleyan Review shares the latest news and events with the VWU community and friends.

Read the April edition of the Center for the Study of Religious Freedom newsletter. This monthly newsletter shares the latest news, opportunities for dialogue, and events from the Center for the Study of Religious Freedom at Virginia Wesleyan University.

Virginia Wesleyan University's 2020 campus democratic engagement action plan has been selected as one of the top plans submitted to the ALL IN Challenge. A link to our plan is featured on the sample action plan page of the ALL IN website as a strong example for others to emulate. VWU’s Director of Civic Leadership and Service Learning, Dr. Brian Kurisky, led the University’s efforts on this project. Well done!

Construction continues on the eight building, 244-unit Coastal 61 at Oxford Village mixed-use housing complex on the north side of campus along Wesleyan Drive. The public-private partnership with The Franklin Johnston Group of Virginia Beach is scheduled for completion this fall/winter. 

Renovation of the former Bookstore into the Scribner University Store has been completed. In addition to apparel, the store is now the home to Duplication and Postal Services. Adjacent to the Scribner University Store is Coastal Market, a quick-stop store with a variety of food, beverages, and convenient items. 

In the coming months, a new playing surface will be installed and demolition of existing seatingand installation of new seating will occur in the Convocation Hall of the Jane P. Batten Student Center. Demolition began this week and the project renderings provide visuals for the completed arena. Special thanks to TowneBank for the grant that is making this project possible. 

Construction and landscaping have been completed at the Betty S. Rogers Track and Field Center. Improvements include a beautiful new entrance archway! Thanks to Trustee Emeritus Bill Shelhorse '70 for his support on this project named in memory of his sister.  

Construction began this week on the new sign at the main entrance to the University. View the rendering for the new entrance sign.

Clearing and grading was completed recently on the newest trail in Wesleyan Woods. Located off of Norfolk Lane (the road that runs to Facilities Management), the trail loop goes back to the western border of the campus (at Interstate 64) and follows the Norfolk side of Lake Taylor before re-emerging near the Norfolk Avenue connection. The new signage for the scenic walking, running and biking trails on VWU’s beautiful, park-like 300-acre campus has been added.

Fundraising continues and our goal is in sight for a May challenge grant deadline for the upgrades to the original Fine Arts Building. We have initiated conversations with several contractors and should be ready to proceed this spring/summer. 

Private funds have been raised and plans have been finalized for DeFord Manor. Construction is expected to begin this fall.

Congratulations to the Virginia Wesleyan Theatre Department for a successful spring production of "The Shield," by Greek playwright Menander! Adapted for stage and directed by Dr. Travis Malone, VWU Dean of the Susan S. Goode School of Arts and Humanities and Professor of Theatre, the production ran from March 5-8 in the Brock Theatre of the Susan S. Goode Fine and Performing Arts Center. Learn more about the cast and crew and read more.

Virginia Wesleyan University was recently invited by WHRO to participate in a video project profiling native plants of Virginia to be distributed in classrooms and other education venues. The research gardens surrounding VWU’s Greer Environmental Sciences Center will be featured in a film segment and discussion with Brian O'Neil, Director of Living Landscapes at Norfolk Botanical Garden/Virginia Wesleyan University. WHRO noted that the University’s gardens, native plantings, and wildlife habitats make a great environment for producing science-oriented education material.

Virginia Wesleyan Athletics welcomed two of its newest Marlins in collaboration with the Friends of Jaclyn Foundation, an organization aiming to improve the quality of life for children battling pediatric brain tumors and other childhood cancers. Three-year-old Mia Grace Moore, who lives with Diffuse Intrinsic Pontine Glioma--a very rare and aggressive form of pediatric brain cancer--was "signed" to the VWU softball team on March 5 during a special ceremony in the Jane P. Batten Student Center. Her older brother, Brendyn, was also welcomed to the VWU baseball team. Welcome to the Marlin family Mia, Brendyn, and their mother Michelle! VWU is honored to have you as members of our team. Watch the WTKR news segment of this special celebration.

Catch the latest news from Virginia Wesleyan Athletics in SportSplash. The March 24 edition leads with "ODAC Cancels 2020 Spring Seasons and Championships."

Virginia Wesleyan University recently received a letter of commendation from Virginia Governor Ralph S. Northam for being one of just 119 colleges and universities nationwide to receive the prestigious Carnegie Community Engagement Classification for the 2020 cycle. The classification, announced by the Carnegie Foundation on January 31, has been the leading framework for institutional assessment and recognition of community engagement in U.S. higher education for the past 14 years.

“On behalf of the Commonwealth of Virginia, I want to congratulate Virginia Wesleyan University on receiving the Carnegie Community Engagement Classification for the 2020 cycle,” said Gov. Ralph S. Northam. “Of the 119 U.S. colleges and universities classified in 2020, five were from Virginia.”

The Carnegie Community Engagement Classification was awarded following a process of self-study, which was then assessed by a national review committee led by the Swearer Center for Public Engagement at Brown University, the administrative and research home for the classification.

“I, as well as the Virginia Secretary of Education, Atif Qarni, could not be prouder that VWU has been designated as an institution that is committed to community engagement,” continued Gov. Northam. “Virginia Wesleyan University demonstrates the value of learning more about the needs of our communities and the positive impact academic institutions can have in addressing local challenges and concerns. I hope that other Virginia universities and colleges will follow the example set forth by Virginia Wesleyan.”

VWU’s Director of Civic Leadership and Service Learning and Chief Diversity Officer, Dr. Brian Kurisky (pictured here with the letter), leads Wesleyan Engaged: Center for Civic Leadership and Service Learning.

"We are honored to receive this commendation from Gov. Northam," said VWU President Scott D. Miller, "and we appreciate the work of Dr. Kurisky in helping us to achieve this prestigious distinction. We hold social responsibility at the core of our institutional values, and I take great pride in this accomplishment and in working among such engaged citizens and leaders.”

 

The spring issue of the Batten Bulletin, the newsletter of VWU's highly selective Batten Honors College, is now available. 

The March 20 edition of the Wesleyan Review is now available. It focuses on information regarding the impact of COVID-19 on VWU operataions. 

Virginia Wesleyan University President Scott D. Miller and members of VWU's Emergency Response Team will hold a COVID-19 Town Hall meeting on Wednesday, March 25, at 7 p.m. This virtual meeting will be more informational in nature and is meant to offer clarity on this evolving situation and next steps for the Virginia Wesleyan community. Please watch for additional details coming soon and view the latest information and updates on the University's Coronavirus (COVID-19) Information webpage at www.vwu.edu/coronavirus.

Catch the latest in Virginia Wesleyan Athletics in this week's edition of Marlins SportSplash.

Virginia Wesleyan joined more than 100 major businesses, investors, and higher education institutions in supporting the Transportation & Climate Initiative (TCI), a regional effort to decrease transportation-sector emissions from across the Northeast and Mid-Atlantic states. TCI presents an opportunity to address climate change and ensure state economies continue to thrive while modernizing the region's transportation system. Read more in the latest press release, "Investors and companies urge states to adopt Transportation and Climate Initiative, a ‘once-in-a-generation opportunity’." A list of fellow signatories in each state, as well as more information about the policy and resources to learn about TCI can be found here. 

The spring meeting of the Virginia Wesleyan University President's Council was held on March 9, 2020, in the Shafer Room of Boyd Dining Center. The Council is comprised of business leaders who embrace, embody, and similarly align with the University's vision and values in their management practices. Their personal and professional influence and support ensures students are strategically positioned to participate in opportunities such as internships and externships that will prepare them for a meaningful life and career. VWU Chief Diversity Officer and Director of Wesleyan Engaged Brian Kurisky along with student India Khanna gave an engaging presentation on our civic engagement and service learning initiatives and progress.

Read all about the latest accomplishments and best practices of Virginia Wesleyan University faculty and staff in the March edition of The Pharos. The Pharos (previously known as Faculty Focus) is a monthly email newsletter celebrating the professional development successes of Virginia Wesleyan faculty and staff, among them: publication of books, articles, etc.; conference presentations and participation; performances and shows; grants received; positions and awards in professional organizations; campus and community engagement initiatives.

Keep up with the latest news from Marlin Athletics in the March 10 edition of SportsSplash! SportSplash is a weekly email newsletter that provides fans and followers recent scores, events, and accomplishments of Virginia Wesleyan athletes, coaches and programs.

VWU welcomed the third and final group of high school students competing for a spot in the Batten Honors College Class of 2024 on March 5 - 7, 2020. The highly selective program annually enrolls 20 full-tuition Batten Fellows and 20 two-thirds tuition Shumadine Scholars.  The weekend followed the same format as the previous competitions, beginning with a welcome event at the Virginia Aquarium and Marine Science Center, and continuing Friday and Saturday with interviews, campus tours, class visits, and panel discussions. Prospective students and their parents also attended a reception Friday evening at the Slover Library in downtown Norfolk. The third group of competitors represented 12 states with 55% outside of Virginia. This selective academic program is made possible by generous support from Virginia Wesleyan University Trustee Emerita Jane P. Batten H'06 and her late husband, Frank Batten, Sr.  View the Photo Gallery

The recent glass blowing exhibition in Virginia Wesleyan's Neil Britton Art Gallery, "180," was reviewed in Veer Magazine. The feature, "Glass Studio Assistants Glow in 180 Days," highlights the academic collaboration between Virginia Wesleyan and the Chrysler Museum. Featured artists include Rachel Bartek, Sukayma El Hani, Suhyeon Kang, Malcolm Kriegel, Michael Mills, Jordan Tavan, Abegael Uffelman, and Nichole Vitchner. 

Our newest edition of the Wesleyan Review is out! Read about the latest VWU news and events.

In recognition of Women's History Month and National Eating Disorder Awareness Month, the Virginia Wesleyan Women's Resource Center, the Department of Psychology, and the Women's and Gender Studies program has organized a special event in collaboration with The Lighthouse. The  event will feature Nancy Redd--the New York Times bestselling author of "Body Drama and Diet Drama"--who will explore body positivity and the ways in which media shapes peoples' perceptions of body image. A former Miss Virginia and swimsuit winner at Miss America, Redd is an award-winning on-air host, Wirecutter beauty and health writer at the New York Times, and a NAACP Image Award nominee. The event begins at 11 a.m. in the Goode Fine and Performing Arts Center. Redd will be signing books following her talk and will hold an informal coffee chat with students at 4 p.m. in The Lighthouse.

The Virginia Wesleyan University Board of Trustees held its winter meeting on February 12 in the Board of Trustees Suite in Boyd Dining Center. Economist and noted author Dr. Jim Koch was the featured speaker at the meeting, focusing on "Virginia Wesleyan and the Changing World of Higher Education." Dr. Koch is Board of Visitors Professor of Economics Emeritus and President Emeritus of Old Dominion University and President Emeritus of the University of Montana. He most recently published the book "The Impoverishment of the American College Student." Trustee actions included: Review and acceptance of reports and actions from the Committees on Trusteeship, Audit, Investment, Finance and Administration, Academic Affairs, Advancement, Student Affairs, and Enrollment; Approval of recommendations for promotion and tenure; Acceptance of the University independent audit performed by Brown Edwards; Acceptance of an updated Investment Policy Statement proposed by the University's endowment manager, Commonfund; Acceptance of the 2020 VWU Organizational Chart as presented by the President of the University; Acceptance of the mid-year fiscal reports as presented; Approval, based on donor preference, of the renaming of the Center for the Study of Religious Freedom as the Nusbaum Center; Approval of the renaming of Convocation Hall in the Jane P. Batten Student Center as TowneBank Arena in the Jane P. Batten Student Center; Approval of the renaming of Monumental Chapel as Monumental Chapel and Beazley Recital Hall; Approval of the final plans for the new brick signage at the entrance; Approval of the final plans for the brick archway/entrance at Rogers Track and Field Center; Approval of the final plans for DeFord Manor; Approval of the final plans for the Batten Student Center/Boyd Dining Center upgrades; and Approval of honorary degrees for the 2020 baccalaureate and commencement speakers. The spring meeting of the Board of Trustees will take place in May.

Prospective Batten Honors College students visited Virginia Wesleyan University February 13-15 to compete for a space in the elite program's fourth cohort. The competition began with an evening welcome reception at the Virginia Aquarium & Marine Science Center in Virginia Beach and continued Friday and Saturday with presentations, interviews, campus tours, class visits, and panel discussions. Participating students and their parents also attended a reception Friday evening at Slover Library in downtown Norfolk. The Batten Honors College fully or partially funds 40 new academically talented students each year, and with the addition of the fourth cohort, will grow to its full capacity of 160 students. Through small class sizes, personalized instruction and especially vigorous faculty-student interaction, the program is designed to prepare leaders and environmental stewards. The curriculum explores diverse disciplines within the natural sciences, humanities, social sciences, and mathematics. A prior competition for this class took place in November and a third will occur March 5-7. View a photo gallery from the competition and learn more about the Batten Honors College.

 

For the Love of Learning! Virginia Wesleyan faculty share their academic take on “that crazy little thing called love” by offering special lectures, workshops, or presentations February 11 – 21. Students can explore various aspects of love, through different disciplinary lenses during the 10th Annual Love in the Liberal Arts Symposium, sponsored by the Center for Innovative Teaching and Engaged Learning (INTEL). From “puppy love” to the “love of mother nature,” this year’s campus-wide symposium offers love lectures that provide great opportunities for students to explore another subject or professor without being enrolled in that particular class. Presentations are open to all members of the VWU community. For lecture dates and times, visit the 2020 schedule for the 10th Annual Love in the Liberal Arts Symposium.

Read the latest faculty and staff accomplishments and best practices in the February 2021 edition of The Pharos.

Virginia Wesleyan University has reaffirmed its support of key climate and clean energy policies through the "We Are Still In" commitment. The University is among 353 higher education institutions to sign a letter urging the Virginia General Assembly for Virginia legislature to include full participation in the Regional Greenhouse Gas Initiative (RGGI); passage of the Virginia Clean Economy Act (VCEA); and support for clean transportation and customer access to clean energy options, among other items. "We Are Still In" is a cross-sector coalition led by Second Nature. Read More

The Innovative Teaching and Engaged Learning (INTEL) office is now located in Clarke Hall adjacent to the Center for the Study of Religious Freedom, the Beazley Foundation Technology Center, and The Lighthouse: Center for the Exploration and Discovery. While the mission and function of INTEL remain the same, the location better aligns the office with the technology and academic centers in Clarke Hall.  

Virginia Wesleyan University has been recognized by the Elizabeth River Project for Sustained Distinguished Performance at the River Stars Model Level. VWU student and ERP employee Phoebe Murrell joined VWU's Dr. Elizabeth Malcolm, Director of Campus Sustainability, and Dr. Maynard Schaus, Vice President for Academic Affairs, for a photo as they accepted the honor on VWU's behalf. 
 

There's a new mural on campus thanks to students in Professor of Art John Rudel's "Public Art" course. The class designed and painted the artwork during January Term in the Jane P. Batten Student Center. Be sure to stop by Batten Plaza to check it out. Kudos to these students for their efforts and creativity!

Congratulations to the students who demonstrated outstanding academic achievements and are listed on the  Fall 2019 President's List  and Fall 2019 Dean's List! President’s List is awarded to students earning a 4.0 GPA and the Dean’s List is awarded to all students who earn at least a 3.5 GPA.  Hat's off to these hard-working students. Well done! 

 

January Term was a success on campus and around the globe. Students traveled to Israel and Hawaii, Washington, D.C. and Richmond for immersive learning experiences. VWU students are pictured at the Western Wall in Jerusalem and from 400-foot Waimoku Falls on Maui. After hiking in the only rainforest in America, students spent an afternoon helping with organic taro farming as part of their January Term course "Travel's Impact on Culture and Environment." View the full January Term photo gallery here.

Virginia Wesleyan University is again participating in the annual RecycleMania tournament, a friendly competition and benchmarking tool for college and university recycling programs to promote waste reduction activities to their campus communities. Beginning February 2, colleges across the United States and Canada will report the amount of recycling and trash collected over an eight-week period. They will in turn be ranked in various categories based on who recycles the most on a per capita basis, as well as which schools have the best recycling rate as a percentage of total waste, and which schools generate the least amount of combined trash and recycling. With each week’s updated ranking, participating schools follow their performance against other colleges and use the results to rally their campus to reduce and recycle more. To reduce Virginia Wesleyan's environmental footprint and help meet its RecylceMania goals, students, faculty and staff are asked to put clean bottles, cans, paper and cardboard in the blue recycling bins on campus. Metallic energy bar wrappers and personal hygiene packaging (toothpaste tubes, shampoo bottles, etc.) can be recycled in the Terraclycle bins in the library's 24-hour lounge. In addition, Wesleyan Engaged (Batten 25) is collecting used printer cartridges for recycling and used eyeglasses for donation to the Lions Club. Learn more about RecycleMania: Campus Race to Zero Waste.


 

Congratulations to Virginian Wesleyan University Trustee Emerita Joan Brock, Trustee Howard Kern, and former Trustee Bob Aston on being named community leadership award recipients for the Urban League of Hampton Roads' Martin Luther King, Jr., Community Leaders' Breakfast. The community awards are presented to individuals and groups who promote positive images, exemplify community service, demonstrate Dr. King's values and show evidence of the impact their contributions make in the lives of others. "Joan, Howard, and Bob are excellent choices for this award and continue to do great work in the community and beyond," says VWU President Scott D. Miller. The breakfast will take place January 20 at the Portsmouth-Norfolk Renaissance Hotel and the theme is Reimagine the Future, “The Fierce Urgency of Now.” Read More

At their annual January meeting, members of the National Association of Schools and Colleges of the United Methodist Church (NASCUMC)—a group for which VWU President Scott D. Miller serves as president—voted to change the membership policies governing their organization. “With this vote, we’ve begun an approximately six-month-long process to broaden our membership and open our organization to educators in the Pan-Methodist tradition both in and outside the United States,” said Dr. Miller. NASCUMC was initiated by the United Methodist General Board of Higher Education and Ministry (GBHEM) and is a voluntary organization that serves more than 100 United Methodist-related schools, colleges, universities and seminaries in the U.S. Under their current guidelines, schools are only eligible for membership if they are located in the United States and directly affiliated with The United Methodist Church. The recent vote expands membership eligibility to primary and secondary institutions that were founded by or are related to the Methodist tradition in the U.S., Canada and the Caribbean. NASCUMC leaders noted that schools in Mexico could also request to join the revamped organization, but many are already served by the Latin American Association of Methodist Educational Institutions. The vote also approved plans to change the organization’s name from NASCUMC to the North American Association of Methodist Schools, Colleges and Universities (NAAMSCU). All current NASCUMC members will automatically become a part of NAAMSCU. In order to join the association, new members must demonstrate either a formal affiliation with The United Methodist Church or a historic association with the Methodist tradition in North America. Any institutions interested in joining NAAMSCU later this year should contact the GBHEM Division of Higher Education at DHE@gbhem.org. Read More

VWU President Scott D. Miller and other presidents and top representatives from United Methodist schools, colleges and universities across the United States have announced support for the creation of a U.S. Regional Conference of The United Methodist Church. There are multiple proposals before the 2020 General Conference that call for the creation of a U.S. Regional Conference, most recently the “Protocol of Reconciliation & Grace Through Separation” set forth by a mediated group of United Methodist leaders. At their Jan. 4 meeting, 85 members of the National Association of Schools and Colleges of the United Methodist Church (NASCUMC)—for which Dr. Miller serves as president—signed a joint statement urging the Church to create a U.S. Regional Conference. “Creating a U.S. Regional Conference is a crucial step toward building a United Methodist Church that is fully inclusive,” said Dr. Miller. “For United Methodist-related educational institutions, it’s also a vital step. It would foster the kind of inclusive community in our churches that we already respect and value on our campuses.” NASCUMC is a voluntary organization that was initiated by the United Methodist General Board of Higher Education and Ministry (GBHEM). It represents 115 schools, colleges, universities and seminaries in North America and educates more than 260,000 students every year. It is the second-largest group of denominationally affiliated educational institutions in the United States. A U.S. Regional Conference would function similarly to existing United Methodist Central Conferences in Europe, Africa and Asia. This conference structure would allow churches in the United States greater regional autonomy over how they interpret the United Methodist Book of Discipline. Plans that include a U.S. Regional Conference would set up the removal of existing restrictions on same-sex marriage and allow for the ordination of LGBTQ clergy in the United States. “Our global connection is so important as United Methodists, especially as a denomination that is closely tied to educational access around the world. Creation of a U.S. Regional Conference allows our Church-affiliated schools to preserve that global connection, while recognizing the need for the contextualization of our shared faith,” said Mark Hanshaw, GBHEM associate general secretary for the Division of Higher Education and secretary for NASCUMC. Read the full statement here. Originally published on the GBHEM website on January 6, 2020.

Work has begun on a new campus garden—"Marlin Meadows." The student project is among those funded in the inaugural year of the Earth and Environmental Sciences Department Endowed Fund and was coordinated by students in the Marlins Go Green environmental club. The garden extends the Greer Center native gardens toward the chapel and is designed by Brian O'Neil, VWU/NBG Director of Living Landscapes. The finished garden will include a native pollinator garden, a rain garden with carnivorous plants, a small bridge across a drainage swale, and a sitting area for the students to enjoy nature, which will include a table with a solar umbrella charging station. The project will occur in stages with the final plantings planned for next fall when the weather is conducive to their success. In addition to the $1,300 Earth and Environmental Sciences Department Endowed Fund, students have raised additional funds through a bake sale and have received other generous gifts to support the garden: Native plants were donated by the Virginia Zoo (coordinated by VWU alumnus Mikel Conway, horticulturist at the zoo); wood chips from Nuckols Tree Care; $250 from the local Sierra Club chapter; up to $3,000 from the Elizabeth River Project for native trees and the rain garden; and a generous gift from VWU Trustee Jim Shumadine.

Virginia Wesleyan University President Scott D. Miller will deliver the keynote address for Tidewater Community College’s 69th Commencement Exercises on Monday, December 16, at Norfolk’s Chartway Arena. The Commencement will begin at 6 p.m. and will be livestreamed at tcc.edu/commencement. Nearly 900 students will graduate from the college with either certificates or associate degrees. President of Virginia Wesleyan since 2015, Dr. Miller has been recognized as a transformative leader among his peers. Inside Business recently included him on its Power List, which celebrates the most influential leaders in shaping Hampton Roads. Dr. Miller oversaw Virginia Wesleyan’s transition to a University and continues to strengthen its identity among national liberal arts institutions. Last February, he joined TCC interim President Gregory DeCinque in signing the Fair Transfer Guarantee agreement, which ensures a seamless path for those graduating from TCC and moving to Virginia Wesleyan to complete a bachelor’s degree. Dr. Miller holds a doctorate in higher education administration from Union Institute & University in Cincinnati and an education specialist degree from Vanderbilt University. He earned a master’s from the University of Dayton and a bachelor’s from West Virginia Wesleyan College.

Too often the world tells LGBTQ+ people that they have to choose either their identity or their faith, but what if there were a third option? Join Austen Hartke, author and creator of the YouTube series “Transgender and Christian,” as he shares his experience of coming out as a transgender Christian, from his childhood in non-affirming churches to the Bible stories that gave him strength as an adult in seminary. The event will take place on campus Thursday, November 21, from 11:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. in the Goode Fine and Performing Arts Center. Hartke will sign copies of his book Transforming: The Bible and the Lives of Transgender Christians, which will be available for purchase. Virginia Wesleyan students are invited to an informal coffee and conversation time with Hartke at 4:00 p.m. in The Lighthouse. This event is free and open to the public; sponsored by the Center for the Study of Religious Freedom and Women’s and Gender Studies at Virginia Wesleyan University.

At the 2019 ALL IN Challenge Awards Ceremony, held to recognize colleges and universities committed to increasing college student voting rates, Virginia Wesleyan University received a silver seal for achieving a student rate between 30-39 percent. Student participation in elections has increased from the 2014 midterm election to the recent 2018 midterm election. According to the National Study of Learning, Voting, and Engagement, an initiative of Tufts University’s Institute for Democracy & Higher Education, voter turnout at the more than 1,000 institutions participating in the study increased by 21 points from 19% to 40%. “We are excited to honor Virginia Wesleyan University with an ALL IN Challenge silver seal in recognition of their intentional efforts to increase democratic engagement and full voter participation,” said Jennifer Domagal-Goldman, Executive Director of the ALL IN Campus Democracy Challenge. “More institutions like VWU are changing culture on campus by institutionalizing nonpartisan democratic engagement efforts that are resulting in the incredible student voter turnout rates that we’ve seen across the country.” The ALL IN Campus Democracy Challenge is a nonpartisan, national initiative recognizing and supporting campuses as they work to increase nonpartisan demcoratic engagement and full student voter participation. The Challenge encourages higher education institutions to help students form the habits of active and informed citizenship, and make democratic participation a core value on their campus. More than 560 campuses, enrolling more than 6.2 million students, have joined the Challenge since its launch in 2016. View the full list of seal awardees.

The Virginia Philosophical Association (VPA) held its 80th Annual Meeting October 25-26 at Virginia Wesleyan University. Philosophers from throughout Virginia attended the sessions, held in the Greer Enviromental Sciences Center. A keynote address—"Evidence as Passing a Severe Test"—was delivered by Deborah G. Mayo, a professor emerita at Virginia Tech and an internationally recognized authority on the philosophy of statistical reasoning and the role of statistical reasoning in science. Virginia Wesleyan philosophy professors Steven Emmanuel, Patrick Goold and Cathal Woods are VPA members and all previously served as president of the association. The VPA's annual meeting was also held at Virginia Wesleyan in 2007 and 2005. Learn more about the annual meeting and the Virginia Philosophical Association.

 

 

In honor of the 30th anniversary of the fall of the Berlin Wall, Virginia Wesleyan celebrated with a special event on campus. The program included a presentation, "Underground Music in Former East Germany," with live connection to Berlin. The University welcomed 391 local high school students, 11 teachers, and the Virginia Beach City Public Schools K-12 World Languages Coordinator, Dr. Kelly Arble, to participate in related activities. The impressive event was coordinated by the Center for Innovative Teaching and Engaged Learning and Dr. Susan Wansink, VWU Professor of German Studies. Later this month, on November 20, German historian Peter Keup will give a talk, "Germany – United Fatherland? Germany 30 Years after the Berlin Wall," about his personal story as a political prisoner in East Germany in the 1980s and the importance of upholding democratic values in any society. Keup was imprisoned by the East German (GDR) secret police Stasi in 1981 after an unsuccessful attempt to flee to West Germany. After 10 months in prison, West Germany paid the GDR for the release of prisoners to the West and Keup settled in Essen (former West Germany). He will talk about the history of a divided Germany and its current political situation as a reflection of its turbulent past. (11:30-12:30pm, The Lighhouse, Clarke Hall)

The 2019 Faculty and Staff Campaign, The Future Is Here, ended on October 31. President Scott D. Miller reported that preliminary results show 72% of faculty and staff  participated in this month-long campaign, which exceeds the participation goal. This year's campaign involved 164 donors who contributed more than $42,000 for various priorities across the University. There was 100% participation from VWU alumni working full-time on campus.

“We can be grateful to have such an engaged community of alumni, faculty and staff supporting the University through their gifts of time, talent, and treasure,” said Miller. Those who contributed to the campaign will be celebrated at an event scheduled for December 5.

The Virginia Wesleyan University community will gather to honor Marlin veterans and active duty service members in a Veterans Day Ceremony on Monday, November 11, at noon. The event will take place at the Veterans Memorial Monument on the Godwin Hall Lawn. The memorial was first dedicated in 2013 to pay tribute to Marlins who have served in the United States Armed Forces. The featured speaker for this year’s event will be VWU faculty member Captain (Ret.) Raymond A. Duffy. Captain Duffy received his commission from the Navy ROTC program at Villanova University in 1970 and served more than 28 years until his retirement in July 1998. He served in command of four ships/units while on active duty. During his career, he served in multiple combat environments including Vietnam, Beirut, Grenada, the Desert Storm Gulf War and Bosnia. In addition to his degree from Villanova University, he holds an MAT from Bridgewater State University (UMass), an MBA from Golden Gate University, and an MBA certificate from Tulane University.

During the week of November 4, the campus community is also invited to place a ribbon on the Military Honor Tree located in the Jane P. Batten Student Center to recognize those who have served our country.

Virginia Wesleyan University's December Graduates' Recognition Ceremony will take place Sunday, December 8, at 11 a.m. in the Goode Fine and Performing Arts Center (Brock Theatre). The ceremony celebrates those scheduled to graduate at the end of the fall semester as well as those who reached the milestone in August. Travis Malone, Dean of the Susan S. Goode School of Arts and Humanities and Professor of Theatre, will serve as keynote speaker. Malone is the recipient of the 2019 Samuel Nelson Gray Distinguished Teaching Award. A reception for graduates, family and friends will take place immediately following the ceremony in the Watts Lobby. This event will be livestreamed on the VWU Digital Broadcasting Network and the Virginia Wesleyan University Facebook page. Read more at vwu.edu/commencement.

The Virginia Wesleyan University Board of Trustees held its fall meeting this week in its newly renovated board room in Boyd Dining Center. With support from private donors, the University updated the Board of Trustees Suite, the President's Dining Room, and Founders Foyer during the spring and summer months. The Board voted on several items, including a third freezing of tuition for the 2020-2021 academic year. The naming of The Malbon Center for Technology was also announced during the meeting in honor of Board Chair John Malbon. The center has a physical home on campus in Pruden Hall and a virtual presence in all areas of VWU Online. Two new Trustees were welcomed to the Board—Mavis McKenley '11, Vice President and Trust Officer at AMG National Trust Bank, and Doug Wilson '86, Executive Vice President of LifeNet Health. To cap off the meeting, Board members enjoyed an demonstration and tour of the new Marlins Esports Arena in the Jane P. Batten Student Center. "As we embark on this season of gratitude, we thank our Board of Trustees for their service to our institution," said VWU President Scott D. Miller. "Their support, engagement, and stewardship are evident in all they do."

“Art changed my life.” Nez, as she’s called, spent 20 years in the U.S. Navy and endured three combat tours, followed by two bedridden years battling cancer and debilitating depression. Her therapist wrote a prescription for her: watch Bob Ross videos. In her words, “I thought he was full of it!” But she did it anyway and it wasn’t long before those "happy little trees" won her over. There was just one little problem; she wanted to paint, but just couldn’t make it happen. She had studied graphic design at NYU and was excellent at hand-lettering, but her illness had taken away the dexterity and motor skills necessary for painting. A constant burning sensation in her arms and hands was later diagnosed as Fibromyalgia and Chronic Fatigue Syndrome. Nez loved the idea of painting and continued to watch the Ross videos but also checked out YouTube videos and came across a method of painting that involved mixing paint and a medium in a cup, pouring it over canvas and moving it around. “The minute I flipped that paint cup over, I found my ‘flow.’ For the first time in years, I let it all go and felt a sense of relief. I wasn’t thinking about my pain—or anything. It felt like magic.” Nez’s work will be on display in the Goode Center’s Henry and Eleanor Watts Gallery through the month of November. 

As Virginia Wesleyan advances through the semester, the University is reminded of the importance of accessibility and affordability for its students. One of the most important avenues to these goals is the Virginia Tuition Assistance Grant (TAG) program. This vital program is a needed and beneficial way for students across the Commonwealth of Virginia—including those enrolled at Virginia Wesleyan—to afford their educations at private colleges and universities.

Although generous institutional aid through scholarships helps to offset cost of attendance, the VTAG program has, since 1972, provided additional, critical financial support. According to the Council of Independent Colleges in Virginia (CICV), in 2019-20, approximately 22,000 Virginia residents will receive a non-need based tuition grant of $3,400 for undergraduate education. At Virginia Wesleyan, approximately 900 students have received $2.4 million in TAG support for the fall term. That's a significant percentage of VWU students, and an essential investment in their future. Clearly the TAG program is, and should remain, a valued component of students' financial-aid opportunities.

Currently, a “Thanks for TAG” campaign is underway at VWU as a way for students, parents, and alumni to communicate to Virginia Governor Ralph Northam and members of the General Assembly how vital the VTAG program is to them, their institution, and their community. View a photo of President Scott D. Miller and Assistant Vice President for Student Affairs Jason Seward visiting with students at the VTAG Advocacy Center in the Jane P. Batten Student Center.

To learn more about this essential program and how to take action, visit www.cicv.org. Virginia Wesleyan University is grateful on its students’ behalf for this important investment in their future success.

VWU Athletics, the Student Athlete Advisory Committee, Black Student Union, Learning Center, and Wesleyan Engaged have teamed up to host a non-perishable food drive October 22-November 20. The on-campus food drive is part of the ODAC Food Drive Competition, which was organized as a friendly competition among the ODAC’s 15 member institutions. Donated food items will be given to a local organization of each school’s choice. The VWU community can drop off non-perishable food items in the Athletics Suite on the second floor of the Jane P. Batten Student Center, the Learning Center in Clarke Hall, or the Wesleyan Engaged Office in the Batten Student Center. Athletic teams are hosting an internal competition to see which team can donate the most cans, so participants can place donations in the box outside each coach's door. Items dropped off at the Learning Center or the Wesleyan Engaged Office, can be designated for the athletic team of your choice. Monetary donations (to purchase food items) are also being accepted in the Wesleyan Engaged office. Help VWU Athletics dominate the ODAC competition and feed people in the local community during Thanksgiving! For more information, contact Jeff Bowers in Athletics or Brian Kurisky in Wesleyan Engaged.

In honor of Domestic Assault Awareness Month, the Women’s Resource Center at VWU and the Phenomenal Woman student organization will once again sponsor “The Clothesline Project” on campus during October. The event is designed to raise awareness about domestic assault by painting and displaying t-shirts in support of survivors. The national Clothesline Project originated in Hyannis, Massachusetts in 1990 when members of Cape Cod's Women's Defense Agenda learned that during the same time that 58,000 soldiers were killed in the Vietnam War, 51,000 U.S. women were killed by the men who claimed to love them.

Members of the campus community are invited to come to the Fishbowl in the Jane P. Batten Student Center on Tuesday, October 22 and Wednesday, October 23, from 10:30 a.m. – 4:00 p.m. and Thursday, October 24 from noon – 4:00 p.m. Supplies are provided and the t-shirts will be displayed on campus. All students, faculty, and staff are welcome to participate!

For more information, visit https://www.facebook.com/events/413290629334495/.

In 2017, out of concern for how policy shift would affect our students, Virginia Wesleyan University President Scott D. Miller joined the Presidents' Alliance on Higher Education and Immigration, an alliance of American college and university leaders dedicated to increasing public understanding of how immigration policies and practices impact students, campuses and communities. The group supports policies that create a welcoming environment for immigrant, undocumented and international students on its member campuses. Last week, 165 public and private higher education institutions from 32 states and the District of Columbia came together to join an amicus brief for the forthcoming Supreme Court case regarding Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA). Virginia Wesleyan is one of the signatories. On November 12, 2019, the Court will hear oral arguments on a series of consolidated cases and determine whether the administration's rescission of DACA was lawful. "Virginia Wesleyan is committed to inclusiveness and acceptance of all, especially those seeking academic and life success at our institution and others across the nation," Dr. Miller said. "We stand with those aspiring citizens and urge the Supreme Court to pass a responsible, humane ruling that will preserve access to our institutions of higher education and other avenues that will ensure that those who are registered for DACA, or defined as 'undocumented,' may continue to make contributions to America."

Female leaders are re-affirming the call and standing for a "Culture of Courage" more powerful than ever before. U.S. Green Building Council (USGBC) Virginia is hosting its 2019 Women in Green Leadership Luncheon on campus on Thursday, October 3, to explore what it means to have a Culture of Courage and celebrate the crucially needed and deliberate voice that women bring to society and the green building movement. The esteemed panel includes Michelle Amt, Director of Sustainability, Associate, VMDO Architects; Kimberlee Dobbins, Sustainability Coordinator, Virginia Beach Convention Center; Micaela Morris, Assistant Director of Facilities Management, Virginia Weselyan University; and moderator Lindsey Lijana, Project Manager, W.M. Jordan Company. Virginia Wesleyan students Monika Metro and Sophie Gonzales will also speak about climate change from a student's perspective. Register Now

The recent passing of journalist Cokie Roberts prompted reflection of her visit to Virginia Wesleyan University many years ago. The National Public Radio correspondent spoke during Fall Convocation in Cunningham Gymnasium on September 20, 1984.  Her topic was "On the Elections." Geraldine Ferraro was Walter Mondale's running mate on that year's Democratic party ticket. Roberts had received the 1983 Women at Work Broadcast Award from the National Commission on Working Women. She later wrote to the Special Events Committee that "the day at Virginia Wesleyan was delightful." Her recent passing reminds the University community of the loss of a powerful voice for career women and freedom of the press.

Virginia Wesleyan University will celebrate the 30-year anniversary of the fall of the Berlin Wall on Friday, November 8. Community members are invited to attend a special presentation from 10:30-11:00 a.m. in the Convocation Hall of the Jane P. Batten Student Center featuring a live discussion from Berlin with writer and musician Kai Reininghaus. Reininghaus is the author of "The Sound Behind the Wall" and was part of the underground music scene in Communist East Germany. Supported by an INTEL grant, this event is hosted by German students at VWU and is part of a larger German cultural day with students from Virginia Beach City Public Schools.

Virginia Wesleyan University's annual Founders Day, which was postponed due to Hurricane Dorian, has been rescheduled to coincide with Homecoming and Family Weekend. Founders Day Convocation will now be held on Friday, October 4, at 2:00 p.m. in the Joan and Macon Brock Theatre of the Susan S. Goode Fine and Performing Arts Center. Convocation will feature keynote speaker Eric Nyman '94, President of Hasbro North America and a VWU Trustee, and will honor Virginia Beach Police Chief James "Jim" Cervera with The Wesley Award. The event will be livestreamed on the VWU Digital Broadcasting Network and the Virginia Wesleyan University Facebook page.

The 2019 Alumni Awards have been incorporated into "Good Morning at the Goode" on Saturday, October 5, in the Eleanor and Henry Watts Grand Lobby and Gallery of the Goode Center. Invited guests will enjoy a program that includes the 2019 Alumni Awards, Scholar-Athlete Recognition, and a special presentation and dedication in honor of Robert T. Williams '75.

All guests are invited to the Homecoming FinFest on Saturday, October 5, from 11:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. on Marlin Way. The campus community will celebrate with fun and food trucks while mingling with favorite faculty members. Children can enjoy the inflatable bounce house, and Astro DJ will keep the party going with great music. Visit vwu.edu/homecoming for the full schedule of events.

The Steinway Spirio event originally scheduled for the evening of Founders Day has not yet been rescheduled. However, the Spirio piano is currently on display in the Watts Grand Lobby and Gallery of the Goode Center. More information about the Steinway Spirio event and campaign can be found here.

 

September 17 is recognized in the United States as Constitution & Citizenship Day to commemorate the formation and signing of the U.S. Constitution on September 17, 1787. Visit Hofheimer Library between September 10 and October 1 to view an engaging book display that examines a variety of constitutional issues and history.

With the start of a new fiscal year brings a change in leadership for the Virginia Wesleyan University Alumni Council. Troy DeLawrence '93 (Quality Assurance Senior Specialist, CACI International) will continue his service and guidance to the Alumni Council as chair. Rob Kohler '93 (Vice President, CraneTech Solutions, LLC) will transition to vice chair from his previous role as secretary. Rob Gillikin '00 (Attorney, Rutter Mills, LLP), who most recently served as chair of the Alumni Resource Committee, has been elected to serve as secretary. The Alumni Council will welcome new members and elect new committee chairs at its first business meeting of the fall semester.

VWU President Scott D. Miller was recently invited to submit a narrative describing Virginia Wesleyan’s institutional transformation as well as key takeaway points designed to inspire other institutions facing the challenges confronting small and mid-sized colleges and universities today. “Position for Strength” originally appeared in the July/August 2019 issue of Business Officer, the flagship magazine published by the National Association of College and University Business Officers (NACUBO) in Washington, D.C. "For many struggling institutions, regaining financial sustainability will require a combination of deliberate planning and concerted follow-up action, including revising the business model and employing tactics that can transform a campus," Dr. Miller writes in the article. "Pursuing such change will benefit the physical look, fundraising leverage, and overall financial posture of the institution, as stakeholders recognize that it’s no longer 'business as usual.'” He recommends that college and university leadership plan strategically, secure the right talent, rebrand across the campus, revamp programming, and refine their business practices. More

Work was recently completed on modernization and upgrades to Virginia Wesleyan's Intercollegiate Athletics Suite on the second floor of the Jane P. Batten Student Center. Through private funding, the entire suite—which houses all coaches' offices and administrative support—has been upgraded. Unique features include full-size glassed highlight posters for each sport adjacent to the respective head coaches' offices, and a completely renovated foyer with a large collage from our individual and team national championships. Improvements to the Jacklyn and Raymond D. Pearce Suite were also finalized this summer. Vibrant images of campus life and the adjacent community adorn the walls, and new seating and complete multimedia allow for a conference-like setup. The updates were funded by Mrs. Pearce and conceptualized based on feedback from the campus community on utilizing the space for presentations, workshops, and interactive meetings. An adjacent room to the Pearce Suite has also been renovated as a kitchenette and conference room serving the Athletic Department and the Pearce Suite. This room is named the Karen Yount-Merrell Conference Room in honor of the Pearces' niece.

“Big Old Work” by Professor of Art John Rudel  has opened in the Neil Britton Gallery on campus and will be exhibited from August 1 - October 1. It represents an exhibition of large-scale paintings and mixed media works by Rudel spanning nearly 20 years. The exhibition employs expressive color, recognizable imagery, and abstract elements, and aggregations as a nexus point to ponder the role of history, psychology, science, politics, spirituality, aesthetics and humanity as an exploration of our perceptions of and place in the world. Reception TBA.

 

Each August, prior to the start of the fall semester, Virginia Wesleyan President Scott D. Miller delivers a State of the University Address to the campus community. The address includes highlights, initiatives and significant accomplishments from the past year, recognition of faculty and staff, points of pride, recent news and information, current campus projects and direction for the future. The 2019 State of the University Address will take place on Friday, August 23, at 12:15 p.m. The University will welcome Trustees, faculty, staff, and many friends in person. For students, alumni, and other friends of the institution, the State of the University will be livestreamed on the VWU Digital Broadcasting Network. More

Virginia Wesleyan University has named Dr. Elizabeth Malcolm, Associate Professor of Atmospheric and Oceanic Science, as its campus sustainability director. “Dr. Malcolm has been an integral part of the growth and success of our program,” President Scott D. Miller wrote in a message to campus on July 22. “She is the steward of our Climate Action Plan, and her passion shines through in her work.” Dr. Malcolm received her B.A. in environmental science from Earlham College and her Ph.D. in atmospheric science from the University of Michigan’s College of Engineering. Before joining the faculty at Virginia Wesleyan, she was a postdoctoral research associate at Princeton University in the Department of Geosciences. Her research focuses on the environmental transport and chemistry of trace metal pollution, particularly mercury. Several undergraduate students have conducted research in Dr. Malcolm’s laboratory on projects such as the role of sea spray in mercury cycling, the impact of vegetated green roofs on runoff pollution, and the level of mercury in dolphins in Virginia. She teaches courses in meteorology, atmospheric science, climatology, and environmental chemistry. Virginia Wesleyan University’s institutional mission embraces social responsibility and participatory citizenship as essential parts of an undergraduate curriculum in the classroom, on campus, and in the community. Committed to the vitality of this program, the University will continue to advance the cause of sustainability and environmental stewardship. More

A special project was completed on campus this month with the clearing and surfacing of the Smith Drive and Lake Taylor trails on the south side of campus. The now extensive trail system has been named “The Trails at Wesleyan Woods” and is ideal for walking, hiking, jogging, and biking. Both trails can be accessed via the Honors Village parking lot. Since its founding, Virginia Wesleyan has enjoyed a rich heritage of abundant biodiversity and natural resources. Located on a picturesque, park-like, 300-acre campus, the University has trails, ponds and mature forests. Natural features include the Old-Growth Beech Forest, Longleaf Pine Forest, the living landscape gardens at Greer Environmental Sciences Center, Wilson Arboretum, Renn Reserve and Pond, Beverly Pond, Marlin Park and Pond, Wesleyan Woods, Lake Taylor, the SmartFlower (solar energy system), the VWU/ODU Climate Research Station, and the apiary. The scenic campus provides unique opportunities for teaching, research, health/fitness and outreach through camps and conferences, all central goals of the University's mission.

Twenty-three students from China are enrolled in the American Culture and Tourism Management Program this summer. The program combines academic credit for the students through VWU’s Recreation and Leisure Studies Department with an internship at Busch Gardens Williamsburg. They’ll live in the International Housing Village in Williamsburg and also have opportunities to explore other parts of the United States. VWU first launched this cultural exchange program in 2015 as the result of a partnership with US –China Century Education Group Corporation.

Phase I of a three-part renovation and upgrade plan for Virginia Wesleyan's Boyd Dining Center is nearing completion. Through $200,000 in private funds, the private dining area—also known as the Board of Trustees Suite—has been fully renovated. The Shafer Room (Board of Trustees Room), President's Dining Room, and main foyer have been completely renovated. The foyer now features portraits of the University's most generous and supportive benefactors, while the Board of Trustees Room includes portraits of the 10 Board chairs in Virginia Wesleyan's history. Urban Design of Virginia Beach completed architectural design, contractor supervision, and interior decoration for the project. Expected to be completed in the 2019-20 academic year, Phase II includes a $1.3 million remake of the Marlin Grille and an extensive renovation of the East/West Dining Rooms. The Marlin Grille renovation will likely occur between fall and spring semesters, and the East/West renovation will occur in summer 2020. Phase III will include an addition to the front of the dining center to include a Commons. Fundraising continues on this $3 million component.

The latest book by Terry Lindvall, VWU’s C.S. Lewis Endowed Chair in Communication and Christian Thought and Professor of Communication, has been recently released by NYU Press. “God on The Big Screen” is “A History of Hollywood Prayer From the Silent Era to Today.”  https://bit.ly/30sQJUI

Lindvall received his Ph.D. from the University of Southern California, his Master of Divinity from Fuller Theological Seminary, and his BA in Literature/Biology from Vanguard University. He has taught at Azusa Pacific University, Wheaton College, and Regent University.  He was also a Visiting Professor at Duke University School of Divinity and the Walter Mason Fellow in Religious Studies at the College of William and Mary, as well as, a former president of Regent University.

The work of John Rudel, Professor of Art and Coordinator of Art Exhibits at VWU, will be exhibited at the Linda Matney Fine Art Gallery in Williamsburg during an art fair this fall. According to the Gallery website,  the Linda Matney Gallery is dedicated to hosting exhibitions of innovative emerging artists, as well as displaying the work of more established national and international artists, including works of painting, installation, video, photography, sculpture and performance. Named after Linda Matney, who lost her battle with cancer in 2001, John Lee Matney and the Matney Family have established a research based contemporary gallery that develops thematic group shows and collaborative art projects with international and American artists in Virginia and elsewhere. To learn more, visit https://bit.ly/2SaAh8U.

With work in Eggleston Hall scheduled to wrap up in late June, all four Bray Village residential buildings will be complete. Each floor will have new restroom and shower facilities, complete with rain-style shower heads and other attractive fixtures. Utilities, including ventilation and HVAC units, are also being upgraded. The buildings of Bray Village are some of the institution's oldest and have served the University well over the years. The four buildings house 240 residential students on eight floors. The Village is also the location of several classrooms, faculty offices, and the Office of Campus Security. Incoming first-year students, arriving in late August, will be among the first to enjoy the enhanced spaces. More

A highly-accomplished group of 22 Batten Fellows and 23 Shumadine Scholars has been selected for the third cohort of the Batten Honors College of Virginia Wesleyan University. These top students have an extremely strong academic profile, with an average SAT of 1352, ACT of 29, and GPA of 4.16. Students hail from all over the United States—Virginia, Florida, Maryland, New Jersey, North Carolina, Pennsylvania, South Carolina, New York, and Wisconsin—as well as internationally with both China and the United Kingdom represented. The cohort will be welcomed to campus with a Batten Honors College Matriculation Ceremony on Friday, August 23, in the Greer Environmental Sciences Center. More

The Greer Environmental Sciences Center has been added to the International Living Future Institute's Biophilic Design Map—one of only two Virginia projects to be featured. The map is part of the Biophilic Design Initiative, which stems from demonstrated need for resources that can take the Biophilic Design practice from theory to reality (Biophilic Design is the practice of connecting people and nature within built environments and communities). According to the International Living Future Institute website, while progress has been made to communicate what Biophilic Design is and to demonstrate why it is crucial to a Living Future, very little information is available on the process of how to achieve it. The Living Future Institute has brought together leading experts in the field to achieve the goal of broad adoption of Biophilic Design among the design community, building owners and cities. The Biophilic Map is a databank for case studies, and living laboratories such as the Greer Environmental Sciences Center, which have implemented Biophilic Design at the core of their design process. It recognizes exemplary projects in articulating and applying Biophilic Design principles to the built environment. Learn more at living-future.org.

Congratulations to the 226 Marlins named to Virginia Wesleyan University's Spring 2019 Dean's List. The Dean's List recognizes undergraduate students who achieve a grade point average of 3.5 or above during a given semester. To qualify for this honor, students must have full-time status and have taken at least nine semester hours of traditionally graded courses. These individuals demonstrate a remarkable level of dedication to their academic pursuits.

Congratulations to the 84 Virginia Wesleyan University students named to the Spring 2019 President’s List, which recognizes full-time students who earned a 4.0 grade point average for the semester. To qualify for this honor, students must have taken nine semester hours of traditionally graded courses and have no grades of F or incomplete. A reception will be held during the Fall 2019 Semester to honor these outstanding students. Well done!

Congratulations to the newly elected officers of the Student Government Association (SGA) for the 2019-2020 Academic Year!

“They should be very proud of this accomplishment and the confidence placed in them to serve as a voice for their fellow students,” said President Scott D. Miller. “We thank them for taking on this very important task and for playing such a valuable role in the leadership of our campus.”

SGA Executive Officers

  • President: Taylor Major
  • Vice President: Nick Peterson
  • Special Events Coordinator: Maya Davis
  • Secretary: Isaac Guzman

Senior Class Officers:

  • President: Danielle Davis
  • Vice President: Tiara Cuffee
  • Fundraising: Azania Inman

Junior Class Officers:

  • President: Eric Fisher
  • Vice President: Dazjae Johnson
  • Finance Officer: Jordan Wiggins

Sophomore Class Officers:

  • President: Landry Moffo
  • Vice President: Grant Morgan
  • Fundraising: Adela Huezo
  • Finance Officer: Elijah Brown

Virginia Wesleyan University President Scott D. Miller has been named to the 2019 Inside Business "Power List" along with VWU Trustee Howard Kern, alumnus Taylor Franklin '04, and other friends of the University. The listing recognizes those who, according to Inside Business, are important to the future of Hampton Roads. Dr. Miller is one of the most experienced and prominent liberal arts college presidents in America, having led four colleges and universities for more than 28 years. Virginia Wesleyan has seen significant growth and development during Dr. Miller's tenure. Accomplishments include: transitioning to university status; strengthening the University's identity and earning a place among national liberal arts institutions; completion of two highly successful Southern Association of Colleges and Schools reviews (10-year reaffirmation and substantive change to graduate level) and a 10-year reaffirmation of affiliation review by the University Senate of The United Methodist Church; establishment of the highly selective Batten Honors College, a graduate program, and an online program; formulation of a 10-year Campus Master Plan, Corrective Maintenance Plan, Capital Campaign Plan and Academic Plan; construction of the new state-of-the-art Greer Environmental Sciences Center; structuring of the academic program into named schools; construction of the Frank Blocker Youth Center to house partner affiliates, YMCA Camp Red Feather and Tidewater Collegiate Academy; construction of the Susan S. Goode Fine and Performing Arts Center; capital improvements of over $60 million with another $51 million throughout 2018-19; and initiation of Virginia Wesleyan's largest fundraising campaign. Previously, he served as President at Bethany College in West Virginia (2007-15), Wesley College in Delaware (1997-2007) and Lincoln Memorial University in Tennessee (1991-97). At LMU, he was just 31 years old at the time of appointment, the youngest college president in the nation. More

The Virginia Wesleyan University Board of Trustees visited campus for their spring meeting on May 15. During the meeting, Trustees heard two informative presentations—the first by Assistant Vice President for Student Affairs Jason Seward on the meaningful work of the Opus student-work program, and the second by Dr. Travis Malone, Dean of the Susan S. Goode School for Arts and Humanities, on the programming and impact of the new Susan S. Goode Fine and Performing Arts Center. The 2019 President's Award recipient, Brandon Foster '19, also spoke of his Wesleyan experience, and on behalf of his fellow graduates, he presented the senior class gift to Board Chair David Kaufman and VWU President Scott D. Miller. The Board honored David Kaufman's three years of service as Chair and also recognized Jonathan Pruden, Vice Chair, and Cindy Rodriguez, Secretary, who are finishing their three-year terms as officers. Trustee O.L. "Butch" Everett received the designation of Trustee Emeritus. He retires from the Board this spring after 20 years of service, including serving as Chair from 2010 to 2013. Also celebrated were retiring Trustee Billy George, who has served on the Board for six years, and Rev. John Peters, who has long served as the Bishop's representative to the Board. Dr. Chris Haley was recognized as his term concludes as the founding Kenneth R. Perry Dean of the Joan P. Brock School for Mathematics and Natural Sciences, and emeritus status was bestowned upon Provost and Vice President Dr. Timothy O'Rourke (Vice President Emeritus), who has served as chief academic officer at VWU for 12 years, and Debbie Hicks (Dean Emeritus), Assistant Provost and Director of the Learning Center, who has been a part of the Marlin Family since 1989. The next meeting of the Board of Trustees will take place in October.

The No. 1 Virginia Wesleyan University softball team has earned the right to host the Regional Round of the Division III NCAA Championship this weekend. The Marlins will take on Scranton University (32-13) in their opening game, while No. 15 Manhattanville College (40-2) and Lynchburg (32-12) will square off in the other contest. The schedule for the first round will be as follows:

Friday, May 10
Game 1: Manhattanville vs. Lynchburg – 2 p.m.
Game 2: VWU vs. Scranton – 4:30 p.m.

Saturday, May 11
Game 3: Winner of G1 vs. Winner of G2 - 12 pm
Game 4: Loser of G1 vs. Loser of G2 - 2:30 pm
Game 5: Loser of G3 vs. Winner of G4 - 4:30 pm

Sunday, May 12
Game 6: Winner of G3 vs. Winner of G5 – 12 p.m.
Game 7 (if necessary): Winner of G6 vs. Loser of G6 - 2:30 pm

The Marlins claimed an automatic bid after winning the Old Dominion Athletic Conference (ODAC) Championship title last weekend against Randolph-Macon. The title marked the program's fourth-straight and their 12th in program history. As back-to-back National Champions, Virginia Wesleyan University will look to defend its crown by way of a double elimination tournament between the four schools. The winner of this pod will advance to the Super Regional which takes place the following weekend (May 17-18).

Tickets for the games will be available for the following prices:
Adults - $10
Senior Citizen / Veteran - $8
Student - $7
Child (<12yrs) - $5
Child (<2yrs) - Free

Check out the entire NCAA Division III Championship bracket HERE: NCAA BRACKET

The traditional honorary tree planting for retiring Virginia Wesleyan faculty will be held on Thursday, May 9, in Wilson Arboretum at approximately 1:15 p.m. (rain or shine). Faculty members retiring at the end of this academic year include Bob Albertson, Professor of Management, Business, and Economics (40 years), David Garraty, Professor of Management, Business, and Economics (40 years), and Mavel Velasco, Professor of Hispanic Studies (32 years). Wilson Arboretum was established in 1995 by the VWU classes of 1986 and 1995 to honor the memory of William M. Wilson, Dean of the University from 1971 to 1994. The tradition of planting trees to recognize retiring faculty began in May 1997.

Five Virginia Wesleyan University cadets were recognized on April 18 at the 44th Annual Awards Ceremony for the U.S. Army Reserve Officers' Training Corps (ROTC) Monarch Battalion. Zachary Raymond received the Association of the U.S. Army Award and Outstanding VWU Cadet; Robert Mazingo was presented with the Scottish Rite of Freemasonry Award and Outstanding VWU Cadet; Gavin Steel earned the American Veterans of World War II Award and Outstanding VWU Cadet; Landry Moffo received the Outstanding Varsity Athlete Award; and Dakota Felkins-Beach was presented with the Military Order of World Wars Award. The Marlin Company was formalized on campus in February 1998 and operates as part of Old Dominion University’s Monarch Battalion. Through elective classes and field training, students receive valuable tools, training, and leadership experiences that may not only lead to military service but also become assets in any career field. Interested cadets should contact the Army ROTC Marlin Company office at armyrotc@vwu.edu or 757.233.8870, or VWU ROTC Advisor Amy Rush at arush@vwu.edu or 757.455.3401.

In honor of Social Work Month in March, several Virginia Wesleyan juniors attended training courses offered by the City of Virginia Beach Human Services Department. The following students conducted eight-hour certification training in “Adult Mental Health First Aid”: William Phillips, Miya M. Inge-Arrington, Katlin Marie Mozingo, Erykah Lashay Scesco, Sarah Brush, Gillian Warrington, Jocelin James, Debbie Winters, Sarah Mattison Brown, Michelle Clark, Jetia Pressey, Tristen Roberts, and Casey Hills. Additional students received training on “Safe Sanctuaries/Child Abuse,” thanks to funding from The Lighthouse: Casey Hills, Jetia Pressey, Michelle Clark, Debbie Winters, Sarah Brush, Erykah Lashay Scesco, Tristen Roberts, William Phillips, and Katlin Marie Mozingo. The Council of Social Work Education (CSWE) is conducting a site visit on campus this month for the re-accreditation of Virginia Wesleyan's Social Work program. The University began offering a Bachelor of Social Work in the 2013-14 academic year.

 

 

Wansink and Collins Awarded 2019-2020 INTEL Grants

Professor of German Studies Susan Wansink and Instructor of Recreation and Leisure Studies Takeyra Collins are the recipients of faculty grants awarded by Virginia Wesleyan University's Center for Innovative Teaching and Engaged Learning (INTEL). The grant awards were recently announced by Denise Wilkinson, Associate Dean of INTEL and Professor of Mathematics. Each grant provides up to $1,000 for a project that encourages and advances a culture of innovation and engaged learning activities. Congratulations to the 2019/2020 INTEL Grant Recipients!

Susan Wansink, Professor of German Studies - “Celebrating the Thirty Years since the Fall of the Berlin Wall”

Project Description and Impact: On November 10, 2019, Virginia Beach Public Schools students of German will travel to Virginia Wesleyan University to partake in a German cultural day revolving around the rise and fall of the Berlin Wall, hosted by the German students at VWU. Students, along with the VWU community and the community at large will discover the history surrounding the Berlin Wall and its impact on Germany and the World. This project is a way to engage several communities to learn about this important time in history and to celebrate this commemorable event for its thirty-year anniversary. This project brings experiential learning beyond the classroom, to engagement with several communities.

Takeyra Collins, Instructor of Recreation and Leisure Studies - “Cultivating a Civically Engaged Campus through a Student-led Service Program: Extending our Purpose & Vision”

Project Description and Impact: This student-led service project will provide a revamped opportunity to improve academic and civic learning outcomes through a structured service-learning experience. The students who participate in this student-led service project will plan, organize, and implement activities to accommodate the homeless population in collaboration with three community organizations through an intensive and engaged week of service. This opportunity will further the civic engagement of students at Virginia Wesleyan University and allow them to apply their knowledge in an actual real-world setting. This project will support and strengthen the campus’ ability to use their knowledge towards a structured experience within the community to attain direct exposure in a real-world setting.

The Center will host a “Talk About Teaching” event in Spring 2020 to share the results and/or progress of these two top-notch projects.

Perhaps you’ve sampled the delicious Thai salad in Virginia Wesleyan’s Boyd Dining Center recently. If so, then you’re well aware of this appealing culinary winner. Sodexo Chef Peter Stine’s Roasted Chicken Thai Salad made the “10-Must-Try Thai Salads” list in the April edition of Food Management, a top food service trade magazine.  Chef Peter creates this noteworthy delight for Virginia Wesleyan diners with marinated chicken paired with crunchy seasonal veggies. The super-summery salad includes red peppers, carrots, Bermuda onions, peas, red cabbage, late-harvest butternut squash, shredded broccoli, crispy noodles in a sesame-ginger vinaigrette. Yum!

Dr. Loren Loving Marquez has been appointed as Assistant Vice President for Academic Affairs and Director of the Learning Center, effective June 17. Dr. Loving Marquez is currently Director of the Rhetoric Studio at Hampden-Sydney College and was previously Director of First Year Writing and Associate Professor of English at Salisbury University. A native of West Point, Virginia, she earned a B.A. in English from Christopher Newport University, an M.A. in English from Virginia Commonwealth University, and a Ph.D. in English from Texas Christian University. She is also the author of several articles and book chapters on composition and writing instruction.

Twenty Virginia Wesleyan students will travel to the National Model United Nations Conference in New York City (NMUN NY) April 14-18 to participate in a simulation of the procedures and practices of the United Nations. The University’s United Arab Emirates delegation, led by Assistant Professor of Political Science Antje Schwennicke, includes students Benjamin Astrum, Faith Auad, Kayla Bennett, Olivia Biggers, Katherine Brockenbrough, Selena Chambers, Storie Cook, Hunter Draut, Lora Fara, Sarah Farkas, Amanda Gerni, Brittany Hockey, Courtney Holimon, Faith Macwana, Amber Matalus, Trevaughn McNeil, Alex Powers, Dalton Powers, Brianna Sandy, and Mollie Sequeira. Participation in the conference is part of the University’s “Model United Nations” course, which explores operations of the United Nations, including the UN’s bureaucratic structure, resolution writing, multilateral diplomacy, and issues in contemporary international politics. NMUN NY brings together more than 5,000 college and university students, more than half from outside the United States, to discuss current global issues and solve pressing concerns relevant to the 23 simulated UN committees. Students also have the opportunity to interact with permanent representatives to the UN and attend sessions at UN Headquarters. Learn more about the political science program at VWU.

Dr. Maynard Schaus, Vice President for Academic Affairs-designate, announced on April 5 the appointments of college/school deans for the 2019-20 Academic Year: Dr. Leslie Caughell, Dean of the Birdsong School of Social Science; Dr. Ben Dobrin, Dean of the D. Henry Watts School of Professional Studies; Dr. Vic Townsend, Kenneth R. Perry Dean of the Joan P. Brock School of Mathematics and Natural Sciences; and Dr. Paul Ewell, Dean of University College. Dr. Travis Malone continues as Dean of the Susan S. Goode School of Arts and Humanities, and Dr. Joyce Easter continues as Dean of the Batten Honors College. Dr. Caughell has a scheduled sabbatical for the fall semester and Dr. Linda Ferguson will continue as Dean during her absence.

Dr. Susan Larkin has been appointed as Associate Vice President for Academic Affairs at Virginia Wesleyan, effective with the 2019-20 Academic Year. Dr. Larkin currently serves as Professor of English at VWU and has served on the faculty since 2008. A Rhode Island native, she received her B.A. in English, summa cum laude, from Wheaton College, an M.A. in English, and a Ph.D. in English Studies from Illinois State University. She also holds a graduate certificate in Women’s Studies from Illinois State University. Dr. Larkin brings a wealth of experience to her new position, including leadership roles in the English Department, on Educational Programs Commission (EPC), Faculty Standards and Welfare (FSW) Commission, and as part of the executive committee of the campus chapter of the American Association of University Professors (AAUP). “She will play a key role in setting academic priorities, program development, and the appointment of the academic leadership team for the new year,” says Associate Provost Maynard Schaus, who will assume the role of Vice President for Academic Affairs in July.

The annual Robert F. Boyd Institute will take place April 8-9, 2019, featuring keynote speaker Dr. Scott Kisker. Dr. Kisker is an elder in the Iowa Annual Conference of The United Methodist Church, and he has served as senior pastor of Colesburg United Methodist Church in Colesburg, IA. Prior to coming to United Theological Seminary, he was a professor of history of christianity at Wesley Theological Seminary as well as Wesley’s Director of the Course of Study Program. Dr. Kisker served as the director of the Charles Wesley Heritage Centre in Bristol, UK, and as associate pastor for the American Protestant Church in Bonn, Germany. He is one of the hosts of “Plain Truth: A Holy-Spirited Podcast." His books include The Band Meeting: Rediscovering Relational Discipleship in Transformational Community, co-authored with Kevin M. Watson; Longing for Spring: A New Vision for Wesleyan Community, co-authored with Elaine Heath; Mainline or Methodist? Recovering Our Evangelistic Mission; and Foundation for Revival: Anthony Horneck, the Religious Societies, and the Rise of an Anglican Pietism. For registration and more information, please visit vwu.edu/boyd.

The following recommendations for faculty promotion and tenure were approved during the winter meeting of the Virginia Wesleyan University Board of Trustees on February 20, President Scott D. Miller has announced.

Advancement from Assistant to Associate Professor and Conferral of Tenure:
Dr. Eric Johnson (Biology)
Dr. William McConnell (Education)
Dr. William Pruitt (Criminal Justice)
Dr. Jason Squinobal (Music)

Advancement from Associate to Full Professor:
Dr. Lisa Lyon Payne (Communication)

Advancement from Librarian I (Instructor Librarian) to Librarian II (Assistant Librarian):
Ms. Sherry Matis

The following statement from President Scott D. Miller appeared on March 1 in The President's Letter: Affirming VWU as an Inclusive Community:

"As many of you have heard, the Called General Conference of the United Methodist Church this week resulted in the current prohibitions within the Church on same-sex marriage and LGBTQ clergy being upheld. The St. Louis conference proved deeply disappointing to those of us advocating for a change in the policies.

You may recall that I am a member of the 20-member Board of Directors of the National Association of Schools and Colleges of the United Methodist Church who drafted a statement in Arizona that was presented to the 93 presidents of Methodist institutions for ratification. The joint statement affirmed the Church's "core religious and humanistic values that all persons are of sacred worth and equal standing." In 2006, 2011, and 2013, the United Methodist college and university presidents presented to the Council of Bishops similar statements affirming the necessity of the Church's inclusion of all people.

My position and that of my fellow presidents has not changed. At this critical juncture for the Church, and despite the outcome of the Called General Conference, I wish to state, as president, that our institution stands by this affirmation, seeking broad inclusion and diversity of our campus community, and in every way possible, striving to instill respect, tolerance, and commitment to social justice in our students.

The final conference vote in St. Louis will likely lead to fracturing of the United Methodist Church as we know it, with various individual congregations expected to break away. For some Methodist colleges and universities, issues of church funding, branding, and affiliation remain to be resolved.

Members of our faculty and staff joined me in monitoring these developments, and I had previously been interviewed by a number of media organizations for my comments as president of a Methodist-affiliated institution. Here are several links to coverage of the Called General Conference and to some of the interviews I granted:

What does all of this mean for Virginia Wesleyan University?

As I wrote to Bishop Sharma Lewis recently, our United Methodist heritage continues to inform our mission and inspire our civic outreach in numerous ways, through Wesleyan Engaged, our campus office of the Virginia Center for Inclusive Communities, Marlin Ministries, and the Center for the Study of Religious Freedom, among others.

We will continue building on our campus tradition of inclusion, collegiality, and mindfulness of social justice and civic-responsibility issues. All of these activities, in my view, are a direct outgrowth of our Methodist educational tradition by which we teach the value of informed opinion, civil discussion, and the importance of all persons having "sacred worth and equal standing."

Virginia Wesleyan University will always value its roots, look onward and upward, and honor its mission of intellectual, social, and spiritual growth. We wish the Church well and remain grateful for our historic affiliation with Methodists of many backgrounds, interests, and educational priorities."

To strengthen its flourishing pre-collegiate offerings, Virginia Wesleyan University has joined the National Alliance of Concurrent Enrollment Partnerships (NACEP). NACEP is a professional organization for educational partnerships offering college-credit courses in high schools. Formally established in 1999 in response to the dramatic increase in concurrent enrollment courses throughout the country, NACEP serves as a national accrediting body for concurrent enrollment programs and supports members by providing standards of excellence, opportunities to network and share best practices, and access to information about research and national trends in dual and concurrent enrollment. VWU currently has dual- and concurrent- enrollment programs with schools such as Tidewater Collegiate Academy, Chesapeake Bay Academy, Cape Henry Collegiate, and Broadwater Academy. In addition to these partnerships, the University has substantial programs that touch many students across the region including the Advanced Scholars Program and the Summer Scholars Environmental Institute.

Photo gallery: Batten Honors College Competition Spring 2019
The Virginia Wesleyan community welcomed scholars from throughout the country February 7-9 for the second weekend of competition for the Batten Honors College. This year's competitors have a high school GPA of 4.24 (on a 4.0 scale) and an average SAT of 1371. The competition started with a pool of over 30,000 potential students; one-tenth of that group were deemed eligible in meeting preliminary requirements for the program, and only 117 out of 30,000 were invited to campus. With 40 seats available in the upcoming class, only three percent of those who meet the Batten Honors College admissions requirements will be admitted (20 receive full-tuition Batten Fellowships and 20 receive two-thirds tuition Shumadine Scholarships). The competition began Thursday with a welcome reception at the Virginia Aquarium & Marine Science Center and continued  Friday and Saturday with various interviews, campus tours, class visits, and panel discussions. Participating students and their parents attended a reception at Slover Library in downtown Norfolk on Friday evening. Acceptance decisions will be made in the coming weeks, and the third cohort will arrive on campus this fall. Learn more at vwu.edu/battenhonorscollege.

It was a warm welcome on a chilly day in the Jane P. Batten Student Center during Marlin Nation Orientation, held today for incoming freshmen, transfer students and students enrolled in VWU’s Evening and Weekend Program. The new Marlins were first greeted by Vice President Keith Moore and other members of Student Affairs and Enrollment Services.  The newcomers had the opportunity to meet staff from all areas of campus and to learn about the services and resources available.  ROTC, Aramark and Sentara were also on hand to greet the newest members of VWU.  The remainder of the day was reserved for important tasks such as securing campus IDs and finalizing schedules in preparation for the start of spring semester classes on Monday, January 28.  It’s a great day to be a Marlin!

Virginia Wesleyan’s Ethics Bowl Team is preparing to compete in The Virginia Foundation for Independent Colleges (VFIC) 20th annual statewide collegiate Wells Fargo Ethics Bowl. The 2019 VWU team includes: Brandon Foster, Anitra Howard, Alex Powers, and Brianna Sandy. Faculty coordinator is Professor of Communication Kathy Merlock- Jackson. The team will deliberate ethics and social justice in the form of case studies, as they compete against other highly qualified teams from Virginia's 15 leading independent colleges and universities. Notable individuals from career fields including business, law, finance, education, and journalism will serve as judges, listening to presentations and offering reactions. While the location rotates among the VFIC institutions, this year's event will be held at Roanoke College, February 10-11. President Miller and VWU Professor of Philosophy Steven Emmanuel serve on the Ethics Bowl Committee.

Virginia Wesleyan University has planned several events to honor and celebrate the life and legacy of Martin Luther King, Jr. In addition to the "Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Day of Service" organized by Wesleyan Engaged: Center for Civic Leadership and Service Learning in collaboration with VOLUNTEER Hampton Roads, there are three events sponsored by Academic Affairs and Marlin Ministries. At noon today, in the Monumental Chapel, members of the campus community are invited to gather to hear Dr. King’s “I Have a Dream Speech.” And this evening, January 21, and tomorrow evening, January 22, there will be an opportunity to listen to Dr. King’s “Beyond Vietnam” speech (two-part series) in the Grille in the Jane P. Batten Student Center at 4:30 p.m. and then a discussion in Boyd Dining Hall at 5 p.m.

As the ongoing government shutdown continues to impact Coastal Virginia and the nation, Virginia Wesleyan University is taking action. The enrollment office announced today that it will waive tuition deposits for furloughed families. “We know this is a difficult time for many families,” said David Waggoner, Vice President for Enrollment. “This is a way we can help financially, while also ensuring that a young person’s education is not interrupted.” For more information, contact the Center for Enrollment Services at 757.455.3208 or enrollment@vwu.edu. On the other side of campus, the Wesleyan Engaged office is working with foodbanks across the region to host a non-perishable food drive. Goods collected will aid federal workers across Hampton Roads who are not receiving paychecks. Non-perishable foods can be dropped off at the Wesleyan Engaged office in the Batten Student Center until February 15. Virginia Wesleyan has experienced its own setbacks due to the shutdown. The Winter Session chemistry course “Metrology: Measurement Science,” a travel course to Washington, D.C., was cancelled due to closure of the National Institute of Standards and Technology. A second Winter Session travel course to D.C. was also impacted. Funding has also been affected for Dr. Audrey Malagon, Batten Associate Professor of Mathematics, who is developing course materials and leading workshops for faculty across the country as part of a grant she received from the National Science Foundation. “We rely on this funding to continue to make broad impacts on the teaching of undergraduate differential equations,” Malagon said.

 

The Board of Directors of the National Association of Schools, Colleges, and Universities of the United Methodist Church (NASCUMC)—a group for which Virginia Wesleyan University President Scott D. Miller serves as a member—met in Scottsdale, Arizona, recently to discuss the upcoming Called General Conference. A joint statement regarding issues coming before the Called General Conference in February was drafted by the NASCUMC board presidents and unanimously approved by all of those gathered for the winter meeting. Following the release of the statement, Religion News Service published the article: “Methodist university presidents call on denomination to amend LGBTQ policies.” Serving as a spokesperson for the presidential group, Dr. Miller is quoted in the article: “It is my disappointment and the feeling of many of my colleagues that this has been one of the reasons contributing to a decline in membership and attendance. The church has not stayed current with the people it serves.” President Miller was also interviewed by The Washington Post, and quoted in an article titled, "United Methodist university leaders call for LGBTQ acceptance by church." “This is a pivotal moment in the Methodist Church and a pivotal moment in Methodist higher education,” he says. The topic has also been covered by Inside Higher Ed, The Chronicle of Higher Education's Daily Briefing, and in the Laredo Morning Times.

Congratulations to the following Virginia Wesleyan University students for being named to the President's List by achieving a 4.0 grade point average for the Fall 2018 semester!

Fall 2018 President's List:

Reina Araujo
Alyssa Balanta
Allison Brewer
Mary Brockenbrough
Katherine Burton
McKayla Calapp
Emilee Caldbeck
Madalyn Chevalier
Storie Cook
Taylor Coutts
Zoe Cruz
Kayleesue Currier
Alyssa D'Emanuele
Lauren Davidson
Austin Davis
Iyana Downie
Brooke Erickson
Christopher Fegan
Isabelle Figueroa
Bayli Foley
Kathryn Gerrish
Sophia Gonzales
Mary Gower
Vernon Hanbury
Michael Harrison
Hayley Heath
Ezekiel Herrera-Bevan
Lyric Hinton
Abigail Horgan
Jonathan Huckabee
Ebonie Johnson
Catalina Jones
Teresa Jones
Destiny Kinka
Ashley Kline
Katy Kopaskey
Skyler Lattuca
Isabel Laxton
Morgan Lucas
Ryan Mason
Mayanni McCourty
Morgan McDonald
Caleb Mercer
Ann Marie Moffett
Christopher Morris
Kirsten Powell
Alex Powers
Dalton Powers
John Provine
Emily Purdin
Mickella Rast
Nicholas Rich
Justin Robins
Skye Seutter
Garry Sjodin
Jake Stokke
Jennifer Suarez
Jessica Suter
Millie Taylor
Caroline Tryfiates
Keith Wallace
Cecilia Ward
Kwonsha Washington
Lindsay Weitzel
Taylor Wilhelm
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
 

Congratulations to all Virginia Wesleyan University students who have been named to the Fall 2018 Dean's List. The Dean's List recognizes all students who achieve a grade point average of 3.5 or above during a given semester. To qualify for this honor, students must have full-time status and have taken at least nine semester hours of traditionally graded courses. Well done! View the complete Fall 2018 Dean’s List.

Renovation of the Virginia Wesleyan University men's and women's basketball locker rooms was completed in the Jane P. Batten Student Center in January 2018. Custom finishes include wooden lockers, wall graphics, white boards, updated seating and carpeting, and more. Funding for this Marlin makeover was made possible by VWU Trustee and men's basketball alumnus Tassos J. Paphites '79. Thanks to the Paphites family for their generous support! View the photo gallery of the new locker rooms here.

Under the leadership of Head Coach Brandon Elliott, Virginia Wesleyan University won back-to-back NCAA National Softball Championships in 2017 and 2018. However, the Marlins earned a national championship in another important category last year by finishing first in the nation among NCAA Division III institutions in the Strike Out Cancer program. The team has once again showed the power of giving, raising a record-breaking $28,620 for the American Cancer Society last spring, surpassing their $25,000 goal. In nine years coordinating the event, the squad has raised a total of $131,032, ranking as the top Division III giver over the past three years, each year generating more gifts than the last. “We are extremely proud of these meaningful and selfless accomplishments,” said VWU President Scott D. Miller. “Kudos to Brandon Elliott and Marlin Nation on another impressive accomplishment.” The winners received pink Louisville Slugger bats, donated by Louisville's parent company Wilson Sporting Goods, Inc.

Virginia Wesleyan University’s Educational Policies Commission voted recently to approve a policy which will allow students from the Virginia's Community Colleges system with an associates' degree seamlessly transfer to VWU. The students would need only to take a course, “Seminar Three,” under the new general studies program, which goes into effect in fall 2019. All other general studies requirements would be satisfied by their associate's degree. “We are pleased this will eliminate barriers for students and grow our relationship with our local and state community colleges,” said VWU President Scott D. Miller. This is a timely accomplishment, as Virginia Wesleyan now has an Enrollment and Advising Office on Tidewater Community College's (TCC) Virginia Beach campus. Each Wednesday, representatives from Virginia Wesleyan work onsite at TCC to assist students who are interested in transferring to VWU. Virginia Wesleyan has a long-standing relationship with Tidewater Community College. Last year, the Virginia Beach College Success Scholarship was created to celebrate academic achievement and shared values benefiting the community. Learn more at www.vwu.edu/vbcollegesuccess.

During Winter Session, on Thursdays (January 10, 17 and 24, 2019), The Center for Innovative Teaching and Engaged Learning (INTEL) and the director for Winter Session will co-sponsor  three events in the atrium of the Greer Environmental Sciences Center entitled, “Cheers in Greer.” The sessions, from 11:30 a.m. – 1 p.m., provide an opportunity to celebrate VWU course experiences—both in and out of the classroom. Participants are invited to enjoy hot chocolate, snacks and cookies while learning about the engaging activities that are taking place in winter session courses.

Virginia Wesleyan faculty and staff do incredible work inside and outside the classroom. Faculty Focus, an electronic newsletter published at the start of each month, celebrates these professional development successes and keeps the VWU community abreast of one other’s scholarly work. View news from the December 2018 issue of Faculty Focus and check out archived editions at the webpage for VWU's Center for Innovative Teaching and Engaged Learning (INTEL).

For more information or to make a submission, contact Associate Dean of INTEL Denise Wilkinson at dwilkinson@vwu.edu or 757.455.3249.

Consistent with Virginia Wesleyan's mission of service to its native Virginia Beach/Norfolk and Coastal Virginia heritage, the University has joined the Coalition of Urban and Metropolitan Universities (CUMU). In particular, CUMU membership will strengthen VWU's civic engagement and continuing education programs as approximately 60 percent of members have received a Carnegie Classification for Community Engagement. CUMU was formed in 1989 by leaders of metropolitan and urban institutions who realized their unique challenges and opportunities as they looked to the future of higher education. Member institutions are an affiliate organization of about 100 universities in metropolitan areas that share common understandings of their institutional missions and values. CUMU is dedicated to the creation and dissemination of knowledge on the issues that face urban and metropolitan campuses and the communities they serve. More

The "Year of the Arts" continues at Virginia Wesleyan University. It began last December with the groundbreaking for the Susan S. Goode Fine and Performing Arts Center and has continued with various milestone events surrounding the new facility: the announcement of the forthcoming Steinway Concert Grand Piano; the signing of the steel beam as the final structural piece was raised into place; the unveiling of the building's cornerstone; and the many theatrical and musical performances that have taken place in Hofheimer Theater this fall as the University says farewell to the historic space as a mainstage. On November 26, President Scott D. Miller shared yet another landmark moment for the Goode Fine and Performing Arts Center. In a message to the campus community, he revealed the creation of a new logo that “captures the modern design of this magnificent facility and symbolizes the unique performances and artistic imagination that will come to life within its walls.” The logo was created by Christine Hall, VWU Associate Director of Communications and Design Manager, who was also instrumental in the rebranding of Virginia Wesleyan to a University as well as the new Marlin logo in athletics. Read more about the Goode Fine and Performing Arts Center.

 

In true holiday spirit, Wesleyan Engaged: Center for Civic Leadership and Service Learning, the Black Student Union, Naturalista, and PORTFolio are working together to collect needed supplies for several organizations in our community, including Toys for Tots, For Kids, VA, Heartland Hospice, Seniors Unlimited, VA Beach SPCA, and Norfolk Animal Care Center. The VWU community is invited to donate the following items:

  • Baking goods (including Corn Bread Mix)
  • Blankets, Throws, old pillows, old bed linens, old towels
  • Can goods (fruit, vegetables, etc.)
  • Cleaning Supplies (dish soap, sponges, etc.)
  • Coats (gently used)
  • Coloring Books
  • Craft Beads
  • Hoodies (gently used)
  • Toiletries (unopened)
  • Paper towels
  • Socks (Men's, women's, and children's new socks)
  • Toys (Unwrapped and New)
  • Wool for knitting
  • Word search puzzles

All donations can be dropped off in the Wesleyan Engaged Office, located in the Jane P. Batten Student Center during office hours or in the marked box outside the Office after hours. To have donations picked up,  please contact Wesleyan Engaged (wesleyanegaged@vwu.edu).

Virginia Wesleyan faculty and staff do incredible work inside and outside the classroom. Faculty Focus, an electronic newsletter published at the start of each month, celebrates these professional development successes and keeps the VWU community abreast of one other’s scholarly work. View news from the November 2018 issue of Faculty Focus and check out archived editions at the webpage for VWU's Center for Innovative Teaching and Engaged Learning (INTEL).

For more information or to make a submission, contact Associate Dean of INTEL Denise Wilkinson at dwilkinson@vwu.edu or 757.455.3249.

With completion of the Susan S. Goode Fine and Performing Arts Center four months away and construction beginning this week on the tree-lined, lighted pedestrian/bike path from the DeFord Gatehouse to the Goode Center, President Scott D. Miller announced that the broad outdoor terrace and pond on the front side of the building will be named the Susan Beverly Grand Terrace and Pond. Susan Beverly is a graduate from the Class of 1972 and a longtime educator who has served on the University's Board of Trustees for many years. “We are pleased to designate the terrace and pond in Susan's honor in view of her longstanding commitment to, and support of, Virginia Wesleyan University,” said Dr. Miller. Read more about the Goode Fine and Performing Arts Center.

Virginia Wesleyan's Corporate Leaders Council met on campus Nov. 7 for their Fall Business Roundtable. Members heard campus updates, discussed plans for the future, and enjoyed a presentation by Joshua Harrison '20, Chief Executive Officer of the Marlin Prestige Business Conference. The Corporate Leaders Council is comprised of business leaders who align the University's vision and values in their management practices. Their personal and professional influence and support ensure that VWU students can participate in opportunities, such as internships, that will prepare them for meaningful lives and careers. Read more about the Corporate Leaders Council and view the full list of members. 

Virginia Wesleyan University is prominently featured in Dr. Madeleine Green's "In Search of Curricular Coherence,” a report from the Teagle Foundation on curricular reform endeavors across the country. The Teagle Foundation works to support and strengthen liberal higher education, acting as a catalyst for improvements in teaching and learning in the arts and sciences.

The report is the result of the culmination of a 30-month grant from the Teagle Foundation that engaged Virginia Wesleyan faculty with faculty from Davis & Elkins College, Shenandoah University and Eckerd College in creating “a more compelling and coherent liberal arts curriculum.” The institutions aimed to use high-impact practices to ensure progressive learning and find effective ways to bring faculty together to create curricular change. The focus of their campus projects varied; initiatives included curricular mapping, general education reform, and the preparation of students for participation in high impact practices.

“The Teagle Foundation grant enabled faculty at partner institutions to share information on what works and, in the process, influence the national dialogue on reform in higher education,” says Timothy O'Rourke, VWU Provost and Vice President. “The Consortium brought together institutions with a strong history of curricular innovation; each campus had an active initiative, supported by the grant, to make further progress toward a curriculum that offers a clear roadmap to degrees and careers across all majors.”

VWU’s revised general studies program simplified the structure to include three basic components: language proficiency (English composition and a foreign language); a series of three seminars that all first-, second-, and third-year students must take; and a breadth or distribution requirement. This structure replaces one that included basic language competency, advanced writing requirements, seven epistemological approaches, and a senior integrative seminar. The three seminars in the new program are designed to build on each other, demanding increasing sophistication in reading and writing.

Prior to the launch of its Teagle project, Virginia Wesleyan established The Lighthouse: Center for Exploration and Discovery, bringing together three high impact practices under one roof: study away, internships, and undergraduate research. The goal was to provide a one-stop office for advising, instruction, and financial support to students who engage in these three experiences. Virginia Wesleyan also developed a developmental framework of knowledge and skill development in which students progress through four stages of learning. Virginia Wesleyan’s grant-funded work focused on ensuring that students are fully prepared for the three high-impact practices by asking faculty to review how their courses prepare students for these experiences and by engaging departments in reviewing how the courses in the major accomplishes this goal. Virginia Wesleyan now holds an annual “Port Day” that provides students with an opportunity to present a capstone experience in their undergraduate research, study away, or internship in panel or poster sessions.

Virginia Wesleyan’s departments also engaged in curricular mapping designed to create developmental pathways in major academic programs that improve student learning outcomes and that guide students for successful capstone experiences in undergraduate research, study away, or internships. Faculty examined in which courses particular learning outcomes were being achieved. Another goal was to make majors more transparent to students. As a result of the exercise, several departments modified their curricula.

In addition, Virginia Wesleyan enhanced its First Year Experience with its “Pathway to See Change” program aimed to help students define goals and discover strengths and interests.

Marlins are making a difference in the lives of friends, family, and coworkers this fall by walking in the American Heart Association Heart Walk. The event will take place Saturday, November 3, at Mount Trashmore in Virginia Beach, and the Virginia Wesleyan team is a collaborative effort by the Office of Student Activities and Wesleyan Engaged: Center for Civic Leadership and Service Learning. “Our participation promotes a fun way to stay healthy while supporting the American Heart Association,” says Kate Griffin, Director of Student Activities. “We encourage our Marlin community to get involved by joining our walking team, donating to this wonderful cause, or sharing our team page.” The American Heart Association supports and advances groundbreaking research on cardiovascular disease, provides critical programs and services, and helps improve the health of many through education and advocacy. The Heart Walk is the American Heart Association's premier event for raising awareness about the United States’ No. 1 and No. 5 killers—heart disease and stroke. Sign up to walk with the VWU team at www2.heart.org/goto/VWU.

The 2018-2019 fiscal year has brought positive growth and transition for the Virginia Wesleyan University Alumni Council, which exists to strengthen the bond between alumni and their alma mater. President Scott D. Miller has announced that Rob Kohler '93, Vice President at Crane Tech Solutions LLC, has been selected to serve as secretary of the Alumni Council. He joins Troy DeLawrence '93 and Kevin Otey '05 who serve as chair and vice chair, respectively. Rob Gillikin '00, Attorney at Rutter Mills LLP, will chair the Alumni Resource Committee, and Jennifer Smith Boyd '94, Realtor at Rose & Womble Realty, will chair the Alumni Engagement Committee. The Alumni Council also welcomes several new members: Brandi Calica '14, Events Manager for the We Promise Foundation of Chartway Federal Credit Union; Sydney Covey '15, Sustainability Solutions Manager at STRUCTR Advisors, a subsidiary of the Hourigan Group; Alisa Crider '10, Public Relations Coordinator with Hampton Roads Transit; and Dominique Fowler '12, Director of Student Activities and Leadership at Virginia Union University. The Alumni Council represents all VWU graduates by serving as advocates for the University. Members volunteer their time each year, actively participating in networking events, regional socials, Homecoming and Family Weekend, and generating ideas to increase alumni engagement.

McFarland & Company, Inc., Publishers have announced that “Shapers of American Childhood,” a book of essays on visionaries from L. Frank Baum to Dr. Spock to J.K. Rowling, is new on bookshelves today! The book is co-edited by VWU Professor of Communication Kathy Merlock Jackson and Professor of English at the University of North Carolina at Charlotte Mark I. West and is available at: https://mcfarlandbooks.com/p…/Shapers-of-American-Childhood/

 The newly released book focuses on the experience of growing up in the U.S. and being shaped by many forces. Relationships with parents and teachers are deeply personal and definitive. Social and economic contexts are broader and harder to quantify. Key individuals in public life have also had a marked impact on American childhood. These 18 new essays examine the influence of pivotal figures in the culture of 20th and 21st century childhood and child-rearing, from Benjamin Spock and Walt Disney to Ruth Handler, Barbie’s inventor, and Ernest Thompson Seton, founder of the Boy Scouts of America.

Dr. Merlock Jackson teaches media studies and children’s culture at VWU. She is the author of eight books and the former editor of The Journal of American Culture. She is an officer in the Popular Culture Association.

Mark I. West is the chair of the English department at the University of North Carolina at Charlotte. He has written or edited a dozen books on children’s literature and culture and is a former president of the Children’s Literature Association.

Dr. Merlock Jackson and several members of the Virginia Wesleyan faculty have written chapters in the book:

Ruth Handler (1916–2002): Toys, Barbie and Girls’ Choices (Kathy Merlock Jackson)

Jonas Salk (1914–1995) and Albert Sabin (1906–1993): Conquering Polio (Kathy Shepherd Stolley, VWU Professor of Sociology)

Judy Blume (1938–): Shaping Subjects (Susan Larkin, VWU Professor of English)

Steve Jobs (1955–2011): Technology for a Beginner’s Mind (Lisa Lyon Payne, VWU Associate Professor of Communication)

The 2018-19 Academic Year marked the start of several promotions for VWU faculty members, including advancement from assistant to associate professor and conferral of tenure for Dr. Kathleen Casey (History), Dr. Leslie Caughell (Political Science), and Dr. Jennifer Slivka (English), and advancement from associate to full professor for Dr. Paul Ewell (Management, Business, and Economics), Dr. Hilve Firek (Education), Dr. Gabriela Martorell (Psychology), and Dr. Stuart Minnis (Communication). George Jackson received conferral of tenure, and Sophie Rondeau advanced to Librarian III (Associate Librarian). Congratulations!

Dr. Soraya Bartol (Biology), Dr. Lisa Lyon Payne (Communication), Dr. Kevin Kittredge, (Chemistry), Dr. Deirdre Gonsalves-Jackson (Biology), and Dr. Taryn Myers (Psychology) are also approved for faculty sabbaticals.

Wesleyan Engaged: Center for Civic Engagement and Service Learning will host its second annual Civic Engagement Workshop, a meet and greet with several of the University’s community partners, on Thursday, September 27, from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. in the Pearce Hospitality Suite in the Jane P. Batten Student Center. The workshop gives Virginia Wesleyan students, faculty, and staff an opportunity to engage with various non-profits from the Coastal Virginia area to gain a better understanding of how the organizations work with VWU to aid the community. Agencies attending include: African American Cultural Center, Inc., Bridge Builders of Hampton Roads, Chesapeake Bay Academy, Envision Lead Grow, ForKids, Inc., Good Samaritan Episcopal Church, Hampton Roads Pride, Heartland Hospice, Heritage UMC, LIFT Fitness Foundation, New St. John Foundation, Norfolk Parks and Recreation, Norfolk Public Library, Samaritan House, Seniors Unlimited Lifestyles, Inc., Seton Youth Shelters - Mentoring Children of Prisoners Program, Sierra Club Virginia Chapter, Untamed Spirit Therapeutic Riding, VA811, Virginia Beach City Public Schools, Virginia Beach GrowSmart, Virginia Beach Human Services Department - Behavioral Health Division, Virginia Beach Office of Volunteer Resources, Virginia Beach Parks and Recreation, Virginia Beach Public Libraries, VOLUNTEER Hampton Roads, and Young Audience Arts for Learning Virginia. Learn more about Virginia Wesleyan University community partners.

Each member of Virginia Wesleyan University's faculty and staff contributes to the campus community in unique and important ways, devoting time to students and working to create and sustain a thriving place to live and learn. Making a financial gift to VWU’s Excellence Fund is an additional way to support our mission, and employees will come together to do just that, starting October 1, through the 2018 faculty and staff campaign, “Your Gift is Your Voice.” When faculty and staff make a gift to the Excellence Fund, they are demonstrating their sincere belief in Virginia Wesleyan University and its students. Every gift, of any size, makes an impact, providing valuable support for students, opportunities for undergraduate research, internships, study-away experiences, and much more. Learn more about the Excellence Fund at www.vwu.edu/giving or make a gift at www.vwu.edu/giveonline.

Featured faculty and staff share their latest professional pursuits in print, presentations and panels, grants and other accomplishments. Read about the latest accomplishments and best practices of Virginia Wesleyan University faculty and staff in this month's VWU Faculty Focus. 

Who can vote? At different times in American history, the right to vote has been restricted on account of race, age, gender, literacy, property, wealth (in the form of poll taxes), and length of residency. Even today with universal suffrage, questions remain regarding voter identification at polling places and the purging of registration rolls. The case of Virginia Minor, who argued to the Supreme Court in 1875 that the 14th Amendment gives women the right to vote, offers a window on the past, present, and future of the right to vote in America.

On Thursday, September 20, at 12 p.m. in the Pearce Hospitality Suite, Provost and Vice President for Academic Affairs Timothy O’Rourke discusses “the fundamental political right” that is “preservative of all rights.” Dr. O’Rourke has testified before both U.S. House and Senate committees on voting rights and redistricting issues, and his expert testimony has been cited by the U.S. Supreme Court.

 

A new case study released this month highlights Virginia Wesleyan’s 20+-year relationship with Aramark in managing VWU’s facilities. The study credits President Scott D. Miller’s bold leadership and the University's long-time relationship with Aramark in driving recent campus improvements and expansions.

“Under the leadership of Dr. Scott D. Miller, VWU has become a model of campus transformation in a time of unprecedented competition in higher education. In just three years, Dr. Miller elevated the academic program, executed several new construction projects, and significantly boosted fundraising and new student enrollment.”

In addition to Virginia Wesleyan’s partnership with Aramark, the case study highlights successes such as creating a master plan with impressive outcomes and securing $600K in donor funding for corrective maintenance. Increased fundraising from many sources has allowed acceleration of initiatives first identified through the comprehensive master plan process, including completion of the Greer Environmental Sciences Center; the new Frank Blocker Youth Center, which serves the Tidewater Collegiate Academy during the academic year and YMCA Camp Red Feather during the summer months; landscaping and curb appeal improvements that improve traffic flow, define campus boundaries, and align with both a change to University status and a physical address change to Virginia Beach; construction of the Susan S. Goode Fine and Performing Arts Center and the upcoming Oxford Village complex; improvements to the Kenneth R. Perry baseball field, the new Tom and Betty Broyles Field at TowneBank Park for VWU’s NCAA national champion softball team, the new Betty S. Rogers Track and Field Center, and relocation of the University's Alpine Tower.

For more information and to read the entire case study, visit campusinsights.aramark.com.

A new and improved Bray Village is in the works! All seven buildings in Bray Village are scheduled for facility improvements this fall.  Bray Village includes Birdsong Hall, Aubrey L. Eggleston Commons, Peter D. Pruden Hall (academic building), and four residence halls: Louise W. Eggleston Hall, Abel E. and Clara Eaton Kellam Hall, Margarette Hanes Old Hall, and the Paul Howard Rose Hall.

The improvements include full replacement of all showers and bathrooms, painting, and corrective maintenance care.  Recently, external painting and blacktopping to the back of Bray Village from Smith Drive was completed.

Starting with Rose Hall, each residential building will be taken offline on a rotating basis for a period of two-three months while upgrades are made. After Rose Hall is completed, attention will turn to Kellam Hall. Students residing in Kellam will be reassigned to Rose to enjoy the enhanced facilities. Similarly, students in Old and Eggleston Halls will move to the most recently completed building as the project progresses.

From ceiling to floor, tiles to fixtures, these improved spaces will have a positive impact on the student experiences of our newest Marlins who reside in these residence halls.  

Sentara Sports Medicine is now helping to care for Virginia Wesleyan student-athletes, VWU President Scott D. Miller has announced. Under a new partnership, Virginia Wesleyan provides oversight for the athletic training program through Head Athletic Trainer Nicole Curry, and Sentara Sports Medicine supplements those efforts with a team of certified athletic trainers, physical therapists, and exercise physiologists who work with primary care physicians and orthopedic surgeons. All athletic training and sports medicine services will be housed in the Bonnewell Athletic Training Room in the Jane P. Batten Student Center.

"This new relationship with Sentara Sports Medicine will enhance our athletic training services in an efficient manner to our 22 sports," said President Miller. "“Clearly, this is a win-win partnership for Virginia Wesleyan University and our student-athletes. We're happy to welcome Sentara Sports Medicine to our campus.”

Last year, Virginia Wesleyan partnered with Sentara Healthcare to operate the University’s Health Center, located in Allen Village. Sentara Healthcare is a not-for-profit health system serving Virginia and North Carolina, with 12 hospitals, outpatient care centers, imaging centers, and more. 

VWU Associate Professor of Biology Deirdre Gonsalves-Jackson was one of four women in STEM careers featured in a front page story in The Virginian-Pilot on August 19. The feature, written by Katharine Hafner, provides an insightful look at the underrepresentation of women in STEM fields in an article titled, “Meet some of today’s Hidden Figures in Hampton Roads.”  Gonsalves-Jackson, who began teaching at Virginia Wesleyan 13 years ago, shares her journey as a scientist, from growing up in a Spanish-speaking community in Massachusetts to being one of the few women who continued on to pursue her doctorate in the sciences.  Read the full story.

 

 

Virginia Wesleyan University will be honored with the 2018 National Philanthropy Day award as the Outstanding Non-Profit in Fundraising by the Hampton Roads chapter of the Association of Fundraising Professionals (AFP), VWU President Scott D. Miller has announced. The award will be received at the November 28 luncheon at the Hilton Norfolk The Main, and according to AFP's nomination guidelines, "honors a nonprofit organization with a strong development/fundraising program...successful and creative campaigns... a strong infrastructure and commitment to best practices and ethics in philanthropy." In a message to campus, Dr. Miller acknowledged the University’s Center for Advancement (the fundraising and alumni- and parent-relations division of VWU) and expressed gratitude to those who make the institution’s success possible—the Board of Trustees, alumni and friends, corporations and foundations, faculty, staff, and students, parents and families, and other contributors. “Their financial support to The Excellence Fund, endowed scholarships, capital projects, academic innovation, and many other programs and purposes at VWU enriches our mission of teaching, scholarship and service,” he said. “We thank all of our donors for their consistent and heartfelt investment of trust and personal resources.” President Miller also recognized that the achievements of Virginia Wesleyan’s faculty and students inspire giving: “Their success in our classrooms and labs, the library, on the playing courts and fields, and in the communities we serve warrants our donors' engagement with our University and the financial support that follows.” Virginia Wesleyan joins the following honorees in other categories: Richard and Leah Waitzer, Outstanding Philanthropists; The Dragas Companies, Outstanding Corporation; Hampton Roads Community Foundation, Outstanding Foundation; Serena Amerson, Outstanding Fundraising Professional; Wendy Drucker, Outstanding Volunteer Fundraiser; and The Junior League of Norfolk-Virginia Beach, Outstanding Community Organization. VWU's own Tiffany Williams, Director of Stewardship and Special Gifts in the Center for Advancement, serves as president of Junior League. More

With the start of a new fiscal year brings a change in leadership for the Virginia Wesleyan University Alumni Council. Troy DeLawrence '93 (Quality Assurance Senior Specialist, CACI International) will succeed Mavis McKenley '11 (Vice President and Trust Officer, AMG National Trust Bank) as chair of the Alumni Council (view photo). DeLawrence most recently served as the vice chair of the Council and as chair of the Alumni Resource Committee. Kevin Otey '05 (Director of Strategic Initiatives, Hampton Roads Community Action Program) will transition to vice chair from his previous roles as secretary of the Alumni Council and chair of the Alumni Engagement Committee. McKenley will continue to support the Council as immediate past chair. “We thank Mavis for her two years of service as chair,” said VWU President Scott D. Miller. “During her tenure, alumni participation and engagement continued to rise through new initiatives such as our Spring Alumni Weekend and regional alumni gatherings. We are grateful for her leadership and look forward to her continued guidance.” The Alumni Council will elect a new secretary and new committee chairs at their first meeting at the start of the fall semester. View a complete list of Alumni Council members.

 

Virginia Wesleyan University has again been recognized for its committed implementation of high-impact educational practices, earning its title as one of the nation’s Colleges of Distinction. The University has proven itself to be at the forefront of American higher education with a modern, student-centered approach to teaching. With a unique learning environment, its programming engages students with character-building "First-Year Experience" seminars, community-based learning programs and service-learning opportunities, alternative Spring Breaks, diversity and global learning programs, intensive language and writing courses, interdisciplinary programs, undergraduate research, living-learning communities, senior capstone projects, study away  programs and internships, and more. Colleges of Distinction’s selection process consists of a review of each institution’s freshman experience and retention efforts alongside its general education programs, alumni success, strategic plan, student satisfaction, and more. Schools are accepted on the basis that they adhere to the Four Distinctions: Engaged Students, Great Teaching, Vibrant Community, and Successful Outcomes. “Colleges of Distinction is far more than a ranking list of colleges and universities,” said Tyson Schritter, Chief Operating Officer for Colleges of Distinction. “We seek out the schools that are wholly focused on the student experience, constantly working to produce graduates who are prepared for a rapidly changing global society. Virginia Wesleyan University stands out in the way it strives to help its students to learn, grow, and succeed.” For nearly 20 years, Colleges of Distinction has honored schools throughout the U.S. for their excellence in undergraduate-focused higher education. For more information, visit CollegesofDistinction.com.

VWU Professor of History Clay Drees has been chosen from among professors nationwide to teach a course on "Tudor England" as part of a six-week summer 2019 institute at Harlaxton College in Lincolnshire, England. Virginia Wesleyan students will be encouraged to accompany Drees to Harlaxton as part of VWU's Study Away Program.


Drees, a two-time recipient of the Samuel Nelson Gray distinguished teaching award (1998 and 2015), teaches courses in medieval and early modern European, African and Islamic history at Virginia Wesleyan. Drees served as VWU’s  director of the general studies program (1999-2005) and as chair of the social science division (2005-11). His published books include Authority and Dissent in the English Church (Edwin Mellen, 1997), The Late Medieval Age of Crisis and Renewal (Greenwood, 2001) and Bishop Richard Fox of Winchester: Architect of the Tudor Age (McFarland, 2014). In January 2018, Drees began a two-year term as national president of the Phi Alpha Theta honor society in history. He earned his doctorate from the Claremont Graduate School in California in 1991, after teaching high school for seven years, two years with the Peace Corps in Sierra Leone, West Africa.

 

In 2016, Virginia Wesleyan became a part of the Harlaxton College (England) partnership. Best College Reviews has ranked the University of Evansville's British campus - Harlaxton College - the best study-abroad program for American students, noting they offer a program of study that “directly addresses the challenges of living in an international community and the necessity of adopting a global view.” 

The Center for Sacred Music presents its first of three “4th Thursday Summer Sings” tonight, with community partner Christ & St. Luke’s Episcopal Church in Norfolk.  VWU’s Applied Music Instructor for Voice and Music Director at Great Bridge Presbyterian Church, Billye Brown Youmans, will serve as guest conductor for “Handel’s Messiah,” and Kevin Kwan, music director and organist at Christ & St. Luke’s, will accompany. The massed choir, which includes 81singers from throughout the region, will gather at 7 p.m. for a run-through, then sing through the choruses at 8 p.m. Listeners are welcome! The church is located at 560 W. Olney Road, Norfolk.

Future events:

July 26 – “Mozart’s Requiem in D minor,” Kevin Kwan, conductor; Brad Norris, organist

August 23 – “Mendelssohn’s Elijah,” Chuck Woodward, conductor; Stephen Cook, organist

For more information visit www.vwu.edu/csmSING

Spring 2018 President’s List Announced

Congratulations to the following Virginia Wesleyan University students for achieving a 4.0 grade point average for the Spring 2018 semester!

Albert, Amanda C. 

Allen, Sydnie E. 

Archer, Amanda C. 

Bateman, Kelly J. 

Bowman, Sandra C. 

Brisson, Elizabeth C. 

Brockenbrough, Mary K. 

Burton, Katherine E. 

Caldbeck, Emilee K. 

CallawayIII, LeMar  III

Cariker, Tiffany M. 

Cheely, Jacklyn A. 

Chevalier, Madalyn A. 

Chism, Allison T. 

Conrad, Riley M. 

Dennis, Kayla M. 

Espejo, Samantha N. 

Fegan, Christopher D. 

Fetter, Lynne G. 

Foster, Brandon L. 

Gerrish, Kathryn L. 

Gower, Mary A. 

Grainer, Kathryn A. S. 

HanburyII, Vernon K. II

Harrison, Shana L. 

Herring, Elise R. 

Horgan, Abigail L. 

Jakubowski, Michael E. 

Johnson, Andrew B. 

Jones, Catalina A. 

Kline, Ashley A. 

Klobosits, Miranda A. 

Lattuca, Skyler  

Latvis, Jordan N. 

McCourty, Mayanni A. 

Nimmo, Travon D. 

Novkovic, Brooke L. 

O'Connor, Lydia M. 

O'Rork, David R. 

Peloquin, Kathleen M. 

Peterson, Ashley N. 

Phillips, R. K. 

Pittman, Jessica C. 

Powers, Alex M. 

Puchalla, Sarah M. 

Rast, Mickella J. 

Reed, Morgan M. 

Roberts, Kathleen E. 

Robins, Kelsi P. 

Ronquillo, Aimelie E. 

Santos, Charlene V. 

Seutter, Skye M. 

Shuman, Joshua G. 

Smart, Samuel J. 

Smith, Serena V. 

Suter, Jessica R. 

Taylor, Alyssa M. 

Tyler, Yasmine N. 

Vandiver, Kelci L. 

Veras, Maribel  

WallaceJr., Keith  Jr.

Wentling, Luke E. 

Wertz, Kaci N. 

Wilson, Tayler L. 

 

President Miller announced that Virginia Wesleyan University has received a $250,000 challenge grant from the Mary Morton Parsons Foundation for updates and the purchase of new Steinway pianos for VWU’s existing Fine Arts Building. The University will have one year to raise the matching funds for the grant, which will allow for updated and modernized finishes, new windows, upgraded HVAC systems, and improved lighting. Updating the existing Fine Arts Building is a top priority identified in the University's 10-year Campus Master Plan. The Susan S. Goode Fine and Performing Arts Center (scheduled for completion in March 2019) will provide a state-of-the-art performance space for  theater, choral and music programs, and the existing Fine Arts Building will continue to serve as home to painting, ceramics, photography, and sculpture studios, as well as practice and rehearsal space for choral and instrumental programs.


“We aspire to eventually achieve “All-Steinway Status” as an institution,” said President Miller. “With the upgrades made possible by this grant, the Fine Arts Building will have the appropriate climate controls required for Steinway pianos. It is our goal to then replace the building’s existing pianos with new Steinway and Boston (Steinway-designed) pianos.”

 An American company founded in 1863, Steinway is considered the world’s finest piano manufacturer. “All-Steinway Status” represents commitment to high-quality music making by ensuring that 90 percent of the pianos are Steinway or Steinway-designed pianos, and that pianos in all performance and studio spaces are Steinway concert pianos. Presently, only six higher education institutions in Virginia, and 175 nationally, have achieved this designation. 

To help the University match this challenge from the Mary Morton Parsons Foundation, please contact Virginia Wesleyan’s Center for Advancement at 757.455.3217.

The results of the Student Government Association election for the 2018-2019 Academic Year are in!

Congratulations to the following students on their new or continued appointment:


Student Government Association Executives
President: Anthony Bowden ’19, Business (Suffolk, Virginia)
Vice President: Taylor Major ’20, Recreation and Leisure Studies (Parksley, Virginia)
Secretary: Molly Delmont '21, Undeclared (Glen Allen, Virginia)
Treasurer: Celvin Pelaez-Gonzalez '21, Business (Ocean City, New Jersey)
Special Events: Jennifer Vega '21, Political Science and Theatre (Chesapeake, Virginia)

Senior Class Officers
President: Alisha Milliosa '19, Psychology (Newport News, Virginia)
Vice President: Amanda Gerni '19, Environmental Studies and Political Science (Moyock, North Carolina)
Finance Officer: Cassandra Caldwell '19, Biology (Virginia Beach, Virginia)
Fundraising Officer: Jakob Steward '19, Theatre (Virginia Beach, Virginia)

Junior Class Officers
President: Elizabeth Hipple '20, Chemistry (Blacksburg, Virginia)
Vice President: Taylor Anderson '20, Psychology and Women's and Gender Studies (Norfolk, Virginia)
Finance Officer: Jazmine Rogers '20, Psychology and Criminal Justice (Virginia Beach, Virginia)
Fundraising Officer: Alexis Butler '20, Biology (Virginia Beach, Virginia)

Sophomore Class Officers
President: Aleigha Johnson '21, International Studies and Political Science (Limerick, Pennsylvania)
Vice President: Ezekiel Herrera-Bevan, '21, Undeclared (Ypsilanti, Michigan)
Finance Officer: Vacant
Fundraising Officer: Dazjae Johnson '21, Biology (Chesapeake, Virginia)

Virginia Wesleyan’s Spring 2018 Port Day is scheduled for Thursday, May 3, from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Port Day is a signature program of the University, designed to demonstrate and promote the academic achievements of students who are completing capstone undergraduate research, internship, and semester study-away experiences.  On Port Day, no classes, meetings, or athletic events are held during the day, allowing the entire campus community to celebrate the accomplishments of our students, learn about the good work completed, and hear about the transformative power of participation in capstone academic experiences. View the complete Port Day schedule at: http://www.vwu.edu/academics/port-day/master-schedule.php

Congratulations to the 2018 recipients of Virginia Wesleyan University's Innovative Teaching and Engaged Learning (INTEL) faculty grants! Each grant provides up to $1,000 for a project that encourages and advances a culture of innovation and engaged learning-related activities. Recipients are:

Dan Margolies, Department of History, and  Eric Johnson, Department of Biology  

Proposal Title:  Pollinator Behavior and Hive Maintenance in a Sustainable Greenhouse Observation Hive at Virginia Wesleyan University

This project creates a new experience for both the general public and students across disciplines to learn about and observe honeybee hive management both locally and afar. It involves the development and deployment of core apicultural knowledge with an unparalleled resource focused on both outreach efforts and enhancing the experimental capabilities of the VWU beeyard and greenhouse. This project will include the installation of a sustainable observation (glass-sided) hive in the new VWU greenhouse to accomplish two goals. 1) To increase the outreach capacity and utility of the greenhouse by implementing a user-driven high-resolution webcam on a managed bee colony; 2) To develop observation driven apicultural knowledge focused on experimental use of the VWU beeyard and the electronically monitored observation hive in INST 161. 

Jason Squinobal, Department of Music, and Katrina Henry, Department of Physics and Earth and Environmental Science

Proposal Title:  Lecture Demonstrations of Waves for STEM and Music classes

Waves and sound are topics that cross­cut the curriculum at Virginia Wesleyan. From physics to music, physical science (teacher education) to oceanography, waves and sound are a significant portion of the coursework in a over a dozen courses in the Goode and Brock schools. Concepts of wave frequency, wavelength, wave speed, wave addition and interference are applicable in physics, oceanography, mathematics, and music. This proposal seeks to purchase demonstration equipment that will illustrate waves and sound (the latter is itself is a wave). The authors will construct an online database, accessible to VWU faculty, containing Equipment Information Sheets for each piece of equipment (example is shown on the last page of this document). The sheets will categorize the equipment, describing the demonstrations that could be performed from each piece, and list its location and the contact person for that equipment. The Equipment Information sheets, written by both co­authors, will seek to provide lecture demonstration activities that suture the interface between sound and waves so that students from either side (arts/humanities or STEM) and step into the others world and see greater clarity in their own. Music majors will have the opportunity to experience and explore the physics of musical sound and make connections between the scientific aspects of music that compliment the student's artistic training. Music Technology will benefit by a greater understanding of elusive sound ways and how they can be manipulated, by conducting demonstrations of physical and visual representations of sound waves using the equipment purchased with the this grant.

Virginia Wesleyan Singers, led by Assistant Professor of Music  Bryson Mortensen, have returned from their travels to New York City after performing at one of the world's most famous concert venues—Carnegie Hall.  They performed alongside choirs from across the country, including some very close to home—Great Bridge United Methodist Church Choirs from Chesapeake and the Tallwood High School Choir from Virginia Beach. An encore performance of their Carnegie Hall concert is scheduled for Saturday April 28, at 7:30 p.m. at Great Bridge United Methodist Church (201 Stadium Dr., Chesapeake). Admission is free and open to all.

Congratulations to Dr. Mortensen, as this was his conducting debut at Carnegie Hall, and bravo to the following student choir members:

Deidra Benn                Tamia Ponder
Shelby Emch              Tara Truax
Marissa Gross             Emily Vial
Aleigha Johnson          Amanda Waller
Yaminah Lewis            Ryan Fissinger
Marissa Phillips           Andrew Harrelson
Shannon Ponack         Nicholas Hipple
Serena Smith              Adam Kurek
Jennifer Vega               Michael McOsker
Cora Wilson                Jackson Simmons
Nailah Alston-Izard       Taylor Simpson
Jeannie Barnes            Myles Baynard
Morgan Boyd               Dante Copeland
Kimberly DeHart          Robert Jones
Daria Ellis                   Jonathan Joyner
Patrice Glover              William Lanagan
Miah Kurtz                   Scott Lassiter
Katherine Pangborn      Thomas Reinhold
Ashaunti Parker  

International Studies major Selena Chambers ‘19  has been awarded a $4,500 scholarship to study abroad in Amman, Jordan in fall 2018 with the School for International Training (SIT). The award, from the Fund for Education Abroad (FEA), will enable Chambers to study Arabic, international relations, peace studies, and engage in research methods. She will also undertake an internship with a local organization or business. Chambers was selected from 2,300 applicants, representing 517 U.S. colleges and universities. Chambers’ FEA award will be supplemented by Virginia Wesleyan University’s Global Scholars Program, a competitive program that supports semester study abroad. Launched in 2012, the VWU Global Scholars Program provides supports study abroad by funding a semester of foreign study immersion for students to broaden their intellectual and cultural horizons. The program is open to Virginia Wesleyan students in all majors.

For more information about Virginia Wesleyan University’s Study Away Program, visit The Lighthouse’s webpage or contact director of VWU’s Study Away Mandy Reinig.

 

Gamma Sigma Epsilon (Epsilon Epsilon Chapter) inducted its new members on April 18. The national chemistry honor society, founded in 1919 at Davidson College, has 83 active chapters throughout the United States. Active members of the chapter are students who have completed a minimum of 16 credit-hours in chemistry with a minimum grade point average of 3.0 in all chemistry courses and at least a 3.0 overall grade point average. Joyce Easter, dean of the Batten Honors College and professor of chemistry is the sponsor for VWU’s society.

Congratulations to the following new members:

Amanda Albert, '19

Cassandra Caldwell, '19

Austin Davis, '19

Kaylah Duplain, '20

Christopher Fegan, '20

Rachel Fuller, '19

Elizabeth Hipple, '20

Monika Metro, '20

Poonam Patel, '19

Ricky Perrault, '19     

The new members join 10 previously initiated members, five of whom are the officers who presided over the initiation ceremony.

Kellen Phillips, ’18           Grand Alchemist (president)

Corentin Villot, ’18           Alchemist Apprentice (Vice President)

Kyle Richardson, ’19        Keeper of the Formulae (Recorder)

Leslie Hackney, '18          Keeper of the Solvents (Treasurer)

Nicole Holmes, '19           Sargent at Arms

Alexandra Ghazaleh, ’18

Amy Large, ’18

Shane McPherson, ’18

Duncan Miller (Dec 2017)

Stephanie Norwood, ’18

Six Virginia Wesleyan cadets—members of the Marlin Detachment—were recognized with awards at the 43rd Annual President’s Review and Awards Ceremony for the U.S. Army Reserve Officers’ Training Corps (ROTC) Monarch Battalion at Old Dominion University.


Congratulations to the following VWU students for these garnering these exemplary awards:

Society of the War 1812 Award

Jake Morgan '18

Daughters of the American Revolution Award

Joseph Fairbanks '18

AUSA Military History Award

Joseph Fairbanks '18

Outstanding VWU Cadet

Zachary Raymond '20

Gavin Fry '19

Joseph Fairbanks '18

Outstanding Varsity Athlete

Rolanda Taylor '18

Distinguished Military Students

Joseph Fairbanks '18

Alexander Gallant '18

Jake Morgan '18


The Army ROTC Marlin Detachment operates as part of ODU’s Monarch Battalion. Through an elective curriculum, participating students receive valuable tools, training, and leadership experiences that not only may lead to military service but also become assets in any career. Students also have access to an ROTC grant of $1,000 that can be applied to tuition during their freshman and sophomore years. Amy Rush, deputy director of The Lighthouse: Center for Exploration and Discovery,  has served as the advisor to VWU’s ROTC students since 2012.

 

 

The annual Justine L. Nusbaum Lecture, sponsored by the Center for the Study of Religious Freedom, is scheduled for Monday, April 23, from 7-8 p.m. in the East Dining Room of Boyd Dining Center. In this year’s presentation, “How to Be Less Stupid About Race: Racism and Anti-racism in Our Classrooms and Communities,” esteemed author and professor Dr. Crystal Fleming will illustrate why Americans of all ethnicities are ignorant about race.  The event is free and open to the public.


The lecture will preview Dr. Fleming’s forthcoming book, How to Be Less Stupid About Race: The Essential Guide to Confronting White Supremacy, highlighting how institutions and patterns of thinking systemically reinforce racial ignorance on all sides of issues. It will show how, if we are to be “less stupid about race,” we need to take concrete steps toward deeper understanding. Dr. Fleming is an associate professor of sociology and Africana studies at SUNY Stony Brook. She is an award-winning writer, speaker and educator committed to empowering individuals and communities with the conceptual tools needed to understand, confront and challenge white supremacy.

Earlier in the day on April 23, Dr. Fleming will lead a workshop for VWU students, co-sponsored by the CSRF, the President's Council on Inclusive Community, and the Office of Student Activities. “How to Be Less Stupid About Race: A Workshop for Students of All Backgrounds” will examine how U.S. citizens of all racial and ethnic backgrounds are socialized to be ignorant about race. It will offer practical steps for removing barriers created by assumptions and misconceptions and provide a roadmap for building a more civil and inclusive community. This event will take place in GESC 155 from 4:00-5:30 p.m.

Robert C. Nusbaum, Founding Fellow of the Center for the Study of Religious Freedom, and his brother, V.H. Nusbaum, established the Justine L. Nusbaum Endowed Lectureship in honor of their mother and her lifelong volunteer service and dedication to humanitarian causes.

For more information on this event and other programming coordinated by the Center for the Study of Religious Freedom, visit www.vwu.edu/csrf, call 757.455.3129, or email csrf@vwu.edu.

On April 11, a tapping ceremony was held in the Monumental Chapel for those selected for membership in Omicron Delta Kappa (ΟDΚ) (view photo). This national leadership honor society recognizes not only academic achievement but also leadership across five phases of campus life: scholarship; athletics; community service, social or religious activities, and campus government; journalism, speech and the mass media; creative and performing arts. Virginia Wesleyan's Circle of ODK was installed on April 5, 1981. Membership in this society is regarded as one of the highest collegiate honors that can be awarded to an individual. In order to be selected, one must be in the top 35 percent of students on their respective campuses and hold a leadership role in one of the five phases of campus life mentioned above. The spring 2018 inductees join an impressive list of current ΟDΚ members made up of VWU Board of Trustees members, faculty, staff, and students.


Congratulations to the Omicron Delta Kappa inductees for spring 2018:

Peyton Auxt                          William Harrell
Frances Barnes                     Hayley Heath
Isabella Blackney                  Nicole Holmes
Taylor Cain                            Wade Jernigan
Lafayette-Chase Campbell      Francesca Lanuza
Tiffany Cariker                       Stephanie McDermott
Dale Cawthorne                     Amber McDonald
Luke Chiasson                      Christopher McTague
Rachel Connolly                    Austin Obenour
Riley Conrad                         Emilee Pierson
Iyana Downie                        Kirsten Powell
Dr. Steven Emmanuel            Colleen Smith
Darlene Flucker                     Tayler Wilson
Shae Geary                          Ashley Winslow
Alexandra Ghazaleh

Virginia Wesleyan University has been selected by the PepsiCo Recycling Zero Impact Fund program to receive funding for two solar-powered umbrellas and two human-powered desk bicycles that will function on campus as sustainable cell-phone charging stations for students. The umbrellas and bicycles are expected to arrive this summer and will be situated in and around the Greer Environmental Sciences Center. The GESC already contains a number of specific elements designed to engage students in the natural environment and sustainable forms of technology. These include solar panels, a green roof, constructed wetlands, geothermal wells, LED lighting, a building dashboard, and more. The charging stations will provide an engaging way for students to apply sustainable technologies to something that is of interest to them—their cell phones and other mobile devices. Associate Provost and Professor of Biology Maynard Schaus pursued this engaging and cost-effective sustainability effort for the VWU campus. Schaus is featured along with Katrina Henry, assistant professor of physics and earth and environmental sciences, in a recent Inside Business article about the award.

Read more at https://pilotonline.com/inside-business/news/continuing-education-work-development/article_908ec3ac-382b-11e8-ac1c-f7958fb81b58.html

President Scott D. Miller has shared his monthly column in The Virginian-Pilot, published April 1, in which he says he reflects on his recent role as chair of the Virginia Center for Inclusive Communities 54th Annual Humanitarian Awards Dinner. "I hope it inspires productive thought on how we might continue to help our community grow and flourish,” said President Miller.

https://pilotonline.com/opinion/columnist/guest/article_75aa8492-31cb-11e8-bfa9-bb1faca615d7.html?__vfz=medium%3Dsharebar

Virginia Wesleyan University is featured in a just-released report on independent colleges that have implemented meaningful change. In “Innovation and the Independent College: Examples from the Sector,” the Washington, D.C.-based Council of Independent Colleges (CIC) highlighted selected universities’ responses to challenges facing them. The report is designed to be a guidebook for leaders who want to push for change on their campuses.

“I am pleased to share some of the ideas that are transforming independent higher education,” said CIC President Richard Ekman.

The following Virginia Wesleyan innovations were highlighted in the report:

  • Curricular Reform: The University undertook a curriculum-mapping project to streamline academic programs, closing the gap between 100- and 200-level courses and 300- and 400-level courses; the project highlights the importance of advising and using this scaffolding approach to enable more students to benefit from experiential learning, including study away.
  • Experiential Learning: The University is using a curriculum-planning grant from the Teagle Foundation to identify new ways for students to benefit from experiential leading, including study away, research, internships, and service learning. 

The report is based on the results of eight CIC focus-group workshops held across the country to discuss how colleges can remain relevant and continue to grow. A team from Virginia Wesleyan University took part in the gathering hosted by McDaniel College in Westminster, Maryland, in April 2017. Special thanks to the Arthur Vining David Foundations, Carnegie Corporation, Endeavor Foundation, Gladys Krieble Delmas Foundation, Jessie Ball DuPont Fund, Lumina Foundation for Education, National Endowment for Humanities, Teagle Foundation, and TIAA Institute for funding the focus groups and preceding initiatives. 

Virginia Wesleyan’s new online learning programs are up and running. After signing a seven-year agreement in January 2017 with The Learning House, a Kentucky-based company, the university’s venture into the online arena quickly took shape. The flexibility of the online programs provides unprecedented levels of convenience for students and the potential for significant enrollment growth at Virginia Wesleyan.

“Though online learning will never replace our residential campus life experience, online options are increasingly valuable as we reach out to new audiences and seek distinctive, affordable and convenient ways for students to take courses.,” said VWU President Scott D. Miller.

Virginia Wesleyan first began offering an online Master of Business Administration (MBA) as well as online bachelor’s degree-completion programs in business, criminal justice, and social science for adult students in the fall 2017.

In addition, a traditionally delivered Master of Arts in Education is now available. This 4+1 program enables Virginia Wesleyan students to complete an undergraduate degree in four years in a content major related to secondary education, and then complete a year of graduate study devoted to preparation for teaching.

Associate Provost and Professor of Biology Maynard Schaus coordinates the University’s online programs.

“The addition of online learning opportunities to our offerings is going very well,” said Schaus. “We will have developed 40 courses for online learning by end of this year, and enrollment in the MBA program has exceeded our expectation, with an enrollment of 67 students. By the end of next year, we will have eight undergraduate degree completion programs ready.”

Schaus added that "environmental studies, comprehensive liberal studies, and Social Science tracks in Psychology and Social Welfare will be ready for the online learning platform beginning in the fall."

For more information about Virginia Wesleyan University’s online programs visit https://online.vwu.edu/.

 

President Miller signed a resolution declaring April 2-8 as NCAA Division III Week at Virginia Wesleyan University,  recognizing our student-athletes’ hard work on the field, in the classroom, and within the community at large. Joining him for the ceremony were Gavin Fry, Athletics Management Council student representative, Sue Larkin, Faculty Athletics Representative, Joanne Renn, Executive Director of Intercollegiate Athletics, and Amanda Gerni, Vice President of the Student Athlete Advisory Committee (view photo).

National Collegiate Athletics Association (NCAA) Division III Week takes place annually across the country. Participating schools and conference offices conduct outreach activities in the areas of academic accomplishment, athletic experience, leadership, community service, and campus involvement. Plans for Virginia Wesleyan are coordinated by the Student Athlete Advisory Committee (SAAC) and this year included an Easter Egg Hunt, Faculty Appreciation Day, Game Day, Fire Pits, Social Media Day, Walk for Water, and Kickball. The Marlin softball program's annual Strike Out Cancer fundraiser was also scheduled as part of the week, but due to inclement weather, it has been rescheduled for April 22.

The week is part of Division III’s Identity Initiative, which was introduced in 2010 to sharpen its identity and enable schools and conferences to more effectively explain why they prefer to compete in Division III. The initiative has been guided by a strategic-positioning platform, describing Division III as a place where student-athletes can “follow your passions and develop your potential,” within an approach that combines rigorous academics, competitive sports and an opportunity to pursue other interests.

Thanks to all student-athletes, coaches, athletic department staff, faculty-team advisors, and others on campus who work daily to make VWU’s program so successful.

Visit www.vwuathletics.com for more information about NCAA Division III Week.

The Rev. Dr. Karla M. Kincannon, a 1976 graduate of Virginia Wesleyan, will serve as the speaker for VWU’s  Baccalaureate service on Friday, May 18, at Haygood United Methodist Church in Virginia Beach (4713 Haygood Rd). A preludial concert by the Virginia Wesleyan Chorale will begin at 5:30 p.m., followed by a 6:00 p.m. service.


Rev. Kincannon is the director of spiritual formation at Aldersgate United Methodist Church in Alexandria, Virginia. As an artist, author, spiritual director, and United Methodist minister (Elder), she believes "God’s gift of creativity is an essential tool for navigating the spiritual journey and a necessary element for the corporate life of the Church." She is the author of Creativity and Divine Surprise: Finding the Place of Your Resurrection, as well as numerous articles about the spiritual journey and curriculum for the United Methodist Church. She speaks in a variety of ecumenical settings nationwide as a lecturer, workshop leader, and retreat facilitator.

Dr. Kincannon earned a Bachelor of Arts from Virginia Wesleyan and a Master of Divinity from Garrett-Evangelical Theological Seminary. She also completed her Doctor of Ministry in Spiritual Direction from Garrett-Evangelical Theological Seminary, where she served on the faculty for five years. Her other experience includes serving as a church pastor, a college chaplain and campus minister, conflict mediator, as well as more than two decades of work in the healing arts as a spiritual director. She founded SpiritArt Ministries to help individuals and congregations encounter the living God through the use of their creativity.


Baccalaureate is a religious service held at most private, church-related educational institutions before the commencement exercises. It is an important tradition at United Methodist Church-affiliated colleges and universities. Highlights of the service include a farewell sermon to the graduating class and selected remarks, often from one or more representatives of the senior class.

Virginia Wesleyan University Trustee Emeritus George Birdsong H'16, CEO and General Counsel of Birdsong Peanuts, was honored on March 22 at the Junior Achievement Hampton Roads Business Hall of Fame event. The awards gala recognized his lifetime achievements and celebrated him as one of Hampton Roads’ most visionary business leaders. Other honorees included Deborah DiCroce, President and CEO of the Hampton Roads Community Foundation, W. Taylor Reveley, III, President of William & Mary, and Bob Sasser, Executive Chairman of Dollar Tree.

Junior Achievement is the nation's largest organization dedicated to giving young people the knowledge and skills they need to own their economic success, plan for their futures, and make smart academic and economic choices. Its programs—which focus on work readiness, entrepreneurship, and financial literacy—ignite young people to experience and realize the opportunities and realities of work and life in the 21st Century.

George Birdsong has been affiliated with the Virginia Wesleyan Board of Trustees since 1989. He served as Board Chair from 2007-2010 and was later designated as Trustee Emeritus. In 2016, he received an honorary Doctor of Laws degree from the University and served as keynote speaker during the institution’s inaugural Founders Day. He and his wife Sue, the Birdsong family, and the Birdsong Corporation played a major role in the University’s founding. Birdsong Hall, an original building in Bray Village, was dedicated to the Birdsong family in 1968, and a plaque in the building distinguishes the Birdsongs as dedicated Methodists whose generosity helped establish Virginia Wesleyan.

Birdsong Peanuts and the Birdsongs have made a number of significant gifts to the University throughout its history. The Birdsong Community Services Endowment Fund was formed in 1995 to provide support for Virginia Wesleyan’s acclaimed community services program. The Birdsong Corporation/George and Sue Birdsong Endowed Scholarship was also established to provide assistance for deserving students. In 2015, the University dedicated VWU’s Birdsong Field in honor of the Birdsong family to celebrate their generous commitment to the facility. The following year, the Birdsong School of Social Science was established with recognition and deep appreciation for contributions by Harvard Birdsong, a charter member of the Board of Trustees, George and Sue Birdsong, Thomas Birdsong, III, and his wife Jane, the Birdsong family, and the Birdsong Corporation.

 

 

Spring Alumni Weekend is scheduled for April 13-14. The VWU campus community is invited to relax and reunite at our very first Spring Pig-Pickin’ Picnic, cheer on old friends in Pie Eating and Hot Dog Eating Contests, and root for former classmates in athletic contests and alumni games. A special scroll-signing ceremony will commemorate the 25th graduation anniversary of the Class of 1993, and the weekend will also include the 36th Annual Seafood Party in the Dell. Special early-bird pricing will be available through March 31. View the full schedule and register online today: https://www.vwu.edu/alumni-a-friends/spring-alumni-weekend-registration.php  Come and join in the fun!

On March 23, Virginia Wesleyan University will once again host the Empty Bowls Charity Dinner. In its 20th year, the Ceramic Designers Association event will get underway in Boyd Dining Center at 5:30 p.m. Guests will receive a handmade bowl and enjoy freshly prepared soups, bread and dessert—but more importantly, they’ll help alleviate hunger in our community.

The Empty Bowls project is an international grassroots movement held annually in many communities to help raise both money and awareness in the fight to end hunger. The first local Empty Bowls Charity Dinner took place in 1998 at Holy Family Catholic Church. It moved to Virginia Wesleyan the following year, thanks to the efforts of Virginia Wesleyan alumna Susan Alexander Mizell '80.

In addition to providing the venue, Virginia Wesleyan also arranges for event volunteers and participation from the University community. Professor of Art Phil Guilfoyle and his ceramics students have donated their handmade bowls to the event, and Guilfoyle has provided potter wheel demonstrations. Sodexo, Virginia Wesleyan’s food service provider,  generously provides the soups served at the event.

All funds raised benefit local charities such as the Foodbank of Southeastern Virginia, Judeo-Christian Outreach Center, Help and Emergency Response Shelter, Oasis Social Ministries, and Union Mission. In the last five years alone, the event has raised over $110,000 for hunger-relief efforts in our community.

“In keeping with the University’s Methodist heritage and our commitment to service learning, Virginia Wesleyan students, faculty, and staff are encouraged to become active and engaged citizens,” said VWU President Scott D. Miller. “This event speaks to the University’s goal of educating through meaningful service and brings our campus and community together in partnership to share resources and meet real community needs.”
 
Tickets for the Empty Bowls Charity Dinner are $25 in advance and $30 at the door. Learn more by visiting the Ceramic Designers Association website at: www.cdava.com

In partnership with the Virginia Conference of the United Methodist Church, Virginia Wesleyan University hosts a workshop for UMC pastors each spring that yields continuing education units. Today we welcome more than 100 special guests to campus for The Robert F. Boyd Institute (March 19-20), featuring Dr. Tod Bolsinger, Vice President and Chief of Leadership Formation and Assistant Professor of Practical Theology at Fuller Theological Seminary.

In his seminar, Dr. Bolsinger will share insight and lessons on leadership in a changing world. The presentation will be based on his award-winning book, Canoeing the Mountains: Christian Leadership in Uncharted Territory, which offers both realism and hope, as well as tangible ways to lead differently when you go “off the map.” Dr. Bolsinger earned a Ph.D. in theology and Master of Divinity from Fuller Theological Seminary. In addition to Canoeing the Mountains, he authored It Takes a Church to Raise a Christian: How the Community of God Transforms Lives, and The New Media Frontier: Blogging, Vlogging, and Podcasting for Christ. He speaks, consults and is an executive coach for corporate, non-profit, educational and church organizations in transformational leadership.

The Boyd Institute, coordinated by Kelly Cordova, Assistant Director of Annual Giving and Alumni Relations, complements a variety of programs offered by our Center for Sacred Music, the Center for the Study of Religious Freedom, and Marlin Ministries. VWU strives to integrate participants of the Boyd Institute into these and other programs of the University.

Read more about this year’s program at www.vwu.edu/boyd.

Virginia Wesleyan has initiated membership with Campus Compact, a national coalition of more than 1,000 colleges and universities dedicated to civic education and community development. As the only national higher education association dedicated solely to campus-based civic engagement, Campus Compact enables campuses to develop students’ citizenship skills and forge effective community partnerships. Its resources support faculty and staff as they pursue community-based teaching and scholarship in the service of positive change. Our participation in Campus Compact builds upon the University’s connections and improves our civic engagement efforts.

“My goal is to emphasize the four academic pillars of Virginia Wesleyan University: undergraduate research, international experience, internships, and civic engagement,” said President Miller. “We strengthened our commitment to civic engagement last semester with the formation of Wesleyan Engaged: Center for Civic Leadership and Service Learning and the appointment of Brian Kurisky as director. It pleases me that we can now proactively affirm the following statements, which characterize Virginia Wesleyan’s current commitments and name the ideals toward which we continue to work with renewed dedication, focus, and vigor:

  • We empower our students, faculty, staff, and community partners to co-create mutually respectful partnerships in pursuit of a just, equitable, and sustainable future for communities beyond the campus—nearby and around the world.
  • We prepare our students for lives of engaged citizenship, with the motivation and capacity to deliberate, act, and lead in pursuit of the public good.
  • We embrace our responsibilities as place-based institutions, contributing to the health and strength of our communities—economically, socially, environmentally, educationally, and politically.
  • We harness the capacity of our institutions—through research, teaching, partnerships, and institutional practice—to challenge the prevailing social and economic inequalities that threaten our democratic future.
  • We foster an environment that consistently affirms the centrality of the public purposes of higher education by setting high expectations for members of the campus community to contribute to their achievement.”

President Miller will serve as the dinner chair for the Virginia Center for Inclusive Communities 54th Annual Humanitarian Awards Dinner. The event will take place on Thursday, March 22, at The Westin Virginia Beach Town Center. Humanitarian Awards are presented to individuals and organizations demonstrating a commitment to the promotion of respect and understanding among people of diverse racial, ethnic, and religious backgrounds. This year’s honorees: Kim W. & Valerie K. Brown; Cathy M. Lewis H’09; Lemuel E. Lewis (a Trustee Emeritus of Virginia Wesleyan University); William L. Nusbaum; Angela D. Reddix; and Eggleston (Distinguished Merit Citation).

Corporate Level Sponsors for the event include Birdsong Corporation, Landmark Media Enterprises, LLC, and Sentara Healthcare. Table Level Sponsors include Charles Barker Automotive, Dominion Energy, The Dragas Companies, KPMG, MacArthur Center, Markel Corporation, Norfolk Airport Authority, Norfolk State University, Old Dominion University, Owens & Minor, Inc., Port of Virginia, S L Nusbaum Insurance Agency Inc., Beth N Curtiss & Charles S Nusbaum, S.L. Nusbaum Realty Co., Smithfield Foods, Inc., SunTrust Bank, Towne Benefits, Virginia Beach Economic Development, Westminster-Canterbury on Chesapeake Bay, Williams Mullen, and WHRO Public Media. Full tables and individual seats are still available, and reservations can be made online at: http://www.inclusiveva.org/awards/humanitarian/tidewater/

Past honorees include former VWU Trustee G. Robert Aston Jr. (2002), Trustee Emeritus George Birdsong (1997), Virginia Wesleyan’s Center for the Study of Religious Freedom (2001, Distinguished Merit Citation), former Virginia Wesleyan President Lambuth Clarke (1991), former Trustee B. Minette Cooper (2000), Trustee Mary H. Haddad (2004), Trustee Vincent J. Mastracco (2000), Robert C. Nusbaum (2013), Voices of Faith with Jim Bergdoll (2016, Jeffrey B. Spence Award for Interfaith Understanding), and Craig S. Wansink (2017). President Miller is also preceded in his role as dinner chair by Lambuth Clarke (1979) and Henry Clay Hofheimer (1965).

Virginia Wesleyan’s Center for the Study of Religious Freedom sponsors several presentations and workshops in conjunction with the Virginia Center for Inclusive Communities each year—including the Nexus Interfaith Dialogue series. The center’s associate director, Kelly Jackson, has served on the VCIC Tidewater Chapter since 2004 and was chapter chair from 2014–2017.

The Virginia Wesleyan University Theatre Department will present Qui Nguyen’s She Kills Monsters this week. Performances are scheduled for March 14-17 at 7:30 p.m. and March 18 at 2:00 p.m. in Hofheimer Theater on campus.

She Kills Monsters is the award-winning story of Agnes Evans, who leaves her childhood home following the death of her parents and teen sister, Tilly. When Agnes finds Tilly’s Dungeons & Dragons notebook, she stumbles into a journey of discovery and action-packed adventure in the refuge of Tilly’s imaginary world. The production is described as a “high-octane dramatic comedy laden with homicidal fairies, nasty ogres, and ’90s pop culture; a heart-pounding homage to the geek and warrior within us all.”

Directing this theatrical event is Travis Malone, Dean of the Susan S. Goode School of Arts and Humanities and Professor of Theatre. Malone shares the following in his Director’s Note: “As an avid gamer and former Dungeons & Dragons player, this script instantly grabbed my attention…My friends and I reveled in the idea of assuming the role of hero and holding our breaths as each character took their turn, giving themselves over to fate at the roll of the dice… As we sit in the theatre and become members of Agnes’ party, the production gives you a glimpse into a world where even Noobs can become heroes and inspires us to move out of our comfort zones, embrace difference, face our fears, work together, and kill the monsters in our own lives.”

Student cast members include Sarah Puchalla, Abby Horgan, Jakob Steward, Parris Willis, Emily Vial, Aleigha Johnson, Jennifer Vega, Zach Imbriaco, Nich Hipple, Amber Matalus, Emilee Caldbeck, Erykah Scesco, and Angelica Walker. Production team and student designers include Destiny Williams, Micheal McOsker, Kerstin Holman, Jakob Steward, Nich Hipple, Bella Blackney, and Rebecca Kues. Fight choreography by Ryan Quinn McIntire, SAFD, and costume design by Tammy Thornes. Special thanks to community partners, The Generic Theater, Roll4Initiative, and CanvasCosplay.com.

Complimentary admission is available for members of the Virginia Wesleyan community. Public ticket prices are $15 for general admission and $10 for students, seniors, and military. To reserve tickets, call 757.455.3381, email theatretix@vwu.edu or visit www.showtix4u.com.

Read more about about VWU’s outstanding fine and performing arts programs on The Arts at Virginia Wesleyan University webpage.

 

 

Virginia Wesleyan University is now part of a bold new coalition that aims to add billions of oysters to the Chesapeake Bay by 2025. Through its efforts, the Chesapeake 10 Billion Oysters Partnership will improve water quality, engage new constituencies, and drive economic benefits across the region. 

This collaborative, multi-year initiative was launched last week—fittingly, on the same day Virginia Wesleyan was recognized by the Chesapeake Bay Foundation with its 2018 Conservationist of the Year award. The partnership has established its top three priorities as ensuring robust funding for oyster restoration, establishing sound science-based management that ensures sustainable harvest of the Bay's oyster population, and expanding the oyster aquaculture industries in Virginia and Maryland.

The coalition is made up of a diverse group of non-profits, community organizations, oyster growers, and others dedicated to helping recover the Bay’s oyster population. Among the partners are our friends from the Chesapeake Bay Foundation, Lynnhaven River NOW, the Elizabeth River Project, Pleasure House Oysters, Washington College, and the Virginia Institute of Marine Science. Other national partners include the Building Conservation Trust, the National Aquarium, and Restore America’s Estuaries.  

“We are honored to be a partner in this initiative,” said President Miller. “Not only does it align with Virginia Wesleyan’s existing efforts to restore the Bay, but it creates tremendous learning opportunities for our community."

Learn more about this exciting new partnership at www.TenBillionOysters.org.

Virginia Wesleyan graduate Tim Bailey ‘83, a past recipient of VWU’s Distinguished Alumni Award, has joined the VWU Board of Trustees.  As a student at Virginia Wesleyan, Bailey was a member of the Marlin baseball team, a resident advisor, assistant softball coach, and security guard. His studies in business led him to work in sales for Aramark Corporation shortly after graduation. In his current role as Division President for Compass Group/Canteen—a position he has held since 2006—he is responsible for $275 million in annual revenues in Kentucky, West Virginia, Virginia and North and South Carolina, including 24 vending districts, eleven office coffee operations and eight food regions. Bailey returned to campus in April 2015 to speak as part of the Business Speaker Series during the University’s student-led Business Conference. He is a Portsmouth, Virginia, native, but now calls Charlotte, North Carolina, home.

Virginia Wesleyan's partnership with Norfolk NATO Festival and the North Atlantic Treaty Organization-Allied Command Transformation (NATO-ACT) brings the 2018 Model NATO Challenge back to campus on Wednesday, March 28, 2018. Local high school juniors and seniors from Coastal Virginia will once again gather in VWU’s Boyd Dining Center to compete as student diplomats in the Challenge, a simulation that asks the students to respond to a real-life global crisis. Each student will represent one of the 29 NATO Member Nations in the Challenge, where real world issues faced by today’s NATO Alliance are simulated. The top candidates will receive a scholarship award to be applied toward the college or university of their choice. In addition, select high school students will also participate in the Model NATO Press Corps, a student press corps that provides opportunities for burgeoning journalists to cover the event action in a live media role. Virginia Wesleyan’s involvement in the Challenge stems from the University’s formal agreement with NATO-ACT, officially signed in 2013, which offers up to 25 International Student Grants of $9,000 per semester ($18,000 per year) to dependents of NATO-ACT employees stationed in Norfolk. In return, NATO-ACT offers their staff's expertise to the VWU community in the form of guest lectures, internship opportunities, experiences with NATO’s Innovation Hub, and NATO simulation opportunities like the Model NATO Challenge. NATO-ACT, headquartered in Norfolk, Virginia, is NATO’s leading agent for change, driving, facilitating, and advocating continuous improvement of Alliance capabilities to maintain and enhance the military relevance and effectiveness of the Alliance. The organization’s strategic objectives include providing appropriate support to NATO missions and operations; leading NATO military transformation; and improving relationships, interaction and practical cooperation with partners, nations and international organizations.

"The University is honored to host this extraordinary event,” said Virginia Wesleyan Provost Timothy O'Rourke, “and to partner with Norfolk NATO Festival and NATO-ACT on other mutually beneficial initiatives that provide powerful educational opportunities for both high school and college students and greatly enrich both our organizations."

Virginia Wesleyan, Norfolk NATO Festival, and NATO-ACT invite friends, families, students and educators to attend the 2018 Model NATO Challenge simulation Wednesday, March 28 at 4 p.m. in the Boyd Dining Center on the VWU campus. For more information, visit www.NorfolkNATOFestival.org.

March is National Women's History Month. In 1987 the US Congress designated March as National Women's History Month. This creates a special opportunity in our schools, our workplaces, and our communities to recognize and celebrate the often-overlooked achievements of American women. Each year there is a special national theme. This year’s theme is NEVERTHELESS SHE PERSISTED: Honoring Women Who Fight All Forms of Discrimination Against Women. As part of Women's History Month, the VWU Women's Resource Center will be screening films that feature strong female characters and storylines as part of their "Heroes & Badasses" Series. Each Tuesday, a different film will be shown in the Social Science Lab (111).  Doors open at 7:00 p.m. and the films start at 7:30 p.m. Snack and refreshments will be provided. For more information contact Assistant Professor of English and Director of the Women's Resource Center Jennifer Slivka at jslivka@vwu.edu.

2018 Women's History Month Films:

March 6, 2018 – Hidden Figures

March 13, 2018 – Wonder Woman

March 20, 2018 – The Danish Girl

On February 27, select Virginia Wesleyan University first-year students were inducted into Phi Eta Sigma, the nation's oldest and largest honor society for college and university students in their first year, in all disciplines (view photo). Phi Eta Sigma was founded in 1923 at the University of Illinois with a mission to encourage and reward academic excellence among freshmen at institutions of higher learning. Since its founding, more than 1.1 million scholars have been inducted into Phi Eta Sigma chapters on 378 campuses across the United States. Our own Virginia Wesleyan chapter was founded 35 years ago, in 1983, and today consists of approximately 180 active student members. Congratulations to the 29 newest members of Phi Eta Sigma:
Spring 2018 Phi Eta Sigma Inductees
Hannah Allen                       Elise Herring
Nailah Alston-Iszard             Alexander Leonard
Alyssa Balanta                    Quinton Nace
Alexi Baumgardner               Michelle Olvera
Allaina Boggs                       Catherine Ponack
Shannon Bradley                  Alex Powers
Aleah Brinn                          Sarah Ramsey
Katherine Brockenbrough      Asha Richards
McKayla Calapp                   Catherine Sedgewick
Molly Delmont                      Andrew Taylor
Hunter Draut                        Jennifer Vega
Lora Fara                             Jenna Whitener
Kitana Finley                        Cydni Young
Miranda Hardwicke                Victoria Zuppa
Ezekiel Herrera-Bevan

President Miller has announced a $500,000 gift from the TowneBank Foundation for complete renovation and upgrades to VWU’s softball complex.

“Soon,” Miller said, “our 2017 NCAA Division III National Championship Softball Team and their award-winning head coach, Brandon Elliott will be playing their games at Broyles Field in Virginia Wesleyan’s “TowneBank Park.”  

Just last week, Coach Elliott was recognized as the Metropolitan Person of the Year in Sports by the Norfolk Sports Club.

President Miller thanked the TowneBank Foundation, and former Trustee Bob Aston and Trustee Emeritus Tom Broyles, for making this “field of dreams” a reality.

Renovations are expected to begin this summer.

The winter meeting of the Virginia Wesleyan University Board of Trustees was held on campus on February 21.2018. The Board welcomed new Trustee Alan Shaw, Executive Vice President and Chief Marketing Officer at Norfolk Southern Corporation. Provost and Vice President Timothy O’Rourke began the morning with a special topic presentation outlining the new Strategic Plan. The academic-based plan, which covers the period of 2018-2027, builds upon the existing facilities Master Plan. The Board unanimously adopted the new Mission Statement and Strategic Plan, which will now be finalized and put into motion.

 A recognition ceremony was held to celebrate the LEED Gold certification of the Greer Environmental Sciences Center. This distinctive designation, granted by the U.S. Green Building Council, underscores Virginia Wesleyan’s commitment to the study and preservation of our natural world and increases visibility, engagement, and opportunities on a national level. Soon, a special plaque will be mounted on the sinker cypress wall in the atrium of the building, prominently signifying this achievement.

The Board heard reports and approved actions from the Committee on Trusteeship as well as the Audit, Academic Affairs, Enrollment, Student Affairs, Administration and Finance, and Advancement Committees. Approval was given for advancement from assistant to associate professor and conferral of tenure for Dr. Kathleen Casey (History), Dr. Leslie Caughell (Political Science), and Dr. Jennifer Slivka (English), and for advancement from associate to full professor for Dr. Paul Ewell (Management, Business, and Economics), Dr. Hilve Firek (Education), Dr. Gabriela Martorell (Psychology), and Dr. Stuart Minnis (Communication). George Jackson received conferral of tenure, and Sophie Rondeau advanced to Librarian III (Associate Librarian). These changes are effective with the start of the 2018-19 academic year. Five faculty sabbaticals were also authorized for Dr. Soraya Bartol (Biology), Dr. Lisa Lyon Payne (Communication), Dr. Kevin Kittredge, (Chemistry), Dr. Deirdre Gonsalves-Jackson (Biology), and Dr. Taryn Myers (Psychology).

The meeting concluded with a special presentation on priorities of the Master Plan. Ongoing progress on the Susan S. Goode Fine and Performing Arts Center (scheduled for completion in early 2019), the new Baker Road Entrance and Marlins Way (on track for completion in late March), and Coastal 61 at Oxford Village (set to begin this summer) was shared. Recently completed projects were reviewed, including the Greer Environmental Sciences Center, the Frank Blocker Youth Center, the Avenue of the Sciences and Greenhouse, the Betty S. Rogers Track and Field Center, renovations to Kenneth R. Perry Field, and relocation of the Marlin statue and Alpine Tower. Future facilities projects and defined prime areas for opportunity were also shared with the Board.

The spring meeting of the Board of Trustees is scheduled for May.

Virginia Wesleyan University Senior Vice President Mort Gamble will be honored as the 2018 Outstanding Alumnus of the West Virginia University Department of English. He will be recognized by the Eberly College of Arts and Sciences on April 7 at a ceremony in Morgantown, West Virginia. Gamble majored in English for his undergraduate and graduate degrees at West Virginia University and received his doctorate from WVU’s College of Education and Human Services in 2003. He later served as a member of the English Department’s advisory Visiting Committee. In his current role at Virginia Wesleyan, Gamble serves as primary advisor to the president and oversees all external affairs of the University, including advancement and communications. He also co-chaired the transition team that transformed Virginia Wesleyan College to Virginia Wesleyan University in 2017. His previous professional roles include executive assistant to the president at Bethany College; director of donor relations for The George Washington University; vice president for institutional advancement at Hood College; vice president for institutional advancement and director of the Fairmont State Foundation, Inc. at Fairmont State College (now University); vice president for institutional advancement at Waynesburg College (now University); and director of college relations for West Virginia Wesleyan College, where he also served as a member of the English and humanities faculty.
 

Dr. Bryson Mortensen, assistant professor of music and director of choral music, has received a $71,000 grant from the E.K. Sloane Fund of the Hampton Roads Community Foundation to underwrite the purchase of a $154,000 Steinway Concert Grand Piano. The grant will be matched by funds from other donors to underwrite the full cost of this exciting addition to the forthcoming Susan S. Goode Fine and Performing Arts Center.

 A front-page story in the “Sunday Break” section of The Virginian-Pilot  on February 18 featured Virginia Wesleyan and Mortensen in “Grand Plans: What's so special about a $154,000 piano? Opportunities, say Virginia Wesleyan University officials.

“Steinway Concert Grand Pianos are considered the gold standard of musical instruments. Ours will be housed in the 300-seat Joan and Macon Brock Theater and will enhance student performances and attract high quality outside artists,” noted VWU President Scott D. Miller. “The 23,000-square-foot Goode Fine and Performing Arts Center will also boast a grand lobby, supporting spaces for the performance venue, and a plaza for outdoor programming.  Congratulations to Dr. Mortensen and our entire campus community on this very exciting news.”

Virginia Wesleyan participates in the National Survey of Student Engagement (NSSE). This comprehensive survey collects information from hundreds of four-year colleges and universities about first-year and senior students’ participation in programs and activities that institutions provide for their learning and personal development. Virginia Wesleyan University freshmen who started in the fall and graduating seniors are invited to participate in the National Survey of Student Engagement (NSSE).  These two classes of students have received an invitation via email with a link to the survey. In appreciation for participation, all students who complete the survey by April 1, 2018, will receive a $5 Wawa gift card. For every 50 students who take the survey, an additional drawing will be held for a $25 Starbucks gift card. NSSE reports that approximately six million students from more than 1,600 colleges and universities have participated in the survey since it was first administered in 2000. Institutions use the NSSE data to identify elements of the undergraduate experience inside and out of the classroom that can be improved through changes in policies and practices more consistent with good practices in undergraduate education. This information is also used by prospective college students, their parents, college counselors, academic advisors, institutional research officers, and researchers to learn more about how students spend their time at different colleges and universities, and what they gain from their experiences.

Virginia Wesleyan University has signed an affiliation agreement with the University of Virginia’s Frank Batten School of Leadership and Public Policy. This exciting new partnership facilitates enrollment of graduating VWU Batten Honors College students in the Master of Public Policy (MPP) program at the Charlottesville-based institution. Provided they remain in good academic standing, selected students will receive an annual fellowship of at least $7,500 for Virginia residents and at least $12,500 for non-Virginia residents in each of the MPP program's two years. The Batten School will also offer opportunities for students to earn additional assistantships, fellowships or other awards in the second year. Pioneering a new model of leadership and policy education, the Batten School provides a powerful interdisciplinary learning environment to foster the next generation of policy leaders and analysts. Batten MPP students train to execute tangible solutions to real-world problems through rigorous cost benefit analysis, innovation and teamwork. These programs are made possible through the generosity of Virginia Wesleyan Trustee Emerita Jane P. Batten and her late husband, Frank Batten Sr. The Batten family has played a major role in enriching the cultural and educational landscape not only of Virginia Wesleyan and UVA, but of the Commonwealth of Virginia. “This distinctive partnership is a powerful illustration of the importance and influence of philanthropy,” said VWU President Scott Miller. "We are fortunate to benefit in many ways from the Battens’ passion for the education of tomorrow’s leaders." Virginia Wesleyan University offers numerous accelerated degree options in cooperation with other colleges and universities. 

President Scott D. Miller has had a long-time association with Second Nature and the American College and University Presidents’ Climate Commitment, now the Climate Leadership Network (CLN). He has most recently been selected to serve as chair of the CLN Steering Committee, the oversight body of the Presidents’ Climate Leadership Commitments. He attended the most recent meeting at which a coalition of 13 leading North American research institutions launched the University Climate Change Coalition. This initiative is an extension of the Climate Leadership Network, which consists of 600 public, private and community colleges nationwide. These groundbreaking and necessary discussions are devoted to developing successful strategies for addressing climate change. (See recent news release: Top Research Universities Announce Coalition to Accelerate Local Climate Action at 2018 Higher Education Climate Leadership Summit)

"The University Climate Change Coalition is a comprehensive approach uniting leaders from many sectors of society to inspire solutions and make informed policy recommendations," said President Miller. " Virginia Wesleyan University is proud to support and promote this initiative as a recognized national leader and advocate for environmental stewardship. This is a natural progression to new prominence for Virginia Wesleyan University. These efforts build on already strong programs in the scientific disciplines through the Joan P. Brock School of Mathematics and Natural Sciences, the opening of the award-winning, state-of-the-art Greer Environmental Sciences Center, and the establishment of the Batten Honors College."
 

Barclay Sheaks (1928-2010), renowned painter and founder of the Art Department at Virginia Wesleyan, is featured in a new book about the history of Hilton Village neighborhood in Newport News, Virginia. The book by John Quarstein is titled Hilton Village: America’s First Public Planned Community (American History Press, 2017) and chronicles the neighborhood from its establishment as a home for shipyard workers after World War I to the present. “A newcomer to Hilton Village in 1949 was the critically acclaimed landscape artist Barclay Sheaks,” Quarstein writes. “Sheaks began his career as a teacher at Warwick High School in 1949, and moved into his home at the intersection of Hopkins Street and River Road in Hilton. He continued teaching at Warwick until 1967 when he was asked to start the art department at Virginia Wesleyan College (now University) where he remained, lecturing and teaching until he retired in 2005.” Quarstein goes on to quote several of Sheaks’ students including Sydney Jenkins, who studied art with Sheaks at Virginia Wesleyan and is now director of New Jersey’s Ramapo College Art Gallery: “He was a very important father figure for me—and I learned a lot by watching his miraculous demonstrations. He had a real gift for introducing people to art…He could lead people who wouldn’t otherwise be interested in ways not many others can. I still hear his voice when I think about the teachers I’ve had.” The Barclay Sheaks Gallery at Virginia Wesleyan, located in Godwin Hall, was established in Sheaks’ name in 1999 and features a rotating exhibit of his works. Sheaks is best known for his acrylic paintings of waterfront scenes, wetlands, farmlands and people of the Chesapeake Bay.

Congratulations to all Virginia Wesleyan University students who have been named to the Fall 2017 Dean's List. The Dean's List recognizes all students who achieve a grade point average of 3.5 or above during a given semester. To qualify for this honor, students must have full-time status and have taken at least nine semester hours of traditionally graded courses. These individuals demonstrate a remarkable level of dedication to their academic pursuits. Well done! View the complete Fall 2017 Dean’s List.

 

VWU Celebrates Black History Month throughout February 2018 with a diverse series of events. The month kicks of with "Ethical Issues in a Multicultural Society" presented by the Center for the Study of Religious Freedom and the VWU Ethics Bowl team and includes a variety of events for students and the community such as a "African American Jeopardy," a "Soul Food Buffet," and a presentation on traditional African music and dance.  View the full Calendar of Events for Black History Month at VWU to learn more.

Virginia Wesleyan welcomes 32 prospective freshmen who arrive in Coastal Virginia today to participate in the first of a two-part Batten Honors College competition (February 8-10).  Virginia Wesleyan’s Batten Honors College competition begins with a welcome reception at the Virginia Aquarium & Marine Science Center this evening and continues on Friday and Saturday with various interviews, campus tours, class visits, and panel discussions. Participating students and their parents will also attend a reception at Slover Library in downtown Norfolk on Friday evening. The second part of the competition, which will follow the same format, will occur February 15-17.

Twenty students will be selected to receive the Batten Fellowship, a prestigious scholarship renewable for four years and covering the full amount of tuition plus funding for an international study-away experience during their junior or senior year. The Batten Honors College will also recognize the academic merit and leadership potential of an additional 20 Shumadine Scholars, who will receive scholarships equal to two-thirds tuition. This selective academic program is made possible by generous support from Virginia Wesleyan University Trustee Emerita Jane P. Batten H’06 and her late husband, Frank Batten Sr. Through small class sizes, personalized instruction and especially vigorous faculty-student interaction, the Batten Honors College is designed to prepare impactful leaders and environmental stewards. The curriculum explores diverse disciplines within the natural sciences, humanities, social sciences and mathematics. The goal is to educate and graduate lifelong learners interested in shaping the future and taking action to improve the world.

“It is sure to be an exciting few days here on our campus,” said President Scott D. Miller. “Many thanks to all who have worked hard to make this competition a truly special occasion for our participants.  If you see Batten Honors College competitors on campus, be sure to give them a warm Wesleyan welcome and wish them well in their pursuits.”

VWU welcomed our first cohort of Batten Honors College students last fall in conjunction with the opening of the Greer Environmental Sciences Center.

Progress on the Susan S. Goode Fine and Performing Arts Center continues. Visitors to the construction site see that earth is moving and the adjacent lake is taking shape—and despite some recent weather setbacks-- it is still on schedule for completion in early 2019. A live webcam has been installed to watch the progress on the site. It may be viewed at: https://app.oxblue.com/open/hourigan/vwu. The video may also be accessed on the OxBlue Camera Viewer App. Simply download the app from your app store, open the app and select “open link” using the selector switch at the top. Enter “hourigan/vwu” in the username/password fields.  In addition, there was recently a feature in The Virginian-Pilot on the forthcoming Goode Center. The article—which refers to the future facility as a “glittering gateway to the arts”—can be found here.

Congratulations to the students named to the Fall 2017 President’s List, which recognizes full-time students who earned a 4.0 grade point average last semester. To qualify for this honor, students must have taken nine semester hours of traditionally graded courses and have no grades of F or incomplete. According to President Miller, “This achievement signifies a tremendous amount of hard work and focus, and it is truly an academic accomplishment to be celebrated.” A reception will be held on March 6 to honor these outstanding students. Well done!


Virginia Wesleyan University Fall 2017 President’s List

Sydnie E. Allen                           Jordan N. Latvis
Kelly J. Bateman                        Alexander J. Leonard
Alexi E. Baumgardner                Tabitha L. Lowell
Jordan A. Brenner                      Kayleen M. Meinen
Heidi L. Brinker                          Ana Dominique S. Nakagomi
Elizabeth M. Brisson                  Travon D. Nimmo
Mary K. Brockenbrough             Brooke L. Novkovic
Katherine E. Burton                   Britney N. Owens
Amanda L. Butler                      Kathleen M. Peloquin
Emilee K. Caldbeck                   Max A. Peters
Deanna R. Chandler                  Ashley N. Peterson
Jacklyn A. Cheely                      R. Kellen Phillips
Michelle A. Clark                       Alex M. Powers
Andreas J. Combos                   Sarah M. Puchalla
Christine J. Commons               Sarah K. Ramsey
Noah J. Craft                             Mickella J. Rast
Tara J. Donahue                        Kristara B. Richards
Christopher D. Fegan                Kelsi P. Robins
Brandon L. Foster                     Brianna N. Sandy
Isabella S. Glaze                       Charlene V. Santos
Brenna V. Gonzales                  Katelyn N. Shirley
Mary A. Gower                          Justin R. Smith
Kathryn A. Grainer                    Victoria D. Steele
Mihaela S. Gridley Bungete      Jessica R. Suter
Vernon K. Hanbury II                 Millie C. Taylor
Mathew C. Hasty                       Rachel C. Tolley
Allison R. Heitsman                    Paige E. Trageser
Elise R. Herring                         Maribel  Veras
Nicholas G. Hipple                     Michael L. Ward
Nicole L. Holmes                       Bennett J. Wiley
Abigail L. Horgan                       Shanice E. Williams
Ashley A. Kline                          Tayler L. Wilson
Mallory J. Langford                   Grace L. Yalung
Emma L. Larkin                         Ja'Lisa N. Yates

Clay Drees, Professor of History at Virginia Wesleyan University, was installed as the president of Phi Alpha Theta (PAT), the national honor society in history, at the organization’s biennial convention in New Orleans on January 6. He will serve a two-year term and will become chair of the PAT advisory board until 2022 as the immediate past president. Drees earned his doctorate from the Claremont Graduate School in California in 1991 after having taught high school for seven years, including a two-year stint with the Peace Corps in Sierra Leone, West Africa. At Virginia Wesleyan University, he teaches courses in medieval and early modern European, African and Islamic history. A two-time recipient of the Samuel Nelson Gray distinguished teaching award in 1998 and 2015, Drees has also served VWU as director of the general studies program (1999-2005) and as chair of the social science division (2005-11). His published books include Authority and Dissent in the English Church (Edwin Mellen, 1997), The Late Medieval Age of Crisis and Renewal (Greenwood, 2001) and Bishop Richard Fox of Winchester: Architect of the Tudor Age (McFarland, 2014). 

Since January 7, a group of VWU Batten Fellows have been participating in the "Batten Fellows Leadership Institute." Audrey Bally, Marie Bazile, Allaina Boggs, Shannon Bradley, Hunter Draut, Mallory Langford, Alexander Leonard, Skylar Mao, Max Peters, Alex Powers, Asha Richards, Brianna Sandy, Jennifer Vega, and Jenna Whitener recently traveled to Washington, D.C. along with Dr. Joyce Easter, Dean of the Batten Honors College and Dr. Kathy Merlock Jackson, Professor of Communication. They attended the Continuity and Change in American Leadership program offered by the Osgood Center for International Studies. This special program was tailored to the interests of VWU’s Batten Fellows and provided them a unique opportunity to learn from informed speakers about the American political process, attend significant Washington events and ceremonies, and visit diverse agencies and locations. The Osgood Center worked with Batten Honors College faculty to cover a wide variety of areas and diversity in the programming, with experts in fields of politics, media and communications, science and health, national security, international affairs and development, education, business, law, women's issues, and more. In partnership with the prestigious White House Fellows Association and Foundation, students heard from a panel of former White House Fellows whose experiences were particularly relevant to their studies. In addition, The George Washington University Graduate School of Political Management, in cooperation with Women in Government Affairs, organized a panel of lobbyists who discussed a variety of public-policy topics. During their trip, Batten Fellows visited the U.S. Capitol, the Library of Congress, the Supreme Court Building, Environmental Defense Fund, American Chemical Society, and the Kennedy Center, and they had opportunities to visit monuments and memorials on the National Mall, and national museums including the Newseum and the National Holocaust Memorial Museum. The group spent Martin Luther King Jr. Day participating in the MLK Day of Service and Leadership activities at The George Washington University.

President Miller announced that Virginia Wesleyan University has signed a Guaranteed Admission Agreement with Candler School of Theology at Emory University. The agreement guarantees admission with scholarship opportunities in Master of Divinity or Master of Religious Leadership degree programs at Candler. To be eligible, VWU graduates must have a 3.0 GPA or higher for all undergraduate course work, and must have successfully completed at least three four-credit courses in the Department of Religious Studies (or religiously-themed courses in the Departments of History and Philosophy) with at least a 3.0 GPA average in those courses. Candler School of Theology is one of seven graduate schools at Emory University, located in Atlanta, Georgia. Candler educates ministers, scholars of religion and other leaders. It is also one of 13 seminaries affiliated with the United Methodist Church.

“In keeping with our strong United Methodist heritage and traditions, this agreement will lead to further opportunities for VWU alumni to make career contributions as pastors, biblical scholars and servant leaders,” said President Miller. “We are honored to be associated with such a distinguished theological center at a prominent and influential institution. I look forward to following the extended academic careers of our alumni who choose Candler School of Theology for post-graduate study.”

President Miller recently announced David Stuebing as Virginia Wesleyan’s new Director of Residence Life, effective January 15.  He said that under Stuebing’s leadership, the Office of Residence Life will continue to build upon a residential curriculum and programming model with the goals of increasing students' engagement with the campus and enhancing their overall development. Stuebing previously worked as assistant director for residence life at Washington College and has experience with a variety of housing models, including suites, theme housing, and locally leased properties. Born and raised in Zambia, Central Africa, he has served as co-chair of the Diversity Committee for the Mid-Atlantic Association of College and University Housing Officers and he has presented both regionally and nationally on Third Culture Individuals/Global Nomads and their unique cultural transition to college.

Five students from Virginia Wesleyan University will participate in The Virginia Foundation for Independent Colleges’ (VFIC) 19th annual statewide collegiate Wells Fargo Ethics Bowl on February 11-12, 2018, on the campus of Hampden-Sydney College in Hampden Sydney, VA. The Virginia Wesleyan University team will compete head-to-head against other highly qualified student teams from Virginia’s 15 leading independent colleges and universities, deliberating a variety of case studies highlighting ethical dilemmas.  The members of the Virginia Wesleyan University student team are: Ruta Habtemariam, Senior; Alex Powers, Freshman; Kelsi Robins, Senior; Brianna Sandy, Freshman, and Sheril Steinberg, Senior. The faculty coordinator for the team is Dr. Kathy Merlock Jackson, PhD, Professor of Communication. Many notable individuals from a variety of career fields including; business, law, education, finance, journalism and others will listen to team presentations and offer reactions to the students’ presentations. The Ethics Bowl program will commence with an opening session on Sunday, February 11 at 2:30 p.m. at Hampden-Sydney College’s Johns Auditorium, with the first matches scheduled for 3:30 p.m. in various classrooms throughout Bortz Library, Brown Student Center, and Johns Auditorium.  On Monday, February 12, rounds 3 and 4 will begin at 8:45 a.m.  The final round of competition will take place at 11:15 a.m. in the Johns Auditorium.  The public is invited to attend the match sessions free of charge.  The winning team will be announced at 12:30 p.m. on Monday.  The team from Hampden-Sydney College took home the Batten Trophy at the 2017 Ethics Bowl. Founded in 1952, the Virginia Foundation for Independent Colleges is a nonprofit fund-raising partnership supporting the programs and students of 15 leading independent colleges in the Commonwealth: Bridgewater College, Emory & Henry College, Hampden-Sydney College, Hollins University, Lynchburg College, Mary Baldwin University, Marymount University, Randolph College, Randolph-Macon College, Roanoke College, Shenandoah University, Sweet Briar College, University of Richmond, Virginia Wesleyan University and Washington & Lee University.  For additional information on the VFIC, visit www.vfic.org.

Pamela Northam, educator, environmentalist, and First Lady of Virginia, will deliver the Virginia Wesleyan University Commencement Address on May 19, 2018—the first formal graduation ceremony as a university. Pam Northam has taken a leading role in Hampton Roads and Virginia to protect water quality, improve the health of the Chesapeake Bay, and ensure the Commonwealth’s natural beauty is preserved for generations to come.

She was most recently the Community Outreach Coordinator for Lynnhaven River NOW (LRN), a non-profit environmental group working to improve the water quality of the Lynnhaven River. Along with the Chesapeake Bay Foundation, LRN is housed in the Brock Environmental Center—“Virginia’s greenest building”—located in Virginia Beach. Northam oversaw advocacy and outreach programs to homeowners, congregations, and businesses to help them to become more sustainable.

Prior to joining LRN, Northam taught high school biology. Then, recognizing a need for STEM in elementary education, she became a national award-winning science specialist. She worked to develop an inquiry-based, hands-on curriculum for students in grades K through 5. After spending more than 20 years volunteering with school PTAs, she was appointed to the Board of Trustees of the Science Museum of Virginia, and is also on the board of the innovative E3 School in Norfolk.

After studying at Baylor University and the University of Texas, she initially specialized in pediatric occupational therapy, where her work included rehabilitation hospitals, teaching hospitals, and special education. She and her husband traveled extensively during his service in the U.S. Army.

“Northam will join the Virginia Wesleyan community to share a special moment with the Class of 2018, their family and friends,” said Virginia Wesleyan President Scott Miller. “It is an honor to conclude the first year of the Greer Environmental Sciences Center with an address by such a distinguished advocate for the natural world.”

Students in Professor of Management, Business and Economics Michelle Vachris's MBE 201 Principles of Macroeconomics class have created a music video entitled “Dat Gas” to explain the effects of Hurricane Harvey on gas prices. They have entered their video the National Rockonomix Contest for Colleges and Universities, a national contest that includes music videos which are all parodies about economics topics.  Go to https://www.rockonomix.com/ to view the videos and cast your vote by January 7! The winner will be chosen based on voting, which is live and runs through January 7 at 5pm EST. Other institutions competing include University of Kentucky, Tennessee Tech University, University of West Georgia, Belmont University, Northern Illinois University, University of Nebraska at Omaha, Georgia State University, Point Loma Nazarene University, North Central Texas College, Central Arizona College, Abiline Christine University, Charminade University, and University of Hawaii Kapi'olani Community College. 

Virginia Wesleyan University has advanced to the top tier Model Level status in the Elizabeth River Project’s River Star Business program. After an annual review of documentation, the River Restoration Advisory Committee unanimously agreed that the University should progress to this top designation. The Elizabeth River Project is an independent non-profit that works with partner organizations to restore the Elizabeth River, a tributary of the Chesapeake Bay. River Star Businesses is one of their signature programs, recognizing organizations that voluntarily reduce pollution and create or conserve wildlife habitat enhancement. To reach Model Level, an organization must move beyond wildlife habitat restoration and pollution reduction and demonstrate that it has become an environmental mentor to others in the community. Thanks to the President’s Environmental Issues Council, and in particular, Professor of Political Science William Gibson. Dr. Gibson has dedicated much of his life to cleaning up the Elizabeth River and has taken the lead on earning this and other notable designations President Miller and Dr. Gibson will represent the University and its environmental accomplishments at the River Star Recognition Luncheon on January 25, 2018.

 

Victor Dorsey has been promoted to director of Security. He has served as acting director since the recent retirement of Jerry Mance.  Dorsey has been an important part of the VWU security staff for more than 12 years, first serving as a sergeant, then as a lieutenant before moving to his current role as director. A safe, secure environment is essential to learning and to the peace of mind of students, their parents, and faculty and staff. Virginia Wesleyan’s Annual Security and Fire Safety Report, included as part of the Safe and Secure brochure, contains information about campus security, statements about security-related campus policies, and statistical data for campus crime reports. Information on emergency response, evacuation procedures, and fire safety are also included.  Safe and Secure brochures are available at various offices and locations throughout campus, including Campus Security, the Athletics Suite, the Batten Student Center Hub, the Blocker Hall vending area, the Office of Finance and Administration, The Lighthouse, Hofheimer Library, Residence Life, and the Office of Student Affairs. Please familiarize yourself with this information. Although the University takes every precaution to ensure the safety of its students, faculty and staff, we still ask our campus community to do your part in exercising caution on campus and off. Virginia Wesleyan is fortunate to have a strong security presence, thanks to the efforts of Victor Dorsey and all campus safety officers.

Each spring, in partnership with the Virginia Conference of the United Methodist Church, Virginia Wesleyan University hosts a workshop for UMC pastors that yields continuing education units. The Robert F. Boyd Institute will take place on campus March 19-20, 2018. In this seminar, Dr. Tod Bolsinger, Vice President and Chief of Leadership Formation and Assistant Professor of Practical Theology at Fuller Theological Seminary, will share insight and lessons on leadership in a changing world. The presentation will be based on Dr. Bolsinger’s award-winning book, Canoeing the Mountains: Christian Leadership in Uncharted Territory, which offers both realism and hope, as well as tangible ways to lead differently when you go “off the map.” Dr. Bolsinger earned a Ph.D. in theology and Master of Divinity from Fuller Theological Seminary. In addition to Canoeing the Mountains, he authored It Takes a Church to Raise a Christian: How the Community of God Transforms Lives, and The New Media Frontier: Blogging, Vlogging, and Podcasting for Christ. He speaks, consults and is an executive coach for corporate, non-profit, educational and church organizations in transformational leadership. The Robert F. Boyd Institute is named for Trustee Emeritus Bob Boyd, a co-founding member of the VWU Board of Trustees.  Read more about the program and register to attend at www.vwu.edu/boyd.

Wayne Pollock, Associate Professor of Recreation and Leisure Studies at Virginia Wesleyan University, serves as co-editor along with Nancy Montgomery, Instructor of Recreation and Leisure Studies Emerita, on the recently published book American Therapeutic Recreation Association - Guidelines for the Ethical Practice of Recreational Therapy, A Training Manual (Sagamore Publishing, 2018). The publication takes the sometimes abstract concepts of ethics and makes them practical and useful for recreational therapists and students in everyday practice. “With all of the changes occurring in health care, recreational therapists need to be vigilant concerning the need to practice with ethical integrity,” notes the publisher’s description. “As professionals, we must keep pace with the changing health care environment while self-monitoring for ethical conduct.” Pollock serves on the Southeast Recreational Therapy Symposium and National Council for Therapeutic Recreation Certification board of directors and was honored to be inducted as a Fellow into the National Academy of Recreational Therapists in 2014.

Virginia Wesleyan University hosted its annual luncheon to recognize members of The Lambuth M. and Alice A. Clarke Heritage Society, a special group of Virginia Wesleyan supporters who have chosen to include the University in their estate plans, on November 28, 2017 in the Pearce Hospitality Suite on the VWU campus. Alice Clarke, who along with her late husband, Lambuth, president of Virginia Wesleyan from 1966 to 1992, planted many of the "seeds" of Virginia Wesleyan's success, was in attendance at the event. One of the University’s signature establishments, the Heritage Society was formed many years ago by Wesleyan friends and family with the Clarkes among the inaugural founders. In 2016, VWU named the recognition society for the Clarkes, whose name has long stood for admirable values and extraordinary service. Other guests included Board of Trustees members Susan Goode, Deborah Paxson ’75 and Linda Thomas-Glover, as well as many other special friends of the institution. Guests had a special preview of this weekend’s forthcoming choral program, “A Wesleyan Christmas.” Bryson Mortensen, Director of Choral Music, led the Wesleyan Chorale in a series of holiday musical selections. Joanne Renn, who serves as Executive Director of Intercollegiate Athletics and recently joined the Clarke Heritage Society, was recognized during the luncheon. Renn was selected in 2007 as Virginia Wesleyan University's first female athletic director and as the first female athletic director at a co-educational institution in the Old Dominion Athletic Conference. This season marks her 25th year at VWU, where she oversees 22 intercollegiate sports programs and a staff of more than 55 coaches, administrators and support personnel. View photos from the Clarke Heritage Society Luncheon.

World AIDS Day is recognized each year on December 1.  The 2017 international campaign, My Health, My Right, highlights the right to health and the importance of erasing health inequalities globally. As part of this annual recognition, VWU Professor of Sociology Kathy Stolley and the SOC 251/Epidemics and Society class invite the VWU community to participate in several World AIDS Day interactive activities:


The NAMES Project/AIDS Memorial Quilt
Location: Batten Center Hub
Days/Times: November 29-December 3, 2018, during Batten Center hours
Blocks from the NAMES Project/AIDS Memorial Quilt will be on display.  The Quilt is the world’s largest public art project.  Nominated for a Nobel Peace Prize in 1989, it commemorates the lives of more than 96,000 people who have died of AIDS.  Learn more at: http://www.aidsquilt.org/.

A Reflection on HIV/AIDS and The NAMES Project/AIDS Memorial Quilt
Location: Batten Center Hub (Note the updated location.)
Day/Time: Thursday, November 30, 11 a.m.- Noon
Speaker: Lorraine Reichert, Sr. Community Health Navigator, LGBT Life Center
Lorraine, a US Navy veteran, has been working in and around the HIV/AIDS community for more than two decades.  She contracted HIV in 1989 while pregnant with her second daughter, and has lived through the fear-mongering, discrimination, and prejudice that surrounded the HIV culture then.  She was featured on the Oprah Winfrey show in 1994.  Lorraine has seen a lot of people pass away from the disease and helped create dozens of panels for the AIDS Quilt.  Time is allotted for audience questions; a reception follows.
 
HIV/AIDS Information Table
Location: Batten Center Hub
Day/Time: Thursday, November 30, 11 a.m.- Noon
Information table provided by LGBT Life Center Prevention Department staff
 
Paint a Block on VWU’s AIDS Memorial Wall
Location:  Allen Village (Village II) hallway
Days/Times:
Wednesday, November 29, 1 -3 p.m.
Wednesday, November 29, 4 -6 p.m.
Thursday, November 30, 1 -2:15 p.m.
Friday, December 1, 10 a.m. - Noon
Contribute a painted block to this powerful and personal project that started in 1999 with blocks patterned after The NAMES Project/AIDS Memorial Quilt.

World AIDS Day Presentation
Location: Blocker Auditorium
Date/Time: Thursday, Nov 30, 6:30-7:30 p.m.
Addressing Stigma

Dr. Brian Kurisky will join the VWU community as Director of Wesleyan Engaged: Center for Civic Leadership and Service Learning on December 1. Dr. Kurisky has served in various leadership capacities at Old Dominion University, including his most recent position as Director for Academic Initiatives in the Center for High Impact Practices, and other roles in academic support and institutional research and assessment. He has also held several student affairs/residence life positions at institutions such as Ferris State University, Western Michigan University, and Lake Superior State University. He holds a Ph.D. in higher education leadership from Old Dominion University, an M.S.Ed. in higher education from Grand Valley State University, and B.S. degrees in political science and speech communication from Old Dominion University. Dr. Kurisky will lead VWU's new center and build on Virginia Wesleyan University’s strong foundation of student volunteerism and shape, expand, and direct service learning opportunities, neighborhood partnerships, and interfaith dialogue. He will expand existing community relationships, further identifying and coordinating mutually-beneficial service learning and volunteer opportunities for VWU faculty, staff, and students. He will also pursue grant support for Wesleyan Engaged and will seek national recognition through initiatives such as the President’s Higher Education Honor Roll, the Carnegie Community Engagement Classification, and the Campus Compact Civic Action Plan.

 

Winter Session at Virginia Wesleyan University is set to begin on January 3 and continue through January 25, 2018.  During this three-week credit-bearing term students have opportunities to: focus on a single academic subject without distraction from other courses or commitments;  get ahead or catch up in their coursework; earn additional credits toward graduation; and enjoy a series of special events and performances; and study away. Last January, 609 students enrolled in Virginia Wesleyan’s annual Winter Session. Registration is still open for Winter Session 2018 and will remain open through the first day of classes on January 3 (with the exception of travel courses carrying earlier deadlines). Dr. Deirdre Gonsalves-Jackson, Director of Summer and Winter Session and Associate Professor of Biology, coordinates Winter Session, ensuring that it complements and strengthens Virginia Wesleyan's academic program.  View VWU’s unique Winter Session course offerings.
 

Virginia Wesleyan University Trustee Emeritus George Birdsong was honored at the CIVIC Leadership Institute’s 2017 Darden Awards on November 15 with the Individual Leadership Award. Dollar Tree, co-founded by long-time Virginia Wesleyan supporter Macon Brock, received the Corporate Award. Birdsong and Dollar Tree have had significant impact on the VWU community through various philanthropic contributions and service endeavors.

Birdsong joined the Virginia Wesleyan Board of Trustees in 1989. He served as Board Chair from 2007-2010 before assuming his Trustee Emeritus status. In 2016, he received an honorary Doctor of Laws degree from the University and served as keynote speaker during the institution’s first Founders Day. George and Sue Birdsong, the Birdsong family, and the Birdsong Corporation were instrumental in the University’s founding. Birdsong Hall, an original building in Bray Village, was dedicated to the Birdsong family in 1968. A plaque in the building recognizes the Birdsongs as dedicated Methodists whose generosity helped establish Virginia Wesleyan. 

Birdsong Peanuts and the Birdsongs made a number of significant gifts throughout the University’s history. The Birdsong Community Services Endowment Fund was established in 1995 to provide support for Virginia Wesleyan’s acclaimed community services program. They also established the Birdsong Corporation/George and Sue Birdsong Endowed Scholarship that provides assistance to deserving students. In 2015, the University dedicated VWU’s Birdsong Field in honor of the Birdsong family to celebrate their generous commitment to the facility, and the following year, established the Birdsong School of Social Science. The University did so with recognition and deep appreciation for the contributions by Harvard Birdsong, a charter member of the Board of Trustees, George and Sue Birdsong, Thomas Birdsong, III, and his wife Jane, the Birdsong family, and the Birdsong Corporation.

Dollar Tree Co-Founder Macon Brock and his wife, VWU Trustee Emerita Joan Brock, are well known for their community leadership, their generosity and vision, and they are among the closest friends of Virginia Wesleyan University. The strength of VWU today can be traced in significant ways to their guidance and support, as many programs of the University have benefited from their genuine interest in student success. 

In 2006, the University named a residence hall complex after the couple—Joan and Macon Brock Village—in recognition of their generous support of student scholarships, residence hall improvements, athletics, and other programs. The Brocks have also long supported Virginia Wesleyan’s Center for the Study of Religious Freedom. Most recently, we announced the formation of the Joan P. Brock School of Mathematics and Natural Sciences, and we were pleased to recognize Joan’s father and former Board member by naming Kenneth R. Perry Field in his memory. Joan Brock also served for many years in an administrative role at Dollar Tree Stores, Inc., and K & K Toys. 

 

Virginia Wesleyan University will be honored by the Chesapeake Bay Foundation (CBF) with the organization’s top award at “DC on the Half Shell” which will take place on Monday, February 26, in Washington, D.C.  The event will  jointly recognize VWU and Washington College for their leadership and commitment to educating the next generation of Chesapeake Bay leaders.Virginia Wesleyan University Board Chair David Kaufman, his wife Kay, and Washington College Board Chair Larry Culp, and his wife Wendy, have been designated honorary co-chairs for the event, which raises vital funds for CBF’s education and restoration efforts. The last Half Shell event raised enough funds to allow for the planting of 20 million juvenile oysters on sanctuary reefs in Maryland and Virginia and more than 17,000 trees across the watershed. In addition, 9,600 oyster shells from the event were brought back to CBF's Maryland Oyster Restoration Center to be used on sanctuary reefs in the Bay. The Chesapeake Bay Foundation will recognize Virginia Wesleyan for the new Greer Environmental Sciences Center. VWU’s 44,000-square-foot facility provides unprecedented opportunities to study the marine sciences, ecology, and preservation and sustainability of the natural world. It marks the University’s commitment to the field of environmental science, and it invites collaboration with organizations such as the Chesapeake Bay Foundation’s Brock Environmental Center, the Virginia Aquarium & Marine Science Center, and the Virginia Institute for Marine Science. Washington College will be honored for its Center for Environment and Society, which envisions a healthy and thriving Chesapeake Bay and watershed in which natural systems and human communities are in balance. The Center promotes environmental issues and social values through various interdisciplinary academic programs including the Chester River Observatory and Field Research Station, energy programs, archaeology, and the unique Chesapeake Semester, in which select students journey in, on and around the 64,000-square-mile watershed.

The fall 2017 student-led business conference, “The Marlin Prestige,” begins on November 13 and will continue through the week (November 13-17).  During the conference, the campus community and guests from the local area are invited to participate in workshops, presentations, and interactive panels that focus on this semester’s theme, “Lighting the Future: Finding Success through Ethical Business Practices.” The Marlin Prestige business conference represents months of  planning  by students in the Virginia Wesleyan business course, “Principles of Management”  with  Batten Associate Professor of Management, Business, and Economics Paul Ewell. Students coordinate all elements of the event, exercising key management skills such as product development, networking, project and financial planning, marketing and more.  Student leaders for this fall’s conference are Kathryn Grainer, Chief Executive Officer, Peyton Auxt, Chief of Staff, Caitlin Eversole, Chief Finance Officer, and Arianna Diggs, Chief Business Intelligence Analyst. Together with their classmates and Virginia Wesleyan business faculty, the students  worked hard to create a conference that focuses on the importance of business ethics as an essential component of career development. Among this semester’s guest speakers and panelists are Virginia Wesleyan Trustee Ken Trinder, President/CEO of EOS Systems, and alumna Sydney Covey, Sustainability Program Analyst at Hourigan Construction and recipient of VWU’s 2017 Graduate of the Last Decade (GOLD) Award. They join panel discussion speakers and presenters Ann Brogan of Crowley, Liberatore, Ryan & Brogan, P.C.; David Byrd of the Virginia Stage Company; Lanitha Hudson of the City of Virginia Beach Department of Housing & Neighborhood Preservation; Bruce Alperin of Aramark; Erin Gaines of Geico; and Michael Ewing of the Elizabeth River Project River Star Committee. Virginia Wesleyan business professors Dave Garraty and Linda Ferguson (Dean of the Birdsong School of Social Science) also join this year’s program. Daily activities will once again include the popular “Shark Tank” presentations, which closely mirror the ABC television series, and presentations by “Information Systems Programs” (ISP) students. For more information and a complete schedule of events, visit The Marlin Prestige webpage.  

The Alpine Tower—a 52-foot wooden structure designed for climbing and teambuilding exercises—has a new home on campus adjacent to the Trinder Center and the Betty S. Rogers Track and Field Center. The tower was recently relocated from its original spot just to the west of the University’s main entrance. The move comes just weeks before a planned December 1 groundbreaking for the new Susan S. Goode Fine and Performing Arts Center, which will be constructed on the neighboring field. The structure was carefully transported on Saturday, November 4 by Alpine Tower International, the company that originally produced and installed the tower which arrived on the Virginia Wesleyan campus in 2011 as a result of VWU’s partnership with the YMCA of South Hampton Roads. The YMCA funded the structure in exchange for use of the land and utilizes it primarily in the summer for camps and youth activities. The tower is also used for VWU classes, recreation activities and teambuilding programs during the academic year and is available for use by outside groups as well.  

The Virginia Wesleyan University Theatre’s production of Into the Woods—music and lyrics by Stephen Sondheim; book by James Lapine—packed the house for each of its six performances. The Thursday night performance was attended by about 100 Virginia Theatre Association conference attendees — mostly middle school and high school students. In fact, the show sold out for all performances before it even opened!

View the photo gallery to see the cast in action. The production was directed by VWU Professor of Theatre Sally Shedd and the cast included: Grant Bennett, Abigail Horgan, Michael McOsker, Azania Inman, Nicholas G. Hipple,  Sarah Puchalla, Jennifer Vega, Aleigha Johnson, Angelica Walker, Myles Baynard, Emilee Caldbeck, Patrice Glover, Shelby Emch, Travis Malone, Shannon Lynn, Taryn Nunley, Justin Robins, Drew Harrelson, Jakob Steward, Rebecca Kues, and Ayanna King.

During National Hunger & Homelessness Week (Nov. 11-19), VWU will host a Shack-A-Thon organized by the 2018 VWU Off-Campus Shelter Managers. The VWU Shack-A-Thon will take place on Batten Lawn from Tuesday, November 14 at 9 a.m. until Thursday, November 16 at 5 p.m. The purpose of the event is to unite the VWU campus and raise awareness about the current state of hunger and homelessness, especially within this community; to stimulate ideas of what it means to be hungry and homeless in Hampton Roads; and to build shacks, spend time in the shacks and learn from this unique experience. The event will include organized VWU groups of unlimited members who will build a shack out of collected materials and camp out in the shack for three days and two nights on Batten Lawn. During the VWU Shack-A-Thon, a variety of events, such as food and clothing drives, movie and open mic nights, and games and guest speakers, will be held to bring additional awareness to this cause. Donation bins for books (pre-school age through 5th grade), sneakers, canned foods, clothing, and hygiene products are located in the Community Service Office and around campus.

2017 VWU Shack-A-Thon
Schedule of Events (open to campus community)

Tuesday, November 14
9 a.m. - 5 p.m. Build Day (Batten Lawn)
5 p.m. - Opening Guest Speaker: Mariah Smith “Blankets for the Homeless”
9 p.m. - Open Mic Night/Talen Show on Batten Lawn

Wednesday, November 15
Events will be held on Batten Lawn
8 p.m. - Movie Night: “The Blind Side,” hosted by Wesleyan Activities Council on Rose Lawn

Thursday, November 16
2 p.m. - Judging of Shacks by Community Partners (Winners will be revealed at 5 p.m.)
     Krishna Loya, Judeo-Christian Outreach Center
     Jenny Goff, Executive Director, REACH (Reading Enriches All Children)
     Leslie Clarridge, Volunteer & Program Coordinator, REACH (Reading Enriches All Children)
     Diane Hotaling, 2006-17 Winter Shelter Manager, City of Virginia Beach Department of Housing & Neighborhood Preservation
     Dani Williams ‘15, 2013-15 On-Campus Winter Shelter Manager, ForKids
     Tianna Garland ‘16, 2013-16 On-Campus Winter Shelter Manager, Dixon Hughes Goodman, LLP
     Tone Boykins ’17, 2016-17 Winter Shelter Manager

Judges will determine the winners for the following:
     TOP SHACK (the shack that raised the most money)
     Most Creative Shack
     Most Sustainable Shack

3-4:30 p.m. - Breakdown & Cleanup
5 p.m. - Shack-A-Thon Grand Finale: Judges will reveal winners (2018 Winter Shelter Opens)
6 p.m. - Closing Speaker: Laura, Executive Director of “LIFT” (Lifting spirits, Improving bodies, Feeding souls and Transforming lives), Founded by Jim & Krista White

*Donation bins for books (pre-school age through 5th grade), sneakers, canned foods, clothing, and hygiene products are located in the Community Service Office and around campus

 

Virginia Wesleyan University’s second graduate program, a Master of Arts in Education, has been approved by the Virginia Board of Education. Beginning in summer 2018, the M.A.Ed. will prepare future educators to teach and will give VWU students a more competitive edge on teaching positions in their chosen specializations. The program will offer graduate-level endorsement in biology, chemistry, earth science, English, French PreK-12, German PreK-12, Spanish PreK-12, Latin PreK-12, history and social sciences, mathematics, vocal/choral PreK-12, theatre arts PreK-12, and visual arts PreK-12. Programs in secondary and PreK-12 education will require a two-semester internship that culminates with a 10-12-week student-teaching experience. Program candidates will learn through predominantly face-to-face classroom experiences, but will also benefit from hybrid and online learning experiences. Other program highlights include coursework in cognition and human development, exceptional student populations to include special needs as well as gifted and talented, and collaboration with families and communities. The course of study will be staffed by full-time faculty and in collaboration with highly qualified public-school personnel who bring valuable expertise and experience in vital areas.The University was approved in December 2016 as a Level III institution by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC), enabling VWU to offer the master’s degree as the highest degree. The M.A.Ed. joins the University’s online Master of Business Administration, which was launched this fall. To request additional information about graduate studies at Virginia Wesleyan University, visit: http://www.vwu.edu/admissions/graduate-studies.php

Virginia Wesleyan University now has nearly 10,000 alumni in Coastal Virginia and throughout the United States and abroad. The 2017-18 Alumni Council came to campus for their fall Business Meeting on October 25. During the meeting President Miller provided a comprehensive update on the fall semester and new initiatives for the near future, and shared success in sponsored alumni activities around the country. He also discussed ongoing efforts to increase engagement among fellow alumni, as well as ideas to encourage support of The Excellence Fund. He also shared a number of our newly branded marketing materials from Scribner Bookstore, including VWU Christmas ornaments, coffee mugs, mouse pads, and clocks. The principal purpose of the Alumni Council is to strengthen the bond between our graduates and Virginia Wesleyan University—its students, faculty, administration, and Board of Trustees. The Alumni Council’s plays a valuable role in advocating for VWU and offering the support for the enrollment and advancement programs. President Miller offered a special thank you to Chair of the Alumni Council, Mavis McKenley '11, and her fellow members, listed below, and to Lori Simpers Harris ’94, Executive Director of Annual Giving & Alumni Relations, and Kelly Cordova, Assistant Director of Annual Giving and Alumni Relations, for the management and support role they play in facilitating the important work of this group.

2017-18 Alumni Council
Jennifer Smith Boyd '94
Troy DeLawrence '93, Vice Chair
Robert Gillikin '00
Glynn Goodrich '82
Lori Simpers Harris ’94 (Ex-officio)
Catherine Holava '93
Robert Kohler '93
John Nash Maravich '11
Mavis McKenley '11, Chair
Kevin Otey '05, Secretary
Rachel Rigoglioso '10
Katherine Shea-Sword '99
Edmund Stanton '02
Thomas Taylor '00
Giorgio Valentini '98
Megan Watts '15
William Williard '82

October is National Domestic/Relationship Violence Awareness Month.  The Counseling Center at VWU provides information and services to raise awareness about warning signs for domestic/relationship violence and how to step up and be a part of the solution. In addition, during October, the Women's Resource Center and Phenomenal Woman are sponsoring "The Clothesline Project.” The Clothesline Project is a visual display of t-shirts with designs that are created by survivors of violence, or created in honor of someone who has experienced violence. The purpose of the project is to raise awareness about the reality of violence in our society. Each t-shirt reflects the personal experience of its creator. Students, faculty, and staff are invited to paint a shirt to express their own experience or in support of others on Wednesday, October. 25, from 12- 4 p.m. in the Fishbowl (Batten Center); and on Thursday, October 26  from 10:30 – 4:00 p.m. in the Fishbowl (Batten Center). On Friday, October 27, the shirts will be displayed on a clothesline on campus on the walkway from Boyd Center to the Library. The event is free and is open to the VWU campus community. For more information, please contact Jennifer Slivka, Director of the Women's Resource Center, at wrc@vwu.edu

The members of the Wesleyan Chorale share their voices throughout Virginia as they begin a short in-state tour today, October 17. The Chorale has been invited to perform at several venues in Virginia, which include stops in Williamsburg, Fairfax, and Richmond, as part of a two-day mini tour. The Wesleyan Chorale is directed by Assistant Professor of Music and Director of Choral Music Dr. Bryson Mortensen. Representing VWU as student members of the Chorale are: Deidra Benn, Shelby Emch, Marissa Phillips, Serena Smith, Andrew Harrelson, Nicholas Hipple, Adam Kurek, Taylor Simpson, Jeannie Barnes, Morgan Boyd, Patrice Glover, Tara Truax, Amanda Waller, Myles Baynard, Dante Copeland, Robert Jones, William Lanagan, and Thomas Rheinhold.

Virginia Wesleyan’s Sociology/Criminal Justice student team won the "Client's Choice Award" in the Client Problem Solving Competition (CPSC) at the Association for Applied and Clinical Sociology (AACS) annual conference in Cleveland, Ohio, October 4-8. The student team included Claude Clarke III '18, Grace Crawford '18, Brenna Gonzales '18 and Allison Heitsman '18. Kathy Stolley, Professor of Sociology, and Takeyra Collins, Instructor of Recreation and Leisure Studies Collins, co-advised the team. Teams compete for only two awards: The Judge's Award (based on a static rubric) and the Client's Choice Award.  The Client's Choice Award is selected by the client as having developed and presented the best solution, customized to the organization's problem and needs. The client for this year’s competition was Circle Health Services, and their problem was how to provide health care on a limited budget that would attract young patients. The VWU team’s solution applied a Youth Ambassador Program model with the goals of: fostering and developing community outreach activities, educating the public, bridging interpersonal relationships between professionals and patients, and developing and advancing community health partnerships. This is the third consecutive year that VWU has brought home this client-selected award.

VWU Faculty Focus, formerly Day One, is a monthly email newsletter celebrating the professional development successes of Virginia Wesleyan faculty and staff. From the publication of books, articles, encyclopedia or dictionary entries, conference participation and performances and shows to grants received, positions and awards in professional organizations, and campus and community presentations, Virginia Wesleyan faculty and staff do incredible work inside and outside the classroom. VWU Faculty Focus keeps the VWU community abreast of one another’s scholarly work. View the October 2017 issue and check out archived editions at the webpage for VWU's Center for Innovative Teaching and Engaged Learning (INTEL). For more information or to make a submission, contact Associate Dean of INTEL Denise Wilkinson at dwilkinson@vwu.edu or 757.455.3249.

The VWU Digital Broadcasting Network is now live on the Virginia Wesleyan website. This media production unit serves the University community by recording and web streaming a wide range of institutional, educational, cultural, and athletics programs. From Founders Day and Commencement to distinguished lecturers and cultural programming, VWU now streams live video and then archives it for later on-demand viewing. Marlins athletics fans can watch live action and archived sporting events and the network introduces VWU to a truly worldwide audience. Made possible by the generosity of a private gift, the network’s state-of- the-art video equipment is managed collaboratively by the University's departments of Information Technology Services, Communication, and Intercollegiate Athletics.

View 2017 Mud Games Photo Gallery

The 2017 Mud Games, an annual VWU tradition, took place on Friday, September 29, on Rose Lawn. Open to teams of students, faculty, and staff, Mud Games is sponsored by the Wesleyan Activities Council (WAC). This year’s event brought out 18 teams and nearly 100 participants, who competed in activities such as the three-legged race, crab walk, chimp race, and dizzy bat relay. The 2017 winning team was Alpha Phi Fraternity, Inc., our newest Greek organization. They walked away muddy and with $250, bragging rights and the Mud Games trophy! The very first Mud Games were held in the fall of 1995 when rain during the “Outrageous Olympics” turned to mud.

A reception was held on campus on September 26, 2017, to recognize Virginia Wesleyan students named to the spring 2017 President’s List. President Scott Miller and Provost and Vice President Timothy O'Rourke congratulated those in attendance and presented recipients with certificates of achievement. The President’s List recognizes full-time students who earn a grade point average of 4.0 during a given semester. To qualify for this honor, students must have taken nine semester hours of traditionally graded courses and have no grades of incomplete or grades of F. These individuals demonstrate a remarkable level of dedication to their academic pursuits, and we are proud of their accomplishments. Photos taken during the reception are available on the Virginia Wesleyan Flickr page.

Spring 2017 President’s List

Erin C. Abbott                          Carmen W. Hitt
Sydnie E. Allen                        Abigail L. Horgan
Sarah C. Antozzi                      Sierra C. Howard
Seth S. Antozzi                        Katy J. Kopaskey
Kollin R. Baer                           Jordan N. Latvis
Kelly J. Bateman                      Jordan T. Louk
Alexander V. Benevento            Tabitha L. Lowell
Elizabeth M. Brisson                 Morgan E. Lucas
Katie C. Brooks                        Trevor J. Maloney
Brianna J. Brunk                       Taylor L. Marshall
Lauren E. Bryant                       Getzani  Moguel
James L. Butler                        Ashley A. Neudecker
Emilee K. Caldbeck                  Travon D. Nimmo
LeMar  Callaway                       Brooke L. Novkovic
Jordan A. Chambers                 Tyler S. Ostrovecky
Jacklyn A. Cheely                    Connor T. Pederson
Andreas J. Combos                  Kathleen M. Peloquin
Rachel A. Connolly                   Jessica C. Pittman
Austin G. Davis                        Emily E. Powers
Allyce L. DeSimone                  Mickella J. Rast
Stacie A. Doughtie                   Stephanie M. Reidell
Taylor R. Erby                          Kelsi P. Robins
Christopher D. Fegan                Sierra M. Rothenberger
Lynne G. Fetter                        Dillon E. Rudiger
Melissa P. Fisher                      Joshua G. Shuman
Amber R. Gaines                     Samuel J. Smart
Shae E. Geary                         Joi L. Snowden
Tiffani N. Gregory                     Carissa J. Stevens
Erin V. Harris                           Jake Q. Stokke
Shana L. Harrison                    Lauren C. Topper
Mathew C. Hasty                     Joy S. Vernon
Spencer A. Hawver                  Timothy A. Webster
Allison R. Heitsman                 Tayler L. Wilson
Nicholas G. Hipple                   Sara A. Wiltshire

Establishment of University College of VWU

President Miller has announced the establishment of University College of Virginia Wesleyan University. University College operates all for-credit programs outside of the traditional undergraduate program and also supports non-credit, continuing-education offerings.  Programs include VWU Online, Evening and Weekend, Advanced Scholars, Early Enrollment, Dual Credit, the Robert F. Boyd Institute, the American Culture and Tourism Management Internship Program at Busch Gardens, the Center for the Study of Religious Freedom, the Center for Sacred Music, the Lifelong Learning Institute with Westminster-Canterbury on Chesapeake Bay, and opportunities through the VFIC Language Exchange and the Virginia Tidewater Consortium for Higher Education. University College will be an important source of enrollment, will expand VWU’s presence in the higher-education market, and will coordinate planning and promotion of future educational opportunities in the increasingly popular non-traditional market. It will not be an auxiliary enterprise; rather, it will be a fully integrated unit of VWU’s curriculum. For more information, visit www.vwu.edu/universitycollege.

Winter Session at VWU is a special three-week academic term in January during which students concentrate their studies on one intensive course. The 2018 schedule is now available on the VWC website. During Winter Session, students have the opportunity to take unique courses not offered during the regular semester, fulfill needed course requirements or participate in exciting study away courses to Costa Rica, Berlin, Israel, Mexico, or Hawaii. The 2018 Winter Session at VWU begins on January 3 and continues through January 25. How will you spend your winter break?! Explore and accelerate at VWU.

VWU Faculty Focus, formerly Day One, is a monthly email newsletter celebrating the professional development successes of Virginia Wesleyan faculty and staff. From the publication of books, articles, encyclopedia or dictionary entries, conference participation and performances and shows to grants received, positions and awards in professional organizations, and campus and community presentations, Virginia Wesleyan faculty and staff do incredible work inside and outside the classroom. VWU Faculty Focus keeps the VWU community abreast of one another’s scholarly work. View the September 2017 issue and check out archived editions at the webpage for VWU's Center for Innovative Teaching and Engaged Learning (INTEL). For more information or to make a submission, contact Associate Dean of INTEL Denise Wilkinson at dwilkinson@vwu.edu or 757.455.3249.

A number of environmentally themed activities took place as part of Virginia Wesleyan's second Founders Day, including an oyster cage build service project, unveiling of new signage for the University's old-growth beech forest and a Chesapeake-Bay themed sustainable seafood dinner for students. A "Wesleyan EcoFestival" was also held on the lawn in front of the Greer Environmental Sciences Center, featuring interactive displays from the Chesapeake Bay Foundation, Eastern Shore Watermen, Lynnhaven River Now, Norfolk Botanical Garden, Sierra Club, Sodexo, Tidewater Fiber, and the Virginia Aquarium & Marine Science Center. "The Moth Project," a visually dynamic, interdisciplinary outdoor public art experience, took place during the evening, promoting an understanding of and appreciation for pollinators, native plants, ecology, responsible sources of power and citizen science.

Leslie Caughell, Assistant Professor of Political Science and Chair of the Political Science Department, received a $12,000 grant from the American Press Institute to support a research project related to fact-checking. Caughell was invited to present preliminary results from her research project, “It’s a Matter of Trust: Increasing the Efficacy of Fact-Checking Stories” to journalists, leaders of businesses and non-profit organizations and scholars at a summit in Washington, D.C. in January 2017. The summit, sponsored by the Poynter Institute, the American Press Institute and Duke Reporters Lab, was entitled “Fact-Checking: What Happened in 2016; Finding Our Way in 2017.” Over the summer, the American Press Institute published an article by Caughell on the topic and the Nieman Foundation at Harvard University published an article about Caughell’s research. She will also be presenting her findings at the Journalism Interactive Conference in Maryland, October 20-21.

With the start of the 2017-2018 academic year, Virginia Wesleyan introduced a new “Choose to Reuse” container exchange program in the Boyd Dining Center. The goal of the program, the latest in a number of sustainability initiatives to coincide with the opening of the new Greer Environmental Sciences Center, is to eliminate polystyrene foam containers from the campus environment. These containers have typically been used for to-go items in the dining hall. Students, faculty and staff can now purchase a green “Choose to Reuse” container from the Dining Hall for a one-time fee of $5. Containers can be used and returned to the Dining Hall in exchange for a clean container with each visit. Diners can either carry out or dine in, but not both on a single visit. There is also a carabiner option so that customers can return their used container for a carabiner (small keychain-like clip) that can be redeemed for a clean container with their next meal. This way customers do not have to carry a dirty container around with them. VWU Dining Services, under the direction of Tim Lockett, developed the program after working closely with faculty, staff and students on the President's Environmental Issues Council (PEIC). The PEIC estimates that the program could eliminate as many as 40,000 polystyrene foam containers annually. “The environmental benefit is not only from reducing the amount of waste we send to the landfill, but also reducing the negative impacts from the manufacture and transport of the new polystyrene containers,” says Elizabeth Malcolm, Professor of Ocean and Atmospheric Sciences and Chair of the PEIC. “We hope that the opening of the Greer Center will inspire further sustainability initiatives across campus and we welcome students, staff and faculty to send us ideas and partner on additional projects."

Virginia Wesleyan President Scott Miller will deliver the annual State of the University Address on Tuesday, August 22 at 12:15 p.m. To view live go to: https://boxcast.tv/view/state-of-the-university-address-llh1l9n8utvzqisl7m8b

Taryn Myers, Batten Associate Professor of Psychology and Chair of the Psychology Department at Virginia Wesleyan University, was honored with an Early Career Achievement Award by the American Psychological Association at their 2017 National Convention, which took place August 3-6 in Washington, D.C. Myers was one of 10 psychologists to receive the annual award presented to “individuals who have shown themselves to be rising stars, with great leadership under their belts and tremendous promise to change psychology for the better.” The award includes a plaque and partial reimbursement for convention attendance. Myers earned her M.A. and Ph.D. in Clinical Psychology from Kent State University, where she served as a Teaching Fellow and Assistant Director of the Psychological Clinic. She received her B.A. in psychology with an interdisciplinary minor in Women's and Gender Studies from Kenyon College. Some of her areas of expertise include eating disorders, body image, women's issues, gender issues and clinical psychology.

 

Virginia Wesleyan University has signed a 3-2 cooperative education agreement with Washington University in St. Louis, one of the nation’s top-ranked programs in occupational therapy. Students who pursue this competitive and selective program must complete all of their undergraduate institution’s required major and general educational courses in three years at Virginia Wesleyan University, have started or completed at least four of the six Occupational Therapy Program pre-requisite courses (Abnormal Psychology, Developmental Psychology, Life Science, Physiology, Social Science, and Statistics) with a “B” or better, and must submit an application to the program by the deadline in their junior year. Admitted students complete two additional years at Washington University and graduate with a bachelor’s degree from Virginia Wesleyan University their fourth year and a master’s degree from Washington University in their fifth year. Admission requirements for the Washington University program may be found at www.ot.wustl.edu/admissions. For further information about the VWU plan of study for the OT Program, contact Wayne Pollock, VWU Associate Professor of Recreation and Leisure Studies (wpollock@vwu.edu). Learn more about all of VWU's Accelerated Degree Options.

An official signing ceremony was held July 31 marking Virginia Wesleyan’s new partnership with the Norfolk Botanical Garden (NBG). President Scott D. Miller and Norfolk Botanical Garden President and CEO Michael Desplaines were joined at the ceremony by Jillian Little, a 1994 Virginia Wesleyan graduate and member of the NBG Board of Directors, Brian O'Neil, NBG Director of Living Landscapes, Maynard Schaus, Associate Provost, and Eric Johnson, Assistant Professor of Biology and Greenhouse Supervisor (view photos). As part of the new agreement, the Norfolk Botanical Garden will appoint and employ a director of living landscapes to provide guidance and proper care of all campus landscaping and horticultural initiatives, particularly the 145,000-square-foot site area surrounding the Greer Environmental Sciences Center. The partnership will also provide opportunities for collaborative botanical science research, education and outreach programs among VWU faculty and students and Norfolk Botanical Garden staff. A dedication ceremony for the Greer Environmental Sciences Center will be held on Founders Day, September 7.

Ten new members were named to the Virginia Wesleyan University Alumni Council on July 12. The Council was welcomed to campus for tours of the new Greer Environmental Sciences Center, a business meeting and overview of campus progress by President Scott D. Miller. “It’s an exciting time at your alma mater,” Dr. Miller said. “We value the Alumni Council’s role in advocating for VWU and offering the support for the enrollment and advancement programs of a growing, dynamic institution.” The newly appointed members are: Jennifer Smith Boyd ’94, Chesapeake, VA; Robert Gillikin ’00, Norfolk, VA; Glynn F. Goodrich ’82, Mechanicsville, VA; Robert T. Kohler ’93, Virginia Beach, VA; Katherine Shea-Sword ’99, Virginia Beach, VA; Edmund B. Stanton ’02, Beverly, MA; Thomas W. Taylor ’00, Richmond, VA; Giorgio C. Valentini ’98, Virginia Beach, VA; Megan Watts ’15, Virginia Beach, VA; and William H. Williard ’82, Virginia Beach, VA. Continuing service as members of the Alumni Council are Mavis McKenley ’11, Chair; Troy DeLawrence ’93, Vice-Chair; Kevin D. Otey ’05, Secretary; Catherine Holava ’93, John Nash Maravich ’11; and Rachel H. Rigoglioso ’10. Lori Simpers Harris ’94, Executive Director of Annual Giving and Alumni Relations, serves in an ex-officio capacity. The principal purpose of the Alumni Council is to strengthen the bond between alumni and Virginia Wesleyan University, its students, faculty, administration, and Board of Trustees. During recent meetings, members have been given an overview of the campus master plan and the transition of Virginia Wesleyan College to university status.

 

The Phi Alpha chapter of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. has received its charter. Alpha Phi Alpha is the first black Greek fraternity to be chartered at Virginia Wesleyan University. The charter became official during the 94th General Convention for Alpha Phi Alpha, which was held July 12-16, 2017. Charter members include Chapter President Anthony Bowden '19, Claude Clarke 19, Dante' Davis '18, RayQuan Smithers '19, Myles Stevens '20 though, DeLante' Victory '17 and Trey White '17. VWU currently has eight active Greek organizations. Alpha Phi Alpha joins fraternities Chi Beta Psi and Sigma Nu and sororities Alpha Kappa Alpha, Alpha Sigma Alpha, Phi Sigma Sigma, Sigma Sigma Sigma and Zeta Phi Beta. Since 1963, fraternities and sororities have been a part of tradition and campus life at Virginia Wesleyan. Greeks are active on campus, serving in leadership roles and on athletic teams and giving back to the community through service and philanthropy.

The national champion Virginia Wesleyan University softball team will be recognized in pregame ceremonies prior to Monday's Norfolk Tides game against the Scranton/Wilkes-Barre RailRiders. The Marlin players and coaches will be introduced on the field at 6:45 p.m. followed by first pitches from head coach Brandon Elliott and star freshman pitcher Hanna Hull. First pitch for the contest will follow at 7:05 p.m. Virginia Wesleyan fans are requested to meet behind the Harbor Park home plate entrance no later than 6:25 p.m. so those in attendance can enter as a group. The softball team will get to enjoy the contest in one of the Harbor Park suites after the conclusion of pregame ceremonies. Fans interested in purchasing tickets for Monday's game may do so at norfolktides.com.

The newest Marlins are welcomed to campus June 23 and 26 for New Student Orientation (NSO). President Scott D. Miller reports that for 2017-18, 500 new students—400 freshmen, 100 transfers and non-traditional students—are anticipated. During NSO, new students and their families create their own orientation journeys, choosing from a wide variety of information sessions and special “destinations.” The orientation program is carefully designed to facilitate a smooth transition to the campus experience and to provide new students and families with everything they need to know to be successful during their first year.Information sessions are designed to inform and inspire, with topics like “Get Involved!” “VWU From a Student Perspective,” “Navigating the Academic Program,” “Money, Money Financial Aid,” “Campus Safety: What You Should Know,” and  “Exploring Coastal VA.” Students will also meet with academic advisors to build their fall class schedules. Visits to featured destinations will run continuously throughout orientation, giving students the chance to explore VWU’s beautiful 300-acre campus. Destinations include the Learning Center, the Lighthouse, Hofheimer Library, the Fitness Center, Campus Security, the Chaplain’s Office, and a new addition this year—the Office of the President. Many members of the faculty, staff and student body have contributed to the success of this year’s New Student Orientation, led by  Vice President for Student Affairs Keith Moore and the Student Affairs staff, and Vice President for Enrollment David Waggoner, Assistant Vice President for Enrollment Beth Clarke, and the staff in the Center for Enrollment Services. A warm Wesleyan welcome to the newest members of the VWU campus community! View photos from June 2017 New Student Orientation.

President Scott D. Miller announced that VWU will begin offering medical care to students in the new academic year through an on-campus Student Health Center managed by Sentara Medical Group. The Student Health Center will continue to be housed in Allen Village (Village II) and will provide first aid and general healthcare. The Center will be staffed by an advanced medical practitioner and a medical assistant from Sentara Medical Group. A physician will also be appointed by Sentara to serve as medical director of the Center and to be available to advise the advanced practitioner as needed during business hours. All Virginia Wesleyan students will be entitled to the benefits of the Student Health Center, including appointments and walk-in care for minor illnesses and common ailments. The Center will also offer routine testing and lab work as well as educational resources for the student population. Students requiring a higher level of care (or care outside of normal hours of operation) will have full access to Sentara Family Medicine Physicians located on Wesleyan Drive.

Virginia Wesleyan faculty and staff do incredible work inside and outside the classroom. Day One, an electronic newsletter published at the start of each month, celebrates these professional development successes and keeps the VWU community abreast of one other’s scholarly work. In the June issue, learn about recent panels, meetings and presentations by professors Terry Lindvall and Bill McConnell as well as librarians Sue Erickson, Stephen Leist and Sophie Rondeau. View the June 2017 issue and check out archived editions at the webpage for VWU's Center for Innovative Teaching and Engaged Learning (INTEL). For more information or to make a submission, contact Associate Dean of INTEL Denise Wilkinson at dwilkinson@vwu.edu or 757.455.3249.

During the spring 2017 semester, the Center for the Study of Religious Freedom (CSRF) collaborated with Virginia Wesleyan Professor of Art Sharon Swift to create a student contest that would engage art students in creative expressions of religious freedom. Students in Professor Swift’s digital art course were asked to select a quotation from an American president on the topic of religious freedom, and then use photo manipulations, color, typestyles, page design, and composition to create original, digital artworks. The winners were announced on Friday, April 28, 2017, when the CSRF welcomed the campus community to a display featuring the digital art creations. The winning images show the breadth of design styles, as well as the breadth of presidential perspectives on America’s First Freedom. Winners and participants include:

Aaron Aranda ’18 (First Place, John F. Kennedy)
Criminal Justice Major from Ivor, VA

Justin Watson ’17 (First Place, James Madison)
Communication Major from Suffolk, VA

Austin Davis ’19 (Herbert Hoover)
Biology Major from Chesapeake, VA

Stephanie Fury ’18 (Theodore Roosevelt)
Psychology Major from Virginia Beach, VA

Allison Heitsman ’17 (John Tyler)
Criminal Justice Major from Littleton, CO

Alexander Jahn ’17 (Dwight Eisenhower)
Psychology Major from Fairfax County, VA

Kylea McCarel ’20 (Ronald Reagan)
Communication Major from Virginia Beach, VA

Courtney Primero ’18 (Bill Clinton)
Psychology Major from Virginia Beach, VA

Rodney Queen ’17 (George W. Bush)
Communication & Religious Studies Double Major from Norfolk, VA

Myles Stevens ’19 (George Washington)
Recreation & Leisure Studies Major from Caroline County, VA

Jakivia Swanston ’19 (Barack Obama)
Art Major from Jacksonville, NC

Read more and see art work.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

June 2017

 

Virginia Wesleyan Students Create Artistic Expressions of Religious Freedom

 

This spring semester, the Center for the Study of Religious Freedom collaborated with Virginia Wesleyan Art Professor Sharon Swift to create a student contest that would engage art students in creative expressions of religious freedom.

 

Students in Professor Swift’s digital art course were asked to select a quotation from an American president on the topic of religious freedom, and then use photo manipulations, color, typestyles, page design, and composition to create original, digital artworks.

 

The winners were announced on Friday, April 28, 2017, when the CSRF welcomed the campus community to a display featuring the digital art creations. The winning images show the breadth of design styles, as well as the breadth of presidential perspectives on America’s First Freedom.

 

Congratulations to our creative and talented student winners:

 

Aaron Aranda ’18 (First Place, John F. Kennedy)

Criminal Justice Major from Ivor, VA

 

Justin Watson ’17 (First Place, James Madison)

Communication Major from Suffolk, VA

 

Austin Davis ’19 (Herbert Hoover)

Biology Major from Chesapeake, VA

 

Stephanie Fury ’18 (Theodore Roosevelt)

Psychology Major from Virginia Beach, VA

 

Allison Heitsman ’17 (John Tyler)

Criminal Justice Major from Littleton, CO

 

Alexander Jahn ’17 (Dwight Eisenhower)

Psychology Major from Fairfax County, VA

 

Kylea McCarel ’20 (Ronald Reagan)

Communication Major from Virginia Beach, VA

 

Courtney Primero ’18 (Bill Clinton)

Psychology Major from Virginia Beach, VA

 

Rodney Queen ’17 (George W. Bush)

Communication & Religious Studies Double Major from Norfolk, VA

 

Myles Stevens ’19 (George Washington)

Recreation & Leisure Studies Major from Caroline County, VA

 

Jakivia Swanston ’19 (Barak Obama)

Art Major from Jacksonville, NC

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Congratulations to the following students for achieving a 4.0 grade point average for the fall semester. Their accomplishments will be recognized at a reception in the fall. Way to go, Marlins!


Erin C. Abbott                        Lynne G. Fetter                        Travon D. Nimmo
Sydnie E. Allen                      Melissa P. Fisher                      Brooke L. Novkovic
Sarah C. Antozzi                    Amber R. Gaines                     Tyler S. Ostrovecky
Seth S. Antozzi                      Shae E. Geary                         Connor T. Pederson
Kollin R. Baer                         Tiffani N. Gregory                    Kathleen M. Peloquin
Kelly J. Bateman                    Erin V. Harris                           Jessica C. Pittman
Alexander V. Benevento         Shana L. Harrison                   Emily E. Powers
Elizabeth M. Brisson               Mathew C. Hasty                    Mickella J. Rast
Katie C. Brooks                      Spencer A. Hawver                 Stephanie M. Reidell
Brianna J. Brunk                    Allison R. Heitsman                 Kelsi P. Robins
Lauren E. Bryant                    Nicholas G. Hipple                   Sierra M. Rothenberger
James L. Butler                      Carmen W. Hitt                        Dillon E. Rudiger
Emilee K. Caldbeck               Abigail L. Horgan                     Joshua G. Shuman
LeMar  Callaway                    Sierra C. Howard                     Samuel J. Smart
Jordan A. Chambers              Katy J. Kopaskey                    Joi L. Snowden
Jacklyn A. Cheely                  Jordan N. Latvis                      Carissa J. Stevens
Andreas J. Combos              Jordan T. Louk                         Jake Q. Stokke
Rachel A. Connolly               Tabitha L. Lowell                      Lauren C. Topper
Austin G. Davis                     Morgan E. Lucas                     Joy S. Vernon
Allyce L. DeSimone              Trevor J. Maloney                    Timothy A. Webster
Stacie A. Doughtie                Taylor L. Marshall                    Tayler L. Wilson
Taylor R. Erby                        Getzani  Moguel                     Sara A. Wiltshire
Christopher D. Fegan            Ashley A. Neudecker

On May 17, 2017, a residential facility in Honors Village was dedicated as Mastracco Hall in honor of  Virginia Wesleyan Trustee Vince Mastracco and his wife, Suzanne. Vince has been a member of the Virginia Wesleyan Board of Trustees for more than 20 years, and is now serving as chair of the Advancement Committee. He has been extraordinarily helpful in providing counsel for Virginia Wesleyan, most recently on the Campus Master Plan. His community service also includes active participation on the Greater Norfolk Corporation and the Hampton Roads Community Foundation. According to President Miller, “Vince has been working, quietly but diligently, to make it possible for us to move forward on the residential development planned for the area across Wesleyan Drive—to be known as Oxford Village—and he has been enormously helpful to our senior administrative team, and me personally, in matters of fundraising, community engagement, marketing and rebranding, and other areas that have enhanced our visibility, leadership, and effectiveness as Coastal Virginia’s premier institution of the liberal arts and sciences.” Suzanne Mastracco is an active supporter of the arts throughout the region. She serves on the board of trustees of the Chrysler Museum of Art, and she is actively engaged in the Virginia Arts Festival, the Virginia Museum of Contemporary Art, the Virginia Commission for the Arts, and the Virginia Museum of Fine Arts. The Mastraccos have been recognized for their many contributions--not only to the College-- but also to the region. In 2007, Volunteer Hampton Roads honored them with its Lenora Mathews Lifetime Achievement Award as exemplary volunteers and caring citizens, and in 2012, they received the Darden Award for Regional Leadership.
 

Athletics Inducts Sixth Class into Chi Alpha Sigma

 The Virginia Wesleyan College athletic department inducted 35 members into its sixth class of the Chi Alpha Sigma National Honor Society on Tuesday evening. Chi Alpha Sigma is a nonprofit organization established to recognize college student-athletes who earn a varsity letter in at least one sport while maintaining a 3.4 or higher cumulative GPA throughout their junior and senior years. The governing board represents all levels of competition in the National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) and the National Association of Intercollegiate Athletics (NAIA). Chi Alpha Sigma's purposes are as follows: To encourage and reward high academic scholarship of college athletes at four-year accredited colleges and universities; To recognize outstanding academic achievement by intercollegiate varsity letter winners; To encourage good citizenship, moral character, and friendship among the high academic achievers in college athletics;  To recognize and honor the individual athlete, his/her team, sport, athletic department, and college or university;  To mentor and to provide leadership to other athletes.

Congratulations to the student-athletes who were inducted on Tuesday, May 9, 2017:

Seth Antozzi

Men's Cross Country/Track & Field

Amanda Archer

Softball

Liz Bailey

Softball

Amanda Baxter

Women's Soccer

Jacklyn Cheely

Women's Tennis

David Cockerill

Men's Golf

Justin Erby

Baseball

Drew Fairbanks

Men's Tennis

Andrew Freeman

Men's Soccer

Jaquelyn Gabaldon

Women's Lacrosse

Megan Gerhart

Women's Soccer

Spencer Hawver

Men's Cross Country/Track & Field

Jason Hoernke

Men's Soccer

Caitlyn Hogge

Field Hockey

Wade Jernigan

Men's Track & Field

Brendan Kelleher

Men's Tennis

Matt Kirkbride

Men's Cross Country/Track & Field

Amy Large

Softball

Trevor Maloney

Men's Cross Country/Track & Field

Tanner Martin

Men's Soccer

Chris McTague

Men's Lacrosse

Evan Merrill

Men's Lacrosse

Jake Morgan

Men's Tennis

Alyssa Ochsenfeld

Field Hockey

Alana Peters

Softball

Kellen Phillips

Women's Basketball/Tennis

Emilee Pierson

Volleyball

Katie Roberts

Women's Soccer

Colleen Smith

Volleyball

Emily Taylor

Women's Soccer

Zoe Traficante

Women's Soccer

Alexia Vassiliadis

Women's Soccer

Georgia Walker

Cheerleading

Kwonsha Washington   

Women's Cross Country/Track & Field

 

   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   

The library is going to the dogs once again, just in time for final exams. The four-legged therapists and their people, all certified by pet therapy organizations, will be visiting Hofheimer Library during exam week to help students stay calm and feel less stressed.  VWC Senior Emily Crawford will be participating with her dog Meeko, for the first time since becoming certified.  It will also be the first time Heather Campbell and Hans come to campus.

Be sure to stop by Hofheimer Library and enjoy some down time with these furry friends and their people: 

Thursday, May 11 (Reading Day):

11:00 a.m. - Emily Crawford and Meeko

2:00 - 4:00 p.m - Martha Nesselrode & Addie

5:30 - 7:30 p.m. - Julie Morgan & Bart

Friday, May 12:

11:00 a.m. - 1:00 p.m. -  Kathy Stolley and Ernest T.

1:00 - 3:00 p.m. - Margery Howell and Phoebe

Saturday, May 13:

1:30 - 3:30 p.m. - Heather Campbell and Hans

Monday, May 15

10:00 a.m. - Noon - Mary Garraty and Cookie

 

 

Each year, the Center for Innovative Teaching and Engaged Learning, in conjunction with Hofheimer Library, hosts a celebration to recognize academic excellence in teaching and scholarship at Virginia Wesleyan. This year’s annual “Feathers in Your Cap” event brought together faculty and staff who in the last year have published books or professional publications, given presentations or served on panels, obtained grants, received tenure and/or promotions, engaged in service learning initiatives, and more. Congratulations to:

Kevin Adams                  Kellie Holzer                            Timothy O'Rourke
Kathy Bartkus                 Diane Hotaling                         Deb Otis
Richard Bond                  Joyce Howell                           Gavin Pate
Thomas Brown               Deirdre Gonsalves Jackson     Wayne Pollock
Kristin Burney                 Kathy Merlock Jackson            William Pruitt
Leslie Caughell              Carol Johnson                          Mandy Reinig
Patty Clark                     Doug Kennedy                         Diana Risk
Takeyra Collins              Lydia Kennedy                         Sophie Rondeau
Ben Dobrin                     Kevin Kittredge                        John Rudel
Joyce Easter                  Susan Larkin                            Maynard Schaus
Steven Emmanuel         Stephen Leist                           Antje Schwennicke
Sue Erickson                 Terry Lindvall                            Sara Sewell
Paul Ewell                     Scott Liverman                          Sally Shedd
Kim Fahle                      Lisa Lyon Payne                       Jennifer Slivka
Linda Ferguson             Audrey Malagon                       Kathy Stolley
Hilve Firek                     Travis Malone                           Jayne Sullivan
Alain Gabon                  Dan Margolies                          Robin Takacs
Kate Griffin                    Eric Mazur                               Vivian Teter
Phil Guilfoyle                 William McConnell                   Vic Townsend
Ben Haller                     Stu Minnis                                Denise Wilkinson
Stephen Hock               Taryn Myers                             Cathal Woods

StarRez,  Residence Life’s new comprehensive housing solution, launched this week thanks to the combined efforts of staff from Student Affairs, the Business Office and IT Services. Director of Residence Life RJ Chittams says, “We are extremely excited to launch this new process. While daunting to implement, it has allowed us to create a more efficient application process”. The first StarRez service launched on Tuesday, May 2, is the Housing Management module as it will have the greatest impact for both students and staff. Other modules will be phased in over the summer. With the new system, students are able to apply for housing from anywhere- 24/7.  In the first 42 hours, there were nearly 400 housing applications initiated through the new service. A popular function is the ability for students to see and select other students they would potentially match as roommates- all through the roommate finder function.  This self-help system gives students a percentage match with other students based upon their answers to profile questions. The new process will  allow for more efficient functioning for housing operations.

Associate Dean for Innovative Teaching and Engaged Learning Denise Wilkinson has announced the 2017-18 recipients of Virginia Wesleyan College's Innovative Teaching and  Engaged Learning (INTEL) faculty grants. Congratulations to:

Takeyra Collins, Visiting Instructor for Recreation and Leisure Studies

Grant: Service-Learning: Increasing the Engagement & Knowledge of Learners beyond the Classroom

This project combines experiential learning through a structured service-learning experience that makes a broad impact on our community to enhance and increase engagement and knowledge of the learners beyond the classroom. The undergraduate students involved in the service learning aspect of the project will use the knowledge they’ve obtained within the curriculum of the classroom setting to further develop knowledge and skills, obtain experience working with young adults, and obtain various transferable skills. This project focuses on accommodating young adults with Type 1 Diabetes (T1D) by engaging undergraduate students in an interactive service learning opportunity; where they are able to put their knowledge into practice while working with young adults with a chronic illness.

 Kathy Stolley, Professor of Sociology

 Grant: Faculty Field Trip: Mapping a Faculty Integrative Experience

 This project will include faculty “field trips” and integrative collaboration in which a group of faculty from across the curriculum will collaboratively produce an interdisciplinary field trip “map” for downtown Norfolk, accompanied by an integrated resource guide, to enrich the experience of visiting each destination and nurture integrative thinking.  The project goals are: to pilot a design that explores how we might more intentionally build, enhance, and encourage integrative thinking into our formal faculty development structure; to build and “test drive” an integrated local resource guide that can be used to support course enhancements for integrated learning; and to encourage community, collaboration, and purposeful integration among faculty.

Each grant provides up to $1,000 for a project that encourages and advances a culture of innovation and engaged learning-related activities. 

Provost and Vice President Timothy O’Rourke has announced the selection of a new group of Batten Professors, who will enjoy the designation and the corresponding financial support for their professional vitality for a three-year period, 2017-18 through 2019-20. Initiated in 2004, the Batten Professorship is an award for faculty excellence in teaching and scholarship, community contributions, and passion for inspiring excellence in others.  For three academic years, recipients carry the title and are entitled to special development funding.

The new 2017 – 2020 recipients, chosen by the school deans, are:

2017-2020

Dr. Thomas Brown, Associate Professor of Criminal Justice and Sociology

Dr. Audrey Malagon, Associate Professor of Mathematics

Mr. Gavin Pate, Associate Professor English

Dr. Lisa Lyon Payne, Associate Professor of Communication

Dr. Sally Shedd, Professor of Theatre

The new Batten Professors join the following active designees:

2015-2018

Dr. Benjamin Dobrin, Batten Professor of Social Work

Dr. Rebecca Hooker, Batten Professor of English

Dr. Maury Howard, Batten Associate Professor of Chemistry

2016-2019

Dr. Paul Ewell, Batten Associate Professor of Management, Business and Economics

Dr. Kevin Kittredge, Batten Professor of Chemistry

Dr. Taryn Myers, Batten Associate Professor of Psychology

Ms. Sharon Swift, Batten Professor of Art

For more information, visit https://www.vwc.edu/academics/academic-affairs/batten-professors.php.

 

Spring Port Day is Thursday, May 4, a full day of events, beginning at 8 a.m. with coffee and refreshments throughout campus in the Convocation Center, Blocker Auditorium, and Pearce Hospitality Suite.  Port Day is designed to demonstrate and promote the academic achievements of Virginia Wesleyan students completing capstone undergraduate research, internship, and semester study-away experiences. A conference-style schedule will include concurrent, campus-wide sessions at which students will share their work through oral and poster presentations, reflect on the experiences, and answer audience questions. The day will conclude with the Senior Art Exhibition in the Neil Britton Art Gallery. There will be no classes, meetings, or athletic events held during this day, enabling the entire campus community to celebrate the accomplishments of students, learn about the good work completed, and hear about the transformative power of participation in capstone academic experiences. The day will be particularly important for students who would like to learn how they, too, may undertake a capstone experience at Virginia Wesleyan.  View the complete Port Day schedule on The Lighthouse webpage at: http://www.vwc.edu/academics/port-day/master-schedule.php.

Virginia Wesleyan faculty and staff do incredible work inside and outside the classroom. Day One, an electronic newsletter published at the start of each month, celebrates these professional development successes and keeps the VWC community abreast of one other’s scholarly work. In the current issue, learn about many recent panels, meetings and presentations such as Professor Leslie Caughell's “Tailoring Fact Checks to Voter (Dis)Trust” on a panel entitled “Facts, Science, and Misperceptions” at the annual meeting of the Midwest Political Science Association, as well as new book contributions by Professors Diana Risk and Bill McConnell. View the May 2017 issue and check out archived editions at the webpage for VWC's Center for Innovative Teaching and Engaged Learning (INTEL). For more information or to make a submission, contact Associate Dean of INTEL Denise Wilkinson at dwilkinson@vwc.edu or 757.455.3249.

The 2017 Virginia Wesleyan College softball program set a program record for Strike Out Cancer, raising $20,004 for the American Cancer Society. The Marlins have now raised a total of $102,417 over the nine-year period that the squad has hosted this fundraiser. The event, held on April 8 this year, is held annually in memory of Elaine F. Sears, the mother of head women’s softball coach Brandon Elliott. "This community continues to amaze me," Elliott said. "There are hundreds of people who have their finger prints all over this day and I am forever grateful to each and everyone of them." Money was raised through a silent auction, T-shirt sales, ticket sales at the gate, food, and generous donations from friends, family, and Virginia Wesleyan fans. Genesis Church of Chesapeake handled the food at the event with all proceeds going to the American Cancer Society. "To raise this much money with something so simple shows you the enormous potential we have as individuals when we come together for a common purpose," Elliott added. "Cancer took a big loss today and I hope we can continue to chip away at a disease that has stolen so much joy." Donations may still be made: Strike Out Cancer Online Donation

President Scott Miller recently announced the establishment of Opus, a summer work program for Virginia Wesleyan students. The Opus work program will serve approximately 20 students with financial need who would like to continue their studies at Virginia Wesleyan. Participating students will have the opportunity to live on campus in Brock Village and will be provided with a modest meal plan. They will begin their duties following May Commencement and will work 25 hours per week for a period of 13 weeks. Projects will focus on corrective maintenance, grounds and landscaping and general campus beautification. The major goals and expected outcomes from the Opus program are to ensure the completion of a liberal arts education for students with limited financial resources; to develop strong work ethic, communication and problem-solving skills; to give graduates the professional/technical knowledge essential for their work and the executive skills required to plan, organize and prioritize tasks; to build a reliable source of workers who are knowledgeable, skilled and likely to remain in the region; and to increase campus pride among students.

Four Virginia Wesleyan student cadets were recognized at the 42nd Annual President’s Review and Awards Ceremony for the U.S. Army Reserve Officers’ Training Corps (ROTC) Monarch Battalion at Old Dominion University on April 13. Congratulations to Virginia Wesleyan junior Jake Morgan, who received the ROTC Recognition Award; sophomore Gavin Fry, who received the Sons of the American Revolution Award, the award for Outstanding Virginia Wesleyan Cadet, and the Iron Man Award; junior Joseph Fairbanks, who received the American Legion Award and the Outstanding Basic Course Cadet Award; and junior Rolanda Taylor, who received the award for Outstanding Varsity Athlete. Virginia Wesleyan President Scott Miller was in attendance as was Lighthouse Deputy Director Amy Rush, who serves as advisor to ROTC students. The Army ROTC Marlin Detachment operates as part of ODU’s Monarch Battalion. Through an elective curriculum, participating students receive valuable tools, training, and leadership experiences that not only may lead to military service but also become assets in any career.

Virginia Wesleyan President Scott D. Miller has been elected to the Regional Board of Directors for the Hampton Roads Chamber of Commerce. The Hampton Roads Chamber is a pro-business organization promoting growth and progress for the Hampton Roads region. It has created economic opportunity in the region for more than 25 years through public policy, economic development and service to business. Members of the Regional Board of Directors are elected from Chamber membership to set policies and priorities for the organization. In addition to the Regional Board, each of the five southside cities—Chesapeake, Norfolk, Portsmouth, Suffolk, and Virginia Beach—has a board comprised of local business leaders who focus on the needs of that city. Dr. Miller is in his second year as president of Virginia Wesleyan. He is a former President of Bethany College (2007-15), Wesley College (1997-2007), and Lincoln Memorial University (1991-97). 

Miller is one of the most experienced and prominent liberal arts college presidents in America, having led four colleges and universities for over a quarter of a century. Recognized by numerous books and publications nationally for his transformative leadership style, he was identified in a book, "The Entrepreneurial College President," as one of 17 most entrepreneurial presidents in American higher education. Locally, Dr. Miller currently serves on the Boards of the Greater Norfolk Corporation and Virginia Beach Vision. He is also Chair of the Association of Educational Institutions of the Virginia Conference of the United Methodist Church. Nationally, he is Chair of the Board of Directors of Academic Search, Inc., Vice Chair of the Board of the American Academic Leadership Institute, and he is on the Board of the National Association of Schools and Colleges of the United Methodist Church. 

"Since my arrival in Coastal Virginia, it has been a priority of mine to learn as much as I can about our region and to support not only the growth of our institution, but also our local businesses and economy," says Dr. Miller. "Although I serve on many boards, the Hampton Roads Chamber, Virginia Beach Vision and Greater Norfolk Corporation boards are particularly important as we connect Virginia Wesleyan with the broader Coastal Virginia community."

Virginia Wesleyan faculty and staff do incredible work inside and outside the classroom. Day One, an electronic newsletter published at the start of each month, celebrates these professional development successes and keeps the VWC community abreast of one other’s scholarly work. In the current issue, learn about a recent trip to the LEED certified Virginia Beach Animal Care and Adoption Center organized by Professor of Sociology Kathy Stolley and Grounds Supervisor Kathy Bartkus, a variety of presentations and publications and much more. View the April 2017 issue and check out archived editions at the webpage for VWC's Center for Innovative Teaching and Engaged Learning (INTEL). For more information or to make a submission, contact Associate Dean of INTEL Denise Wilkinson at dwilkinson@vwc.edu or 757.455.3249.

Congratulations to VWC Seniors Zoe Traficante and Rebecca Davis and Junior Kelsi Robins for receiving regional student achievement awards from the Society for Advancement of Management (SAM). Rebecca also won a SAM National Student Achievement Award.  They presented a research paper entitled "Charmer, Keeper, Manager, Partner: Personality Traits of Successful Managers and Desired Romantic Partners" at the International Conference of the Society for Advancement of Management in Orlando this past weekend. 

 

The most recent news from Virginia Wesleyan’s Office of Community service includes, as always, many upcoming volunteer opportunities for students—from Marlins Community Youth Garden Club to Soup Line with Catholic Work to regular blood drives. April's news also includes information aboout "Love Week," organized by Campus Crusade for Christ International to take action showing love toward a global community in need, and "Terracycle Tuesdays," going on throughout the month. The newsletter also recognizes many of the students who donated their time through the Office of Community Service for local events and organizations such as the Marlins Read, Marlins Count, Neighborhood Tutoring, Fin with Paws, Virginia Beach Grow Smart Read Across America Day and more. The tradition of service continues at VWC! Read the complete newsletter here.

Based on research for a forthcoming book, “Little Caesar: The Secret Life and High-Flying Times of Art Concello” appears in the current issue of Bandwagon magazine, the journal of the Circus Historical Society. The article was co-authored by Mort Gamble, senior vice president at Virginia Wesleyan, and Maureen Brunsdale, special collections librarian of the Milner Library, Illinois State University. For the past two years, Gamble and Brunsdale have researched the life of Arthur M. Concello (1911-2001) for their forthcoming biography. Concello was a legendary trapeze artist and later manager of Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey Circus. The Milner Library, in Concello’s home area of Bloomington/Normal, IL, contains extensive archives pertaining to his life and career, and the development of the trapeze arts.“Concello was one of the most remarkable and controversial figures in American circus history,” the authors write. “He was a brilliant aerialist, creative designer, shrewd businessman, and an expert manager of The Greatest Show on Earth during some of the most critical years in its history.” For more information on the Circus Historical Society, visit www.circushistory.org.

The recycling race is on this spring as the Virginia Wesleyan community once again participates in RecycleMania, an eight-week collegiate tournament, running February 5 to April 1, in which hundreds of college and university communities across the United States and Canada compete to collect the largest amount of recyclables and the least amount of trash. In week three of the competition, Virginia Wesleyan was ranked No. 1 in the Old Dominion Athletic Conference for pounds recycled per capita. To date, the College has a cumulative greenhouse gas reduction of 38 metric tons of CO2 equivalent—which equals seven cars off the road or the energy consumption of three households. The effort is being led by members of Marlins Go Green including VWC senior Zack Drake, as well as Director of Community Service Diane Hotaling. Virginia Wesleyan students, faculty and staff continue to demonstrate their dedication to a greener campus and a greener world. Learn more about Virginia Wesleyan's recycling efforts.

Virginia Wesleyan held its first meeting of the new Corporate Leaders Council (CLC) on March 16, 2017. The CLC is comprised of business leaders from Coastal Virginia who embrace, embody and similarly align with the College’s vision and values in their management practices. Joe Ruddy '83, Chief Innovation Officer at The Port of Virginia, served as guest speaker for the meeting. In a presentation called "The Power of Interns," Ruddy gave an overview of the Port and its future and how interns from Virginia Wesleyan are helping to shape that future. VWC seniors Amanda Baxter and Amber Gaines also spoke about their internships at the Port of Virginia and the Pentagon, respectively. Virginia Wesleyan looks to its Corporate Leaders to connect with students through experiential learning opportunities like internships, mentoring and career fairs; to engage with students in the classroom by serving as guest speakers or panelists for special events; and to positively project the quality and versatility of a liberal arts education at Virginia Wesleyan, which increases the value and name recognition of a VWC degree as new graduates enter the workforce. Learn more about the Corporate Leaders Council.

Virginia Wesleyan senior Kaci Wertz took the lead in bringing the Delta Sigma chapter of Iota Iota Iota to the Virginia Wesleyan campus, joining a nationwide coalition of student clubs recognizing academic excellence in women’s and gender studies. Wertz will serve as the chapter’s first president of Iota Iota Iota, which aims to promote interest in women's and gender studies, research in social issues affecting women and other social and intellectual activities that lead to improvement in the condition of all people. The society also encourages volunteerism, advocacy and activism within the community as important methods for supporting and maintaining the values central to the women's studies discipline.

“It is most appropriate to establish an Iota Iota Iota chapter here at the College during Women’s History Month,” said VWC President Scott D. Miller. “I encourage the campus community to join me in welcoming Delta Sigma—may its members be nourished by our community’s continued dedication to equality and education.”

The Virginia Wesleyan Chorale, under the direction of Assistant Professor of Music  Bryson Mortensen, departs on Sunday, March 19, for their spring tour which includes performances in Virginia, Massachusetts, New Hampshire, and Pennsylvania. They will stop to share their talents in the cities of Annandale, Virginia; Keene, New Hampshire; Boston, Massachusetts; Concord, Massachusetts; Hershey, Pennsylvania; and Haymarket, Virginia. The Chorale will also hold clinics with high school choirs and collaborate with Keene State College, Concord-Carlisle High School, and Lower-Dauphin High School to perform concerts.

“This is an exceptional opportunity for our fine Chorale to showcase their talent and represent Virginia Wesleyan to new audiences,” said VWC President Scott D. Miller. “ As our funding campaign continues for the new Susan S. Goode Fine and Performing Arts Center and we build on the tradition of the arts and humanities here on campus and in our community, we express our gratitude to Dr. Mortensen and his students for taking their spring break to enrich the musical experiences of others.”

 

President Miller has announced that Rev. Susan Pendleton Jones, a 1980 graduate of Virginia Wesleyan College, will serve as VWC’s 2017 Baccalaureate speaker.  Baccalaureate is a religious service held at most private, church-related educational institutions prior to commencement.  This year’s Baccalaureate service is scheduled for Friday, May 19, at 6 p.m. at Haygood United Methodist Church. Rev. Jones is currently senior fellow of the Institute for Faith and Learning at Baylor University. She holds a B.A. from Virginia Wesleyan College and a M.Div. from Duke University. An ordained Methodist minister, she is a frequent retreat leader for lay and clergy groups. At Duke she had oversight of the contextual education programs, including Mentoring for Ministry and Student Life, field education, the Hispanic House of Studies, and the Thriving Rural Communities Program.  Her teaching responsibilities have included courses on leadership, forgiveness and reconciliation, and the pastor's vocation, team-taught with her husband, L. Gregory Jones, now Baylor’s executive vice president and provost. She and Greg have co-authored several Bible studies and other curricular components for The United Methodist Publishing House. She has also written articles and reflections for a variety of publications, including Faith & Leadership, Christian Century, and The Upper Room.

The new VWC/YMCA joint-use facility currently under construction on campus near Village IV will be named the Frank Blocker Youth Center in honor of S. Frank Blocker, Jr., longtime Board of Trustees member and now Trustee Emeritus of Virginia Wesleyan College. The Blocker name is well known on the Virginia Wesleyan campus. Blocker Hall, the College’s original natural sciences and humanities building, was named for Mr. Blocker’s parents, S. Frank and Wilma Williamson Blocker, in recognition of an estate gift made by S. Frank Blocker, Jr., in 1992. In recent years, Blocker Hall has received close to $4 million in renovations, among them the creation of several research labs, updates to Blocker Auditorium, and the addition of a state-of-the-art scanning electron microscope. Blocker Hall will be complemented by the forthcoming Greer Environmental Sciences Center, and together, the buildings will enhance the College’s growing programs in the natural sciences.

The Frank Blocker Youth Center, once completed, will be a 6,000-square-foot space containing three classrooms, a large multi-purpose room, four offices, a reception area, kitchen, and an adjacent outdoor amphitheater with stage. Scheduled for completion in May, the facility will be used during the academic year by Tidewater Collegiate Academy—our laboratory school and early enrollment partner—and in the summer months by YMCA Camp Red Feather.

President Miller has announced the appointment of two faculty members to fill vacant directorships for First Year Experience (FYE) and Winter and Summer sessions.

Dr. Rebecca Hooker is the new Director of First Year Experience. Dr. Hooker is a Batten Associate Professor of English at Virginia Wesleyan College. She holds a Bachelor of Arts in English Literature from Carleton College, a Master of Science in Education for College Student Personnel Administration from Indiana University, a Master of Arts in English Literature with a concentration in Cultural Studies from George Mason University, and a Ph.D. in English Language and Literature/Letters from the University of New Mexico. She has been at the College since 2008. Dr. Hooker will lead the The First Year Experience (FYE) which is designed to help students prepare for the transition from high school to college. FYE programs often foster the participation of students in co-curricular events such as common reads, concerts, art exhibits, and guest lectures. “As we know from research, engaged students are likely to remain enrolled,” says President Miller. Additional advantages of the FYE include sharpening students' study skills and exposing them to unfamiliar topics that may spark interest in pursuing a particular academic field.

Dr. Deirdre Gonsalves-Jackson is the new Director of the Winter and Summer Sessions. Dr. Gonsalves-Jackson is an Associate Professor of Biology at Virginia Wesleyan. She holds a Bachelor of Science in Biology from Randolph College, a Master of Science in Marine Biology and Biological Oceanography from Florida Atlantic University, and a Ph.D. in Biological Sciences from the Florida Institute of Technology. She has been at the College since 2006. She will lead VWC's Winter and Summer Sessions which are usually concentrated/unusual course offerings focusing on close interaction, field experiences and study away. Although fall and spring semesters are the core of the Virginia Wesleyan educational experience, Winter and Summer Sessions can enable students to experience the College from another perspective.

According to President Miller, “Expanding Winter Session will improve cohort graduation rates and build supplemental revenue. Increasing Summer Session offerings, including recruiting students from other colleges living in this community over the summer, will enhance revenues, utilize campus facilities on a more year-round basis, and give students academic options they need for on-time graduation.”

Congratulations to all Virginia Wesleyan College students who have been named to the Fall 2016 Dean's List. The Dean's List recognizes all students who achieve a grade point average of 3.5 or above during a given semester. To qualify for this honor, students must have full-time status and have taken at least nine semester hours of traditionally graded courses. These individuals demonstrate a remarkable level of dedication to their academic pursuits. Well done! View the complete Fall 2016 Dean’s List.

President Miller announced that he received official notification of Virginia Wesleyan College's 10-year reaffirmation of affiliation with The United Methodist Church. The College was "approved for continued listing without qualification" in a February 21 letter from Dr. John W. Wells, Associate General Secretary of the Division of Higher Education of the General Board of Higher Education and Ministry and Executive Secretary of the University Senate of the United Methodist Church.  The action follows a November review and extremely positive visit by a committee from the University Senate of the United Methodist Church. The committee was comprised of: Dr. John Russell, Immediate Past President of McMurray University; Dr. Mark Hanshaw, Associate Dean, School of Arts and Letters, at Texas Wesleyan University; and the Rev. Laura McMasters, College Chaplain at Martin Methodist College. The United Methodist Church has more colleges, universities, theological schools, and preparatory schools related to it than any other Protestant church. With so many affiliated institutions, the UMC established the University Senate in 1892 to be certain that these institutions are worthy of bearing the name of the Church. As such, the University Senate reviewed the ways Virginia Wesleyan College meets the four criteria for UMC affiliation as specified in The Book of Discipline: institutional integrity, well-structured programs, sound management, and clearly defined Church relationships.

“Virginia Wesleyan College is a community of faith, learning and service, and we are very grateful for this notification of reaffirmation of affiliation,” says Dr. Miller. “Underlying all that we do is our deep commitment to the United Methodist tradition of education. Our mission takes inspiration from that heritage, preparing students for global citizenry, service to their communities, personal and professional leadership, and lives of continual learning and meaning.”

 

Virginia Wesleyan faculty and staff do incredible work inside and out of the classroom. Day One, an electronic newsletter published at the start of each month, celebrates these professional development successes and keeps the VWC community abreast of one other’s scholarly work. In the current issue, learn about 16 VWC colleagues who traveled to the Conference on Higher Education Pedagogy at Virginia Tech and more. View the March 2017 issue and check out archived editions at the webpage for VWC's Center for Innovative Teaching and Engaged Learning (INTEL). For more information or to make a submission, contact Associate Dean of INTEL Denise Wilkinson at dwilkinson@vwc.edu or 757.455.3249.

At noon, those on campus will now hear Virginia Wesleyan’s fight song, “On Virginia Wesleyan,” and at 5 p.m., the College’s alma mater will ring across campus.

“Celebrating school pride and honoring our College’s legacy is incredibly important to me,” says President Miller. “It is for this reason that I recently requested that our campanile, known to many as simply “The Bell Tower,” begin sharing these songs of spirit and tradition. “

Virginia Wesleyan's Monumental Chapel and its adjacent Frank E. Brown Campanile are landmarks on campus that not only symbolize our United Methodist heritage but also represent the passion of the College’s founders and the progress of those who have earned their degrees from VWC.  According to Dr. Stephen Mansfield's book Wisdom Lights the Way: Virginia Wesleyan College's First Half-Century, these historic structures came about in an “unusual fashion”:

“The minister and leaders of Portsmouth's Monumental United Methodist Church indicated during 1972 that they would like to provide funds for a Virginia Wesleyan project as part of the church's 200th anniversary celebration. Monumental's decision to raise $50,000 for a chapel was matched by a gift from the Beasley Foundation. During the planning stage, Richmond philanthropist Frank Brown offered to donate the cost of the bell tower, or campanile, which would stand near the chapel, and the Norfolk Federal Savings and Loan Company contributed the carillon, which had been a fixture of its home office since 1957. [Then] President [Lambuth M.] Clarke observed that it was unique within Virginia United Methodism, and perhaps the entire denomination, for a congregation to fund a college building. He saw significance for United Methodism's commitment to higher education in Virginia's oldest continuous congregation making such a contribution to the denomination's newest college. The completed chapel, campanile, and carillon were consecrated in February 1975.”

Our Alma Mater and fight song carry significant histories of their own. The College’s Alma Mater was written in 2002 by Dr. Sandra Billy, Director of the Center for Sacred Music, and Professor Emeritus Dr. David Clayton, VWC’s first full-time music professor. From the Alma Mater came the College’s Latin motto, sapientia illuminat viam, or "Wisdom Lights the Way.” Our fight song, “On, Virginia Wesleyan!” was written in 2011 by Joanne Renn, Executive Director of Intercollegiate Athletics, and Bill Bishop, a veteran area sports announcer.

Ethics & Presidential Politics Deliberated at 2017 Ethics Bowl at VWC

View 2017 Ethics Bowl photo gallery

Student teams from 15 private, independent colleges across the commonwealth gathered at Virginia Wesleyan on February 12 and 13 to compete in the 18th annual Virginia Foundation for Independent Colleges (VFIC) Ethics Bowl. The teams, divided into two divisions, deliberated on the topic “Ethics & U.S.  Presidential Politics” in four moderated, judged rounds. Thirty-six business people/community leaders volunteered their time and talents to serve as moderators and judges during the event. Wells Fargo has been the primary sponsor for the Ethics Bowl for 16 years.

VWC lead faculty coordinator for Virginia Wesleyan’s Ethics Bowl teams, Professor of Communication Kathy Merlock Jackson said, “Our students represented us well, winning five out of eight rounds, collectively. VWC Team 1 (Riley Conrad, Kelsi Robins, Melissa Fisher, and Nicholas Hipple) won rounds over Washington and Lee, Sweet Briar, and Lynchburg and lost by only three points to University of Richmond. VWC Team 2 (Kyle Grabulis, Jared White, Dante Davis, and Tanail Canty), all newcomers to the Ethics Bowl this year, lost their first two rounds on Sunday to Mary Baldwin and Hampden-Sydney but came on strong during Monday’s competition winning over both Bridgewater and Hollins.”

Division winners advancing to the final round were from Hampden-Sydney College and the University of Richmond. Hampden-Sydney College won the final round of the 2017 VFIC Ethics Bowl, securing the coveted Batten trophy for the second year in a row.

Congratulations to the 25 newest inductees to Phi Eta Sigma, the nation's oldest and largest honor society for first-year college and university students in all disciplines. The spring induction ceremony of select Virginia Wesleyan College freshmen into Phi Eta Sigma was held on February 21, 2017. The mission of Phi Eta Sigma, founded in 1923 at the University of Illinois, is to encourage and reward academic excellence among freshmen at institutions of higher learning. Since its founding, more than 1.1 million scholars have been inducted into chapters on 378 campuses across the United States. Virginia Wesleyan’s chapter was founded in 1983 and today consists of 150 active student members.

Spring 2017 Phi Eta Sigma Inductees

Taylor Anderson                 Connor Graham
Jordyn Aysanoa                 Nel Hart
Alexandra Berg                  Monika Metro
Alexander Benevento        Austin Obenour
Andreas Combos              Jacob Pilarski
Taylor Coutts                     Kelli Porter
Noah Craft                         Kristina Sabelston
Lydia Dale                         Tara Truax
Austin Edmonds                Emma Walsh
Christopher Fegan            Andre' Wiggins
Melissa Fisher                   Taylor Wilhelm
Shae Geary                       Cora Wilson
Isabella Glaze

The VWC Center for Innovative Teaching and Engaged Learning (INTEL) provided support for sixteen members of the Virginia Wesleyan faculty to attend the 9th Annual Conference on Higher Education Pedagogy at Virginia Tech, February 14 – 17. The conference, focused on higher education teaching excellence and the scholarship of teaching and learning, showcases the best pedagogical practice and research in higher education today. Six members of the VWC faculty presented a session or poster at the conference: Professor of Management, Business, and Economics Linda Ferguson, Professor of Art History Joyce Howell and Professor of English Sue Larkin presented "Blending Digital Pedagogies into Face-to-Face Classes;” Professor of Chemistry Joyce Easter presented "Invigorating the Lab Curriculum with Process Skill Development;" and Professor of Mathematics Denise Wilkinson and Professor of Sociology Kathy Stolley presented "Talk About Teaching: A Case Study of a Faculty Forum Created to Encourage and Foster Effective Teaching." Conference attendees also included: Assistant Professor of English Kellie Holzer, Associate Professor of English Rebecca Hooker, Associate Professor of Management, Business, and Economics Paul Ewell, Coordinator of Accreditation, Data Collection, and Reporting Sandra Ewell, Associate Professor of Psychology Taryn Myers, Assistant Professor of English Jen Slivka, Professor of Communication Kathy Merlock Jackson, Associate Professor of Psychology Gabi Martorell, Director of the Learning Center Julia Capewell and Director of Instructional Technology Robin Takacs. VWC faculty will share lessons learned at this conference at a Talk about Teaching session on March 14 in the Foley Classroom in Hofheimer Library.

 

 

The Learning Center, housed on the second floor of Virginia Wesleyan’s Clarke Hall, is a key resource for students, offering academic tutoring, individualized writing assistance, disability support and other services. On February 13, the Learning Center debuted a new and exciting opportunity with the unveiling of its first-ever Speech Lab, which provides support for public speaking and presentations. In the Speech Lab, students are able to work with a professional tutor on upcoming speeches and presentations. The tutor can help with everything from creating an outline for a speech or working on articulation, diction and body language to creating effective PowerPoint presentations or even strategies for public speaking anxiety. The Speech Lab has technology that allows users to record and playback a practice presentation, helping identify potential areas for improvement. Additionally, the space can be reserved by individuals or groups to practice presentations on their own. Visit the Learning Center website to find out more or to make a reservation.

Thirty-eight prospective freshmen—one all the way from France—will arrive in Coastal Virginia today to take part in the inaugural Batten Honors College competition (Feb. 9-11). The event will get underway with a welcome reception at the Virginia Aquarium and will continue Friday and Saturday with various interviews, campus tours, and panel discussions. Participating students and their parents will also attend a second reception at Slover Library in downtown Norfolk. Twenty students will be selected to receive the Batten Fellowship, a prestigious scholarship renewable for four years and covering the full amount of tuition—$36,010 for the 2017-2018 academic year—plus funding for an international study-away experience during their junior or senior year. The Batten Honors College will recognize the academic merit and leadership potential of another 20 students by admitting them to the Honors College as Shumadine Scholars. Shumadine Scholarships will have a value in an amount equal to two-thirds tuition—$24,000 during the 2017-2018 academic year. Through small class sizes, personalized instruction and especially vigorous faculty-student interaction, the Batten Honors College will inspire, engage, and prepare academically-talented students to become impactful leaders and environmental stewards in our global community. The Batten Honors College was originally introduced by Virginia Wesleyan College President Scott D. Miller during his August 2016 State of the College Address. It is named for dedicated friends of the institution Trustee Emerita Jane P. Batten H’06 and her late husband, Frank Batten, Sr. A second competition is scheduled for Feb. 23-25. Learn more at www.vwc.edu/battenhonorscollege.

Update 2/15/17: View Flickr Photo Gallery of Inaugural Battens Honors Competition

 
 

In a letter to Secretary of Homeland Security John Kelly Friday, Virginia Wesleyan College joined with nearly 600 universities and colleges from across the nation to voice concerns about President Donald Trump's recent executive actions banning travel from seven Muslim-majority countries.

The letter, sent by the American Council on Education, was signed by 598 university and college presidents and also represented the American Association of Community Colleges, the American Association of State Colleges and Universities, the Association of American Universities, the Association of Public and Land-grant Universities and the National Association of Independent Colleges and Universities.

"We take seriously the need to safeguard our nation and also the need for the United States to remain the destination of choice for the world’s best and brightest students, faculty and scholars," the letter read. "...We are confident that our nation can craft policies that secure us from those who wish to harm us, while welcoming those who seek to study, conduct research and scholarship, and contribute their knowledge and talents to our country."

The letter also called the U.S. the "greatest magnet for talented people from around the world" and said international collaboration is a "core value and strength of American higher education."

 

From “Shakespeare’s Love Sonnets” to “Sea Sex: Bizarre Reproductive Strategies in Marine Invertebrates,” Virginia Wesleyan will be feeling the love this Valentine’s Day Week for the College’s “Love Liberally” 7th Annual Celebration of Love in the Liberal Arts, February 13‐17. In this campus-wide event faculty are once again opening their doors for special lectures, workshops and presentations that explore the concept of love through their own disciplinary lens. These occasions present a great opportunity for students to get to know professors they have not had or subjects of interest to them without being enrolled in that particular course. The presentations are open to the entire campus community. New this year, students faculty and staff can stop by the Hofheimer Library during Love Liberally Week to participate in "Watch Kindness Bloom.” Participants select a leaf from the Kindness Tree and perform the act of kindness written on it, then return to write their reflections on giving or receiving an act of kindness on a flower. The tree “blooms” throughout the week. See the complete "Love Liberally" schedule.

Each spring, in partnership with the Virginia Conference of the United Methodist Church, Virginia Wesleyan College hosts a workshop for UMC pastors that yields continuing education units. Last year, this program was renamed the Robert F. Boyd Institute after co-founding member of the College’s Board of Trustees, Bob Boyd. This year's Boyd Institute will take place April 3-4 and will feature Dr. Ben Witherington III, Amos Professor of New Testament for Doctoral Studies at Asbury Theological Seminary. He will discuss "A Singular Jesus in a Pluralistic Culture." Read more about this year's program and register to attend on the Robert F. Boyd Institute website.

Lessons Learned: Faculty Share New Experiences and Best Practices with Innovative Teaching

1) "Lessons Learned: Take-Aways from training in Process Oriented Guided Inquiry Learning as a Method for teaching Music Courses" Bryson Mortensen will share a few best practices he learned while attending the three-day 2016 POGIL workshop. Bryson has worked to integrate process-oriented guided inquiry learning into his music courses. DATE/TIME: Tuesday, February 7, 11:00-11:50 am, Foley classroom, Library.

2) "Lessons Learned: Incorporating the Use of the Electron Microscope in Courses and Undergraduate Research Projects” Vic Townsend, Maury Howard and Chris Haley will share their experiences with the electron microscope in their classes. Participants will also have the opportunity for a hands-on experience with the microscope. DATE/TIME: Tuesday, Feb 28, 11-11:50 am, Blocker auditorium.

3) "Lessons Learned: Take-Aways from Va. Tech Pedagogy conference” The conversation of this session will be led by VWC faculty who attended the 2017 Virginia Tech Pedagogy conference and share information they learned at the conference. DATE/TIME: Tuesday, March 14, 11:00-11:50 am, Foley classroom, Library.

4) "Lessons Learned: Revealing INTEL Grant projects ideas and topics on Good Teaching" INTEL grant recipients, Larry Hultgren and Jill Sturts share the magic behind their proposals - what went well with their projects, any bumps they encountered along the way, and what they learned. DATE/TIME: Tuesday, March 28, 11:00-11:50 am, Foley classroom, Library.

5) “Lessons Learned: Shedding Light on Community Engagement in the Classroom” Faculty who have incorporated Service Learning components share their experiences and best practices learned with integrating a volunteer, service learning, or community engagement component into their courses. DATE/TIME: Tuesday, April 25, 11:00-11:50 am, Foley classroom, Library.

Virginia Wesleyan's ninth class was inducted into the Athletic Hall of Fame at a special ceremony on February 4 in the Jane P. Batten Student Center. Congratulations to the 2017 Inductees: Rebecca Leedom Bradford '10 – Volleyball (2007-2010), Cara N. Byrd '06 – Field Hockey (2003-06), Christine M. Clancy Davis '07 – Field Hockey and Women’s Lacrosse (2003-07), Gary DePalma – Men’s Soccer (1994-1997) and Megan Parris '06 – Women’s Lacrosse and Women’s Soccer (2002-05). View photo gallery from the event. and read more about each inductee and the Virginia Wesleyan College Athletic Hall of Fame at https://goo.gl/a3tvhu.

Virginia Wesleyan faculty and staff do incredible work inside and out of the classroom. Day One, an electronic newsletter published at the start of each month, celebrates these professional development successes and keeps the VWC community abreast of one other’s scholarly work. In the current issue, learn about presentations by VWC math professors at the national Mathematical Association of America conference and more. View the February 2017 issue and check out archived editions at the webpage for VWC's Center for Innovative Teaching and Engaged Learning (INTEL). For more information or to make a submission, contact Associate Dean of INTEL Denise Wilkinson at dwilkinson@vwc.edu or 757.455.3249.

Students gathered with faculty and staff in Boyd Dining Hall on January 23 to share their travel experiences during Winter Session at a reception hosted by President Scott Miller. Seventy-six students have safely returned to VWC after broadening their horizons through travel to places around the world this month as part of their coursework in the following classes/travel destinations: CHEM 455: Measurement Science -Washington D.C.; COMM 333: Walt Disney's America -Orlando, FL; ENG 248/348: Topics in Travel Writing - New York, NY; HIST 262: History of Prague - Prague, Czech Republic; PSY 305: History of Psychopathology of Europe - London, Paris, and Amsterdam; REC 348: Maui to Mogul - Oahu, Hawaii; SPAN 219/319: Seminar in Hispanic Studies - Yucatan, Mexico; TH 270/370: New York Theatre - New York, NY. View on Instagram.

On behalf of Virginia Wesleyan College and in appreciation of their longtime support, President Scott D. Miller recently presented VWC Board of Trustees member Dr. Henry Watts and his wife, Eleanor, with the original artwork from the College's 2016 Christmas card (view photo). President Miller visited the Watts at their Virginia Beach home on January 18—Dr. Watts’ birthday. The artwork, created by Virginia artist and VWC parent Robbie Garrity, features a snow-covered Godwin Hall. Dr. Watts served as Chair of the College's Board of Trustees in 1999 when Godwin Hall opened. He joined the VWC Board in 1989 and continues to serve today as Parliamentarian. Mrs. Watts was an active member of the Women of Wesleyan. The couple returns to Virginia Wesleyan often to cheer for Marlins basketball.

Students achieving a 4.0 grade point average for the fall semester are listed on the Fall 2016 President's List. Congratulations to these students for their exemplary academic performance! They will  be formally recognized at a reception hosted by President Miller this spring.  Well done!

Virginia Wesleyan graduate Kristie (Sigmon) Middleton ’98, senior food policy director of The Humane Society of the United States (HSUS) , has written a book called MeatLess: Transform the Way You Eat and Live—One Meal at a Time. The book, which will be released by Da Capo Press in March 2017, includes recipes and tips for a concise, practical, and realistic approach to enjoying healthier meatless meals. The book also addresses animal welfare issues. In her role with the HSUS, Middleton oversees efforts to drive plant-based eating and has worked with some of the nation’s largest school districts, as well as dozens of hospitals and colleges to implement healthier eating programs. She holds a certificate in Plant-Based Nutrition from the T. Colin Campbell Center for Nutrition Studies. Middleton lives with her husband, four cats, and a dog in Oakland, California. Middleton majored in communications at Virginia Wesleyan, an experience she says “opened my eyes to the possibilities of driving positive changes in our society through effective communication.”

The VWC community is saddened by the loss of Sara Miller Boyd, former President of the Women of Wesleyan and wife of founding Virginia Wesleyan Trustee Robert F. Boyd. Mrs. Boyd, who passed away on New Year’s Day, had a long affiliation with Virginia Wesleyan from the College’s beginnings in the 1960s. She was active in the Women of Wesleyan and served as the group’s President from 1970 to 1972.  The John Wesley statue, the Boyd Dining Center, the fountain to the east of the Center and a series of paintings on Wesley’s life are examples of the Boyds’ support for the College over the decades. The Boyds’ son, Jim, graduated from Virginia Wesleyan in 1984 with a B.A. in political science. Jim’s son, James, is currently a freshman at the College. A funeral service for Sara Miller Boyd, wife of founding Trustee Robert F. Boyd, will be held on Saturday, January 7, at 1 p.m. at Park Place United Methodist Church (500 W. 34th St., Norfolk). Read more about Mrs. Boyd's life and legacy.

 

Norfolk Mayor Kenny Alexander and Virginia Beach Mayor Will Sessoms will be on the campus of Virginia Wesleyan College on Wedensday, January 11, for a special free screening of GerryRIGGED: Turning Democracy on Its Head, a documentary examining the impacts of gerrymandering, the practice of manipulating electoral boundaries to favor one political party or class. The event is being hosted by OneVirginia2021: Virginians for Fair Redistricting, a leader in advocating for fair redistricting in the Commonwealth of Virginia. The organization is structured to reflect a commitment to education and advocacy, with a multi-partisan approach that includes Republicans, Democrats, and Independents. Leslie Caughell, VWC Assistant Professor of Political Science, has also been involved in planning the event. Students in Caughell’s Winter Session “American Politics” course are exploring non-partisan reform efforts underway to address partisan gerrymandering and will be attending the event. This free screening will take place in Pearce Hospitality SUite in the Jane P. Batten Student Center at 7 p.m. and is open to the public. A discussion will follow the screening.

Craig Wansink, VWC Professor of Religious Studies and the Joan P. and Macon F. Brock, Jr. Director of the Center for the Study of Religious Freedom, has been selected by the Virginia Center for Inclusive Communities (VCIC) to receive a 2017 Tidewater Humanitarian Award.  The Humanitarian Awards honor individuals and organizations who have demonstrated a commitment to the promotion of respect and understanding among people of diverse racial, ethnic, and religious backgrounds. The 53rd presentation of VCIC’s Humanitarian Awards will be held on Thursday, March 30, at the Westin Virginia Beach Town Center.  For more information, visit www.inclusiveva.org.

Virginia Wesleyan College, along with Presidents and Chancellors from 170 Colleges and Universities, including 35 states in the U.S., have joined together to urge president-elect Trump and the incoming congressional representatives to accelerate progress towards a clean energy future. Through their open letter, organized by a diverse group of higher education institutions and the Boston-based nonprofit Second Nature, they call on elected officials to support participation in the Paris Agreement, climate research, and investment in the low carbon economy. “The upcoming transition of federal leadership presents a unique opportunity to address head-on the challenges of climate change by accelerating the new energy economy and creating strong, resilient communities,” wrote the group. “We are committed to developing and deploying innovative climate solutions that provide a prosperous future for all Americans.” The group of schools expressed their alignment with the business and investment communities in supporting the science-based targets outlined in the Paris Climate Agreement. Virginia Wesleyan College has been taking climate action for years, including voluntarily setting carbon neutrality goals and publicly reporting progress through a program called the Climate Leadership Commitments. A full list of the schools supporting the open letter can be found at secondnature.org/higher-education-climate-action-letter.

Virginia Wesleyan College has been designated a River Star Business, Achievement Level, by the Elizabeth River Project, an independent non-profit working along with its partner organizations to restore the Elizabeth River, a tributary of the Chesapeake Bay. River Star Businesses is one of the Elizabeth River Project’s signature programs, recognizing organizations that voluntarily reduce pollution and create or conserve wildlife habitat enhancement. The River Restoration Advisory Committee, comprised of River Star peers and technical experts, reviews River Star documentation every fall for entry and advancement in the program. The two-star Achievement Level recognition is attained when a River Star documents significant achievements in both pollution prevention and wildlife habitat enhancement. Achievements must be clearly quantified and achieved with meaningful employee involvement and be significant relative to the size and nature of the organization. In their review, the committee noted Virginia Wesleyan’s energy efficiency, green roof, storm water management, solar panels, wildlife habitat enhancement, old growth beech forest, bird sanctuary, beekeeping, composting, arboretum and native plant pallet among other initiatives. River Star accomplishments will be celebrated at the Elizabeth River Project’s annual River Star Recognition Luncheon on January 26, 2017, at The Renaissance Portsmouth-Norfolk Waterfront Hotel. Learn more about the Elizabeth River Project.

The Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges has approved Virginia Wesleyan College as a Level III institution. The classification to this level will enable VWC to offer master’s degrees. Virginia Wesleyan will soon expand its academic program to include a Master of Arts in Education, an online Master of Business Administration and online degree-completion programs at the undergraduate level. A traditionally delivered Master of Arts in Education (MAEd) is scheduled to begin in the summer of 2017. It will be a 4+1 program, meaning that students complete an undergraduate degree in four years focused on a content major related to secondary education and then complete a year of graduate study devoted to preparation for teaching. An online Master of Business Administration (MBA) is scheduled to begin in the fall of 2017. The advanced education that these programs provide will empower our students with the ability to compete for more rewarding jobs in their chosen specializations. The College will also begin offering two online degree-completion programs in the fall of 2017. These flexible online programs will introduce an unprecedented level of convenience for students in our Adult Studies Program and have the potential for significant growth. The addition of these programs marks a pivotal moment in the history of Virginia Wesleyan College and underscores our reputation and competitiveness as a leader in American higher education—indeed, as Coastal Virginia's premier private, national liberal arts college.

Nine Virginia Wesleyan students were inducted into the Society for Collegiate Journalists on December 9. Congratulations to Jasmine Driggs, Corey King, Ashlei Gates, Katherine Bishop, Valerie Miller, Hayley Heath, Justin Smith, Victoria Laughlin and Cynthia Griffin! The Society for Collegiate Journalists is the nation’s oldest organization designed solely to serve college media leaders. The students being inducted pledged to uphold the ethical standards of the Society, subscribe willingly to the practice of freedom of expression and be held accountable for the content of the printed page and broadcast. The speaker at  the induction ceremony was Lori Crouch, an Emmy-nominated, award winning broadcast journalist and public relations professional, who is currently the Director of Corporate Communications for the City of Norfolk. Ms. Crouch was introduced by VWC Associate Professor of Communication Dr. Lisa Lyon Payne, who is the advisor to Virginia Wesleyan's chapter of the Society for Collegiate Journalists which was established in 1995. President of the College, Dr. Scott D. Miller was also on hand to congratulate the new inductees. View photo.

 

During final exams at VWC, there will be seven certified pet therapy dogs visiting campus to provide comfort and companionship. They will be in Hofheimer Library along with their owners at the following days and times:
 
Tuesday, December 13

Martha Nesselrode and Addie, 10 a.m.-noon

Wednesday, December 14

Margery Howell and Phoebe, 10 a.m.-noon
Julie Morgan and Bart, 2-4 p.m.

Thursday, December 15

Kathy Stolley and Ernest T., 10 a.m.-noon

Friday, December 16

Maloy Van Faussien and Penny, noon-2 p.m.
Margery Howell and Phoebe, 1 p.m.-3 p.m.

Stop by and enjoy some canine comfort and companionship.

Virginia Wesleyan College will hold its inaugural Port Day on Tuesday, December 6 from 8:30 a.m. until 5 p.m. This new tradition is a signature Virginia Wesleyan event, designed to demonstrate and promote the academic achievement of students completing capstone undergraduate research, internship and semester study away experiences. Port Day will feature student presentations in a conference-style format with concurrent sessions and multiple locations across campus. Students will share their work in a professional manner with either an oral or poster presentation and answer audience questions. On Port Day, no classes, meetings, or athletic events will be held during the day, allowing the entire campus community to celebrate the accomplishments of Virginia Wesleyan students, learn about work completed, and hear about the transformative power of participation in capstone academic experiences. The day will also be an important opportunity for students who would like to learn how they, too, can undertake a capstone experience at Virginia Wesleyan. Learn more about Port Day.

Virginia Wesleyan College (VWC) has entered into a new educational partnership that will enrich the learning experiences of Virginia Wesleyan’s teacher-education students while generating revenue and providing additional opportunities for enrollment at the College. An agreement signed with Tidewater Community Academy (TCA), an organization that serves students from the sixth through the 12th grades, will provide rented space on the VWC campus to expand TCA’s programming in ways that will be mutually beneficial for the educational missions of both organizations. Utilizing some classroom and administrative areas of VWC’s Pruden Hall and the soon-to-be-constructed YMCA Partnership Building, the Academy will function as an on-campus laboratory school for our teacher-education students who currently travel to the school’s Chesapeake location. Additionally, the partnership agreement calls for establishing an early college-entrance program, permitting senior students at the Academy to take courses here and earn college credits. The expectation is that many of these students will be strong contenders for continued enrollment at Virginia Wesleyan. Learn more about Virginia Wesleyan’s Education Department.
 

Virginia Wesleyan College President Scott D. Miller served as a keynote panelist Dec. 1 at the 87th Annual Conference of the Virginia Association of Collegiate Registrars and Admissions Officers (VACRAO) in Newport News. Joining him on the distinguished panel were Dr. Nancy Gray, President of Hollins University, and Dr. Taylor Reveley III, President of The College of William & Mary. Dr. Miller helped lead the discussion, which highlighted some of the biggest challenges in higher education today. Topics included questions about keeping college costs low while meeting the growing demands of students; helping families understand the value of investment in postsecondary education; strategies for keeping pace with online degree programs, hybrid course offerings, and enhanced student expectations for technology in the classroom; and FERPA regulations and concerns about student privacy, safety and wellness. VACRAO is dedicated to the promotion of the professional preparation, effectiveness, and association of registrars, admission officers, and records administrators in colleges, universities, and other institutions of higher education. The group's 2016 annual conference is taking place Dec. 1-2 at the Newport News Marriott at City Center. For additional information, visit www.vacrao.org. View Photo

The annual luncheon to recognize members of The Lambuth M. and Alice A. Clarke Heritage Society was held on November 29 in the Pearce Hospitality Suite on campus. The Society is a special group of Virginia Wesleyan supporters who have chosen to include the College in their estate plans.  This was the first convening of the Heritage Society since it was renamed in honor of Alice Clarke and her late husband, Lambuth, who had a distinguished record of service as President of Virginia Wesleyan from 1966 to 1992. The Heritage Society was formed many years ago by Wesleyan friends and family with the Clarkes among the inaugural founders. During this year’s event, Society members Charles and Viola Kessler were recognized for their support. Charles, now retired, was a beloved religious studies professor at VWC. Since the Kessler’s were unable to attend the event, College Archivist and their longtime friend Dr. Stephen Mansfield, accepted a keepsake clock on their behalf.  VWC Director of Choral Music Bryson Mortensen led the Wesleyan Chorale in a series of holiday musical selections that provided a preview of “A Wesleyan Christmas” for luncheon attendees. Performances for “A Wesleyan Christmas” are scheduled for December 2 at 7:30 p.m. and December 3 at 4:00 p.m. in Hofheimer Theatre.
 

On November 21 Virginia Wesleyan College formalized a Guaranteed Admission Agreement with Thomas Nelson Community College (TNCC). The agreement joins VWC and TNCC in a collaborative effort to facilitate the transfer of students from associate degree programs to VWC programs for degree completion.  Admission to Virginia Wesleyan will be guaranteed for any TNCC student who meets the articulated criteria. Merit scholarships will be awarded to each Thomas Nelson student accepted to Virginia Wesleyan based on cumulative GPA of all college work attempted. In attendance at the signing ceremony were: VWC President Scott D. Miller, VWC Provost and Vice President for Academic Affairs Timothy O’Rourke, VWC Assistant Provost Deborah Hicks, VWC Associate Dean for Enrollment Beth Clarke, TNCC President  John T. Dever, TNCC Interim Vice President for Academic Affairs Charles B. Swaim, TNCC Interim Vice President for Student Affairs Kris Rarig and TNCC Dean of Communications, Humanities, and Social Sciences Patrick Tompkins.

On November 15, two of Virginia Wesleyan’s most devoted supporter, Susan and David Goode, were honored as Outstanding Philanthropists during a luncheon sponsored by the Hampton Roads chapter of the Association of Fundraising Professionals. VWC President Scott Miller and his wife, Annie; Senior Vice President Mort Gamble; Associate Vice President for Advancement Suzanne Savage; Board of Trustees Chair David Kaufman; Trustee Henry Watts H’07 and his wife Eleanor; and Dean of the Susan S. Goode School of Arts and Humanities Travis Malone attended the celebration, representing VWC. A number of other current and former trustees and special friends of the College were also in attendance. As part of the presentation, a special video was prepared as a tribute to the Goodes’ wonderful record of philanthropy for numerous organizations and causes in our region. Highlighted was their strong commitment to Virginia Wesleyan; Susan remains an active member of our College’s Board of Trustees.

Virginia Wesleyan College Dean Emeritus David Buckingham was presented the Legacy Award at the annual meeting of the Virginia Student Services Conference (VSSC) in Wintergreen, Virginia on November 17. VWC Director of Community Service Diane Hotaling presented him with the award. The Student Affairs Legacy Awards were established by the VSSC to recognize lifetime achievements in the field of student affairs. Buckingham, who was affectionately known to students as “Dean B” during his 33-year tenure at VWC, is currently serving as the interim Vice President for Enrollment Management and Student Affairs for the University of Maine at Presque Isle and the as the chief student affairs officer for the University of Maine at Fort Kent, following his retirement from VWC in 2015.

Professor of Theatre Sally Shedd has announced the student directors for this weekend's One Act Play Festival in Hofheimer Theatre. The festival opens at 7:30 p.m.on Friday, November 18 and continues at 7:30 p.m. on Saturday, November 19. Plays directed by Adrian Benn '17, Sarah Puchalla '18, Kaitlyn Upton '17, Michael McOsker '18 and Chrissie Megia '18 will be performed on Friday evening. Saturday night's perfomances will feature plays directed by Emily Vial '18, Mary Kurzenknabe '17, Nicholas Hipple '17 and Jamel Showell '17. The plays will feature the talents of 30 Virginia Wesleyan actors—all students and staff. The One Act Play Festival is a production of the Theatre Department's Directing class. Admission is free and reservations can be made at 757.455.3381, www.ShowTix4U.com, or theatretix@vwc.edu.

 


 

 

The faculty of the Management, Business, and Economics Department at Virginia Wesleyan College will welcome the newest members of Sigma Beta Delta, the international honorary society for business, management, and administration at an induction ceremony on November 17. The announcement was made by Elaine Dessouki, VWC Assistant Professor of Management, Business, and Economics. The students being inducted include: Ryan Blanton ’17, Eveline Bruce ’17, Rebecca Davis ’18, Barbi Gonzalez ’17, Nicholas Hipple ’17, Dawn Holmes-Schalow ’17, Tabitha Lowell ’17, Bryon Miller ’17 and Kelsi Robins ’18. These students join returning members Amanda Baxter ’17, Nicholas Kovach ’17, Tanner Martin ’17, Kateley Dare May ’17, Evan Merrill ’17 and Brandon Wheat ’17. Sigma Beta Delta is an organization that encourages personal and professional improvement and a life distinguished by honorable service to humankind.

You’ve heard of TED Talks. Now get ready for VWTalks. Students in Virginia Wesleyan’s Honors & Scholars Association have started this new program in which scholars will present on a topic of interest and then facilitate a discussion with the audience. The first event, a presentation by Darlene Flucker '18 on Modern Feminism and the Media, was held on October 26. The second event, titled It’s a Bee-autiful World! and discussion facilitated by Collette Vauthier ’17, takes place in Pearce Hospitality Suite on November 9 at 6 p.m. Vauthier is an Honors & Scholars student and has been involved with VWC’s beekeeping program. (Read more about endangered bees and beekeeping at VWC). The idea for VWTalks was student-generated and is being organized by Honors & Scholars Association President Zoe Traficante. “I came up with the idea after I watched the TED Talk about the Lollipop Moment,” says Traficante. “It really impacted everyone in the room and I wanted to try to bring something like that to VWC.” The Honors and Scholars Program at Virginia Wesleyan College encourages campus-wide scholarship and academic excellence.

Virginia Wesleyan’s Terry Lindvall, C.S. Lewis Endowed Chair in Communication and Christian Thought, is being honored by the Religious Communication Association (RCA) at the annual National Communication Association Conference in Philadelphia on November 9. Lindvall’s book God Mocks: A History of Religious Satire from the Hebrew Prophets to Stephen Colbert (NYU Press, 2015) has been selected as the book of the year by the RCA. God Mocks ventures into the muddy and dangerous realm of religious satire, chronicling its evolution from the biblical wit and humor of the Hebrew prophets through the Roman Era and the Middle Ages up to the present. Lindvall takes readers on a journey through the work of Chaucer, Cervantes, Jonathan Swift, and Mark Twain, and ends with the mediated entertainment of modern wags like Stephen Colbert.  The RCA is an academic society founded in 1973 for scholars, teachers, students, clergy, journalists, and others who share an interest in religious speech, rhetoric, media, and performance. Read more about Dr. Lindvall's recent publishing projects.

Steve Pinto has been named the Director for Enrollment of the newly established Batten Honors College at Virginia Wesleyan College, according to President Scott D. Miller. Before joining the staff at Virginia Wesleyan this fall, Pinto served several years as a college counselor at independent schools along the East Coast, including Sandy Spring Friends School in Sandy Spring, Maryland, Nansemond-Suffolk Academy in Suffolk, Virginia, the National Cathedral School in Washington, D.C., and the Westtown School outside of Philadelphia. Prior to being a college counselor, Pinto worked in college admissions for seven years at his alma mater, Dickinson College. While at Dickinson, he served as an Assistant Director of Admissions, the Coordinator of Multicultural Student Recruitment and the Coordinator of the Admissions Student Intern and Student Volunteer programs. He received his B.A. in Anthropology and Political Science from Dickinson College. Named for Trustee Emerita and dedicated friends of the institution Jane P. and Frank Batten, Sr., the Batten Honors College celebrates the unique and vibrant intellectual journeys of selected students. Benefiting from small-class, personalized instruction and vigorous faculty-student interaction, The Batten Honors College will serve the special academic aspirations of students. Twenty full-tuition academic scholarships will be provided each year to attract top scholars. Students will be selected through an extremely competitive process that will include a day-long competition at the College. When fully implemented, a total of 80 learners will be known as Batten Fellows.  They will add to the existing number of academically talented students in Wesleyan’s Honors and Scholars program to ensure a critical mass of top national scholars on the campus. “The Batten Honors College provides a transformative experience for high-achieving students,” says President Miller. “The program equips them with the knowledge, skills, and attitudes of an ethical, thoughtful, and influential global citizen who understands the complexity of contemporary society, our interdependence with the natural world, and the interrelatedness of society, culture, economics, and the environment.”

“Virginia Wesleyan College is very fortunate to have a person with Steve's unique background on board to lead the recruitment effort for The Batten Honors College,” says VWC Vice President for Enrollment Services David Waggoner. “His role in the admission office at Dickinson College provides him with an understanding of college recruitment, and his years of success in college counseling at some of the most prestigious private academies in the area demonstrate he appreciates the needs of young people who are searching for the right college at which to earn their degree.” â€‹Originally from Connecticut, Pinto resides in Norfolk.

 

Virginia Wesleyan faculty and staff do incredible work inside and out of the classroom. Day One, an electronic newsletter published at the start of each month, celebrates these professional development successes and keeps the VWC community abreast of one other’s scholarly work. The November issue of Day One features grants, presentations, meetings and panels by faculty and staff members as well as new publications by professors Leslie Caughell, Kathy Merlock Jackson, Dan MargoliesKellie Holzer, amd Terry Lindvall. View the November Day One issue and check out archived editions at the webpage for VWC's Center for Innovative Teaching and Engaged Learning (INTEL). For more information or to make a submission, contact Associate Dean for INTEL Denise Wilkinson at dwilkinson@vwc.edu or 757.455.3249.

The most recent news from Virginia Wesleyan’s Office of Community service includes, as always, many upcoming volunteer opportunities for students—from Marlins Go Green Trail Clean Up on Nov. 5 to a Habitat for Humanity Work Day on Nov. 19—and, of course, Election Day Shuttles and Walking Teams to the polls at nearby Ebenezer Baptist Church. The November Community Service newsletter features a number of green-themed announcements such as helpful information about the benefits of terracycling and composting on campus. The newsletter also recognizes many of the students who donated their time through the Office of Community Service for local events and organizations such as the Marlin-to-Marlin Lacrosse Clinic, Neighborhood Tutoring, Fin with Paws, Chesapeake Bay Academy Fall Festival and Stop Hunger Now. The tradition of service continues at VWC! Read the complete newsletter here.

As part of Virginia Wesleyan College's Readings with Wesleyan series, a panel discussion on the presidential election and the economy will take place Tuesday, November 1 from 6-7:30 p.m. at Good Samaritan Church (848 Baker Road, Virginia Beach). The discussion will be moderated by VWC Provost and Vice President for Academic Affairs Timothy O'Rourke and panelists will include VWC business professors Paul Ewell, Dave Garraty and George Jackson. Readings with Wesleyan is a unique educational program that brings free college-level teaching to the College's surrounding Bayside community. The event is sponsored by the VWC Center for Innovative Teaching and Engaged Learning. For more information, contact Denise Wilkinson, Associate Dean of Innovative Teaching and Engaged Learning, at dwilkinson@vwc.edu or 757.455.3249.

Launched in 2012, Virginia Wesleyan’s Global Scholars Program aims to increase the number of semester abroad experiences for students. Made possible by a gift from an anonymous donor, the award program covers costs associated with travel, room, board, tuition and other fees for approximately 15 study abroad experiences each year. Students from all majors are chosen through a competitive application and interview process. The Lighthouse Center for Exploration and Discovery recently announced the Spring 2017 Global Scholars. These are an exceptional group of students who are preparing to broaden their horizons and enhance their understanding of the global world. The students and their destinations are as follows: Ashley Bologna (Universidad de Congreso, Argentina), Kenneth Downing (Goethe Institut, Germany), Alexandra Ghazaleh (James Cook University, Australia), Edwin Kinsey (University of Otago, New Zealand), Manijha Mack (Universidad de la Habana, Cuba), Ashley Peterson (Universidad de Salamanca, Spain), Emilee Pierson (Universidad de Belgrano, Argentina), Kathleen Roberts (Charles University,  Czech Republic), Sheril Steinberg (Pontificia Universidad Catolica de Valparaiso, Chile), and Alexis Vassiliadis (Florence University of the Arts, Italy).

At the College’s fall Board of Trustees meeting on Oct. 19, Steve Sproles from Derck & Edson presented the Board with an overview of the Campus Master Plan, which is expected to be completed by February 2017. The final product will include a space-utilization study, parking study, facilities condition assessment plan, and a Campus Master Plan for the next 10 years. Progress reports given at the Board meeting included strategies and outlook for enrollment growth, the addition of swimming and women’s golf to the College’s NCAA Division III lineup, construction of the Greer Environmental Sciences Center and the YMCA Partnership Building, plans for the Susan S. Goode Fine and Performing Arts Center and more. President Scott Miller and Provost and Vice President Timothy O’Rourke also announced the Virginia Foundation for Independent Colleges’ 2016 H. Hiter Harris, Jr. Excellence in Instructional Technology Award recipient, Dr. Thomas Brown, VWC Associate Professor of Sociology and Criminal Justice. Brown will be recognized at a luncheon in Richmond in November. Finally, Dr. Steven Emmanuel, Professor of Philosophy, and Dr. John Wang, Professor of Computer Science, and a group of studentds gave a special presentation about their trip to China this summer to help preserve religious heritage sites as part of the ASIANetwork Freeman Student-Faculty Fellows Program. The winter meeting of the Board of Trustees is scheduled for February.

A team of four VWC sociology/criminal justice majors—Josh Cherry '17, Sierra Rothenberger (Garnett) '17, Allison Heitsman '18, and William “Jake” Virgili '17—traveled to Denver, Colorado Oct. 5-9), where they won "Executive Honorable Mention" in the Client Problem Solving Competition (CPSC) held at the Association for Applied and Clinical Sociology (AACS) annual conference. Professors Scott Liverman and Kathy Stolley co-advised the team. Their client for this year’s competition was the ECDC African Community Center (ACC). The client’s mission is to “help refugees rebuild safe, sustainable lives in Denver through supportive networks of people, services and community activities.” Teams from around the country compete for only two awards at the conference: First Place (based on a static rubric) and Executive Honorable Mention. The Executive Honorable Mention award is selected by the client as having developed and presented the best solution, customized to the organization's problem and needs.

The Virginia Wesleyan Theatre Department will open its production of Noel Coward's Blithe Spirit tonight, Oct. 5, at 7:30 p.m. Performances are scheduled for October 5-8 at 7:30 p.m. and October 8-9 at 2 p.m. in Virginia Wesleyan’s Hofheimer Theatre. Dean of the Susan S. Goode School of Arts and Humanities and Professor of Theatre Travis Malone is directing the play and shares a synopsis: “In Noel Coward’s sharp-witted farce of love, manners, marriage, and ghosts, novelist Charles Condomine and wife plan a séance to expose a famous medium as a fraud, but Charles gets more than he bargained for when his first wife—whom only he can see—comes back to haunt him and to insure that the two of them will spend eternity together.” Complimentary admission is available for VWC students, faculty, and staff. For all others admission is $15 for adults and $10 for students. Reservations are recommended but not required. To make a reservation, email theatretix@vwc.edu or call 757.455.3381. For more information, visit the webpage for The Arts at Virginia Wesleyan.

 

Virginia Wesleyan employees began their day with an apple and a smile Oct. 4 as part of CORE Apple Day, a wellness initiative organized by the Campus CORE Wellness Committee. While the scientific merit of the old saying about an apple a day might be up for debate, its symbolism with regards to the importance of a healthy lifestyle shouldn’t be. The health and overall well-being of Virginia Wesleyan employees is a top priority of the institution and a critical component in the success of its mission. In addition to Virginia Wesleyan’s comprehensive employee benefits program, the College offers a variety of opportunities and tools for faculty and staff to explore healthy lifestyle options and maintain or improve their general health and wellness. The CORE Wellness Committee organizes Towne Hall information sessions, “beBetter” Challenges, Lunch & Learn events, Weight and Stress Management groups, voluntary Biometric Screenings, and fun annual events like Recess, Pumpkin Carving, Bike to Work Day and more. For more information about employment at VWC or to view available positions, visit the Human Resources webpage.

With sadness, Virginia Wesleyan College has learned of the passing of Dennie Allen, VWC Class of 1970, on September 1, at the age of 70. College Archivist Steve Mansfield comments that Allen’s death “evokes notice of a sad VWC milestone. By virtue of his place in the alphabet, Dennie received Virginia Wesleyan's first diploma at our first commencement. His death on September 1 came just a week before our first Founders Day.” Allen was born on May 23, 1946, in Lexington, Virginia. His obituary states that “the day he graduated was the happiest of his life,” and that he “loved to tell people that he was the very first person to receive a diploma from the college.” After retiring from the State of Virginia as a parole officer, Allen spent the rest of his life as a full-time volunteer at Chippenham Hospital. His obituary notes that he was to be laid to rest with his parents in Richmond’s Forest Lawn Cemetery and that memorial contributions may be made to Virginia Wesleyan.

Friday, September 30 is Marlin Spirit Day! As Virginia Wesleyan gears up for Homecoming and Family Weekend October 7-9, the VWC community is encouraged to get in the Marlin spirit by sporting their Marlin gear and decorating their workspaces, rooms, cars, even their pets and babies, in all things VWC. Wesleyan alumni, students, faculty, staff and friends are invited to don VWC hats, shirts, mugs, scarves, blankets, diplomas, and other Marlin paraphernalia all day Friday, September 30. When flaunting your favorite VWC gear, be sure to snap a photo and share it on social media with the hashtag #marlinspiritday. You can also send your photos directly to the Office of Marketing and Communications at communications@vwc.edu. Need some Marlin gear? Be sure to visit Scribner Bookstore located in the Jane P. Batten Student Center.

Every day, Virginia Wesleyan faculty and staff do incredible work inside and out of the classroom. Day One, an electronic newsletter published at the start of each month, celebrates these professional development successes and keeps the VWC community abreast of one other’s scholarly work. View the October 2016 issue and check out archived editions at the webpage for VWC's Center for Innovative Teaching and Engaged Learning (INTEL). For more information or to make a submission, contact Associate Dean of INTEL Denise Wilkinson at dwilkinson@vwc.edu or 757.455.3249.

Head Virginia Wesleyan Women’s Basketball Coach Stephany Dunmyer and the VWC Women’s Basketball Team, along with the members of the Chi Beta Psi fraternity, will partner with LifeNet Health to promote the organization’s mission and honor the memory of Nancy Kelly ‘15. Last spring, Nancy, a well-respected member of our Virginia Wesleyan community, lost her life in a tragic car accident. At the time, she was continuing her education at Eastern Virginia Medical School. Prior to the accident, Nancy had told her family that she wanted to donate her organs and tissues, and with that decision she has saved the lives of others by choosing to be an organ, eye, and tissue donor. While at Virginia Wesleyan, Nancy was an outstanding student, a talented athlete, and most importantly, an incredible person who positively impacted so many areas of the VWC campus and surrounding community with her leadership and kindness. LifeNet Health is a nonprofit, global leader in regenerative medicine and the world’s largest provider of allograft bio-implants and organs for transplantation. Their mission is “Saving lives. Restoring health. Giving hope.” LifeNet Health will sponsor a display on the VWC campus during Homecoming and Family weekend on October 8 and at the VWC Women’s Basketball Game in the Jane P. Batten Student Center on January 14 at 2 p.m., during which Nancy’s #14 jersey will be retired.

On Sept. 21, President Scott D. Miller and Provost Timothy O’Rourke celebrated the “incredible achievements” of 77 Virginia Wesleyan students who earned a 4.0 grade point average for the spring 2016 semester. A special President’s List reception was held in the Shafer Room inside Boyd Dining Center, where students received a certificate in honor of their achievement. “Your stellar academic performance demonstrates just how seriously you approach your studies and the effort you have applied to your college experience,” said Dr. Miller. “These positive habits will serve you well in your future studies and in your future careers.” Established by President Miller, the President’s List recognizes students who earn a grade point average of 4.0 during a given semester. To qualify for this honor, students must have full-time status and have taken nine semester hours of traditionally graded courses with no failing grades or incompletes. These individuals demonstrate a remarkable level of dedication to their academic pursuits and should be proud of this accomplishment. View the most recent President’s List and a photo gallery from the event.

Tyrell Thomas, a junior point guard for the Virginia Wesleyan College Men’s Basketball Team, toured Spain and played ball August 8-16 through Global Sports Academy, an organization that arranges domestic and international playing opportunities for athletes. Thomas was a member of a select team of college basketball players spanning Division I, II, and III that traveled Spain playing four basketball games in total. The team spent time in Barcelona, Valencia, and Madrid during their Spanish tour. "It was a great experience and a good opportunity to get a feel for a different culture," Thomas said. "Seeing where basketball can take you was a big take-away for me. I was able to travel to another country because of basketball, and that in itself is pretty amazing to me.” Since 1991, Global Sports Academy has arranged tours for college and youth teams from the United States and beyond promoting international competition and goodwill. Athletes learn valuable lessons as they are exposed to different cultures, languages, and environments, and perform community service while abroad. Thomas and the Marlins return to action Nov. 4 with an exhibition at Old Dominion University (7 p.m.). View photos from Thomas’s travels and the men's full 2016-17 schedule. Article originally posted at vwcathletics.com.

The fall semester took flight Sept. 9 for 11 Virginia Wesleyan education students who participated in an “Outdoor STEM Laboratory” as part of the 2016 Naval Air Station Oceana Air Show. The unprecedented experience, coordinated through a partnership with NAS Oceana and Virginia Beach City Public Schools, gave more than 6,500 Virginia Beach fifth graders full immersion in Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) displays and presented Virginia Wesleyan students and other community groups with the perfect opportunity for hands-on instruction. Led by Assistant Professor of Education Bill McConnell, VWC students in the courses "Curriculum and Instruction PreK-6" and "Classroom Management and Teaching Strategies" developed and implemented an inquiry-based curriculum that allowed the elementary-level students to investigate chemical reactions, circuitry, and robotics, and to participate in engineering design challenges. The valuable exercise comes at a time when contemporary education reform efforts are providing a steady increase in focus on STEM education at the elementary level, says McConnell: “It is extremely important that preservice elementary teachers understand research-based STEM education practices and become more confident in employing them. The Outdoor STEM Laboratory allowed our students to engage in authentic teaching practices to develop, implement, reflect on, and modify their curriculum and instruction several times throughout the day.” A former Chesapeake Public Schools elementary teacher, McConnell focuses his research on integrative STEM education in elementary contexts as well as the teaching and learning of environmental science. View photos from the event on the Virginia Wesleyan Flickr page: flic.kr/s/aHskGPrrk3

With great sadness, Virginia Wesleyan College shares the passing of former Virginia Wesleyan College Trustee James “Jimmy” W. Griffiths on September 7, 2016, at the age of 88. He resided in Ponce Inlet, Florida, at the time of his passing, having moved with his wife, Jackie Troutman Griffiths, from Norfolk to Florida. Born in Merion, Pennsylvania, Griffiths attended Radnor High School in Wayne and earned a Bachelor of Science degree from the University of Delaware. He worked for 46 years for the family industrial hardware business of Watters and Martin, Inc., of Norfolk, and retired as President in 2001. He served as a member of the Board of Trustees of Virginia Wesleyan College, where he had studied art, and served as Chairman of the Norfolk Electoral Board for eight years. He holds a family charter membership in the Norfolk Yacht and Country Club, and formerly served as a Board Member of the Virginia Symphony. He was a member of the Daytona Beach Drive-In Christian Church. His greatest interests included trains and lighthouses, as well as boating, golf, and his special talent for creating watercolors with a style reminiscent of the work of friends Jamie and Andrew Wyeth. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in Griffiths' name to the Daytona Beach Drive-In Christian Church, P.O. Box 7175, Daytona Beach, FL 32116-7175. Condolences may be shared at lohmanfuneralhomes.com

An opening reception was held Sept. 8 for the Neil Britton Art Gallery's first exhibit of the fall semester. “A Feast of Languages” features works by local artists active in Norfolk’s NEON Arts District and the ViBe Creative District in Virginia Beach. According to John Rudel, Virginia Wesleyan’s Batten Associate Professor of Art and Coordinator of Art Exhibitions, these talented artists have “prepared a great ‘feast’ of artistic riches, created on site, reminding us of the richness which surrounds the campus in its prime location on the border of these creative communities.” The exhibition borrows its title from Shakespeare’s Love’s Labour’s Lost, which explores the power and limitation of language. “A Feast of Languages” will be on display through December 9. To learn more about this exhibit and the Neil Britton Art Gallery, visit the webpage for The Arts at Virginia Wesleyan College.

Virginia Wesleyan College will celebrate its first-ever Founders Day on Thursday, September 8, commemorating the founding of the College and recognizing important individuals in VWC history. In conjunction with this special day, Hofheimer Library will launch a VWC Digital Collections site that provides online access to materials from the College Archives and other special library collections. The current content focuses on Founders Day, with both a Founders Day collection and a Founders Day exhibit. The site will grow to include a yearbook collection, a College newspaper collection and more as additional materials are digitized and cataloged. The site was implemented by Technical Services Librarian Sophie Rondeau, who learned new technologies and metadata schema to produce high-quality digital materials in a user-friendly interface. College Archivist Dr. Stephen Mansfield curated the content, provided guidance on which items would help tell the story of Founders Day and wrote much of the site’s narrative. “The Founders Day collection and exhibit stand as a proof of concept for what will be a growing digital archive of materials about the College and community,” VWC President Scott D. Miller wrote in a Nota Bene on Wednesday. The Virginia Wesleyan College community will celebrate Founders Day on Sept. 8 at 11 a.m. in the Jane P. Batten Student Center. The event will be webcast at https://boxcast.tv/view/founders-day-convocation-434109.

Virginia Wesleyan College will celebrate its first-ever Founders Day on Thursday, September 8. A Founders Day Convocation will take place at 11 a.m. in the Convocation Center inside the Jane P. Batten Student Center. The community is invited to watch live as the event is webcast at: https://boxcast.tv/view/founders-day-convocation-434109. Trustee Emeritus George Birdsong will serve as keynote speaker. Birdsong is CEO and General Counsel for the Birdsong Corporation, the largest peanut sheller in the U.S., based in Suffolk, Virginia. He joined the Virginia Wesleyan College Board of Trustees in 1989 and served as Board Chair from 2007-2010. He and his wife, Sue, trace their connections with the College back to the groundbreaking for Bray Village (Village I) on July 18, 1965. During the event, the College will present honorary doctoral degrees to Dr. Stephen S. Mansfield, College Archivist and former Dean of the College, and Gary D. Bonnewell ’79, the first VWC graduate to serve as Chair of the Board of Trustees. Bonnewell will also be recognized with the dedication of a classroom in the Floyd E. Kellam, Jr. Social Science Lab in the Village II complex. The 2016 Alumni Awards recipients will also be celebrated as part of the festivities. Honorees include Lindsey E. Reynolds ’98 (Distinguished Alumna Award), Amy Mallett Rickard ’98 (Alumni Service Award) and Rodney D. Young Jr. ’07 (Graduate of the Last Decade Award). Virginia Wesleyan College was chartered in 1961 and first opened its doors to students on September 14, 1966. According to Lori McCarel, Executive Director of Annual Giving and Alumni Relations, the idea for a Founders Day originated last year when Dr. Scott D. Miller, President of Virginia Wesleyan, appointed a committee of faculty, staff and alumni to “celebrate our past and formulate plans that would create an annual tradition.” More

With school cafeterias closed for the summer, Sodexo's Feeding Our Future program is preparing and serving approximately 400,000 lunches for children across America. Many of those lunches are being served right here in Virginia, including at the Virginia Beach/Rosemont location of the Boys & Girls Club of Southeast Virginia. Meals for the location's summer program are the result of a $20,000 donation to the Foodbank of Southeastern Virginia on behalf of Virginia Wesleyan's Sodexo team. The amount covers lunch and a snack for approximately 260 local children, five days per week, all summer long. On Aug. 18, the local Boys & Girls Club location will welcome a special guest as First Lady of the Commonwealth Dorothy McAuliffe, an advocate for the elimination of childhood hunger, speaks to the importance of food security and nutrition. Joining the First Lady will be Lorna C. Donatone, Sodexo Region Chair for North America and CEO of Schools Worldwide, and Ruth Jones Nichols, CEO of the Foodbank of Southeastern Virginia. On hand from VWC will be the College's General Manager for Sodexo Tim Lockett and Director of Community Service Diane Hotaling. Virginia Wesleyan's Sodexo team also generously donates most of the ingredients for the Empty Bowls Dinner, a charity event held at the College each year that aims to alleviate hunger in the Hampton Roads community. Learn about Sodexo Stop Hunger Foundation at HelpStopHunger.org.

President Scott D. Miller will deliver the annual State of the College Address at Virginia Wesleyan on Tuesday, August 23 at 12:15 p.m. in the Convocation Center of the Jane P. Batten Student Center. Each year, faculty, staff and invited guests join the president as he provides an update on institutional progress and goals, new initiatives and plans for continual improvement for the College. This will be President Miller’s second State of the College Address since he took over the presidency in July 2015. This year, the address will be available online via a live webcast. View the webcast here beginning at approximately 12:15 p.m. on August 23: https://goo.gl/wosQUc

Virginia Wesleyan College President Scott D. Miller has been named to the Board of Directors of Virginia Beach Vision, an organization led by area business and civic leaders who are dedicated to helping to shape the future of Virginia Beach and the Coastal Virginia/Hampton Roads community. Virginia Beach Vision was founded in 1993 by area leaders who saw the need for a non-partisan, issue-oriented group committed to advancing the region’s future development, prosperity and quality of life. Since then, board membership has grown to approximately 120 CEO- and senior-level business, civic and education leaders with a significant business presence in Virginia Beach. The organization is modeled after similar groups across the country in cities such as Baltimore, Cleveland and Nashville, who are similarly dedicated to enhancing the economic vitality and quality of life of their localities. Locally, the Greater Norfolk Corporation, the Chesapeake Alliance, and the Portsmouth Partnership are all of similar structure and purpose. Working together with regional partners, these organizations have built an informal alliance to pursue regional initiatives of mutual benefit to their respective communities. Key issue areas where Virginia Beach Vision is currently engaged include the five-year update to the City’s Comprehensive Plan; regional transportation planning and project prioritization; facilitation of infrastructure necessary to support economic diversification; financing opportunities to support development of key projects such as an entertainment arena; extension of the light rail system; public art and cultural development; supportive new business development services; and passenger rail connections to Richmond, D.C. and beyond. Once the board has researched and analyzed an initiative or issue, principally through the use of issue specific task forces, it adopts a position and engages decision makers at the local, state or federal level to facilitate implementation. Dr. Miller will serve on the Business Development and Resort Development task forces. Dr. Miller is in his second year as President of Virginia Wesleyan College. He is a former President of Bethany College (2007-15), Wesley College (1997-2007), and Lincoln Memorial University (1991-97). PHOTO: President Miller (right) met July 21 with Martha McClees (left), Executive Director of Virginia Beach Vision, and Donald Crigger (middle), Executive Vice President of CBRE, to discuss Virginia Beach Vision and the Virginia Beach Light Rail initiative.

One of the great assets of Virginia Wesleyan College is its beautiful, 300-acre campus. The College’s commitment to a quality living and learning environment is finding direction in the campus master plan process, now underway, which coincides with Virginia Wesleyan’s Pathway to Prominence strategic plan and capital campaign, extending into the year 2020. In the meantime, some of VWC’s pedestrian pathways and other sites are in need of immediate care. Through a gift from a generous donor, the College is preparing to undertake approximately $600,000 in improvements to its concrete sidewalks and steps across campus. The work, being done by Hourigan Construction, will begin the week of July 25 and continue for several weeks. The project will include power washing of Blocker Hall, Hofheimer Library, Boyd Dining Center, Monumental Chapel and Frank E. Brown Bell Tower, removing accumulated dirt and debris that has dulled the appearance of these facilities over time. “This is a good reminder of the significant difference private giving can make in the life of our institution,” said VWC President Scott D. Miller. “We thank the donor for this important contribution as we continue to enhance the campus environment for the coming academic year and beyond.”

The community leadership initiative Reinvent Hampton Roads held a briefing and discussion session at Virginia Wesleyan College June 23 focused on an Industry Cluster Analysis currently underway for the region. The study—sponsored by the Hampton Roads Community Foundation and conducted by The Center for Regional Analysis at George Mason University in conjunction with Old Dominion University’s Regional Institute—provides critical analysis designed to pinpoint specific growth targets and needs for Hampton Roads’ existing industry clusters within a five-year period. The briefing reviewed accomplishments to date, highlighted requirements for regional economic growth and presented a draft action plan. The June 23 meeting follows two previous sessions held in March and May. Virginia Wesleyan College President Scott D. Miller welcomed attendees to campus: "Much of the focus of our marketing, messaging, and branding here at Virginia Wesleyan College is inspired by the amazing array of quality-of-life amenities, attractions, and value-added features available throughout the Hampton Roads/Coastal Virginia area,” said President Miller. “As our enrollment strategy here becomes increasingly national in focus, we have much to share with prospective students and their families, from around the country, about this attractive, vibrant region that offers much to enjoy, and much to engage with. I can think of no other region in the country that offers such a wealth and diversity of opportunities for employment and enjoyment." Learn more at reinventhr.org.

Virginia Wesleyan College Faculty Athletic Representative (FAR) Larry Hultgren has been selected as a 2016 NCAA Division III FAR Fellow. The professor of philosophy and director of the College's PORTfolio Program is one of only 30 fellows selected to participate in the FAR Fellows Institute Oct. 14-16 at the NCAA national office in Indianapolis. The three-day professional development program will provide a thorough examination of best practices and issues surrounding the role and responsibility of the FAR, help develop the leadership skills necessary to carry out their responsibilities on campus and in their conference, and strengthen the network of FARs needed to serve on conference, divisional and association-wide committees. A FAR's primary role is to ensure that an institution maintains appropriate balance between academics and intercollegiate athletics. Hultgren, along with Associate Professor English Susan Larkin, has been designated as a FAR by Virginia Wesleyan to serve as a liaison between the institution and the Athletics Department, and also as a representative of the College in ODAC and NCAA affairs. Hultgren is Virginia Wesleyan’s longest-standing faculty member; the upcoming academic year will mark his 47th year of teaching at the College.

At its spring meeting on May 11, the Virginia Wesleyan College Board of Trustees recognized two outgoing and one former trustee as Trustees Emeriti. They are outgoing trustees Elizabeth Middleton ’91 and John Trinder and former trustee Joan Brock. Middleton, who graduated from VWC with a bachelor’s degree in art, joined the Board of Trustees in 2010. She served as past chair of the College’s President’s Advisory Council and also as past president of Women of Wesleyan. Her husband, George, served on the Board for many years prior to his death in 2009. Trinder has had a significant impact on the College's athletics programs. Through his leadership and support, the Trinder Center and Foster Field opened in 1998 to provide a home for the men's and women's lacrosse and men's and women's soccer teams. Brock served on the President’s Advisory Council from 1996-1999, the Board of Trustees from 1999-2006, and was Chair of the Board of Trustees from 2001-2004. Support of Virginia Wesleyan runs deep for her family. Her uncle, Douglas McIntyre, served as the College’s first registrar and was a member of the faculty for 25 years, and her father, Kenneth R. Perry, served on the Board of Trustees from 1991 until his death in 2004. The spring meeting was the last with Gary Bonnewell '79 as the Chair of the Board. He is the first VWC alumnus to serve as Board Chair. When the Board reconvenes in the fall, the College will welcome trustee David Kaufman as Chair.

The Chesapeake Bay Trust has awarded a $5,000 grant to Virginia Wesleyan College to help cover costs associated with an inquiry-based biology course that will be offered this summer to rising seniors from the Science and Medicine Academy at Deep Creek High School in Chesapeake. Titled "Diversity of Life,” the course will take place on campus July 25-August 5 and will feature a comprehensive survey of the life of Earth—from bacteria and unicellular algae through fungi, plants and animals. It is also scheduled to include hands-on sessions with the College’s scanning electron microscope, a trip to the Virginia Zoological Park, and excursions aboard the Ocean Explorer, Virginia Wesleyan’s research vessel owned in partnership with the Virginia Aquarium & Marine Science Center. The course will be co-taught by VWC Professor of Biology Vic Townsend, Associate Professor of Biology Deirdre Gonsalves-Jackson, and Batten Associate Professor of Education Hilve Firek. “This generous funding enables us to attract bright students, regardless of their financial situations,” says Firek, adding that the lessons will extend beyond the course period. “We will continue working with students after they return to school to create awareness of issues pertaining to the Chesapeake Bay and its watershed areas.” The Chesapeake Bay Trust is a nonprofit grant-making organization dedicated to improving the Chesapeake Bay and its rivers through environmental education, community outreach, and local watershed restoration. Since its inception in 1985, the Trust has awarded $70 million in grants and engaged hundreds of thousands of citizen stewards in projects that have a measurable impact on the Chesapeake Bay and its tributaries. More

The following statement was released on behalf of Virginia Wesleyan College on May 26, 2016: After a six-day trial and 3½ hours of deliberation, a seven woman Norfolk jury today unanimously returned a verdict for Virginia Wesleyan College in the case of Jane Doe v. Virginia Wesleyan College (case number CL14-6942). In so doing, the jury dismissed the plaintiff’s claims and the plaintiff’s request for $10 million. The jury correctly rejected Ms. Doe’s claim that Virginia Wesleyan College failed to take reasonable and adequate steps for the safety of its students. The College is pleased with the jury’s affirmation of its efforts to provide a safe and secure learning environment for all of its students.