2026 Inductees

Michael R. Rawls '91

Michael R. Rawls '91 has been a steadfast supporter of Marlin Athletics whose leadership and philanthropic commitment have strengthened Virginia Wesleyan's athletic programs and enhanced the student-athlete experience. A former Marlin student-athlete and devoted alumnus, Rawls continues to advance the mission of his alma mater through his service as a member of the Board of Trustees since 2021 and as Chair of the Board's Audit Committee.

A Virginia Beach native, Rawls graduated from Virginia Wesleyan in 1991 with a Bachelor of Arts in Business Management while competing as a member of the Marlins men's basketball and golf teams. His experience as a Marlin student-athlete continues to shape his support of the University, particularly his commitment to ensuring that today's student-athletes benefit from strong programs, competitive opportunities, and a vibrant campus environment.

In recognition of the Rawls family's commitment to campus life and Marlin Athletics, the Mike and Lisa Rawls Foyer in the Jane P. Batten Student Center was named in their honor. Serving as the primary entrance to TowneBank Arena, the prominent space celebrates Virginia Wesleyan's proud athletic tradition, displaying the University's national and conference championship trophies along with permanent recognition of All-American honorees and Athletic Hall of Fame inductees. Associating the Rawls name with this space reflects Mike and Lisa's enduring investment in Marlin Athletics and their pride in the accomplishments of VWU's student-athletes. Rawls has also made a lead gift supporting the renovation of the University's weight training area, helping ensure that all Marlins, especially student-athletes, benefit from modern strength and conditioning resources that support wellness, performance, and competitive success.

Rawls recently retired following more than three decades of leadership in the mortgage and financial services industry. He most recently served as Chief Executive Officer of Xome, a subsidiary of Mr. Cooper Group, the nation's largest non-bank mortgage company.

In addition to his service as a trustee, Rawls was honored during Virginia Wesleyan's 2023 Founders Day celebration with the Distinguished Alumnus Award. He and his wife, Lisa, reside in Flower Mound, Texas, and are the proud parents of three adult children and one grandson.

Jessica Goldyn '21, Softball (2018-2021)

Jessica Goldyn is one of the most decorated softball players in program history, earning national recognition for her standout performance during the 2021 season. She was named an NFCA First-Team All-American and the Schutt Sports/NFCA National Player of the Year, while also being recognized as the Diamond Sports/NFCA Division III Catcher of the Year, a New Balance/NFCA Golden Shoe honoree, and the NCAA Tournament Most Outstanding Player. Goldyn's excellence extended beyond the national stage, as she was named ODAC Player of the Year in 2021 and earned First Team All-Conference honors in both 2019 and 2021. She also received All-Region recognition twice, earning Second Team honors in 2019 and First Team honors in 2021. At the state level, she was a two-time First Team All-State selection in 2020 and 2021 and was named All-State Player of the Year in 2021, further cementing her legacy as one of the top players in the country.

Brittaney Brown Kovacs '21, Softball (2007-2010)

Brittaney Brown Kovacs established herself as a dominant presence in the circle, earning First Team All-Region honors in 2010 and being named ODAC Pitcher of the Year twice in 2008 and 2010. A three-time All-ODAC selection, she garnered First Team honors in 2008 and 2010 and Second Team honors in 2009, while also being named to the ODAC All-Tournament Team twice. Her 2010 season was particularly impressive, posting a 1.02 ERA that ranks among the program's best single-season marks. Over the course of her career, Brown Kovacs recorded a 1.42 ERA across 612.1 innings pitched, ranking fifth all-time, along with a 69–27 record that places her among the program's top pitchers. She ranks second in program history in career strikeouts with 581, third in appearances with 105, and fourth in career saves with five, and also holds one of the top single-game strikeout performances with 16, highlighting her sustained excellence and impact throughout her career.

Khory Moore '17, Men's Basketball (2013-2017)

Khory Moore built a legacy defined by elite scoring and all-around impact, finishing his career with 2,028 points, the second-highest total the program has seen, and setting a single-season record with 633 points in 2016–17. He also established himself as a threat from beyond the arc and on defense, leading the program in career three-pointers with 305 and steals with 191. His performance earned him national recognition, including NABC All-Region Second Team honors in 2014–15 and 2015–16, along with D3hoops.com All-Region First Team in 2014–15 and Second Team in 2015–16. A consistent standout in conference play, Moore was a four-time First Team All-ODAC selection from 2014–2017, a three-time All-State honoree, and ranked second in the ODAC for single-season three-pointers made. He was also a key contributor to the 2014–15 team that advanced to the NCAA Final Four, underscoring his role in one of the program's most successful seasons.

Nick Pappas '14, Men's Lacrosse (2011-2014)

Nick Pappas distinguished himself as a consistent offensive force and playmaker, earning Honorable Mention All-American honors in both 2013 and 2014 while also securing All-Region recognition in 2014. A two-time First Team All-State and First Team All-ODAC selection, he was a key contributor throughout his career, combining scoring ability with strong vision on the field. Pappas ranks among the program's top performers with 131 career goals, placing him fourth all-time, along with 63 assists, eighth in program history, and 191 total points, which ranks fifth. His well-rounded production and repeated recognition at the conference, state, and national levels highlight the impact he made during his time on the field.

2021 NCAA National Championship Softball Team

Marlins Softball continued its dynasty with its third title in the four completed seasons (2017, 2018, 2021). The championship run capped extraordinary individual and team achievements. Hanna Hull concluded her career as the NCAA's all-time leader in pitching wins with 132. Jessica Goldyn set the NCAA single-season stolen base record with 73 (on 75 attempts), while Madison Glaubke established the NCAA career games played record with 221 appearances. Head Coach Brandon Elliott finished the season with a career record of 507-116-1 and a winning percentage of .813.