Forward 2023

FORWARD

They Could Not be More Different Or More Alike

Two students from disparate backgrounds shine with similar brightness at D&E.

Letter from the pResident

Moving forward with momentum & determination

D&E Alumni and Friends

Greetings from the beautiful campus of Davis & Elkins College. We are proud to share this edition of Forward with you as a snapshot of some of the activity that has occurred on our campus.

As you read these pages you will notice a consistent theme—namely, forward motion is evident at Davis & Elkins College. Inherent in this motion is a sense of purpose, a sense of momentum, and a sense of determination.

It is true that the global pandemic thwarted momentum and changed our world. And make no mistake—it also changed higher education forever. Many colleges like D&E in size, operation, and mission have shuttered their doors, altered their missions, or are adrift in an ocean of uncertainty.

Unlike some other institutions, Davis & Elkins College is experiencing a swell of positivity in the aftermath of the pandemic. Many colleges like D&E in size, operation, and mission have shuttered their doors or altered their missions or are now adrift in an ocean of uncertainty. We are moving forward because of many factors including irrepressible passion, wise counsel and prudent planning, generous donors, agile leadership, and an unwavering commitment to a highquality and high-impact educational experience.

The pages of this magazine demonstrate commitment and achievement in academics, athletics, campus community, and stature in a college arena forced to adapt and, in many cases, reinvent higher education. Emerging from the pandemic with purpose and passion, we press forward to ensure the transformational education that is our hallmark remains available to new generations of D&E Senators.

With warmest wishes,

Chris A. Wood President

FORWARD

EDITOR

Stacy

Schulman-Kopp

WRITERS

Ryann Moore, Wendy Morgan, Cathy Nosel, Stacy Schulman-Kopp, Patrick Snively, Rosemary M. Thomas

Forward

PHOTOGRAPHERS

Lonnie Martin, Ryann Moore, Wendy Morgan, Maureen Pasley, Hannah Phillips, Hope Rogers, Stacy Schulman-Kopp, Sam Santelli, Steve Santelli

by the Office of Communications & Marketing. To subscribe or to submit your news, please send an email to kopps@dewv.edu or write Stacy Schulman-Kopp, 100 Campus Drive, Elkins, WV 26241.

Chair Mark S. Barber ’75

Vice-Chair David Cutlip ’77

Secretary Reginald Owens, Sr. ’83

Treasurer Barbara A. Porter ’76

MEMBERS

Joyce B. Allen

James Bialek ’74

Nathaniel Bonnell ’03

Melanie Dempsey ’04

Robert E. Douglas

Nancy Evans-Bennett ’66

Jennifer Giovannitti

Barry Greene ’83

William N. Johnston

Chris A. Wood President of the College

Robert J. Phillips

Provost & Vice President for Academic Affairs

David H. Morrison ’79

William Nuttall ’70

John Ochsendorf

Adam J. Ouellette ’93

Robert G. Smith ’65

Louis W. Stark ’76

Chris A. Wood

OFFICERS OF THE COLLEGE

Robert O. Hardman, II

Vice President for Business & Administration

Rosemary M. Thomas Executive Vice President

Scott D. Goddard Vice President for Advancement ’96

CHAIR EMERITI

Henry M. Moore

June B. Myles

Paul S. Stirrup ’60

Leonard J. Timms, Jr.

LIFE TRUSTEES

Karen H. Berner ’64

James S. McDonnell

Dorothy H. Wamsley ’61

Kate Garlick Dean of Students

Jane Corey Director of Human Resources

Patrick Snively Director of Athletics

SUPPORT THE CAMPAIGN

CREATING HOME, TOGETHER

Foundational gifts from longtime supporters launched D&E’s Creating Home: It Takes a Village capital campaign.

The very core of the mission for Davis & Elkins College is preparing and inspiring students for success and thoughtful engagement in the world. To do so, D&E must offer a vibrant and diverse campus as it cultivates the intellectual, creative, ethical, physical, and leadership skills the real world requires. For this reason, and thanks to generous support of alumni and friends, Creating Home: It Takes a Village continues to gain momentum, and progress on the new freshman residence hall is visible for all to see. It is literally coming out of the ground while plans for renovations to both Gribble and Roxana Booth halls are moving forward with intentionality.

D&E started laying the groundwork for this $25 million campaign just over a year ago and, to date, the campaign is nearly 80% complete. A transformational gift of $10 million from longtime friend and former trustee Jim McDonnell provided the impetus needed to attract tremendous support from others along the way.

“Transforming the lives of our students is at the heart of Davis & Elkins College,” said President Chris A. Wood. “Mr. McDonnell’s daughter experienced that transformation as a D&E student in the 1980s, and Jim has been giving back to D&E through his service on our Board of Trustees and with his generous financial

Mills Group and High Point Construction. Completion of the new facility will align with the Fall 2024 semester, and focus will then shift to renovations and upgrades for the entire Freshman Village.

JOYCE ALLEN

Leading with Time, Talent, and Treasure

Local Board of Trustees member and philanthropist Joyce Butler McKee Allen graciously signed on to serve as co-chair of the College’s campaign. She and fellow trustees Reggie Owens and Dave Cutlip are providing board leadership for the $25 million development effort.

Allen has been an actively engaged member of the board, but her contributions go far beyond her three decades of service. Along with her late husband, John, she is known for her generosity through varied timely and transformative financial donations to D&E, demonstrating her fierce enthusiasm for education. Most recently, Joyce committed a leadership gift of $1 million toward Creating Home. This most recent contribution is further indication of the Allen family’s investment and support of the mission of D&E. “Always a leader, Joyce has unwaveringly given so much to this institution,” said Wood. “She is dedicated to prioritizing the student experience through her philanthropic efforts. We are deeply grateful for her continued commitment to our mission.”

Allen has served the Board of Trustees since 1992 in various roles. Recognizing the critical role technology plays in education, she was generous to fund the Joyce ButlerMcKee Allen Education Computer Lab, a center of advanced learning that includes equipment, technology, and furnishings to advance learning and the use of technology in the classroom. Additionally, Allen helped outfit the Center for Advanced Clinical Learning at Davis Medical Center to ensure nursing students and practitioners had a more realistic experience in caring for patients through a simulation lab.

how important campus enhancements are to student engagement. I believe in the vision behind the Freshman Village and trust that it will continue to promote the positive student experience.”

Suffice it to say, the Allen family has been instrumental in the Davis & Elkins College of today. With Joyce’s continued involvement and demonstrative giving, their gifts will continue to have a positive impact on the student experience and the campus of the future.

MIKE ROSS

A Senator and Friend

A substantial gift from distinguished alumnus and philanthropic supporter Mike Ross marked another major contribution to the Creating Home: It Takes a Village capital campaign.

“The face behind this very generous gift is both a familiar one and a loyal one,” said Wood. “Mike Ross has been a stalwart presence in helping to move D&E forward and has a well-defined history of giving back to D&E. His gifts have always focused on the student experience, and that says a lot about Mike.”

support ever since so that others may share this experience. He is a blessing to both the present and future students of D&E.”

Earlier this year an anonymous donor joined the list of leadership donors with a gift of $3.4 million to the campaign. This gift, coupled with McDonnell’s and those that soon followed, provided further evidence that success was inevitable. “To ensure a dynamic living and learning community, we are so grateful for every donor who supports our mission with their dollars,” Wood said.

Construction of the new facility is progressing according to schedule, and the College values the partnership with The

In 2015, her four children—John C. Allen, Jr., Susan McKee Crimmins, Thomas Braxton McKee, and Peter Kingsley McKee, Jr.—created the Joyce Butler McKee Allen Chair in Education, which provides for a professorship as well as professional development opportunities to enhance D&E’s teacher education programs. The Allen name can be found throughout the campus in places and associated with programs that support the mission and vision of the College.

“The student experience is at the forefront of the Davis & Elkins College brand,” Allen said. “I have seen firsthand the transformational impact each gift makes at D&E, and as a former educator, I know

A Coalton, West Virginia, native and D&E attendee, Ross worked as a coal miner and heavy equipment operator after college. In 1971, Ross and his business partner, Robert Wharton, started Ross & Wharton Gas Company, which provides livelihoods for several full-time employees and many independent contractors throughout West Virginia to this day. He helped build thriving businesses and, in 1992, was elected to represent West Virginia’s 15th Senatorial District in the state Legislature, where he would hold a seat for 12 years. He held office again in 2009, when he was appointed to fill the West Virginia House of Delegates seat left vacant by the death of Delegate Bill Proudfoot.

At Davis & Elkins, he has supported the College’s West Virginia Highlanders 2015 appearance in the nation’s 4th of July parade, the “Candlelight Christmas” concert, the D&E Fund, the Highlands Scholarship, the Eastern Regional Science Fair, renovation of the Hermanson Campus Center, the Senator Club, performances by the West Virginia Symphony, the Randolph County Scholarship Fund, the D&E Baseball Team, and the Mike Ross Endowed Scholarship. Ross received the D&E Distinguished Alumnus Award in 2015.

“Mike shares our commitment to make impactful improvements to the D&E campus and realizes that, as this campaign has defined, a dynamic living and learning community is essential to our college growth,” Wood said. “His gift, along with others for the capital campaign, ensures that our top-notch academics are complemented with excellent residential facilities. This campaign is a commitment to Davis & Elkins College and its future, and we are deeply grateful for Mike’s generous gift.”

A PROUD NEW FACILITY

Institutions come together for the Citizens Bank of West Virginia Amphitheatre at D&E.

Just moments before the coronation of Queen Silvia at the 85th Mountain State Forest Festival, the ribbon was cut for the new Citizens Bank of West Virginia Amphitheatre at Davis & Elkins College. The new facility required the collaboration of many partners, and representatives of D&E, Citizens Bank

of West Virginia, Applied Construction Solutions, the City of Elkins, and Randolph County all took part in the dedication.

“This very stage has been a part of the Mountain State Forest Festival and Davis & Elkins College for many years,” said D&E President Chris A. Wood. The historic stage had deteriorated and,

facing a limited budget, D&E turned to Applied Construction Solutions, Inc., of Bridgeport to construct the facility with professionalism and with pride. Project manager Derek Pritt and his crew completed the facility on time and on budget. Kara Alvarez Bennett, who was on hand for the 2022 groundbreaking as well as the ribbon cutting this October, serves in human resources for ACS—and graced this stage as Queen Silvia in 2016. This amphitheater represents the collaboration, belief, and vision of Davis & Elkins College and Citizens Bank of West Virginia. We are happy to be a major donor to make this project a reality,” Nathaniel Bonnell, president and CEO of Citizens Bank of West Virginia said. “We celebrate this dedication, which impacts not only the Mountain State Forest Festival … but the entire community.”

The new structure has the capacity to serve an expanded repertoire of events and productions. The concrete platform and steps were enhanced, and an accessibility ramp was installed. The structure features a roof to allow for performances in inclement weather and lighting for nighttime events. The venue has hosted several major events since completion and will serve the community for years to come.

AN ATHLETIC COMPLEX UPGRADE

The new Davis Trust Company Player & Press Pavilion is significant for D&E and for the community.

Excited fans and alumni attended the Homecoming Weekend dedication of the Davis Trust Company Player & Press Pavilion at Nuttall Field. The new facility houses athletic game operations, statistical coordination, and live-streaming and allows the College to host a broad range of events.

Announced in 2022 with a lead gift from Davis Trust, the project was advanced by standout donor Michael “Mickey” Whelan ’74, a soccer alumnus from Dublin, Ireland.

Trustee Bill Nuttall ’70, from Chattanooga, Tennessee, rallied soccer and lacrosse alumni and friends from around the globe.

“Davis Trust Company and D&E College have been community partners

throughout our histories,” stated D&E President Chris A. Wood at the dedication, expressing gratitude for Davis Trust’s support for the project. ”This gift serves our student athletes daily and enhances the game experience for players and spectators alike,” noting that the addition will accommodate post-season contests, statewide high school all-star and championship games, community athletic teams, and more.

“Davis & Elkins is a pillar of our community,” states Hoy Ferguson, president and chief lending officer at Davis Trust Company, “and we appreciate the opportunity for collaboration.”

EMERGING LEADERS YEAR TWO

A Putnam County senior is awarded the four-year scholarship.

Courtney Luikart from Buffalo High School in Putnam County, West Virginia, was chosen the winner of the Citizens Bank of West Virginia Emerging Leaders Scholarship to Davis & Elkins College—a full, four-year scholarship that includes tuition, room, and board.

“Our counselor posted the scholarship not very long ago, and at first I didn’t know if I was going to apply,” Luikart said. “Then I visited and realized I loved Davis & Elkins. I was surprised to get through the first round, and then I felt like the interview went well, but I knew there were a lot of applicants, so I feel very blessed to be in this position.”

This is the second year D&E, Citizens Bank of West Virginia, and WDTV partnered to offer the unique scholarship to West Virginia high school seniors who exemplify leadership and motivation. Top candidates were interviewed by a panel of D&E administration, staff, and students.

“Preparing tomorrow’s leaders and keeping them in West Virginia is the purpose

of the Citizens Bank of West Virginia Emerging Leaders Scholarship at Davis & Elkins College,” said D&E President Chris A. Wood. “Courtney Luikart is an outstanding young leader and scholar who is going to excel at D&E. I am grateful to Citizens Bank of West Virginia and WDTV for their partnership to make this transformative experience for Courtney a reality.”

A true leader at Buffalo High School, Luikart is senior class president, president of the school’s FFA chapter, captain of the Bison girls’ swim team ,and a member of the National Honor Society. She has earned multiple honors through participation in FFA, including two consecutive silver national rankings.

Outside of school, Luikart is a six-year member of Bee Ridge Bears 4-H Club. She also volunteers in her church and community with the Great Kanawha River Cleanup, Putnam County Fair Cleanup Committee, Wreaths Across America, and Five Loaves and Two Fishes Food Pantry.

“We are extremely proud to continue the sponsorship of the Citizens Bank of West Virginia Emerging Leaders Scholarship and invest in a deserving, hard-working student and future leader of our state,” said Nathaniel S. Bonnell, president and CEO of Citizens Bank. “We know this partnership with Davis & Elkins College and WDTV will allow Courtney to enhance her college experience by devoting more time to her studies and career pathway.”

Bonnell knows firsthand how Davis & Elkins College shapes a student’s future. A 2003 alumnus, he is also a member of the College’s Board of Trustees.

At D&E, Luikart plans to major in exercise science and aspires to a career as an occupational therapist. “While my career in occupational therapy will in a sense ‘pay it forward’ by helping others, the way I really want to achieve this is through continuing community service,” Luikart wrote. “My parents have always instilled in me the importance of giving back.”

FORBES RANKING

D&E scores high in a recent assessment of financial health.

Davis & Elkins College has earned an “A” from global media company Forbes for the financial health of the educational institution, the highest grade awarded to any private, notfor-profit school in West Virginia.

Forbes magazine recently published its annual college financial grades list in an article titled “Forbes 2023 College Financial Grades: The Nation’s Strongest And Weakest Schools.” The magazine reviewed the latest financial data from the National Center for Education Statistics for 906 private, not-for-profit colleges in the U.S. The data covered colleges that enroll at least 500 full-time students for the fiscal year that began in July 2020 and ended in June 2021, and that assessment resulted in a 4.07 GPA for D&E.

“We are elated at the ‘A’ grade by Forbes because it reflects the diligence we exercise to ensure our institution is financially healthy,” said D&E President Chris A. Wood. “I also strongly believe we are financially solid because that commitment is a priority, from the Board of Trustees to administration to faculty and staff on the D&E campus. There is institution-wide buy-in, and that has served us well as private, not-for-profit schools across the country emerge from COVID-19 and its lingering aftereffects.

“Our thinking was that this was a great opportunity to adapt to the needs of a college-going community that had, itself, evolved,” he said. “The investments we ultimately made were to every facet of Davis & Elkins College, ranging from

Accreditation (NLN-CNEA). These two esteemed accrediting bodies evaluate nursing education programs across the nation to ensure they meet stringent academic standards. The achievement of double accreditation is a testament to the program’s exceptional quality and commitment to delivering a comprehensive nursing curriculum.

Dr. Robert Phillips, provost and vice president of Academic Affairs at Davis & Elkins College, expressed his elation over the program’s accreditation, stating, “This is wonderful news for the College, the BSN program, and our students.” He commended the leadership of Dr. Huixin Wu, the director of BSN Programs and chair of the Division of Nursing, as well as the collaborative efforts of the entire Nursing faculty and staff. Dr. Phillips emphasized the significance of teamwork and commitment that have defined Davis & Elkins College’s Nursing program over the years.

Accreditation serves as a rigorous and voluntary review process that evaluates higher education institutions and their programs based on specific academic standards. Accrediting organizations, recognized by federal and state government agencies, play a vital role in determining whether nursing programs can achieve and maintain accreditation. The ACEN and NLN-CNEA are two of the three primary nursing accreditation bodies in the United States and its territories. They evaluate nursing education programs at all levels, from associate to doctoral, for both domestic and international nursing programs.

online learning to housing and from classrooms to public spaces.”

Forbes College Financial Grades assess private, not-for-profit colleges’ balance sheet health and operational soundness using nine measures, according to Forbes. “Our data is derived from the Department of Education’s National Center for Educational Statistics. Only schools with more than 500 full-time students were included, and public colleges were not graded.”

The nine measures included: endowment assets per FTE (full-time equivalent), primary reserve ratio, viability ratio, core operating margin, tuition as a percentage of core revenues, return on assets, admissions yield, percent of freshmen getting grant aid, and instruction expenses per FTE.

MUCH-DESERVED Recognition for Nursing

The approval of two esteemed associations makes D&E’s the only dual-accredited BSN program in the state.

The Nursing program at Davis & Elkins College is celebrating a remarkable achievement this year as it received double accreditation from two prestigious organizations. This recognition not only highlights the program's commitment to excellence but also solidifies its position as a leading nursing education provider in West Virginia. The accolades came as the college prepared for its annual Nursing

Pinning Ceremony and commencement events, serving as a testament to the program’s dedication to its students and their future success.

Davis & Elkins College’s Nursing program was granted accreditation by both the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN) and the National League for Nursing Commission for Nursing Education

Davis & Elkins College’s Nursing program, which received approval from the West Virginia RN Board in 2019, achieved initial accreditation from the NLN-CNEA in February 2023 and the ACEN in May 2023. This remarkable accomplishment positioned the program as the only dualaccredited BSN program in West Virginia. Wu expressed her gratitude to the nursing faculty, staff, students, administration, and the entire D&E community for their contributions to this milestone achievement.

In addition to the recent accreditations, the Davis & Elkins College Associate Degree Nursing (ADN) Program garnered recognition as one of the top nursing programs in West Virginia. RegisteredNursing.org, an organization composed of nurses dedicated to providing students with valuable information for selecting a nursing school, ranked the ADN program as the third-best in the state. The ranking was based on factors such as student support, licensure preparation, and NCLEX-RN pass rates.

D&E PARTNERS WITH FISH HAWK HOSPITALITY

to Manage Historic Graceland Inn

The partnership includes upgrades to the facility and an enhanced menu.

Davis & Elkins College has partnered with the perennial tourism industry experts of West Virginia–based Fish Hawk Hospitality in the operation of the Graceland Inn to ensure the continuity of the landmark property on its campus. The partnership, officially established over the summer, will preserve Graceland’s historical significance and connection to

Davis & Elkins College for over eight decades.

“To ensure Graceland remains an integral and vibrant part of the Davis & Elkins campus, we knew we needed a partnership with an outstanding member of the hospitality industry who understood the impact and importance of this destination to our D&E community,” said President

Chris A. Wood. “Knowing his commitment to showcasing the best of West Virginia, I am confident our partnership with Dale Hawkins and Fish Hawk Hospitality will ensure not only Graceland’s reputation but also D&E’s for distinction and excellence for many years to come.”

Fish Hawk Hospitality (FHH) will manage restaurant and lodging operations

A GLOBAL COMMUNITY

Students raise the flags of their countries at the annual International Flag Raising Ceremony.

On September 26, 2023, Davis & Elkins College students, faculty, and staff gathered to celebrate diversity and embrace the rich tapestry of 42 cultures represented on campus. The International Flag Raising Ceremony is a symbolic gesture that shares the unity and strength that comes from our global community.

at Graceland, a Victorian mansion built in 1893 by U.S. Senator Henry Gassaway Davis and his wife. The property was originally designed by the renowned architectural firm Baldwin and Pennington of Baltimore, Maryland, and was presented to D&E as a gift in 1941 and listed on the National Register of Historic Places and as part of the National Historic Landmark Davis and Elkins Historic District.

Dale Hawkins, owner and chef of Fish Hawk Hospitality, said people familiar with his company’s reputation in the hospitality industry had encouraged him to come to Elkins for a long time. “We’re very excited to be working with Davis & Elkins College to bring new restaurant and lodging options to the Elkins community,” Hawkins said. “From the moment we toured the [Graceland] property with D&E, we knew we found the place where we were supposed to be.”

The 2019 U.S. Small Business Administration Rural-Owned Business of the Year winner, Hawkins has a reputation for showcasing West Virginia products and is well-known throughout the mid-Atlantic region for his catering talents and culinary skills. He welcomes the challenge to enhance the historic property.

“We’re going to continue doing what we do best: making delicious food from the best local fruits, vegetables, and meats,” Hawkins said. “We plan on offering a slightly more upscale menu than at our Buckhannon location. We look forward to having a beautiful space in Elkins to host wine clubs, special dinners, and other events.”

The partnership with FHH is welcome news across campus and throughout the region. Operations began in early October and will continue to expand as ongoing renovations and expansions take place. gracelandinn.com/dine-at-yonder, “Graceland Inn” on FB

HOW DEEP IS YOUR LOVE?

A Martin Luther King Jr. Day address evokes the transformative power of love.

In celebration of Martin Luther King Jr. Day, the Davis & Elkins College community came together to commemorate the life and legacy of one of America’s greatest visionary leaders. The celebration, organized by the President’s Initiative on Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion, aimed to foster thoughtful engagement, uphold institutional values, and promote human dignity and social responsibility. The keynote address delivered by Dr. Julius Bailey, a renowned philosopher, professor, and author, resonated deeply with the audience, challenging them to examine their lives and embrace the transformative power of love.

The flags of each country individually processed up the hill as the corresponding national anthem rang out over campus. “The main objective of the event is to give the students a safe place to highlight where they are from and truly take pride in it,” said Jacques Guillembet, associate director of International Student Services. “We are blessed to be able to have so many students from different parts of the world. During this event, students have the honor of raising the flag of their home country, standing side by side with fellow international students who share the same pride in their cultural heritage. This is what makes Davis & Elkins College home.”

Dr. Bailey’s thought-provoking address began with a powerful question, inspired by the Bee Gees’ hit song “How Deep Is Your Love.” He urged attendees to reflect on the depth of their love for one another, encouraging them to move beyond superficial connections. By posing inquiries such as “What type of life are you going to share?” and “How deep does your love go?” Dr. Bailey implored everyone to cultivate meaningful and authentic relationships, fostering a sense of unity and empathy within the community.

D&E President Chris A. Wood echoed the sentiments of Dr. Bailey, describing King’s vision of the “Beloved Community” as a society founded on justice, equal opportunity, and love for one another. The transformative power of community, Wood emphasized, had the ability to uplift and strengthen individuals. He stressed that the ultimate goal was reconciliation, redemption, and the creation of a society that turns opposers into friends. With an invitation extended to all, Wood encouraged the residents of Elkins to join in promoting justice, equality, and unity in their community and beyond.

The Martin Luther King Jr. Day celebration at Davis & Elkins College served as a powerful reminder of the enduring legacy of Dr. King’s message. By examining our lives and exploring the depths of love, we are challenged to create a more inclusive, just, and united society. Through initiatives such as the President’s Initiative on Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion, Davis & Elkins College continues to foster an environment that upholds institutional values, embraces diversity, and promotes thoughtful engagement.

Interview, and Personal Introduction,”

Gannon said. “I am so proud to represent my college and West Virginia.”

Gannon’s primary focus revolved around her motto “I Got This,” explaining to others how they can apply it to any aspect of their lives. To assist people in making plans, she developed a goal-setting worksheet that emphasizes staying motivated and maintaining a positive mindset. “You list three things that help you stay motivated, then you list why,” Gannon explained. “When you tell yourself positive things, positive things will happen.” As a member of the D&E acrobatics and tumbling team, a resident assistant in Presidential Hall, and a student in the Hospitality and Tourism program, Gannon exemplifies the power of her motto in her daily life. Even on challenging days, she remains confident that the next one will be better, allowing her to stick to her plan and overcome obstacles.

Gannon’s involvement in the National American Miss circuit started at the age of 12, and, as a high school senior, she won the title of Teen National American Miss Oregon. She chose to participate in the West Virginia contest this time around, as her time at D&E has shaped her into the person she is today.

Reflecting the current virtual landscape, the state pageant proceedings took place entirely online. Gannon’s personal introduction video showcasing her community service and online interview were evaluated by a selection committee. After an anxious wait of over a month, she received the thrilling text message notifying her that she had won. “I looked at my mom with the biggest smile and said, ‘Guess who’s your new Miss West Virginia?’ and I proceeded to do a little dance while sharing the news.”

I GOT THIS

D&E student Roy Gannon’s determination brings pageant success.

Davis & Elkins senior Roy Gannon has proven that staying focused on one’s goals can lead to incredible achievements. With determination and the motto “I Got This,” she clinched the title of National American Miss West Virginia and represented the state at the esteemed National American Miss competition.

Taking the stage in Orlando, Florida, in November 2022 for the national contest, Gannon’s outstanding performance in

Optional Competitions, which provide contestants with opportunities to gain confidence and do not count toward overall scoring, earned her a spot in the International Top 7 in the Actress competition and second runner-up in the National American Miss Actress competition.

“I had an absolute blast building new friendships as well as competing in the required competitions of Formal Wear,

FREAKY MONDAY

A student and our College president swap places for a day.

President’s List. Among all those accolades, Matin can now add President of Davis & Elkins College—at least, for a day.

On Monday, April 3, D&E President Chris A. Wood and Matin Eisa traded places for the day. Eisa spent much of his day in meetings. He convened a meeting of the College’s Cabinet, talked with the chair of the Board of Trustees on a virtual call, discussed new capital projects and deferred maintenance needs on a campus walk with the director of Facilities and vice chair of the Board, was interviewed by a local television station and The Inter-Mountain, and served as guest speaker for the Elkins Rotary Club. The afternoon schedule was still ahead. President Wood laughed when Matin asked, “Do you actually have this number of meetings, and do you regularly have to talk this much?”

Walking in Matin’s shoes, President Wood found himself working as an intern in the College’s business office, touring Moyer Residence Hall, and spending time in the dining hall with the men’s golf team, where the candid conversation was entertaining and enlightening. He said his highlight was stepping back into a college classroom, where the magic happens. It reaffirmed his love for his regular job in a big way!

Gannon’s journey didn’t end with her victory; she continued to make her mark on stage. Attending the Virginia and Maryland National American Miss pageants as visiting royalty, she presented examples of the different competition categories to the audience. She was crowned National American Miss West Virginia by National American Miss Anna Ross. During Gannon’s reign, which continued through late August, she focused on pageantry, expanded her platform, and continued her academic and athletic pursuits. Her inspiring journey from college senior to National American Miss West Virginia is a testament to the power of motivation and self-belief. Through her motto “I Got This,” she exemplifies the importance of staying positive, setting goals, and persevering. Her impact reaches far beyond the pageant stage, leaving a legacy of confidence and empowerment.

D&E

men’s golf team, serves as an officer for our Student Government Association, is a resident assistant in Moyer Hall, and is an excellent student, as affirmed by his consistent naming to either the Dean’s or

ACADEMIC AWARDS

D&E honors its outstanding students, faculty, and staff.

More than 60 honors were presented during the annual Academic Awards and Recognition Convocation.

The top student honor, Dean’s Award, was presented to Inza Pacella of Thomas, West Virginia. The awardee is selected by the Office of Academic Affairs. Junior Marshal Award recipients, the highestranking members of the junior class, were Kyia McGill and Enrique J. Garcia.

The Jan P. Chadwick Scholarship Award was presented to Johnathon Goss. The scholarship is awarded annually to a nontraditional student from West Virginia pursuing an associate degree.

The Faculty Senior Award was presented to Samantha Bykofsky, recognizing academic excellence and personal and intellectual leadership.

Special Achievement Awards included the Charles H. Potter II Scholarship Award, presented to Matin Eisa of Crowthorne, England; Outstanding Junior awards, Gage A. Vondrasek, Jacksonville, Florida, and Rebecca Ferreira Rodriquez, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil; Outstanding Senior awards, Honesty D. Holt, Bentonville, Arkansas, and Zachary M. McGillan, Ephrata, Pennsylvania.

Two Campus Impact Awards recognized good works that have made

D&E boasts “Leading the Way” as our tagline. “President for a Day” is but one of countless opportunities that mold and shape students into the leaders and changemakers of the future. This day is one that neither of these gentlemen will soon forget.

campus a better place: One to Joe Deville, a student favorite, who has been with Dining Services since 2011, and the other to the Outdoor Adventure Club, which provides experiences centered around outdoor activities.

The annual Algernon Sydney Sullivan Awards recognizing a senior male and female who exemplify love of and service to humankind went to Anna Marie Ruf and Hussain Rabea Hamide. Students were also recognized for inclusion on the fall President’s List and Dean’s List and membership in honorary fraternities— see page 12 for more.

Faculty and staff honors recognized outstanding dedication. The Lois Latham Award for Teaching Excellence recipient, selected by the Executive Committee of the Faculty Assembly, was Dr. Shawn K. Stover. The Robin Price Award for Staff Excellence, presented to a staff member who epitomizes distinction and excellence and who makes a real difference in campus life, went to Nikki Rose.

Matin Eisa is in his senior year, majoring in finance with a minor in mathematics.. His unmistakable accent leaves no doubt that England is his home country. Matin is the captain of the highly successful

They Could Not be More Different

More Alike

Two students from disparate backgrounds shine with similar brightness at

The recipients of the 2023 Algernon Sydney Sullivan Awards at Davis & Elkins College come from two different parts of the world, two vastly dissimilar cultures, and polar opposite paths to D&E. Yet, on this campus where personal growth is cultivated and positive individual characteristics are brought to light, these two award recipients could not be more alike.

Belington, West Virginia, native Anna Ruf and Iraqi-born Hussain Hamide have been recognized by D&E as the outstanding woman and man on campus after demonstrating the highest standards of character, integrity, and service to others and to their community. Nominated in the midst of the Spring semester for the awards annually presented to two seniors and honored prior to their departure, Ruf and Hamide were recognized not because they were outstanding students, but because they are outstanding people. Their differences and similarities warm the heart.

“When you look at these two outstanding students on the surface, they are very different people who got here in very different ways,” said D&E Executive Vice President Rosemary M. Thomas. “It’s when you look beneath the surface that their similarities—and their incredible strengths—really come to light.”

The award description emphasizes “nobility of character,” highlighting honesty, morality, ethics, integrity, responsibility, determination, courage, and compassion. Both possess such attributes, but they did not share similar roads to Elkins, West Virginia.

Ruf attended Philip Barbour High School 21 miles from the D&E campus. A mathematics major with a minor in education and a member of the D&E Choir, she had a legacy connection to D&E through her grandparents, who attended in the 1950s. “When I came on campus for my Leadership Scholarship Interview, I knew it was the school for me,” she said. “I loved it even before I received the scholarship! Each and every person I came in contact with was so friendly. It’s like I had known these people my entire life.”

Ruf was also honored at commencement exercises in May with the Purdum–Goddin Distinguished Graduate award, with which the Faculty Assembly Honors Committee recognizes the outstanding Honors Program graduate for leadership and achievement. Mere moments later, she graduated magna cum laude with a Bachelor of Science degree in mathematics.

Hamide was born eight time zones away from the College, where he would study business management and accounting. He moved to Jordan with his family at age 6 because of the Iraq War and then to San Antonio, Texas, at age 13, a choice his father made because he wanted his children “to be

successful.” Hamide found D&E through the sport of tennis, in which he had excelled in high school, and was encouraged to come for a visit. Like Ruf, he interviewed for and won a leadership scholarship while on campus, which opened the door for his enrollment. In a unique twist, Hamide felt at home at D&E and ultimately chose the school because of the culture. “The people I met on my campus visit were accepting of my background,” he said, “and didn’t care that my father didn’t speak English and I had to translate conversations to him.”

The visit gave him confidence and comfort that he could succeed at D&E. Hamide became a U.S. citizen during his freshman year when he traveled back to San Antonio during the holiday break to take the citizenship oath with his sister, and passing the test brought on inspiration for what he could accomplish.

For Ruf, maybe her connection to people and D&E started in the 1950s with that carpool from Belington to the D&E campus, when her grandparents met. Or maybe it is her kindness and attitude toward others. “I love the people,” she said of students and D&E faculty, staff, and administration. “On graduation day, I was extremely emotional. Not only because I was receiving my degree that I had worked so hard for or even the momentous day itself, but I was emotional because I was leaving a family. I was saying goodbye to people who had played such an important role in my life for four years. D&E has a feeling of home that I have trouble describing in words.”

Hamide explained that he drew on the kindness and support of others, which may have even expanded his sense of community. “D&E prepared me to have the confidence in myself to keep pushing forward, even if there is a setback,” he said. “I learned that there are always people around you to help you up and keep you moving forward.”

Ruf and Hamide are now leading adult lives. She has a math teaching position at Buckhannon Upshur Middle School, while he is living back in San Antonio and is working as a financial analyst and business accountant in the health care field, as much of his family works in health care. Nonetheless, the two will forever be joined by their alma mater and, more importantly, by the love and selflessness they show to others.

“The section in the award criteria about ‘nobility of character’ could really be a road map for life,” Thomas said. “You can’t teach these characteristics, because they are in the fiber of who you are. Anna and Hussain are beginning outstanding professional lives with that foundation, and I really can’t see them being anything but hugely successful in all they do.”

The Davis & Elkins College Theatre & Film program presented Very Still and Hard to See written by Steve Yockey, April 13–15. Originally presented in Los Angeles in 2012, Very Still and Hard to See is a cycle of seven loosely connected horror-themed plays that all take place in a classic California hotel. From riding in an erratic elevator and dealing with possessive ghosts to managing an ever-expanding hole in the floor armed only with cleaning supplies, these encounters with the unknown chillingly collapse the distance between the real and the surreal.

ENCORE!

The D&E Theatre and Film program’s stage productions provide students with meaningful experience and the campus community with quality entertainment.

The Davis & Elkins community is fortunate to benefit from the high-quality productions of the Theatre and Film program.

The program finished the Spring 2022 semester off with a production of Very Still and Hard to See. The play’s collection of horror-themed set pieces gave students on stage and behind the scenes opportunities to shine and offered a memorable evening’s entertainment.

With the enjoyment of that production still in mind, everyone was eager to see the Theatre and Film program’s presentation of William Shakespeare’s The Tempest, October 19–21, 2023. Directed by Dr. Aubrey Helene Neumann and stage-managed by Nicole Schumacher, this production was a slightly updated spin on the classic drama. The Tempest is a comedy–drama that has been reproduced and enjoyed by

generations of fans, both young and old.

The classic follows Prospera, the rightful Duke of Milan, as she uses her powers to sink a passing ship and torment the survivors—a mixed bunch of heroes and villains, including the King of Naples and Prospera’s deceitful brother Antonio.

Director Neumann, who also serves as an assistant professor of theater and film, reflects, “It has been a joy to discover how Shakespeare’s humor and heart translates to this generation. I am immensely proud of the students who have jumped in to bring this magical world to life!”

Sidney Apanowicz, a sophomore student, starred in this show as Prospera.

“This was my first time doing a Shakespeare play, so despite having been acting for a lot of my life, this show has brought a lot of newness, challenges,

and growth, which are all great things in work,” Apanowicz said when asked about her experience with the role and the production. “The cast and crew have been such a joy to work with, and I was really excited to showcase what we’ve all been working so hard on.”

Trincula, a friend and sidekick of the King of Naples, was played in this production by Mary Orndorff, a freshman but longtime actor and participant in Davis & Elkins’ theater program. “I love acting in a college production because it’s so different from a high school one,” Orndorff said of the show. Theater is my passion, and it’s so awesome to be working with everyone in The Tempest!”

Additional cast members for the show included Joseph Birchland, Caden Blizzard, Harley Dragone, Star Eakle, Trinity Fleming, E.H. Humphrey, Jensen Kraft, Taylor Lesnak, Kyia McGill, Marissa Mallow, Walter Ridgley, Damian Stevens, and Alyssa Stump. Artistic team, box office, and crew members included Rose Bell, Emma Engle, Willow Ferguson, Roger Doug Gabbert III, MacKenzie Jones, Natasha MacKey, Payton Miller, Thomas Spears, and Ty Wilson.

HE INSPIRED GENERATIONS

DR. BILL KING WILL BE MISSED. HIS ANNUAL WRITERS’ WEEK HAS BEEN RENAMED IN HIS HONOR.

A longtime, beloved member of the Davis & Elkins faculty, Dr. Bill King lived with a passion for teaching and writing that were contagious. As professor of English and chair of the Division of Humanities, King lit a creative spark in students and colleagues alike from the time he set foot on the D&E campus in 1996. His long struggle with cancer ended on July 15, 2023, leaving us with heavy hearts bordered with gratitude.

King grew up in the Blue Ridge Mountains of southwestern Virginia and held an M.A. in creative writing and a Ph.D. in literature from the University of Georgia. He taught creative writing and literature at D&E and served as chair of the English, Communication, and Foreign Language Department for years.

A Pushcart Prize nominee and winner of the 2021 Heartwood Poetry Prize, King’s work has been published in many journals and anthologies, including 100Word Story, Kestrel, Naugatuck River Review, Still:The Journal,

Appalachian Review, and The Cincinnati Review online series miCRo. His chapbook, The Letting Go, was published in 2018, and his first full-length poetry collection, Bloodroot, was published posthumously in 2023 by Mercer University Press.

King was honored with many awards, including the College’s Lois Latham Award for Teaching Excellence. “At his core, Bill was an artist,” said D&E President Chris A. Wood. “His medium of choice was not a canvas, nor an instrument, nor theatrics on the stage. His medium of choice was paper and a pen, or computer and a keyboard. He used words to move us, challenge us, inspire us, and transport us to somewhere beyond here and now.”

A Celebration of Life service took place on Sunday, August 6, at 2 p.m. in Senate Commons at Myles Center for the Arts. This sacred time provided the community with an opportunity to give thanks for Bill’s life and celebrate all that he meant to us.

him to see the world in new ways,” Osborne said. There is no doubt that King will live on through the writings he left for all to enjoy and ponder, and that inspiring and humorous stories about our beloved friend will be recounted for years to come. The lives he touched and will continue to touch could be infinite.

For those who wish to honor his life, the family has asked that donations be sent to the Institutional Advancement Office at Davis & Elkins College for the Dr. Bill King Writers’ Week Endowed Fund.

HIS LEGACY LIVES ON

In 1996, when he was still new on the faculty, King created Writers’ Week to bring noteworthy authors to campus to share their work with students, faculty, staff, and the greater Elkins community. It became a much-loved annual event.

“When I arrived at D&E in 2011, Bill’s Writers’ Week was already an institution,” said colleague and friend Dr. Katherine Osborne, associate professor of English and department chair. ”Bill had posters from every writer lining the walls of his office, representing the many wonderful Appalachian poets and novelists he had brought to campus over the years.” He never skipped a year, Osborne noted, not when he was on sabbatical, or during the pandemic, or when he was undergoing chemotherapy. “I cannot express how grateful we are that he initiated and carried on this inspiring event for so many years.”

In October 2023, this long-running celebration of language and literature, now renamed Dr. Bill King Writers’ Week, was bittersweet. The event featured readings from Bloodroot by family and friends, a discussion of the importance of King’s poetry by noted authors Ann Pancake, Marc Harshman, Gordon Johnston, and Doug Van Gundy, creative writing workshops in both poetry and nonfiction, and an open mic reading of student work.

“Overall, this week was designed to carry on Bill’s legacy of inspiring those around

At his core, Bill was an artist. His medium of choice was not a canvas, nor an instrument, nor theatrics on the stage. His medium of choice was paper and a pen, or computer and a keyboard. He used words to move us, challenge us, inspire us, and transport us to somewhere beyond here and now.”

— D&E PRESIDENT CHRIS A. WOOD

SISTERS IN ART

The works of siblings were a highlight of the Senior Art Show.

During this year’s Senior Art Show hosted by the Division of Creative Arts, the spotlight shone on sisters Savannah and Katyanna “Kat” Metheny, whose exceptional artistic talents were on display at the Myles Center for the Arts Paull Gallery.

Savannah Metheny’s thought-provoking exhibit, A World Without Color, included prints, paintings, photographs, and drawings. Her unique vision sought to strip away the vibrant hues that surround us and to focus on the monochromatic nuances found in black and white imagery. By embracing the absence of color and highlighting the rich tonal values of black, white, and grays, she revealed hidden beauty and intricacies that often go unnoticed. “This show is meant to give you a unique perspective of the world we call home,” she explained.

Kat Metheny’s exhibit, A Walk Through Nature, was a breathtaking exploration of the natural world. Her prints, paintings, and photographs drew from cherished childhood memories of running in the grass, walking through the woods, and immersing herself in the sounds, scents, and sights of the outdoors. Her intention was to transport viewers to her favorite natural settings, allowing them to experience the serenity and beauty she finds within them.

“These two students have worked hard on their show and have had to weather many obstacles to get where they are,” said Assistant Professor of Art Kevin M. Woodcock, who has mentored the sisters throughout their artistic journeys. “I am very proud of their tenacity to persevere through it all and keep smiling and emanating a positive attitude.”

The Metheny sisters’ exhibits were a small part of the student visual art exhibit. Throughout the month of February, more than 30 students and alumni displayed nearly 90 creative works at the Arts Center. Visitors were treated to diverse art forms, including paintings, prints, drawings, ceramics, and 3D sculptures.

Let’s discuss Dr. Bill King’s book Bloodroot

WELCOME TO D&E!

KOREY BURNS INSTRUCTOR OF CREATIVE ARTS

Burns previously served as SCPS jewelry professor and technician at Pratt Institute in Brooklyn, New York. She has taught courses in making wearable art, jewelry casting, and more. She holds a Master of Fine Arts degree with a concentration in jewelry and metalsmithing techniques from Stephen F. Austin State University in Nacogdoches, Texas. She received her Bachelor of Fine Arts from Northwestern State University in Natchitoches, Louisiana, where she concentrated on sculpture. Her work currently explores the thought of time ticking away through imagery of direct and abstract symbols.

Burns’ work has been exhibited notably at NYC Jewelry Week; Munich Jewelry Week; the Material Synthesis Exhibition; Signs, Signals, + Symbols; Form–Forge–Fabricate; and the 30th annual Materials: Hard + Soft exhibition.

DR. BRANTLEY CRAIG

ASSOCIATE PROFESSOR OF RELIGION AND PHILOSOPHY

Craig brings over 20 years’ teaching experience in a wide variety of courses in religion and philosophy, English, and other humanities disciplines. Originally from Florida, he comes to us from Dover, Delaware, where he spent 12 years teaching religion and English at Wesley College and three years as director of its Honors Program. He has a Ph.D. in religion and culture from the University of Virginia and a Bachelor of Arts in English, with a minor in religious studies.

Craig’s scholarly interests center around the intersection of religion and culture, particularly literature and film. His non-scholarly interests include cooking, music, and acting. He lives in Elkins with his wife and two sons

DR. ROSHANI ASURAMA PEDI DURAYALAGE

ASSISTANT PROFESSOR OF CHEMISTRY

Durayalage comes to D&E from the University of North Texas with 16 years’ experience in resolving research problems. She was previously a teaching assistant at the University of North Texas and the University of Kelaniya–Sri Lanka and teaches several courses and labs in chemistry at the College. She holds a Ph.D. in Inorganic Chemistry (Organometallic Chemistry) from the University of North Texas and a Bachelor of Science (Special) degree in chemistry from the University of Kelaniya–Sri Lanka. Among her research interests are chiral cationic and neutral gold (I) acyclic diamino carbenes and design synthesis and characterization of novel metallodrugs for triplenegative breast cancer.

Durayalage enjoys reading, listening to music, and spending time with her baby and husband.

SALLIE HAMRICK INSTRUCTOR OF NURSING

Hamrick brings over 26 years’ experience as a registered nurse. She previously worked as a psychiatric nurse and case manager for Barbour Behavioral Health. Hamrick received her Associate of Science in Nursing degree from D&E, her Bachelor of Arts with Career and Technical Education Certification from WVU Institute of Technology, and her Bachelor of Science in Nursing from WVU Parkersburg. She is pursuing board certification in psychiatric–mental health nursing and is enrolled in a Master of Science nursing education program.

Hamrick is a Certified Nursing Assistant instructor and a CPR and first aid instructor and has educated future health professionals as an adjunct instructor at Randolph Technical Center, Pierpont Community and Technical College, and Alderson Broaddus University.

DR. SAM HORROCKS

ASSISTANT PROFESSOR OF ENGLISH

Horrocks comes to Davis & Elkins College from West Virginia University and from Garrett College in McHenry, Maryland, where he taught courses in writing, American literature, Appalachian literature, and the environmental humanities for 11 years. His research focuses on agriculture and agrarianism in American literature.

Horrocks has published essays on influential authors such as Carl Sandburg, William Faulkner, and Nathaniel Hawthorne. He holds a Ph.D. and a Master of Arts in English from West Virginia University. He earned his Bachelor of Arts in English from Saint Mary’s College of Maryland.

REBEKAH HOXIE

ASSISTANT PROFESSOR OF NURSING

A native of Philippi, West Virginia, Hoxie previously taught nursing and informatics at Alderson Broaddus University. Her nursing background includes medical–surgical, telemetry, and rehabilitative nursing as well as participation in performance improvement and quality improvement projects.

Hoxie earned a Bachelor of Science in Nursing from West Virginia University and a Master of Science in Nursing with specialization in informatics from Western Governors University. She is pursuing a doctorate in nursing practice, specializing in educational leadership. She also holds a Bachelor of Arts in studio art from Alderson Broaddus University. She enjoys being outdoors, reading fantasy and sci-fi literature and Slavik folklore, painting and sculpting faces in polymer clay, and spending time with her family.

DR. NURUL WAHYUNI INSTRUCTOR OF MATHEMATICS

Wahyuni completed her Bachelor of Science degree in mathematics in her hometown of Banda Aceh in Indonesia. She moved to the United States in 2014 to complete her graduate studies with the Fulbright Program through West Virginia University, where she earned a master’s and a Ph.D. in mathematics. Her research focuses on the field of undergraduate mathematics education. Her doctoral dissertation is dedicated to investigating the use of oral assessment in mastery grading in an introduction-to-proof course.

Wahyuni is ecstatic to be a part of Davis & Elkins. She is currently teaching four mathematics courses, including college algebra, introduction to mathematics, developmental mathematics, and calculus 2.

ASHLEY WORKMAN INSTRUCTOR OF EDUCATION

A 2008 D&E alumna, Workman has many years’ experience in education. She comes to D&E from Barbour County, where she worked in public education as a principal. She strives to build quality teachers who can create a strong and well-rounded future for our children. She wants to provide them with all the resources they need to feel accomplished in their jobs every day. Workman earned a K–6 elementary education degree from D&E, then received a multicategorical special education and autism, social studies, PE, and health endorsements, followed by a master’s in administrational leadership from Salem University. She lives on a farm in Barbour County with her husband and two sons.

The Fall 2023 semester opened with eight new faculty members.

STANDOUT ATHLETES HONORED

Davis & Elkins Athletics inducts six into its Hall of Fame during Homecoming Weekend.

Davis & Elkins College honored six individuals during its October 2023 Homecoming Weekend ceremonies by inducting them into the Davis & Elkins Athletics Hall of Fame.

Judy Eadson is credited with initiating field hockey as an intercollegiate sport at D&E with Coach Dr. Jean Minnick and with being Coach Minnick’s first player. Field hockey existed as a club sport before Eadson approached Minnick with her desire to compete against other schools at a higher level and launch a program as a varsity sport. The team lost its first game but won every other during Eadson’s four seasons. Eadson was team co-captain one season and captain in 1966 and 1967. She led the team in scoring in each of her four seasons. While at D&E, she was a member of Sigma Tau Delta, Chi Beta Phi, and Student Council. Eadson also

chaired the Ice House Committee and played intramural sports. She earned a bachelor’s degree in psychology from D&E in 1967 and played club hockey following graduation for several years, and then softball. Eadson is now retired from the United States Postal Service.

Rildo Pontes Ferreira played men’s soccer and is a posthumous inductee to the Hall of Fame. Ferreira was a West Virginia Intercollegiate Athletic Conference (WVIAC) all-Conference player and a National Soccer Coaches Association of America (NSCAA) All-American in 1968 and 1969. Ferreira was D&E’s Player of the Year in 1969 and listed in the 1969 and 1970 editions of Outstanding College Athletes of America. He earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in 1971.

Nancy Davis Much was a four-year letter winner in women’s basketball and

and is clinic manager of the Baptist Health Therapy Center in Jacksonville, Florida. Rod O’Savio was a four-year letter winner on the D&E men’s soccer team. O’Savio was a three-time All-WVIAC performer 1976 through 1978 and a National Association of Intercollegiate Athletics All-American in 1977 and 1978. He was also named NSCAA All-American in 1978. O’Savio earned a bachelor’s degree in marketing from D&E in 1980 and owns the Caribbean Plate restaurant in Falls Church, Virginia.

George “Chick” Rao was a member of the football, basketball, and baseball teams at D&E and joins Ferreira as a posthumous inductee to the Hall of Fame. Rao attended D&E on a football scholarship and was the team’s co-captain in 1959. He earned his bachelor’s degree in physical education from D&E in 1960. Rao taught at Randolph–Henry and Lakewood High Schools following graduation and coached football, track, and baseball at Lakewood. In 2014, Rao was inducted into the Lakewood High School Athletic Hall of Fame as a successful track coach. He also served as assistant principal and athletic director at Brick Memorial High School in New Jersey. Rao was most recently a resident of Beverly, West Virginia.

played a season of softball for D&E as well. In basketball, she was twice named first-team All-WVIAC and once named to the WVIAC’s second team. She was the team’s top scorer in her junior and senior seasons. Much, who led the Senators to a pair of 20-win seasons, individually ranked ninth in scoring in NCAA Division II in her senior season. She was a member of State Championship teams that represented West Virginia in the Association for Intercollegiate Athletics for Women (AIAW) in regional playoffs for two seasons. Much earned a bachelor’s degree in physical education from D&E in 1984, a master’s degree in sports medicine and health science from West Virginia University in 1985, and a bachelor’s degree in physical therapy from the University of Central Arkansas in 1996. She is a retired Certified Athletic Trainer with 25 years of service

Elkins resident Will Shaw was a longtime cross-country coach and saw success at both the high school and college levels. Shaw graduated from Grafton High School and West Virginia University and served in the United States Army during the Vietnam War as first lieutenant in the Medical Service Corps. Shaw served as Elkins High School’s cross-country coach from 1974 to 1984 and track and field coach from 1974 to 1988, leading the Tigers to eight Big Ten Championships, five regional titles, two state championships, and two state runnerup finishes. He was named State High School Coach of the Year in 1977, National District High School Coach of the Year, and to the Top 25 U.S. High School Coaches list by Runners World magazine. Shaw served as D&E’s cross-country coach from 1984 to 2016 and director of athletics from 1988 to 2002. While at the helm at D&E, Shaw was named WVIAC Coach of the Year on seven occasions. His teams earned two WVIAC Championships and three runner-up finishes, and two teams qualified for NAIA Nationals. Shaw coached eight individual NAIA Championship qualifiers, one twotime All-American, and seven WVIAC individual champions.

The Hall of Fame induction ceremony took place in D&E’s McDonnell Center.

STREAKING INTO HISTORY

The Senators make their first-ever appearance in the NCAA regional softball tournament.

Davis & Elkins rode the momentum of a late-season hot streak and a deep run in the Mountain East Conference Tournament to land its first-ever spot this past spring in the NCAA Division II Softball Championship Atlantic Region Tournament.

The Senators actually powered into the NCAA field of teams with the help of two separate and important winning streaks: a mid-April 11-game win streak and a sequence of victories in the MEC conference tournament that saw D&E lose in the championship series. Additionally, three Senators, Honesty Holt, Linzey Allard, and Vanessa Hunt, were named to the MEC All-Tournament Team.

The Senators entered the NCAA Tournament seeded No. 7 in the Atlantic Region and lost a hard-fought game to No. 2 seed Shippensburg 10–9 in the first round.

Down 5–2, D&E put together a seven-running second inning and took the lead at 9–5. However, Shippensburg overcame a three-run deficit in the seventh and final inning to notch the 10–9 win.

The Senators traveled to Charleston, West Virginia, to face their next foe, the University of Charleston, in a knockout game. Charleston scored four runs in the first inning and never looked back as the Senators fell 4–0.

At one point in the season, D&E had a 12–21 record prior to its two hot streaks. The Senators finished their history-making season with a 29–28 record. 20

game improvement over the previous year. The Senators finished with a solid 12–10 conference record, making them one of the conference’s most formidable contenders. These victories mark a historic milestone for the Davis & Elkins program, as they boast the highest number of wins since the 1954–1955 season. Such an accomplishment is a testament to the team’s dedication and hard work and the effective coaching strategies implemented by Coach Mondragon.

Sam Rolle IV, a 5-foot-11-inch guard hailing from Riviera Beach, Florida, was named to the prestigious All-MEC First Team. Rolle, a junior, proved to be an indispensable asset to the Senators this season, leading the team in scoring an impressive 507 points, averaging 18.1 per game. Demonstrating his versatility, Rolle also excelled in playmaking, leading the team in 157 assists, and showcased his defensive prowess by leading the team in 67 steals over the season. Such exceptional contributions earned him the well-deserved title of MEC Player of the Week. Rolle’s remarkable journey in college basketball has been one of consistent growth, as he previously received the MEC Freshman of the Year award in 2021 and secured a spot on the Second Team in the preceding year.

D&E WINS MEC

Golf Title

Lewis and Eisa named All-Tournament.

At the October 2023 Mountain East Conference Men’s Golf Championships at Avalon Lakes Golf Course in Warren, Ohio, Davis & Elkins secured its second consecutive win and its third win in four years.

ANTHONY KOSSIAKOFF

Looking Back on a Banner Year FOR MEN’S BASKETBALL

Standout players and the leadership of Head Coach Dan Mondragon led the team to new heights.

The Davis & Elkins men’s basketball team enjoyed a truly remarkable season marked by a significant improvement in performance, record-breaking achievements, and individual player excellence. Head Coach Dan Mondragon’s leadership has propelled the team to new heights, resulting in his well-deserved recognition as the Mountain East

Conference (MEC) 2023 Coach of the Year. Additionally, Sam Rolle IV and Breland Walton have been acknowledged for their outstanding contributions by earning spots on the All-MEC teams.

Under Coach Mondragon’s tutelage in his fourth season with D&E, the team achieved an exceptional 18–10 overall record, displaying an impressive ten-

Breland Walton, a 6-foot-5-inch forward from Beckley, West Virginia, garnered recognition for his valuable contributions to the team as well. Walton, a senior, showcased his skills on both ends of the court, proving to be an instrumental player for the Senators. Finishing the season with an impressive scoring average of 14.5 points per game, Walton ranked second in scoring for the team. He also exhibited dominance in rebounding, leading the team with 6.5 rebounds per game. Walton’s exceptional field goal percentage of .542 further solidified his impact on the team’s success. His efforts were previously acknowledged with a Second Team honor in 2021, further solidifying his status as a remarkable player.

The Davis & Elkins men’s basketball team, under the leadership of Coach Dan Mondragon, experienced an extraordinary 2022–2023 season marked by unprecedented achievements. The team’s record-breaking success, coupled with the individual excellence of Sam Rolle IV and Breland Walton, serves as a testament to their talent, hard work, and unwavering dedication. With Coach Mondragon’s guidance and the remarkable skills of Rolle, Walton, and the entire team, the future looks bright for Davis & Elkins men’s basketball.

The Senators’ first-round 309 was solid, but trailed the University of Charleston by six strokes. With a three-over-par 75 and a pair of eagles, D&E’s Evan Lewis tied for fifth, three strokes off the lead. Matin Eisa shot an opening-round 77, while Elias Jarn shot 78, Matthew Crookes shot 79, and Leonardo Turra shot 80. West Virginia Wesleyan sat just one stroke behind the Senators, with Fairmont State four strokes back.

D&E and West Virginia Wesleyan both made second-round charges of 299, taking first and second place at 608 and 609 respectively as Charleston fell to third at 612. Fairmont State made up ground on Charleston as well, logging a two-day total of 614. D&E’s Lewis shot 73, Eisa shot 74, while Jarn shot 75, Crookes shot 77, and Turra shot 80.

Cool under the pressure of close scores going into the final round, D&E put together the low round at 300 to take the title by four strokes. The three-round total of 908 put the Senators ahead of Charleston (913), West Virginia Wesleyan (917), and Fairmont State (925). Lewis shot a thirdround 72, while Turra shot 75, Jarn shot 76, Eisa shot 77, and Crookes shot 84. Lewis finished runner-up to medalist Francisco Taboada of West Virginia Wesleyan. His three-day total of 220 was four over par. Eisa finished fifth at 228 and +12. Both joined Taboada on the MEC AllTournament Team. Also joining the three were Alex Turowski of Fairmont State and Paul Sanchez of Charleston.

College alumnus Anthony A. Kossiakoff ’68 has been elected to the National Academy of Sciences for his distinguished scientific research achievements.

Kossiakoff is the Otho S.A. Sprague Distinguished Service Professor of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology at the University of Chicago. A structural biologist and protein engineer, his research group is developing a molecular understanding of how molecular recognition governs virtually all aspects of biological function. He has worked at the University of Chicago since 1998, has 191 publications, and is best known for research in fields of study including enzyme, amino acid, and DNA.

The National Academy of Sciences elected 120 members this year in recognition of their distinguished and continuing achievements in original research.

“Dr. Kossiakoff has worked tirelessly in his field during the course of his career,” said D&E President Chris A. Wood, “and we are overwhelmingly pleased about his induction into the National Academy of Sciences. His membership is one of the most prestigious honors in the scientific field, and we couldn’t be happier that he is a member of the D&E family.”

Davis & Elkins College recognized Kossiakoff in 2011 with an Honorary Degree of Doctor of Science for his scientific contributions. He was elected a fellow of the American Association for the

Advancement of Science in 2012, received the Protein Society–Christian Anfinsen Award in 2019, and has been cited and recognized by countless experts and organizations in the scientific arena.

After earning his Bachelor of Science in chemistry/math at D&E in 1968, Kossiakoff, born in Cumberland, Maryland, completed his doctorate in physical chemistry at the University of Delaware in 1972 and his post-doctoral work in structural biology in 1975 at the California Institute of Technology. He served as chair of his department at the University of Chicago from 1998 to 2012 and concurrently served as co-director of the university’s Institute for Biophysical Dynamics from 1998 to 2003 and senior fellow at The Joint Institute for Genomics and Systems Biology from 2007 to the present.

“We are honored to say that numerous students who would go on to be leaders in their respective fields have graduated from D&E,” Wood said. “Dr. Kossiakoff’s contributions to the scientific community are recognized around the globe, and he is certainly an inspiration for all past, present, and future students at our institution.”

The National Academy of Sciences was established in 1863 by an Act of Congress, established under a congressional charter, and signed by President Lincoln. It is a private, nongovernmental institution and acts to advise the nation on issues related to science and technology.

FRANK SCARFO Alumnus Spotlight

While attending D&E, Frank Scarfo ’49 wasn’t sure what direction his career would take. As it turned out, it was something he would never have guessed.

A native of Norton, West Virginia, Scarfo grew up speaking only Italian until the age of 8. That background, along with his degree in business from D&E, set things in motion. He registered for the draft in 1950. U.S. Army officials became aware of his fluency in Italian and sent him to the Counter Intelligence Corps School in Fort Holabird, Maryland, where he was trained as a counterintelligence officer— that is, a spy.

Scarfo was sent to Livorno, Italy, during the Korean War to infiltrate hostile groups of the Italian Communist Party and arrest those involved. He and other U.S. agents received weekly top-secret files that included lists of targets to locate and further investigate. The armed agents uncovered many potentially dangerous

enemy operatives who were working for the U.S. Army in Livorno, Pisa, and Florence. The cover name for the operation was the “Labor Control Detachment,” and details remain secret to this day. Scarfo served his country for two years in Italy, supporting the 4th Logistical Command, and went on to serve four years with the Army Reserve, where he became a sergeant. His military career came to light recently when it was entered into the Congressional Record by U.S. Congresswoman Maxine Waters, D-California, in a private ceremony.

After leaving the military, Scarfo returned to West Virginia to care for his ailing parents. He later moved to California, where he was employed by The Aerospace Corporation. He worked on projects led by space pioneer German defector Dr. Wernher von Braun, one of the most important rocket developers and champions of space exploration in the

commitment to education is evident through her contributions benefitting various programs and initiatives.

Notably, Allen’s generosity enabled the establishment of The Joyce Butler-McKee Allen Education Computer Lab, providing education students with essential resources such as laptops, educational software, and furnishings. Her contributions have also extended to business students, who now have access to Dell laptops, SmartBoards, and a charging cart. Nursing students benefit from a more realistic learning experience through the SimPad PLUS, enhancing their training at The Center for Advanced Clinical Learning. Most recently, Allen’s $1 million contribution to the “Creating Home: It takes a Village” campaign further demonstrates her commitment to the student experience at D&E.

Beyond her financial contributions, Allen’s dedication to preserving D&E’s heritage is exemplified by her instrumental role in bringing The Caboose Café back to campus. Thanks to her efforts, the retired Chessie System caboose found its way back home, enriching the college’s historical significance.

20th century. Scarfo was a member of the hardware development team for the moon landings in the 1960s and early 1970s. A highlight of his career was watching the Apollo 11 liftoff to the moon from the launch site in July 1969.

“My father was a coal miner, and we had very little money. The house we lived in was furnished by the coal company—we didn’t even pay rent. As a boy, I used to deliver Inter-Mountain newspapers to help supplement our family income,” Scarfo said, reflecting on his life. “I am very happy to have attended Davis & Elkins College.

Since I lived in Norton, that was the only place I could really afford to attend, and they welcomed me with open arms. One of my favorite professors was Dr. Gloria Payne, and I kept in close contact with her until she passed away.”

Scarfo’s life journey has truly been remarkable. We are grateful for his service and proud to claim him as a D&E alumnus.

To honor her longstanding commitment to education, Allen’s children established the $1 million endowed Joyce Butler McKee Allen Chair in Education, facilitating professorships and professional development opportunities for D&E’s teacher education program. Her passion for learning and unwavering support make her a deserving recipient of the Crystal Mace Award recognizing her transformational leadership and service and exceptional contributions.

G. Marion Brady graduated from D&E in 1949 with a degree in education. His journey in education led him to various roles, from teaching at different levels to becoming a renowned author, consultant, and advocate for reimagining the educational system.

During his tenure at Florida State University, Brady became deeply interested in the core curriculum taught in American middle and high schools.

On October 1, 2022, Davis & Elkins College held its annual Founders’ Day convocation, a cherished tradition that celebrates the achievements and contributions of outstanding individuals who have made a lasting impact on the College and beyond. As part of the Homecoming and Family Weekend festivities, the event was a memorable occasion honoring a dedicated member of the College’s Board of Trustees and three remarkable alumni.

Joyce Butler McKee Allen has been a vital presence at Davis & Elkins College since joining the Board of Trustees in 1992. With over 25 years of service to the College, her dedication has been felt in various capacities, including her involvement with the Academic Affairs, Development, and Student Affairs committees. Allen’s

Challenging traditional approaches, he questioned the adequacy and acceptability of the math–science–language arts–social studies curriculum. Through his insightful publications and contributions to academic journals, professional books, and newspaper columns, Brady has been a prominent voice advocating for systems theory and thinking as the primary organizers of information and knowledge. His books, including What’s Worth Learning? and What’s Worth Teaching?, have inspired educators and policymakers alike to rethink educational practices. His commitment to transforming education makes him a worthy recipient of

the Distinguished Alumnus Award (see Alumni Notes on page 28).

Louis W. Stark, a graduate of D&E in 1976 with a Bachelor of Science degree in psychology, has made significant contributions to student affairs and higher education. Retired as vice president for student affairs at Case Western Reserve University, Stark has held leadership positions at various institutions, including Coe College, Central College, Tulane University, and Washington University in St. Louis.

Stark’s dedication to D&E extends beyond his professional achievements.

As a founding member of the National Alumni Council and currently a member of the Board of Trustees, Stark has played an instrumental role in shaping the college’s programs and alumni initiatives. Additionally, his involvement in community organizations, nonprofits, and city council demonstrates his commitment to making a positive impact in various spheres of life.

Houston T. Darling, a 2014 graduate of D&E, has already made remarkable strides in his career. With degrees in criminology and accounting, Darling’s professional journey has taken him to positions of influence within the banking industry. Currently serving as vice president / commercial loan officer at FCB Bank in Frederick, Maryland, Darling is responsible for building relationships with commercial clients and supporting their business operations and growth.

Beyond his banking career, Darling has demonstrated an entrepreneurial spirit as the owner of Amaysing Shade, a company providing beach tent rentals in South Carolina. His commitment to community service is evident through his involvement in organizations such as the Rotary Club of Frederick and Leadership Frederick County. Darling’s professional achievements, dedication to community service, and commitment to D&E make him a deserving recipient of the Outstanding Young Alumnus Award.

The annual Founders’ Day convocation at Davis & Elkins College is a testament to the institution’s commitment to honoring exceptional individuals who have made significant contributions to education, society, and the college itself. By recognizing the accomplishments of Allen, Brady, Stark, and Darling, the College pays tribute to their unwavering dedication, leadership, and service. This convocation served as a reminder of the profound impact that individuals can make at their alma mater and in the world beyond.

Through their exemplary achievements, these honorees inspire future generations of students to strive for greatness and leave their own mark on the world.

A WEEKEND OF FESTIVITIES

Davis & Elkins College celebrated Homecoming Weekend with events for alumni, families, and friends. Highlighting the activities were the dedication of the new Davis Trust Company Player & Press Box Pavilion, alumni and student awards, athletic scrimmages, Athletic Hall of Fame inductions, and class reunions.

Events included a sport science classroom panel, a mini–wellness fair, and an intra-squad baseball scrimmage. The evening featured a special dinner with President Chris A. Wood and First Lady Lisa Wood that celebrated the Half Century Club, including Class of 1973 reunion and Alumni Award recipients. Honors were presented to Nicolaas P. Pronk ’86, Distinguished Alumnus; Kimberly M. Farry ’85, Tower Award; Makeia R. Jonese ’18, Outstanding Young Alumna; and Amanda Yeargan Monroe ’02, Alumni Volunteer.

Award ceremonies, athletic contests, and dedication of the new Davis Trust Company Player & Press Pavilion highlighted the day and evening on October 14. The college inducted its newest members to the Athletic Hall of Fame just prior to the campus picnic. Honorees this year are Judy Eadson, Rod O’Savio, Rildo Ferreira, George “Chick” Rao, Nancy Davis Much, and Coach Will Shaw. The women’s soccer team kicked off against Fairmont State University, and afterwards, the men’s soccer team sprang into action on Nuttall Field against the University of Charleston. The evening commenced with a Field Hockey Reunion Dinner to honor the remembrance of Coach A. Jean Minnick.

To close out the weekend of festivities, on October 15, families and alumni were invited to a Farewell Breakfast in the Madden Student Center.

DOING GREAT THINGS

Davis & Elkins recognizes outstanding alumni during Homecoming Weekend 2023.

D&E honored four alumni during a Homecoming Weekend evening with President Chris A. Wood and First Lady Lisa Wood. Honorees are Dr. Nicolaas P. “Nico” Pronk ’86, Distinguished Alumnus; Kimberly M. Farry ’85, Tower Award; Makeia R. Jonese ’18, Outstanding Young Alumna; and Amanda Yeargan Monroe ’02, Alumni Volunteer.

A native of Aalsmeer, Netherlands, Pronk followed his Bachelor of Science from D&E with a Master of Arts degree at Kearney State College in Nebraska and a doctorate in exercise physiology at Texas A&M University. He completed a post-doctoral research fellowship in behavioral medicine at the University of Pittsburgh Medical Center Western Psychiatric Institute and Clinic in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania.

Pronk’s work involves developing models to improve health and well-being at the

Medicine from Temple University School of Medicine in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. She completed an internship at Reading Hospital and Medical Center and a residency in obstetrics and gynecology, with board certification through the American Board of Obstetrics and Gynecology.

Farry is staff physician for the WVU Medicine Department of OB/GYN, where she has been since 2017, and has accepted many leadership responsibilities. She previously served as staff physician for Community Care of WV, Inc., and Associates for Women’s Health at St. Joseph’s Hospital. Farry has worked with D&E as the student health clinic director and physician, served on the Board of Trustees from 2006 to 2015, and serves on the College’s nursing program advisory committee.

Jonese earned her Bachelor of Arts in criminology magna cum laude and Bachelor of Science in marketing with a minor in business from D&E. She went on to earn her Juris Doctorate at the West Virginia University College of Law. As a student at D&E, she served as secretary for the Criminology Association.

As a special assistant U.S. attorney for the U.S. Attorney’s Office, SDGA in Savannah, Georgia, Jonese represents the United States in the prosecution of violent crimes under federal law occurring within the City of Savannah, including firearm and drug violations, human trafficking, and more. She previously worked as assistant solicitor for the Fourteenth Circuit Solicitor’s Office in Beaufort, South Carolina, and conducted an externship at the U.S. Attorney’s Office, SDWV in Charleston, West Virginia.

research, practice, and policy levels. He is president of HealthPartners Institute and chief science officer at HealthPartners, Inc., and holds appointment as affiliate full professor of health policy and management at the University of Minnesota School of Public Health in Minneapolis, Minnesota.

Pronk co-chairs the U.S. Secretary of Health and Human Services’ Healthy People 2030 initiative and chairs the Roundtable on Obesity Solutions at the National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine. His work has been recognized with numerous awards and, for the decade 2011–2021, he was rated a top-five expert worldwide in health education and health promotion.

After graduating cum laude from D&E with a Bachelor of Science degree in biology, Farry earned a Master of Science in physiology and a Doctor of

Monroe earned a Bachelor of Arts in hospitality management in 2002. She held leadership roles in Alpha Phi Omega and received the Outstanding Service Award in 1999. She was a member of the business fraternities Phi Beta Lambda and Beta Alpha Beta Honorary Business Fraternity and was a member of the Volleyball Club.

Monroe works at C&F Mortgage as receptionist and part-time as a front desk agent at DoubleTree by Hilton in Midlothian, Virginia. A dedicated volunteer, she has served as secretary and treasurer for Habitat for Humanity and secretary and director of Chesterfield Jaycees. She helped as a Meal Ministries Coordinator through Bon Air Baptist Church from 2015 to 2023. Monroe is currently the corresponding secretary and link sister for the Phi Education Organization, a sisterhood that helps women obtain funding for higher education. She serves on the D&E National Alumni Council and is instrumental in organizing gatherings for D&E’s Virginia Alumni Chapter.

ALUMNI NOTES

1949

G. Marion Brady, Cocoa, Fla., received, in absentia, the 2022 Distinguished Alumnus Award for his lifetime commitment to education. Throughout his career, Marion has served as a teacher, a county-level director of instruction, a teacher educator, and a consultant to publishers, states, and foundations. In the mid-1960s while on the faculty of Florida State University, Marion became interested in what was being taught at the secondary level in America’s middle and high schools. Subsequently, he questioned the adequacy and acceptability of the math–science–language arts–social studies “core” curriculum. His insight has been published in academic journals, professional books, courses of study for adolescents and their teachers, and newspaper columns nationally distributed by Knight-Ridder/Tribune. He says the major thrust of his work is, “There will be no significant improvement in learner and school academic performance until systems theory and thinking replace school subjects and disciplines as the primary organizer of information and general knowledge.” Marion is the author of What’s Worth Learning? and What’s Worth Teaching? and is an invited guest blogger for the The Washington Post’s “The Answer Sheet.”

1953

Norman J. “Norm” Hobbie, Crawford, N.J., is enjoying life at 92 years “young.” He has great kids, grandkids, and even a greatgrandson! He loves to read and devours books ranging from the classics to World War II mysteries. He stopped teaching during the pandemic but would love to go back. Until that time, Norm takes one day at a time.

1956

In 2003, George R. Triplett’s passion for preserving the history of his family and that of his community was the inspiration for his book, Our Proud Mountain Roots and Heritage It was with this same passion that he continued to research family genealogy as well as the history of his beloved homeplace on Cheat Mountain in Pocahontas County, his alma mater Davis & Elkins College, and Randolph County. Over the past several years, George has been working with his grandchildren, George A., Robert, Sofia, and Alexandra Triplett, to complete Our Proud Mountain Roots and Heritage: A Supplement George is very proud of the work his grandchildren put into this project, all the while continuing their education (George A., Robert, and Alexandra attended classes at D&E while in high school). George further shares that grandson George A. has since graduated from Princeton University and is currently a business graduate student at Portland State University, where he is on the football team as the starting punter and holder; Robert is a student at Wake Forest University; Sofia is at Georgetown University; and Alexandra is attending West Virginia University. They are the children of Jeff and Silvia Triplett ’15, and the nephew of Charlie Triplett ’94. George R. is married to Norma Jean Townsend Rector-Triplett ’56, and they reside in Elkins, W.Va.

1957

In February, W. Quintus Wade Evington, Va., was inducted into the Altavista High School Athletic Hall of Fame. During his high school career, Quintus was a letterman in four sports. He played three years on the baseball team as starting shortstop and third baseman, four years on the basketball team, and was the starting quarterback in football in his junior and senior years, and for two years he competed in track and field, where he earned CoChampion and Champion titles in the high jump.

1960

Joyce Black Miller and her husband, Ken, maintain the Miller Farm near Staunton, Va. They have three children and six grandchildren. Their son helps manage farming operations and lives in the farmhouse.

1961

Elizabeth Reed Branch Little Rock, Ark., has been instrumental in keeping the Chi Omega ladies connected via Zoom. Those who have been participating are: Barbara Frank Warren ’63, Woodsville, N.H.; Mary Willis Ambrose ’58, Oneonta, N.Y.; Lesley “Jean” Whitehead Andersen ’60, Bristol, Maine; Connie Sayre Bahnsen ’64, Delray Beach, Fla.; Trish Bethany ’61, Grenada, West Indies; Judy McCullough Deegan Kahrs ’60, Halesite, N.Y.; Carolyn Black Dougall ’63, Knoxville, Tenn.; Sue Schroeder Fornabei ’64, Litchfield Park, Ariz.; Ruth Herbert Gnagey ’59, Waverly, Ohio; Jean Humason Henderson ’64, Cranberry Township, Pa.; Judy Mewha Jack ’62, The Villages, Fla.; Dian Metzger MacNichol ’61, Gormania, W.Va.; Joyce Blacka Miller ’60, Staunton, Va.; Winona “Nonnie” Cameron Owens ’65, Crossville, Tenn.; Judy McColly Reich ’63, Avon Lake, Ohio; Judy Miller Stoeltzing ’63, Sacramento, Calif.; Carolyn Darnall Titcher ’62, Charleston, W.Va.; Gail Lewis Tubbs ’60, Ivoryton, Conn.; and Ellen “Bitsy” Zimmerman Behrhorst ’64, Wexford, Pa. They would like to extend an invitation to other Chi O sisters to connect with Liz at erbranch@comcast.net

1962

Don Beek shares, “Some of my happiest memories are those at Davis & Elkins College and the people met who became lifetime friends.” Don and his wife, Gloria, reside in Chesapeake, Va.

George Middleton, Cary, N.C., was inducted, in absentia, into D&E’s Athletic Hall of Fame. Primarily a high jumper, George was a member of the WVIAC 50th Anniversary team and All-American in track and field. During a personal visit to George’s home this summer, Vice President for Institutional Advancement Scott Goddard ’96 surprised him with a special presentation of his Athletic Hall of Fame award and his Half Century Club medallion.

1964

David A. Kirk, Roanoke, Va., is very happy to announce that his grandson, Tanner Claybrook, is now living in Elkins and is working with the West Virginia Department of Natural Resources.

1965

Richard W. and Joanne Person Bendy ’66, Knoxville, Tenn., are enjoying volunteer work with the Knox County Election Commission and the East Tennessee Historical Society.

1966

W. A. “Sandy” Wright, Jr. Denton, Md., reunited with good D&E friends Dennis “Denny” Bye ’65, North Port, Fla., and Gary “Tim” Swift Henrico, Va. Sandy discovered both Denny and Tim had talent in watercolor painting. At Sandy’s request, he is now enjoying Tim’s colorful painting of Dolle’s Popcorn/Taffy Stand at Rehoboth Beach, Del., and Denny’s beautiful watercolor of Ferry Inn at Washington Crossing

1967

J. William “Bill” and Joanne Loeffler Kokie Bel Air, Md., are doing well and enjoying retirement. Bill writes, “The question of the day is whether to do yard work or go fishing?” Nice choices to have. They send best wishes to all friends and classmates.

1969

Charles N. Clevert Jr., Glendale, Wis., is enjoying retirement as chief federal district judge for Eastern Wisconsin. He is currently arbitrating and mediating legal disputes nationally and internationally.

1970

The “Gribble Girls,” named in the photo caption, met for their 2022 reunion in the Poconos at Woodloch Resort in Hawley, Pa. The ladies had a great time laughing, playing card games, telling stories, and remembering their days at D&E in Gribble Hall. The reunion was made even more special as Mary and Janice, who

had been already inducted into the D&E Half Century Club via Zoom in 2021, donned graduation robes, sang the D&E alma mater, and surprised the others by officially welcoming them as members of the Half Century Club as they presented them with their medallions.

1971

Congratulations to Henry W. “Hank” Steinbrecher as he continues to be recognized as a highly respected American and international leader in the world of soccer! This past January he was inducted into the United Coaches Hall of Fame during the 83rd annual United Soccer Coaches Convention held in Philadelphia, Pa. Hank and his wife, Ruth Anne, live in Tucson, Ariz., and were able to attend the 2023 Hank Steinbrecher Cup national tournament.

1972

While enjoying lunch at The Silverado Restaurant in December, Bill Turner, Arlington, Va., and Jeff Krizan ’73, Cross Junction, Va., were delighted to meet recent D&E graduates Sarah Zapata ’22 and her parents and Hanna Bond ’22.

1973

Jeff Krizan, Cross Junction, Va., writes, “New Year’s Eve 2022 turned out to be another D&E surprise for me. We were attending a large party at the Elks Club in Winchester, Va., where, for the second time in a month, I was thrilled to meet two more D&E alumni, Misty Rule ’19 and Kane Logue ’15. Proof positive that D&E is no longer ‘just a little college in West Virginia that you probably never heard of, we are everywhere!’” Jeff is also pleased to announce the 2nd edition of his latest novel, Keyser: The Friendliest City in the USA now available on Amazon.

William W. “Bill” Humphreys and his wife, Laura Loving, moved from Wisconsin to Santa Fe, N.M. in 2016. They have three grown children, with two sons still living in Wisconsin and their daughter and two grandchildren residing in Portland, Ore. Bill and Laura are both “mostly” retired clergies, with Bill serving congregations in Truchas and Chimayo and Laura serving in Los Alamos. They are enjoying their multi-cultural arts community, where Bill plays a tuba in the Santa Fe Concert Band and handbells at the church nearby and also works on the annual Burning of Zozobra. Bill and Laura are also involved as tutors in the AVID program for first-generation college-bound students. Bill enjoyed celebrating his class’s 50th reunion when he visited campus for during Homecoming 2023. He preached during the Homecoming memorial service.

1977

Bryant Applegate ’77, DeBary, Fla., is retiring after 42 years in public service as an attorney. His career includes serving as ethics advisor in the Office of Counsel to the President of the United States; senior counsel for the Department of Housing and Urban Development; director of the America’s Affordable Communities Initiative; and most recently as the county attorney for Seminole County, Fla. He also established a pro bono program helping families with seriously ill children. Bryant and his wife, Lynn, have been married for 43 years. They have two children and three grandchildren.

1979

Richard “Rich” Cresson Swarthmore, Pa., is now retired. After 44 years of employment in the industrial construction and manufacturing business, he is now enjoying “every day being Saturday.”

1981

Cynthia E. “Cindy” Stinger Colorado Springs, Colo., first attended the Olympic Training Center in 1978 as a student athlete trying to make the 1980 U.S. Olympic Handball Team. This past December, the United States Olympic Endowment presented three awards during its 2022 Annual Awards ceremony at the New York Athletic Club in New York City. Receiving the General Douglas MacArthur Award, given to an individual who has exhibited exemplary service to the USOPC and to athletes, was Stinger, Olympic Team Handball member.

President Chris A. Wood presented G. Marion Brady with his Distinguished Alumnus Award after Hurricane Ian prevented him from attending Homecoming 2022. See 1949.

George Middleton and Scott Goddard ’96. See 1962.

Small World! Bill Turner and Jeff Krizan meet Sarah Zapata and Hanna Bond. See 1972.

v The Gribble Girls. L-R, kneeling: Sue McCutcheon King ’70, and Janice Kemp Hutchison ’70. Second row: Mary Vine Langley ’70 and Ellen Moore ’70. Third row: Karen Freshour Chiochanyont ’71 and Marti Chase Brown ’72. See 1970.

New Year’s Eve 2022: Misty Rule, Jeff Krizan, and Kane Logue. See 1973.

u

u W. Quintus Wade with his family, Donald, Tony, Diane, Melanie, and Tom. See 1957.

v Bryant and Lynn Applegate. See 1977.

1984

Heather Jack Antolini along with her son and daughter-in-law, Michael and Anna Antolini, are now the proud owners of Country Road Cabins in Hico, W.Va. Recently highlighted in WV Living magazine, Country Road Cabins is near the New River Gorge National Park and Preserve and features tricked-out tree houses, cozy cabins, glamping tents, yurts, and a new 24-foot geodesic dome. Heather shares, “We all dreamed of having a treehouse when we were kids, and we’ve brought that dream to life for grown-ups.” With 25 unique units to choose from, she invites everyone to check out their website, wvcabins.com, and @countryroadscabin on Facebook, stating, “There is something for everyone, and we offer pet-friendly options.”

1985

Shaun Green Bristol, Conn., launched the SoccerCoachTV YouTube channel in 2012. The channel provides soccer coaches with instructional ideas for practices and methodology for all levels of ability. In 2018, SoccerCoachTV received YouTube’s Silver Creator Award for obtaining over 100,000 subscribers. This summer, Shaun took SoccerCoachTV on a three-week tour teaching soccer in the Caribbean.

1988

Jeannette L. Sweitzer Berkeley Springs, W.Va., is proud to announce that her daughter, Bailey Verkouteren is a student at D&E.

1993

Christina “Chrissy” Hewitt Burnett Culpeper, Va., is serving as an elected official for Culpeper County Public School Board. Her son, Cullen, is a federal agent for Homeland Security on the border in Del Rio, Texas, and her daughter, Amelia Brooke, graduated magna cum laude from Sweet Briar College in 2020 with a degree in business. She is now employed as a gallery curator in Little Washington, Va., and is often commissioned for her artistic talents.

1995

In 2021, Lori Daniels and her husband, Stephen, Beverly, W.Va., celebrated 30 years of marriage. Their daughter, Heidi Daniels is a nursing student at D&E working toward her BSN, and she is also a member of the women’s tennis team.

2008

Laura Bonser Crawford, Forest, Va., and her husband, Jed, welcomed their fourth daughter in January.

2010

In 2022, Andrew “Scooter” Smith and Tabitha Winske were married at St. Mary, Star of the Sea Church in South Baltimore, Md. Helping to celebrate their special day were Scooter’s parents, Lynn and Tim Smith ’72, Pasadena, Md., and several D&E classmates and friends: Colin O’Bryan ’10, Bethesda, Md.; Kayla Eckerd ’10, Bunker Hill, W.Va.; Peter Trigg ’10, Pittsburgh, Pa.; Laura Eversole ’10, Arlington, Va.; Sam Little and Ron Stevens ’71, Annapolis, Md. The happy couple reside in Pasadena, Md.

2011

Cory and Megan Dulik Dillinger are the proud parents of Cameron James Dillinger, born on June 3, 2021. The Dillingers reside in Morgantown, W.Va.

2020

Felix Buck-Gramcko Göttingen, Germany, competed in the 2022 Ironman World Championship held in Kailua Kona, Hawaii. As a first-time participant, he finished 72nd out of 192 his age group.

On September 25, 2022, Tyler Twyman and Lillie Mueller were married in Kingston, Ohio. Tyler was a member of the D&E men’s basketball team and received his BS in sport management. Lillie was a member of the D&E women’s volleyball team and received her BS in exercise science. They both graduated cum laude. The new Mr. and Mrs. Twyman now reside in Vinton, Ohio.

2023

Alessandro Trujillo was selected to participate in the summer internship program at BroadFutures. BroadFutures is a unique program for young people with learning disabilities to prepare and inspire them with tools and resources as they enter the workplace. Following an initial week of training, Alessandro began his internship with D.C. Special Olympics and was featured as the “Intern Spotlight” for the BroadFutures newsletter in June. When asked to reflect on his experience Alessandro shared, “My favorite part of the program is how BroadFutures continuously addresses the barriers disabled people face and fight for diversity, equity, and inclusion.” He is now a substitute teaching assistant at Prince William County Public Schools and lives in Woodbridge, Va.

IN MEMORY

The individuals listed below include members of the D&E family whose passing we have learned about within the last year. We remember them here on behalf of all alumni and friends of Davis & Elkins College.

1943

Florence Coontz Spivey

March 12, 2023

1944

Pauline “Polly” Payne Eyler

October 16, 2022

1948

Margaret L. “Peg” Cox Rector

January 3, 2023

Congratulations to Andrew “Scooter” Smith and Tabitha Winske! L-R: Ron Stevens, Colin O’Bryan, Tim Smith, Kayla Eckerd, Peter Trigg, Tabitha Winske, Laura Eversole, Andrew “Scooter” Smith, and Sam Little. See

1949

Michel P. DeBaets

September 28, 2022

Ruth Collins Hinkle

June 25, 2023

Ross E. Marteney

November 21, 2022

Mary Lee Ruddle

June 17, 2022

1950

George A. Freeman

November 28, 2022

Joe C. Midkiff

June 8, 2020

Mary E. Johnson Purkey

August 23, 2022

Carolyn C. Ruddle

January 14, 2020

1951

Jack L. Calain

June 11, 2022

Robert A. Forrest, Sr.

May 7, 2012

Edward F. Gilsleider

May 9, 2023

Roger L. Patchett

August 28, 2022

Erma G. Arbogast Perry

January 13, 2023

Hilda R. Sites Sponaugle

September 7, 2022

1952

F. DeWitt Furrow

July 15, 2022

Robert M. Wooddell

September 10, 2017

Alexandra Shohov Zezulin

July 25, 2023

1953

Charlotte McCammon Adams

December 20, 2022

Robert L. Baker

July 22, 2023

Mike Linkovich

December 4, 2022

Mary A. Been Najarian

December 26, 2022

Marilyn “Jamie” Owen

December 22, 2014

Patricia J. “Patsy”

Gladwell Phares

April 14, 2022

Robert H. Tilly

June 20, 2023

1954

Frances M. “Fran”

Villee Blendermann

April 3, 2023

William H. Currence, Jr.

October 18, 2012

Elizabeth J. “Betsy” Haslett

January 3, 2023

Gilbert R. Hoy

January 15, 2023

William K. “Kenneth” Iseli

December 26, 2019

Nicholas G. Milanovich

December 26, 2023

Paul W. Phipps

October 25, 2023

George E. “Ed” Rosenberger

July 22, 2023

Louisa Sager Sheets Yeuell

February 14, 2023

1955

Norma Jean Goff Canupp

September 13, 2023

Ada Mae White FitzGerald

August 9, 2022

Edward F. Jacobs

August 6, 1998

Charles W. Martin Jr.

May 16, 2023

Roger G. Waddill

November 29, 2022

1956

Olin E. “Eddie” Eye

August 26, 2022

Jane M. Umpenhour FieldOctober 16, 2022

William D. Salisbury

September 10, 2023

Augustine J. Miller

Wamsley Schaefers

April 29, 2023

Rose M. Swick Turner

September 27, 2022

Betty J. Barkley Umpenhour

December 5, 2019

1957

Robert H. Bendy

January 2, 2022

Garret K. “Gerry” Lockwood

July 27, 2023

Cosmo J. Vetrone

December 8, 2022

1958

Maurice H. “Mickey” Arbogast

May 17, 2022

L. Norman Butler

January 7, 2021

Exie Singleton Irons

November 7, 2022

1959

Albert H. “Alby” Phillips

September 12, 2023

James M. Rice, Jr.

January 25, 2021

Hicel Teter Roy

July 17, 2022

1960

Raymond E. Case

August 25, 2023

Charles R. “Russ” Fondelier

May 6, 2022

Joan H. Carr Kilpatrick

November 25, 2019

Herbert P. Marshall

September 9, 2022

John C. “Jack” McDonald

October 28, 2023

George A. “Chick” Rao November 9, 2022

1961

John L. Harned March 21, 2023

Harold S. Hudspeth March 30, 2023

Jim B. Lloyd

October 6, 2023

Larry E. Norris July 28, 2022

William G. “Bill” Pilat March 12, 2023

Lois Bennett Skala

January 9, 2021

Charles N. Thompson

January 29, 2023

William W. “Bill” Ward

September 17, 2022

Charles “Chuck” Wise July 14, 2022

1962

Robert T. Holmes April 19, 2023

1963

Margaret “Anne” Hall Kitchen January 28, 2021

1964

Alan R. Colussy

March 20, 2023

Anne Joyce Geiger

August 1, 2022

Clifford T. Geiger March 18, 2023

Charles M. Johnson

February 4, 2023

Frank W. McDonnell March 13, 2023

Carolyn E. Howell Pearson March 15, 2023

Bonnie J. Beatty Walker June 21, 2021

1965

Charles A. Baum

May 9, 2018

Richard L. “Dick” DeLisser

August 9, 2022

Daniel B. Fowler

June 23, 2022

Betsy J. Forsha Maiden December 18, 2017

Albert T. Shesler April 22, 2023

1966

Alan C. Locke

October 2020

1968

Julia M. Bosworth

July 17, 2023

Thomas W. “Tom” Flinn

January 18, 2023

Larry A. Weddington

March 11, 2023

1970

Beatrice G. Hilton

July 25, 2022

Richard D. Paxson

February 24, 2005

1971

Ronald V. “Ron” Davies

October 21, 2022

1972

Joseph E. Filer IV November 27, 2022

v United States Olympic Endowment award recipients: Paul George (George M. Steinbrenner III Sport Leadership Award); Cindy Stinger (General Douglas MacArthur Award); and Peter Westbrook (William E. Simon Award). See 1981.

Photo caption: Cory, Megan, and Cameron Dillinger. See 2011.

2010.

v Wedding bells for Tyler Twyman and Lillie Mueller! See 2020.

William E. “Bill” Miller

September 20, 2023

John A. Stibravy

May 4, 2023

1973

Ralph C. Farrelly

December 30, 2012

Wayne B. Griffith

October 13, 2022

Norma G. Harris

August 16, 2023

1974

James E. Wendt

October 5, 2022

1975

Jose Rene Calderon

May 30, 2022

Richard H. Penna

October 23, 2023

1976

Patrick H. Futrell

March 22, 2022

Sherry E. Jacobs Knaub

June 4, 2023

1978

Brenda E. Badger

September 13, 2022

Daniel D. Giles

September 8, 2022

Glenn D. Hoy

January 3, 2023

Nettie G. Loughry

Bright Lipscomb

October 9, 2019

Kathryn A. Maxson

February 2, 2023

Michael J. Reitz

January 27, 2023

Lela L. Sponaugle

August 19, 2022

1979

Deborah J. Stetser Burpee

March 19, 2023

Gregory J. Gill

July 19, 2022

1980

James C. “Josh” Johnson IV

March 4, 2023

1981

Alan W. Bogner

March 7, 2023

Suzanne Rell Ferguson

March 27, 2023

Anita G. “Gail” Nelson

May 15, 2023

1982

Cheri J. Agnew Bancroft

April 2, 2023

1983

Sarah Thompson Fletcher

May 30, 2023

Michael J. Sheedy

January 17, 2023

1987

Cynthia A. Burbage

January 14, 2023

1988

Todd C. Young

January 4, 2013

1990

Cynthia S. “Cindi” Reed Ramsay

August 28, 2023

1991

Jacqueline E. Jones

July 7, 2015

Betty L. Shuman

November 28, 2019

1992

Margaret H. Putzulu

March 25, 2017

1993

Susan A. Bava

August 16, 2022

1995

Abigail J. Maillefert

March 28, 2020

1995

Lisa D. Knaggs Thompson

October 4, 2022

1999

Barbara E. Parrack

December 4, 2020

2001

Mabel L. Stellato

January 31, 2021

2013

Danielle C. “Dani” Gooding

October 10, 2022

2024

Eileen M. Doris

March 2, 2023

FRIENDS AND FAMILY

Charles G. “Charley” Bibbee

March 7, 2023

Former Student

Donald A. Bloom

February 23, 2023

Former English Instructor

Ray L. Boggs

November 24, 2022

Former Education Instructor

Craig F. Bolton

March 29, 2023

Former Student

Virginia “Jenny” Brown

July 12, 2023

Upward Bound Student

Verlin E. Butcher

October 19, 2022

Former Student

R. Sue Core

October 18, 2022

Friend of the College

Hobert H. Corley Jr.

February 25, 2023

Former Math Instructor

Joan Davis Crawford

September 16, 2022

Former Art Instructor

Carolyn J. Darkey

June 20, 2022

Former Student

William C. Edel

October 30, 2022

Former Economics Instructor

Antony E. Fiorentino

September 6, 2023

Friend of the College

Jacquelyn “Jackie” Cupp

Fletcher

September 16, 2023

Friend of the College

Carl D. Glorioso

May 13, 2023

Former Student

Hazel M. Enlow Himes Hankey

November 3, 2022

Former Student

Marion D. Harless

January 17, 2023

Friend of Augusta

Willard L. Herron

April 8, 2023

Friend of the College

Anne H. Hill

June 13, 2022

Friend of the College

Robert L. “Bobby” Hornbeck

November 10, 2022

Former Employee in Housekeeping

Marilyn Inglee

January 28, 2023

Friend of the College

Jacob T. Johnson

June 8, 2023

Former Student

Michael Shane Jones

April 7, 2023

Former Student

Rochella M. Phillips Lee

July 19, 2023

Former Student

Elizabeth A. “Betsy”

Armstrong McDonough

December 19, 2022

Former Student

Gwendolyn L.

Thomas Randolph

June 10, 2022

Former Student

Anita D. Ruddle

February 27, 2023

Former Music Instructor

L. Wayne Sheets

September 2, 2022

Friend of the College

Mary Jo Stadler

January 25, 2023

Former Student

James L. “Jim” Tanner

March 9, 2023

Friend of the College

Alice “Susie” Taylor

May 15, 2023

Former Employee in Business Office

Sherry S. Rutherford

Wadsworth

July 31, 2022

Former Student

Charles P. Winkler

March 31, 2023

Former Student

To include the passing of alumni, friends of the College, or former employees in the next edition of Forward, please contact the Director of Alumni Engagement and Support, Wendy Morgan.

IN MEMORIAM

Dr. Julia A. Hartman

Former Professor of Nursing

Dr. Julia A. Hartman, Montrose, West Virginia, died on May 18, 2003, at the age of 90. Hartman obtained her Ph.D. in nursing from West Virginia University. She joined the Nursing Department in 1976, where she served as professor and division chair. Upon her retirement in 2007, Dr. Hartman was elected Faculty Emerita.

A. Carter Giltinan

Lifetime Emeritus Trustee

Carter Giltinan, a longtime resident of Charleston, West Virginia, died on September 7, 2020. She was 90. Giltinan joined the Board of Trustees in 1985, filling an unexpired term, and thereafter served from 1988 to 1997. In 1997, she was elected Trustee Advisor in the area of landscaping, and, in 2009, she was elected Emeritus Life Trustee.

Paul W. Beardslee

Former Co-Vice President of Enrollment Management

Paul W. Beardslee, Elkins, West Virginia, died on October 4, 2022. He was 85. Beardslee held a degree from Colgate University. He enjoyed a long career as a college administrator in admissions, where he touched thousands of students’ lives, helping them make life-changing decisions.

From 1999 to 2003, Beardslee felt it was an honor to have served at Davis & Elkins College as co-vice president of Enrollment Management with his wife, Anne Beardslee, who survives.