Forward - Fall 2013

TH E MAGAZ I N E OF

Volume 58, No. 2

Mihalyo Named New D&E President Smooth transition keeps momentum going.

Pg. 6

The Examined Life

Religious Studies and Spiritual Life are thriving thanks to renewed commitment to programs and services.

Pg. 15

Remember wonderful times and re-connect with great friends!

Reunions Planned

1963 (50th), 1968, 1973, 1978, 1983, 1988, 1993, 1998 & 2003 Adum and Aurora Men’s and Women’s Soccer Senator Newspaper & Senatus Yearbook Sigma Phi Epsilon Tedford Choir Zeta Tau Alpha

Also...

Alumni Breakfast and Picnic Soccer Games vs. Alderson Broaddus University Special Dedications Contemporary Christian Concert: Hurley Presents – Switchfoot The Icehouse and D&E’s own alumni ’80s band The Hybrids Homecoming Ball

...and more!

Make plans now to attend! Call Wendy Morgan, Director of Alumni Engagement and Support, at (304) 637-1341 or check the website at www.dewv.edu.

The Magazine of

Editor: Carol Schuler, Associate Vice President for Communications and Development

Writers: Nanci Bross-Fregonara, Linda Howell Skidmore, Mary McMahon

Photographers: Sam Santilli (cover and interiors), Catherine Ritchie, Haley Russell, Jessica Wilmoth, Nanci Bross-Fregonara, Linda Howell Skidmore, and Carol Schuler.

06

IN THIS

ISSUE

Mihalyo Named New D&E President

About the Magazine

Forward magazine is published twice a year by the Office of Communications & Marketing. To subscribe or to submit your news, please send an email to schulerc@dewv.edu or write to Carol Schuler, 100 Campus Drive, Elkins, WV 26241.

The Mission of Davis & Elkins College

To prepare and inspire students for success and for thoughtful engagement in the world.

About the College

Davis & Elkins College is an Equal Opportunity Employer and will practice equal opportunity in all aspects of its operation. Davis & Elkins College is committed to assuring equal opportunity to all persons and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, sex, religion, ancestry, national origin, age, disability, family status, or sexual orientation in its educational programs, activities, admission or employment practices as required by Title IX of the Education Amendment of 1972, Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, as amended in 1991, the West Virginia Human Rights Act, and other applicable statutes. Inquiries concerning Title IX compliance should be referred to the College Title IX Coordinator. Inquiries concerning Section 504 compliance should be referred to the Dean of Students. Inquiries concerning equal opportunity in personnel practices should be referred to the Director of Human Resources. ©2013 Davis & Elkins College

Davis & Elkins College Board of Trustees

John S. Moyer, ’86 William S. Moyer Cliff J. Neese, ’83 Eric J. Nilsen, ’82 June B. Myles, William W. Nuttall, ’70 Chair Richard C. Seybolt, ’63, Donald M. Robbins Ronald A. Rollins, Vice Chair M.D., ’57 Karen H. Berner, ’64, Henry W. Steinbrecher, Secretary Reginald Owens, Sr., ’83, ’71 William H. Sudbrink, ’59 Treasurer Joyce B. Allen Life Trustees Mark S. Barber, ’75 Carter Giltinan James Bialek, ’74 John H. Harling, ’53 Wendell M. Cramer, ’59 Thomas J. Martin, Peter H. Dougherty, ’75 D.D.S., ’50 D. Drake Dowler, ’69 Gary W. North, ’62 Nancy Evans-Bennett, David A. Rutherford ’66 Dorothy H. Wamsley David A. Faris, M.D. Joseph M. Wells, III Kimberly M. Farry, M.D., ’85 Chair Emeriti Robert T. Gregory, ’59 Henry M. Moore Bruce Lee Kennedy, Paul S. Stirrup, ’60 II, CFA James S. McDonnell, III L. Newton Thomas, Jr. Leonard J. Timms, Jr. Michael P. Mihalyo, Jr.

The Examined Life

08

Dancing Lessons from God: Student Adventures in Thailand

Also...

On the Cover

Alex Torres jumps for joy following his D&E graduation.

2 Around Campus A Roundup of Happenings on the Hill

15

11 D&E Featured in The Chronicle of Higher Education a Second Time

18 First-Year Symposium 20 The D&E Fund 21 Q&A with Assistant Professor of Art Michael Doig

24 Commencement Photo Album 26 Highlands Scholarships

Invest in Students' Futures

28 Careers Start Here D&E Career Services and Student Employment 30 Reinventing Business 31 Raise the Roof 32 Athletics News

22

Darby Collection Has a Home in The Stirrup Gallery

33 Finish the Field 34 Alumni Events 36 Alumni Notes 41 In Memoriam

Volume 58, No. 2

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AROUND CAMPUS

Happenings on the

hill!

The Theatre program presented the French farce, Boeing, Boeing for its spring production. Cast members shown here include Owen Peet, a freshman from Greencastle, PA, in the lead role of Bernard Lawrence and his three fiancées clockwise from left, Bridget Eckhardt, a junior from Silver Spring, MD, Alyse Prince, a sophomore from Hurricane, WV, and Sarah Satterwhite, a senior from Farmington, WV. Photo by Andrew Carroll

On a blustery day, Board of Trustees member June Myles and a brave crew installed a bronze sculpture at Myles Gate on Randolph Avenue. Created by American sculptor Peter Woytuk, the sculpture is an acorn topped by a raven, a signature of the sculptor. Woytuk is recognized internationally for sculptures of animals, using a style that is both graceful and whimsical. His work was featured recently in an outdoor exhibition by the Broadway Mall Association in New York City, with 18 installations placed on Broadway from Columbus Circle to Mitchel Square Park at 168th Street. In commenting on the sculpture she chose, Myles said: “From little acorns, mighty oaks grow.” Shown here are (left to right) , Joe Godwin and Roger Wegman of Randolph Memorial Co., Andy Swecker of Myles Lumber Co., D&E maintenance employee Kevin Paynter, Myles, Derrick Fike of Myles Lumber Co., and D&E Groundskeeping Supervisor Jason Roberts. Photo by Linda Howell Skidmore

Three sixth-graders, two eighth-graders, and a Junior from Elkins High School are playing the pipe and drum for the West Virginia Highlanders of Davis & Elkins College, swelling the ranks of our popular tartan-clad set of College ambassadors. They are the largest group of young players the band has seen in its 65-year history, according to Pipe Major Bruce Dillon. Young area players include: kneeling, left to right, Hunter Mouse and Brennon Weese, and standing, left to right, Katy Ross, Jacob Earle, Ethan Mallow and Evan Morici. Photo by Carol Schuler

Dr. John Zuboy, professor of psychology, during the Honors Convocation. Zuboy retired at the close of the academic year after 35 years on the faculty of Davis & Elkins College. Photo by Jessica Wilmoth

2 | Davis & Elkins College Forward

Dr. Mihalyo enjoys time with members of College Aid during a tea at Hearthstone.

Photo by Linda Howell Skidmore

Phylicia Hudok, a senior from Huttonsville, WV, and William Hill, a senior from Philadelphia, PA, perform during the Dance Works Showcase in May. Photo by Haley Russell

Students and staff spent an alternative spring break on a mission trip to Mingo County. Working with West Virginia Mission Advocacy and Workcamp volunteers, the D&E team worked to help improve living conditions of marginalized people while exploring academic issues of poverty, theology, social justice and environmentalism. Shown here are, front row, sitting (left to right): Lisa Senic, D&E coordinator of parent relations; Johnny Blankenship and Cab Wolford, WV Mission volunteers; the Rev. Kevin Starcher, D&E Benfield-Vick Chaplain; back row, standing (left to right): Mike Carter and Ronald Stacy, WV Mission volunteers; Barbara Fellenstein, a senior from Fredericksburg, VA; Gloria Lemus, a junior from Arlington, VA; Conner Berkey, a junior from Culpepper, VA; and Matt Kokoska, a freshman from Phoenix, MD.

Artist-in-Residence, pianist Jack Gibbons, performed at several Randolph County elementary schools during the spring, including this concert at Jennings Randolph Elementary School in Elkins. Photo by Nanci Bross-Fregonara Around Campus

| 3

AROUND CAMPUS

The Residence Life staff, including student Resident Assistants, enjoyed bonding through a whitewater rafting trip in the spring near St. George, WV. Photo by Blackwater Outdoor Adventures

The D&E website (dewv.edu) received two awards this year – the Interactive Media Awards Best in Class for excellence in web design, development and implementation, which is the highest honor bestowed by the non-profit organization to recognize individuals and organizations for their outstanding achievement, as well as the Central Georgia American Advertising Federation ADDY award for Best in Show for website design. Members of the D&E project leadership team, shown here with the ADDY award, are: (seated) Jessica Wilmoth, online communications coordinator; Carol Schuler, associate vice president for communications & development; Amy Mattingly, director of information services; (standing) Denice Reese, associate professor of nursing; and Katie Bright, retention specialist and special projects accountant. The team worked with Georgia-based design firm Third Wave Digital and Drupal content management developer The Longsight Group to redesign and launch the site. Photo by Nanci Bross-Fregonara

The Senator (senior Alex Torres) and one of the two new Spirit Squirrels (Henry and Stephen) entertain fans at a D&E basketball game. A project of Student Assembly, the Spirit Team brought fun, games and contests to Senator Athletics, charming fans of all ages. Photo by Linda Howell Skidmore

One of two acts featured during DejĂ vu weekend, country singer Justin Moore entertained the campus and community at the outdoor amphitheater. Photo

by Haley Russell

4 | Davis & Elkins College Forward

Michelle Mabry, left, Chair of the Davis & Elkins College Biology and Environmental Science Department, identifies a mushroom with Master Naturalist student Pamela Byrne while conducting a fungi workshop for the Tygart Valley chapter of the West Virginia Master Naturalist program. Master naturalist training is offered in a broad range of specialties in the fields of natural history and environmental education. Topics include mushrooms, wildflowers, insects, snakes, birds, mammals, weather, geology, fossils, nature interaction and teaching, all from a West Virginia perspective. The class took place in Fox Forest adjacent to the WV Division of Natural Resources headquarters in Elkins. Photo by Nanci Bross-Fregonara

The Snowshoe Foundation awarded D&E a $14,000 grant to help support the Highlands Scholar Program. The award will provide oneyear scholarship funding for an eligible student from either Randolph, Webster or Pocahontas counties, all of which are served by the Snowshoe Foundation. The student who receives the award will be named the Snowshoe Foundation Highlands Scholar. Shown here are Voras Haynes, Snowshoe Foundation board member; Tina Vial, Assistant Director of Development and Support and Coordinator of Church Relations; and Jeremy Golston, director of development. Photo by Linda Howell Skidmore

Senator Athletics reached out to the community through several youth sport camps this year, including a swim camp led by Head Swim Coach Nick Smith; tennis camp led by Head Tennis Coach Otis Cutshaw; basketball camp led by Head Men’s Coach Chris Cottrell; and soccer camp led by Women’s Soccer Head Coach Raul Ovalle. Photo by Nanci Bross-Fregonara Around Campus

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Phase

Next

Mihalyo Named New D&E President

Mihalyo Joined D&E's Leadership in 2011. Since then, the College has continued its Forward momentum. At a glance: • Enrollment up more than 55% • Enhanced academic programs and faculty • Distinguished student achievement • A balanced budget • $10 million invested in facilities • No external debt

6 | Davis & Elkins College Forward

Trustees Affirm Leadership Continuity

a time for new ideas, the blessings of a strong foundation.

The service celebrated Dr. Mihalyo, the recent achievements at Davis & Elkins College, and the connections between the College, the community and our Presbyterian heritage. It marked not so much a change, but a continuation of the past five years – new hats for familiar faces,

The Trustees also elected June B. Myles as Chair of the Board, succeeding Paul S. Stirrup, whose term on the Board also concluded on June 30 after five years as Chair. He continues on the Board as Chair-Emeritus.

On June 30 in Davis Memorial Presbyterian Church, a very special event took place: A Service of Celebration and Transition. Benfield-Vick Chaplain and Associate Pastor of Davis Memorial, the Rev. Kevin Starcher, recognized Dr. Michael Mihalyo and the transition that would occur July 1, when Mihalyo would become D&E’s 14th president.

"I am referring to this time as 'phase next,' Mihalyo said the following day – his first as President. “It is a continuum of all the good things happening at D&E." In a move designed to sustain the momentum of its present positive direction, the Davis & Elkins College Board of Trustees in March named Chancellor Michael P. Mihalyo, Jr. as President, effective July 1, 2013. He succeeds G.T. 'Buck' Smith, who voluntarily stepped down on June 30 after five years as President. Smith continues to serve the College as President-Emeritus and College Advisor.

In announcing the appointments, Chairman Stirrup noted, “the College’s administrative and Board leadership will essentially remain the same – we will all just wear different hats. It is a sign of the College’s strength that we have within the present leadership team seasoned persons who can lead us into the future.”

D&E’s Position of Strength Stirrup continued: “By all accounts, the past five years have witnessed a remarkable turnaround in the direction, spirit, academic program, student life, enrollment, finances, and facilities of Davis & Elkins. Though not without continuing challenges, it would seem we are in the strongest overall position since the College was founded

"I am referring to this time as 'phase next.' It is a continuum of all the good things happening at D&E." – New D&E President Dr. Michael Mihalyo

109 years ago.

“Enrollment is up by more than 55%, the faculty and academic programs have been greatly enhanced, students are increasingly distinguished in their academic achievement, we operate with a balanced budget, nearly $10 million has been invested in facilities and, unlike most other colleges and universities, we have no external debt.”

Mihalyo and Myles: Seasoned Leaders President Mihalyo came to Davis & Elkins in August 2011 as Provost and Chief Academic Officer. In March 2012 he was named Chancellor, with responsibility for overseeing day-to-day administration of the College as well as representing and acting on behalf of the President. He holds degrees from Duquesne University and West Virginia University, and is an accomplished keyboard artist.

Board Chair Myles was first elected to the Board of Trustees in 2000, and has served as Chair of the Enrollment Management Committee, Treasurer and Vice Chair. During a mandatory year off the Board in 2009-10, she was awarded the Honorary

Degree, Doctor of Humane Letters. A resident of Redding, CT, and Elkins, WV, she is President of Myles Lumber Company and serves on the Boards of Davis Trust Company, Davis Memorial Hospital Foundation and the Randolph County Community Arts Center.

Commenting on Dr. Mihalyo’s appointment as his successor, Smith said, “Since coming to D&E, Michael has demonstrated repeatedly his extraordinary capacity to ‘get things done’ with insight and clarity, touched by his warm humanity.

It will be a privilege to continue working with him.”

Mihalyo is widely experienced as a teacher and higher education administrator. Before coming to D&E, he served as Chair of the Division of Fine Arts at Brevard College and as Vice President for Academic Affairs, Provost and Dean of Faculty at Bethany College. He served also as interim Vice President for Academic Programs of the Appalachian College Association (ACA), a consortium of 35 private liberal arts colleges and universities serving over 45,000 students and 3,700 faculty.

The 2013-14 academic year got underway in grand style. We welcomed a large incoming class during our orientation and were delighted to see our returning students back home.

Now confirmed by the Office of the Registrar, I am pleased to report that our overall full-time enrollment is 847 students with 318 new students and 529 returning students. This exceeds significantly our projection of 810 students for the fall semester.

On an interesting note, Dr. Ross, in his 1979 Diamond Jubilee History of the College, recounted that, “In 1948-49, D&E had the largest enrollment in its history – 878 regular students.” Since then, the highest fulltime enrollment was 838 in 1983-84. Happily, we have exceeded this 30-year-old record.

This of course was not accomplished by any one particular group. It required the strong collaborative efforts of our Admission staff, our Retention team, our Student Life Office, Athletics Department, Financial Planning, Student Accounts Receivable, and our Communications and Marketing team. The fact that the effort was cross-institutional is probably the most satisfying for me.

Now that we are in the full swing of things, there seems to be a positive buzz with regard to some new enhancements including our new ceramics studio, the newly turfed soccer and lacrosse field, and the creation of a one-stop shopping model for all student services. And, we wait with great anticipation for the completion of the Myles Center for the Arts lobby.

None of this could happen without our trustees, friends and donors whose generous support makes it possible for our students to receive the kind of educational experience that matters to all of us.

Please consider joining us for Homecoming, October 18-20, and see all the great things that are happening at D&E.

Michael P. Mihalyo, Jr., D.M.A. President Phase Next | 7

Dancing Lessons from God: Student Adventures In Thailand

By Nanci Bross-Fregonara

And thus the adventure begins.

"Bizarre travel plans are dancing lessons from God"

D&E students Shannon Neuenschwander, '13, and Rebecca Casto, '14, knew traveling to Thailand for a semester abroad would warrant a blog filled with photos and insights. Not only would they be far away from family and exploring a culture that many may never have the chance to experience, but they wanted to record this

– Kurt Vonnegut

First Day of Class: Rebecca 1/7

My second and last class of the day was Ecology and Conservation. I enjoyed this class a great deal! It is similar to my classes at D&E, it is very small, so far only seven people are signed up to take the class. My professor is engaging and friendly and he has told us we will be taking multiple field trips! Including a five-day field trip to the beach where we will work on a research project and go snorkeling on the reef! This can't come soon enough!

We chose our name [ for the blog] based off of this quote. A year ago we decided that we wanted to study abroad together - we didn't know where, just that it had to happen. As our schedules and the demands on our education became increasingly more intense, we found that Thailand was able to meet those demands the best.

We were both excited to discover that we would have the opportunity to travel to such a beautiful and unique country!

We were later asked to travel with one of our professors from school to her home in India after our stay in Thailand! We gladly accepted this offer and we are looking forward to the two weeks we will spend there at the end of our semester at Mahidol University in Salaya, Thailand! Though the path to our travels in Thailand and India may be seen as bizarre and slightly out of the ordinary we both hope that they will be amazing dancing lessons with God and that His hand will be seen throughout our entire trip! ~ Rebecca & Shannon

8 | Davis & Elkins College Forward

Chiang Mai: Shannon 2/4

We took another van trip, to an elephant camp this time. But before we got to ride the elephants, we had the peaceful experience of floating down the river on a bamboo raft. Talk about peaceful!

We did get to go back to the camp and ride elephants. We were on a seat on top of the elephant, so it wasn't as close as we would have wished, but a cool experience, none-the-less.

adventure for posterity’s sake. Together they logged thousands of miles on planes, boats and elephants; hundreds of hours of studying and platefuls of amazingly delicious food. They also logged thousands of words on their joint blog, sharing stories and observations on religion, eating octopus, and friendship.

Shannon, a final semester senior from Dalton, OH, was a Math major with an Environmental Science minor. She had already experienced international travel on mission trips with her church and a Winter Term in Austria and Germany. Rebecca, a junior majoring in Environmental Science from Fayetteville, WV, was a neophyte, but ready to pickup the passport and head out.

“The only way I could get my parents to agree to the trip was to tell them I would be going with Shannon,” Rebecca said. There was reason

for their concern; Rebecca’s travel experience had centered strictly in the East and she had never flown before. “But I wanted to do it. I also wanted to go with [professor of mathematics and physics Dr.] Sharmi Roy. I’d taken classes with her and just loved her,” she said. The notion of adding India to the itinerary, Dr. Roy’s native home, was just too good to pass up.

Not only were the travel options wonderful, but both students wanted a university with a strong science curriculum and unusual electives.

“I’d already finished up all my math major requirements before leaving because I wanted to be free to take some of the science and religion classes,” Shannon said. The best choice for both students was Thailand.

They also knew this would not be the standard western European tour. There would be different foods, languages, cultures, religions – much

"D&E students Shannon Neuenschwander, '13, and Rebecca Casto, '14, knew traveling to Thailand for a semester abroad would warrant a blog filled with photos and insights." more intense than a jaunt to London. But that was precisely the attraction.

Wednesday Adventure: Shannon 1/9

I'm not sure how the topic got started, but Yong [a fellow student] wanted to know if I was Christian. When I replied "yes," she asked which denomination. My reply brought on some curious glances, and some questions.

"Mennonite" isn't so well-known around the world. (Go figure.) Yong told me that many people in Thailand do not choose what they believe; instead, they are expected to believe the same as their parents. Since her parents are Buddhist, then she is, too. When I asked further, she said that she could only choose to be something else if her parents would, as well. This was probably the most foreign thing I've encountered so far: not feeling able to choose your own religion/beliefs?

“We sat down a few weeks beforehand and put together a list of goals,” Rebecca said.

“One of our top goals was to try everything. And we did.

An amazing thing about our school was that there were vendors all over the place. So we were always trying new things. We really thought before we left we’d get food poisoning at some point, but never did!”

Shannon added that while some goals were very specific and utilitarian, such as shopping for saris and riding an elephant, others were less precise. “We wanted

Diving: Rebecca 2/19 The second and last dive on Sunday was by far my favorite! Not only was I getting much more confident and capable with my diving skills but I also saw some pretty cool marine life!

When we first settled on the ocean floor we practiced more of our diving skills and while I was waiting for the others to finish I spotted a crab!

There was also a troop of sea urchins that marched by while I was waiting.

I think I could just live on the ocean floor and watch it all day long!

to try to visit as many of the missionaries we knew, through our connections back home, as we could. We were able to visit one when we first got there, over a two-hour drive away, and another at the end of the trip, but it was hard. We were always so busy.”

While they may not have been able to visit as many places of Christian worship that they hoped to, the field trips to the ancient shrines and temples throughout Thailand and India were both thought-provoking and breath-taking.

From the golden Buddhas at the Royal Palace to the centuries-old Islamic Qutub Minar monument in Delhi, their travels took them to exotic places. For Shannon, experiencing, discussing and learning about different religions left the greatest impression on her. “Students were from all backgrounds,” she said. “So it was interesting coming from a different perspective.

Ninety-five percent of the Thai population is Buddhist. [As a Christian], it was hard to be in the minority, but also a great experience.”

Dancing Lessons from God

| 9

Rebecca explained that what impressed her the most was the fact you couldn’t just drink the water. “It may sound silly, but we take it for granted here. You just turn on the spigot and you have clean water,” she said. “But there you have to use bottled water for everything, even brushing your teeth. When you take a shower you have to make sure not to swallow any water. I greatly appreciate how fortunate we are here at home.”

The University Shannon and Rebecca attended, as well as their own KEI (Knowledge Exchange Institute) group, was made up of students from all over. It offered an international experience while conducting classes in English. However, every time they stepped out of the comfort zone

of the dormitory and campus, they were on their own. This was very empowering, Rebecca explained.

“Just planning our shopping trips was an experience,” she said. “I’d never really used public transportation before and we really had to find out the right pronunciation of where we wanted to go. But, once we did it, we never felt limited at all; it was easy to get to places. I feel like I could get around any big city now.”

Rebecca admitted that the study abroad experience has helped her focus more on future plans. Studying environmental pollution in a tropical setting was very different from her Appalachian roots and she realized there are different opportunities in developing countries.

"Travel forces and encourages you to grow as a person. It should be part of the whole college experience. After all, all of us will be so connected with other cultures in the real world."

Late Mornings, Countless Meals, Endless Fun: Shannon 4/4 Yesterday, we went in the morning to see a Minaret (a large tower usually used for the Muslims' call for prayer) that was 72.5 meters high. It was named Qutub Minar, is made from sandstone and marble, and has 379 stairs to reach the top. This place is a World Heritage site, and is only 5 meters shorter than the Taj Mahal. The place had been converted from 27 Hindu temples into a mosque, so there were many Hindu gods carved into the stones around the minaret, although they had all been defaced.

– Shannon Neuenschwander

“Their environmental problems are just coming. I think it would be interesting to work in a country that is just tackling those challenges,” she said.

On her horizon, she envisions either graduate research in water resources or going directly to other countries to help. During the summer, Rebecca worked with Plateau Action Network in Fayetteville, WV, a non-profit dedicated to cleaning up the Wolf Creek Watershed.

Shannon, who spent the summer working at a Mennonite summer camp in Colorado, admitted she wondered what her future will bring. Although she majored in math at D&E, she found the Mahidol University coursework in physical science and urban planning was “awesome.” “I’m still trying to decide what will be next,” she said. “Volunteer service? Education?

I’m so bad at decision-making.”

Despite some lingering indecision, Shannon recognizes the importance of study abroad.

“Travel forces and encourages you to grow as a person,” she said. “It should be part of the whole

10 | Davis & Elkins College Forward

Agra Plus:

Shannon and Rebecca 4/10 Our last stop on our tour was the Taj Mahal, this was what I had been most looking forward to and it was worth it!

The Taj Mahal is actually a tomb where the king and queen are buried. At the time that we went and the day that we went it was quite crowded and hot.

Most of what the guide told us about the Taj Mahal was either (1) indicated incorrect or irrelevant by Sharmi, or (2) simply an anecdote that had nothing to do with Taj Mahal itself. It is one of the wonders of the world, in case you were unaware, built in 1631-48. The tip of the largest, middle dome is 44.4 meters high, and when you look at the Taj Mahal from a distance, the people at its base look like tiny ants!

college experience. After all, all of us will be so connected with other cultures in the real world.”

In Rebecca’s final blog entry she writes: “We have had some wonderful experiences that we will remember for a lifetime! Our ‘bizarre travel plans’ to Thailand and India have truly been blessings from God and I know that both of us are thankful and extremely grateful for the opportunity to travel! And I hope in the future that we are able to travel together again and make more wonderful memories and take part in even more amazing experiences!”

And so one adventure ends. But perhaps another will begin…

Davis & Elkins students have the opportunity to study abroad using KEI resources and other agencies. Dr. Robert McCutcheon, Professor of English, is currently serving as Study Abroad coordinator.

A College’s Savior Steps Down –Now What?

By Scott Carlson for The Chronicle of Higher Education, August 16, 2013 Editor’s Note: On July 1, 2008, G. T. ‘Buck’ Smith, together with his wife Joni, reported for duty as the 13th President of Davis & Elkins College. Speaking that morning in Robbins Chapel to a standing-room only crowd from the campus and wider community, he laid out 10 principles that would guide the College in the years immediately ahead. The first was “Whatever we do we must do well.” The second: “There is no limit to what can be accomplished if it makes no difference who gets the credit.” He concluded the hourlong session with three words that became the campus mantra: “Together, we can!”

Over the next year, word spread widely of the dramatic turnaround happening here deep in the hills of Appalachia. Scott Carlson - Senior Writer for The Chronicle of Higher Education, the nation’s leading higher education journal - phoned asking if he might visit the campus to “shadow President Smith for two or three days”. He arrived on Monday, September 22, 2009. He ended up staying all week. Try as he might to deflect attention to others, a few weeks later the Chronicle’s lead front page story appeared featuring President Smith, D&E and the renewing potential of a small college.

Learning of President Smith’s pending retirement on June 30 of this year, Mr. Carlson called again asking if he might return – this time to cover the College’s remarkable renaissance. The story that follows is his perceptive account.

Used with permission of The Chronicle of Higher Education Copyright©2013. All rights reserved.

A

Chronicle story on a small college is usually a snapshot in time. We drop in, record the personalities and events around some daunting challenge, then write an article that strives to transfix or inspire readers— or at least convey something useful. And then, aside from an update or two in a blog item, we move on. There are some 4,000 colleges to cover, just in the United States. We almost never go back.

In 2009, I wrote about Davis & Elkins College, a tiny, troubled private institution in West Virginia that had a new president—G.T. (Buck) Smith, a 74-year-old turnaround artist. He planned to resurrect the institution with some conservative financial stewardship, but also with a romantic, almost idealistic strategy: to build an environment that valued relationships, integrity, and compassion, emphasizing the power a small college could bring to the lives of students who either grew up or landed here, deep in Appalachia.

I watched as Mr. Smith made himself the personification of that ideal: He walked around campus, stooping to pick up litter, then stopping a passing student, staff member, or stranger to engage them and make them feel important, interesting, loved.

The story was tremendously popular, but also

struck some as a bit preposterous. One selfproclaimed “jaded” letter writer—a former president of the Appalachian College Association, no less—suggested that no college could turn things around on such a flimsy strategy. She recommended focusing our attention on colleges facing closure, as Davis & Elkins might be one of them.

Given the pressures on little colleges, decline and closure are a constant threat. But for now, the jaded view seems to have been dead wrong. Mr. Smith’s strategy worked. Fall enrollments are up 50 percent since he took over in 2008, to about 800 students, and net attrition has dropped from more than 30 percent to 19 percent. Students— and even some new faculty members attracted from larger, more prestigious institutions—say they came and stayed because of the sense of belonging. Programs that had been decimated, like fine arts, have been restarted. Trustees and wealthy alumni, who sat on the sidelines for years as the college floundered, are now writing six- and seven-figure checks.

D&E, as the college is known, has raised more than $30-million in the past five years. It has put $10-million into repairing the grand but dilapidated structures on its historic mountainside campus, established in 1904. And

Thank You Buck | 11

while the college was borrowing money and raiding its $21.8-million endowment five years ago to stay afloat, today, with an endowment of $29-million, it is one of the few American colleges that can say it has no external debt.

“I thought he was going to wing it—you can’t know how to turn a place like this around,” Joseph M. Roidt, a longtime faculty member who is now vice president for academic affairs, says of the early days with Mr. Smith. “He knew what he was doing. He had a plan. It was about lifting spirits and letting people know this place had a future and we were going to grow and we were going to change. But it was about the power of leadership.

He was everywhere.”

Now, Davis & Elkins is at another critical moment: Mr. Smith stepped down from the presidency on June 30, to become an adviser and fund raiser for the college. He passed the top job to Michael P. Mihalyo Jr., who came here in 2011 as provost.

Although everyone expresses confidence in Mr. Mihalyo, most people interviewed for this article have pondered whether Buck Smith’s magic (or luck) can be passed along. Mr. Roidt, a sociologist, said that Mr. Smith’s tenure was an “object lesson in leadership”—particularly in Max Weber’s theories about charismatic leaders, electrifying personalities who are able to inspire others. “The scary part of charismatic leadership, Weber said, is that as soon as you try to institutionalize it, it dies,” Mr. Roidt points out. “It’s connected to the power of the individual personality.”

And no matter who is sitting in the president’s chair, Davis & Elkins faces all the challenges faced by other small, rural, non-elite private colleges in charting a path forward.

“I don’t want to claim that we have arrived, or that we are safe or secure,” Mr. Smith told me recently during dinner on the campus. “For those of us with less than $50-million or $100-million endowments, there is no margin for error.” A public-relations disaster or a bad investment could flush everything away. Mr. Smith has seen it before, and he now sees other small colleges borrowing tens of millions for buildings, severing church ties, and emphasizing athletics, all to bring some pizazz.

“I think that’s a shaky plan,” he says. “But none of us knows whether we have the right plan.”

For someone who works some 15 hours a day, Mr. Smith, now 77, seems as energetic as he was

President G.T. ‘Buck’ Smith and Joni Smith accept a gift of thanks from then-incoming President Michael Mihalyo in June. four years ago, and he’s still eager to connect with a visitor or charm a student. Just before dinner at the college’s Graceland Inn, he meets two motorcyclists, a retired cop and a former Marine, who rode 400 miles from Philadelphia for a lark. When Mr. Smith learns that they are gun enthusiasts, he offers to meet them the next day to show them the college’s collection of historic rifles and powder horns.

logistics of setting up a new turf field, the sort of project he had supported elsewhere in the past.

Eventually, a major gift for the field turned up.

Later, a student from Belington, W.Va., approaches Mr. Smith, asking if he found the butterscotch pie she left anonymously at his office. He regales her with a story about taking the pie to a 91-year-old alumna in Baltimore, who loves butterscotch pies, and who shared a piece with Mr. Smith before he left.

June Myles, whose family has a major lumber business in Elkins, is another donor who has been charmed by Mr. Smith. She joined the college’s Board of Trustees 12 years ago— she felt obligated, having grown up here. “Elkins, and Randolph County, would be a different place without Davis & Elkins College,” she says. But in years past, she gave only a little money for a scholarship fund and a running track. “I thought I was done,” she says, miming wiping her hands.

“I thought I had met my trustee obligations, so to speak.”

“If you ever want to go to Baltimore to meet her, we will arrange that for you,” he says. “It would be the thrill of her life.” The student is delighted.

Much of Mr. Smith’s talent lies in focusing his attention intensely on someone, making him or her feel important, appreciated, and listened to.

It’s a disposition that served him well in the fundraising world, where he spent a career developing donor-cultivation techniques still used by development officers. His style, as he describes it, is indirect. In one case, he first approached a prospective donor—a successful Baltimore businessman—for help in connecting the elderly, pie-loving alumna with a new financial manager.

Later Mr. Smith asked the businessman about the

12 | Davis & Elkins College Forward

“I haven’t gone around asking people for money,” Mr. Smith says. “I just tell them our story and ask their opinions of things—and I am serious when I ask their opinions, because I don’t know the answers.”

But since Mr. Smith took over, she has given more than $4-million to support renovations in the arts center, an auditorium, and an athletics facility; to create a new gateway to the campus; and to support an endowed chair, among other projects.

Her new generosity came in part because she saw that the college was back on track and debt free— she would not be throwing her money away.

But there was something else—a joy in giving, which she attributes to the atmosphere at the

college. “I’m not sure I can explain it,” she says, thinking back to the first time she met Mr. Smith. “I remember one thing he said, because my daddy always said it: It is amazing what you can accomplish if you don’t mind who gets the credit. … He has a way of saying, ‘You’re great.’ If someone tells you that you’re really wonderful, it’s hard not to respond positively to that.”

In a way, this generous, hopeful ethos pervades the college now—and has served as a major attraction for students and new faculty members.

Carol Carter left a position as a tenured professor at Louisiana State University to become an associate professor of business and the chair of the business department at Davis & Elkins— much to the surprise of her colleagues in Baton Rouge.

“They thought I was crazy,” she says.

When she was offered the job, her dean at LSU started putting together a counteroffer. “That night I got an e-mail from Buck”—which talked about how much the college wanted and valued her—“and the next day I went in and said, ‘I made up my mind—I’m going.’”

She misses the resources she had at a big research institution, but there are a number of things she doesn’t miss: the politics, the backbiting. In her new job, “students are actually considered,” she says. “A lot of times at a research university, students are considered a necessary evil.”

Certainly, teaching this population requires more work in some ways. Bryan Wagoner, an assistant professor of religious studies and philosophy, came from Harvard University. He says he “got tired of the minutiae” in an intensely academic environment and was looking for a small college—particularly near the region where he grew up, in western North Carolina—where he could grapple with philosophy and religion more broadly. But going from an Ivy to a relatively unknown college in West Virginia has been “a rough year of adjustment,” he admits.

“In the past, I had worked with students who were incredibly motivated,” he says, but at D&E, he has had to work harder to engage, inspire, and help students make connections. So he has tried introducing criminology students to Jeremy Bentham and his panopticon; education majors to John Dewey and pragmatism; and science majors to David Hume and his notions of induction and causation.

Nonetheless, he says, “I revel in the ability to work with and challenge some students who come from profoundly disadvantaged backgrounds,

and who don’t have the sense of entitlement that other students I’ve worked with in the past have had.”

Gallup has asked 18- to 35-year-olds what quality defined their best instructor, Mr. Busteed says, and “care” always rises to the top.

Students pick up on this. Ellis C. Wyatt graduated from high school with 15 other kids in Harman, W.Va. He was one of the Highlands Scholars— students from West Virginia hollows who can attend Davis & Elkins for about the same price as West Virginia University, one of the many strategies D&E employed in its resurrection. Mr. Wyatt, who is dyslexic, says his schoolteachers told him he would never make it in college. “I got much more support up at Davis & Elkins than I got in high school,” he says. In May, he walked across the stage at graduation as the class salutatorian, and this fall he will start graduate school at West Virginia University, with the hope of becoming a trauma counselor.

“One of the more fascinating finds of that study is that people who said they had teachers who cared about them personally were more likely to be exposed to 21st century skill development in school,” he says, “and that in turn was predictive of greater work success later in life.” Hope— defined

by Gallup as seeing a pathway to achieving one’s goals—is actually a stronger predictor of college success than standardized-test scores and highschool grades, Mr. Busteed says.

Mark Lanham spent 25 years as a Marine infantryman, but now, thanks to the Post-9/11 GI Bill, he studies sustainability, environmental studies, and biology at Davis & Elkins. He is an Elkins native—he used to play in some of the college’s historic mansions that were boarded up in the 1970s—but he could have enrolled at lots of other colleges.

“The camaraderie from the military that I was missing in my life I found here,” he says. “Everyone knows everybody. Everyone helps. When I checked out other schools, I was a number. They didn’t really care. They wanted the government money. Here they actually care.”

Offering hope, encouragement, and care—it all sounds kind of squishy. But it may be more important than people realize. I shared the story of Davis & Elkins with Brandon Busteed, executive director of Gallup Education, a division of the polling and public-research company. Mr. Busteed studies what Gallup’s data can tell us about learning, job satisfaction, and well-being, and he says that the D&E story “brought to life” some of the trends he finds in the research.

Hope and care might sound like “soft” attributes, but they are some of the most important elements that people value in education and the workplace.

In fact, hope and care are often the very qualities that colleges are selling in their viewbooks and marketing materials—it’s implied in all of the talk about small classes and personalized attention, in the glossy pictures of professors and students sitting closely together, poring over texts.

The problem, says Mr. Busteed, is that hope and care are not nearly as prevalent in college as they should be. In polls, 23 percent of respondents say that highschool teachers care about their problems and feelings, while 16 percent say that their college instructors care. Eighteen percent of respondents say that highschool teachers know

their hopes and dreams, while only 11 percent say that’s true of college instructors.

“Hope is a malleable construct—it can be boosted or lowered, and it is contagious,” Mr. Busteed says. “When you think about the link between caring teachers and hopeful students, it’s one thing to say ‘I care,’ and it’s another thing to actually express that—to say ‘I care,’ to ask someone how they’re doing, and to actually pause to listen.”

If D&E’s resurrection is at least partly based on

Thank You Buck! | 13

Mr. Smith’s fund-raising prowess and “lifting spirits,” as Mr. Roidt put it, the question is how much the college’s health depends on Mr. Smith at the helm.

The president knew years ago that his time in office was limited. In 2009, he said he would serve only as long as he and his wife, Joni, were healthy. In the years since, his wife’s health has declined, and he has had some health scares of his own: Four years ago, he referred to the buzzing BlackBerry in his breast pocket as his “Pacemaker”—students called him at all hours to ask about enrolling at the college or getting someone to fix a dorm-room toilet. Now, after collapsing in his home in the summer of 2011, he has a real Pacemaker lodged in his chest.

Mr. Smith has tried setting up successors in the past, with mixed results. At Bethany College, another West Virginia institution where he led a turnaround from 2004 to 2007, the successor he was grooming dropped out after a family crisis, Mr. Smith says; the college conducted a search to hire Scott D. Miller, who is still there.

At Chapman University, where Mr. Smith led a turnaround in the 1980s, the board initially passed over Mr. Smith’s suggested successor to hire Emerson College’s Allen E. Koenig, who developed an acrimonious relationship with Chapman professors. “He nearly wrecked the place in two years,” Mr. Smith says, and Mr. Koenig resigned in 1991. Chapman hired Mr. Smith’s choice, James L. Doti, who has run the college ever since. Mr. Koenig, who died last year, spent the next two decades as a presidential search consultant.

Mr. Smith is skeptical of the typical presidentialsearch process: For big bucks to a consultant, he says, you get a list of names, most of them left over from past searches. The candidates’ main ambitions are to be president of a college.

“Anywhere, they don’t care where it is,” Mr. Smith says. “What does that say about commitment to your institution? Nothing.” In time, the trustees vote on someone most at the college have seen for only a few hours.

“Does that make any sense?” Mr. Smith says.

“Imagine finding a life partner this way. This is a marriage.”

Rita Bornstein, a former president of Rollins College who has written extensively about college leadership, calls the search process “a pig in a poke.”

“It takes a lot of time and costs a lot of money, and it often doesn’t produce anything that is a lot of good,” she says.

Sometimes colleges have to go outside to pick a new leader, especially if they are trying to shake things up. But in most cases, Ms. Bornstein advocates grooming and promoting a president from within, someone who knows the culture and won’t miss a beat. “You know what you’re getting, the good and bad, and there are no surprises,” she says. “The problem with the internal candidates is that they are probably too well known, and they are not charismatic anymore to their colleagues.”

That is why less than 30 percent of presidents are appointed from within, she says.

In looking for someone to take over, Mr. Smith had a breakthrough in 2011, as the college was looking for a provost. Faculty members attended a teaching workshop through the Appalachian College Association led by Mr. Mihalyo, who was chairman of fine arts at Brevard College, in North Carolina, and who had worked with Mr. Smith at Bethany, where Mr. Mihalyo was provost. The professors liked Mr. Mihalyo and persuaded him to apply for D&E’s provost job. He was hired.

Last year, the college came up with an unusual working arrangement for the two men. Mr. Smith remained president and the college’s primary fund raiser, but he spent more of his time at his home 2,600 miles away in Ashland, Ore., while Mr. Mihalyo got a title of chancellor and took on the daily running of the college. When Mr. Smith decided to retire, he asked the board members whether they wanted to keep cruising down the road they were on, or take a detour by hiring some unknown quantity. The choice was clear.

Mr. Mihalyo is very different from Mr. Smith. He is quieter and more careful. He doesn’t seem to have the jokey, folksy ease that Mr. Smith has in front of crowds of alumni or students. But faculty and board members here express confidence that he will nurture the environment cultivated by Mr. Smith.

While he doesn’t face the sorts of problems that gave Mr. Smith sleepless nights for five years, he faces stark challenges in sustaining the college nonetheless. Davis & Elkins is remote—a twoto four hour drive separates it from population centers like Washington, Pittsburgh, and Columbus, Ohio. Students say that Elkins’s small size is the college’s main downside. The college has great “bones” in beautiful old buildings that

14 | Davis & Elkins College Forward

climb up the hillside campus, but it’s clear that repairs are due on a stairway or stonework here, a roof or plaza there. It carries a $33,570 sticker price in a state where the median household income is $39,550. While attrition dropped from 16 percent to 6 percent from the fall to spring semesters this past year, it remains stubbornly around 14 percent from spring to fall over the past few years—exit interviews indicate that’s mainly because of the financial burdens. And any small college now has to grapple with a pervasive attitude, trumpeted in magazines and op-eds, that an education at a little college is quaint but not worth the money. In West Virginia, those pressures may be even more profound.

But Mr. Mihalyo has ideas. Given the college’s location and its experts and special collections in Appalachian artifacts and history, he plans to strengthen Davis & Elkins’s association with mountain culture and arts. The new emphasis has attracted a student who is a star fiddler from Washington State, and another who is a banjo sensation from Canada.

The college, he says, is also streamlining its curriculum and trying to strengthen its academics. The business program will focus more on entrepreneurship, while education will carve a niche in early-childhood programs.

Mr. Mihalyo added little rituals to the graduation ceremonies, like having each student’s favorite instructor bestow a baccalaureate hood on that student. That ritual dramatically increased the popularity of the baccalaureate ceremony—all but two of the 119 graduates showed up this year, versus about two dozen in 2007—and it reinforced the academic spirit of the college.

And Mr. Mihalyo talks about preserving some of the elements that have buoyed the college at its toughest times: hope, optimism, a generosity of spirit.

Asked if he is nervous about taking the helm of a small college at such a precarious time in higher education, he shrugs. “Most of the places that I have worked have had challenges, some more significant than others. If you can help people, the challenge is well worth it.” And then he laughs.

“You certainly don’t want to mess it up.”

By Linda Howell Skidmore

New faculty, chaplain and strengthened church relationships serve students of all faiths in understanding religion and spirituality.

A friendly smile, a helping hand and a sense of community have long been part of the spirit of Davis & Elkins College – the only Presbyterianrelated college in West Virginia. Now, College leaders are exploring the spiritual dimensions within our community more fully, through religious studies, worship opportunities and service that help students examine their own personal beliefs as well as the perspectives of other traditions.

The commitment is evident with the addition of full-time Assistant Professor of Religious Studies and Philosophy Dr. Bryan Wagoner, the appointment of Benfield-Vick Chaplain the Rev. Kevin Starcher and the work of Coordinator of Church Relations Tina Vial. Dr. Robert McCutcheon, professor of English and former interim chaplain, enhances student opportunities through the Phipps Lectureship and service to allied churches abroad. Together with the

College’s Spiritual Life Committee, this team is creating a rich spiritual experience for students, regardless of their religious convictions.

The sum of their efforts has solidified new projects such as establishing a Fellowship of Christian Athletes club and Thursday night Bible Study, while blending them with traditional offerings.

“We have a lot of good synergy,” McCutcheon says. “With all of us working together, we’re more coordinated and more fertile.”

Their aim is to bring the campus community together in ways that can support students in their own spirituality.

“Not all of our students are Presbyterian, and not all are Christian,” Vial says. “We’re not saying they have to follow those values and ethics. Instead, we want everyone to be enriched by the diversity.”

Opening Minds A graduate of Harvard and Yale universities, Wagoner emphasizes that “teaching students how to think – instead of what to think” is the essence of his goals and responsibilities for instructing courses and shaping the Department of Religious Studies and Philosophy.

All freshmen and transfer students are required to take one Religious Studies course and one Philosophy course. Beginning with the 20122013 academic year, students may declare a major

in either Religious Studies or Religious Studies and Philosophy. It’s through this coursework that students will explore the art of how to think and approach problems – a useful tool no matter which major they choose, Wagoner says, adding that career trends are ever-evolving.

“The world is changing dramatically. So, how do we train students for careers that don’t exist when they start their education? By teaching them to think critically, analytically and ethically about human relationships to others, to the environment and to technology,” he says.

Wagoner plans to show students how this approach to problem solving has played a role in religion and philosophy through the centuries.

Among course offerings will be Comparative Religious Ethics, which will explore how the religious philosophies of historic leaders influenced other leaders who subscribe to a different faith. In other courses, students will critically examine religious texts and see how they can be interpreted by people of different backgrounds, which Wagoner hopes will “increase student awareness of domestic and global injustice and success.” A Greek Philosophy class has also been added.

Not all of the study will come from lecture and discussion. Wagoner notes there are some aspects of his courses that students will better learn through experience. “We will continue to bring speakers to campus, but also take students to The Examined Life | 15

other places where they can engage with people of other religions,” he says.

This fall, Wagoner intends to take students in his World Religion class to Morgantown, Charleston or Pittsburgh where they will visit a Mosque and a Buddhist temple.

In the 2013 Winter Term, Wagoner accompanied McCutcheon and a group of seven students to

hesitate. Depending on the day of the week or even the time of day, he may answer “mentor,” “counselor,” “friend,” “supporter” or “minister” – all roles supported by spirituality.

“Our students come from a variety of spiritual backgrounds,” Starcher says. “I want to provide them with a safe space to talk about and explore issues.”

Students are open to his invitation, Starcher says, explaining that he gets calls on off hours and even when classes aren’t in session. Some need his help in understanding the hurdles of life, while others want to share their accomplishments.

“Kevin has a lot to do with the spiritual growth because students gravitate toward him,” Vial says.

“He has a lot of charisma.”

In addition, Starcher supports and facilitates campus groups including Bible Study, Monthly Chapel Service and alternative Spring Break mission trips.

Kenya where they visited churches, hospitals and orphanages. While students earned credit in either Religion or Literature, McCutcheon termed the trip “a friendship mission.”

“They learned how people get along with much less, and saw what a very vibrant faith, optimism and hospitality Kenyans have,” says McCutcheon, whose lifelong interest in Africa first led him to the continent seven years ago and allowed him to build on the relationship between the Presbytery of West Virginia and its sister Presbytery in Kenya.

“It’s really following the church and college connection,” he says.

Lending Support During the past few years, McCutcheon had taken on the role of College chaplain and instructed Religious Studies classes, all the while continuing his own course load and leading students on religion-based study abroad programs.

In the fall of 2012, Starcher was awarded the Benfield-Vick Chaplaincy, an endowed chair established and supported by the First Presbyterian Church of Charleston that honors two of its former pastors who also served as trustees of the College, Dr. William A. Benfield and Dr. George Vick.

Ask Starcher to describe his job and he will likely

However, one of the most popular activities among students is the Taboo Club. The group was formed as a spinoff from a series of discussions Starcher led in the spring of 2012 and offers a platform for open and honest discussion about topics that may be considered difficult to address.

from the national Presbytery to local churches of every denomination.

“Our students come from a lot of different traditions, so we want them to have access that they’re comfortable with while keeping our Presbyterian ethos,” Vial says. “We have hosted three or four opportunities for pastors and other church representatives to talk about ways to have more access to our students.”

One suggestion that came to fruition was local congregations’ support of student activities.

Students play Thursday Night Bingo for cash prizes donated by the First Baptist Church, and the Alliance Church of Elkins sponsors the Java Stop Coffee Bar every Friday.

“I think the more we can engage each other is a benefit for the students and the community,” Vial says. “We’re all stronger together.”

Vial also spreads the word at national Presbyterian meetings, including the General Assembly and Triennium.

“We want to make sure they know our small liberal arts Presbyterian college is here in the hills of West Virginia,” she says. “It’s important to build relationships with churches outside of West Virginia because our students come from all over.”

“We have a lot of good synergy. With all of us working together, we’re more coordinated and more fertile.”

– Dr. Robert McCutcheon “The discussions that Kevin started promoted student relationships and conversations, and encouraged them to talk about deeper issues,” says Robin Stillwater, who earned her Associate of Science degree in Nursing in May and is continuing her education in pursuit of a bachelor’s degree in Religious Studies from D&E. “The fact that those discussions continued in the form of Taboo Club is an added bonus, and Kevin's continued presence at those meetings adds a helpful perspective. Taboo also lends itself to faculty-student relationships, since faculty are invited, and some have come.”

The fact that D&E students hail from various states and abroad further emphasizes the notion that spirituality has a different meaning to different people. Regardless of each students’ definition of spirituality, Starcher says it’s important to help students explore the “big questions of life – who am I; how do I exist; and how do I treat my neighbor?”

Making the Connection Vial’s main focus is strengthening relations between the D&E campus and the religious community – a broad community that ranges

“The whole idea of community is spiritual. People get it and feel it, even if it’s not articulated in religious language,” Starcher says.

16 | Davis & Elkins College Forward

The presence of the acts of kindness on campus and the sense of belonging allow students to form relationships that further self-realization, Starcher says.

Dr. Bryan Wagoner Dr. Bryan Wagoner is chair of the Religion and Philosophy Department and assistant professor of Religious Studies and Philosophy. He joined the Davis & Elkins College faculty in fall 2012.

Dr. Wagoner earned his doctorate in Religion from Harvard University where he was the recipient of a Whiting Fellowship, an honor given to outstanding, advanced dissertation writers in humanities Ph.D. programs. He also received his Master of Divinity and Master of Sacred Theology from Yale University and his bachelor’s degree in Philosophy and Literature from Gordon College, MA. His teaching and research interests include modern religious thought, secularism and religious identity, and world religions.

His previous teaching experience includes positions as adjunct instructor at Emmanuel College, Boston, MA, lecturer in Religion, Humanities and Languages at Thiel College, Greenville, PA, and head teaching fellow at Harvard University.

Dr. Robert McCutcheon Professor of English Dr. Robert McCutcheon began his career at D&E in 1995. Through the years he has also contributed to the College by sharing his passions for religion and the study of different cultures.

Currently, Dr. McCutcheon teaches courses in English and Religious Studies. He previously served as College chaplain, and continues to lead students on trips during Winter Term designed to broaden their perspective on the cultures and spiritual aspects of other countries. He also serves as the coordinator for students wanting to study abroad.

Dr. McCutcheon earned his Ph.D. in English from Stanford University in 1991. He holds a Master of Philosophy in the drama of the English Renaissance from Oxford University and a Bachelor of Arts in English from Duke University.

The Rev. Kevin Starcher The Rev. Kevin Starcher was appointed as the Benfield-Vick Chaplain in the fall of 2012.

A Presbyterian minister and native of Parkersburg, Starcher came to Elkins in December 2010 to serve as associate pastor for Family and Community Ministry at Davis Memorial Presbyterian Church. He joined the D&E student ministry staff in 2012 as part of a pilot program designed to enhance religious resources for students.

Starcher received his Master of Divinity degree from Pittsburgh Theological Seminary and his Bachelor of Science degree in economics from West Virginia Wesleyan College. He has worked as the program director at Camp Crestfield, a Presbyterian Camp and Conference Center in Slippery Rock, PA, and as program director for Highlands Presbyterian Camp and Retreat Center in Boulder, CO. Starcher is active in the Randolph County Ministerial Association and is a volunteer firefighter with the Elkins Fire Department. He and his wife, Christine, a physical therapist, and son, Levi, live in Elkins.

Tina Vial Tina Vial has nearly 30 years of staff and volunteer leadership experience with the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.), which provides a solid foundation for her dual role at D&E as Coordinator of Church Relations and Assistant Director of Development Support. Within this scope, her focus is on two areas: grant writing and building relationships between Davis & Elkins College and church-related governing bodies, congregations and individuals.

She has been a member of the D&E staff since 2011, served the Church’s national staff in the Christian Education and Leadership Development office for 15 years, and has held numerous leadership roles at the presbytery level including Vice Moderator. She was recently co-chair of the Presbytery of WV Mission Study Group and is an ordained elder and a member of Davis Memorial Presbyterian Church in Elkins, where her husband serves as pastor.

The Examined Life

| 17

Sam Casto, a freshman from Fayetteville, argues a point on the House of Delegates floor in Charleston. Students traveled to the state capital in week three of the First-Year Symposium to tour government facilities and cultural venues.

First-Year Symposium

Enhances Winter Term

Rigorous curriculum and teaching approach bring complex topic to life

By Linda Howell Skidmore Davis & Elkins College kicked off its inaugural First-Year Symposium in January, unveiling a new high-impact, learner-centered educational model – and focusing on a vital concept in American life: Democracy.

than lecturers.

In past years, students have chosen from a wide variety of courses, ranging from studies at the Salzburg Seminar to filmmaking on campus.

But this past year, a team of faculty and staff led a new initiative designed to engage all firstyear students in a single, yet complex, theme.

Through team work, panel discussions, projects, and participation in a simulated legislative session, students learned about the skills, practices and processes that enable citizens to

D&E’s Winter Term holds unique promise for initiating something so ambitious. A three-week ‘semester,’ Winter Term has always provided a means for focused, intensive study of a single subject. Through it, D&E asks students to think critically and creatively outside of the traditional classroom model. It promotes authentic, independent, small group learning with professors serving as guides or mentors rather 18 | Davis & Elkins College Forward

“We want you to know something,” Roidt told students during orientation in January, “but just as important as knowing, we want you to be able to do something.”

make a difference through active participation in a variety of democratic processes.

Dr. Joseph Roidt, vice president for academic affairs, and co-facilitators Dr. Catherine Osborne, assistant professor of English, and Amy Jones, coordinator for academic support services, developed the program, its goals and its participatory ethic.

According to Dr. Roidt, the idea for the Symposium emerged during the summer of 2011. D&E decided to embrace the challenge laid out in A Crucible Moment: College Learning and Democracy’s Future, the 2012 report from the National Task Force on Civic Learning and Democratic Engagement. The report documents the “civic deficit” facing the United States and challenges colleges and universities to educate students to serve more capably and knowledgeably as citizens. Davis & Elkins hopes that its own initiative will provide valuable information for other colleges and universities wishing to strengthen their commitment to civic

Students commented that this structure and the path it followed through the session helped them recognize how democracy intertwines with daily and academic interactions.

Members of the House of Delegates meet for a session in Eshleman Science Center. As part of the simulated legislative sessions, students were assigned to either the Elkins Party or the Davis Party. learning and engagement.

Addressing students on the first day, Dr. Roidt noted: “If we look around the world today, we see democracies doing a pretty good job of safeguarding certain rights and liberties. But there are challenges of how to build and nurture fledgling democracies around the globe. If people don’t know how to act as citizens, democracy weakens.”

The Symposium focuses on three primary learning outcomes:

“Leadership isn’t about barking orders,” commented Trevor Wratchford, an English and History major from Moorefield, who was the leader of his group. “It’s about facilitating and being there.”

Another student in the group, Wes Anderson, an Environmental Science major from Buckhannon, WV, commented that he had been a leader in his high school athletic career. This time around, he noted he learned about leadership from observing the actions of other leaders.

During the first week, group leaders helped decide which team members would attend democracyfocused lectures presented by D&E faculty and guest speakers, including Dr. Roidt, Hanover College Professor of Communications Dr.

In the second week, students put the ideals from lectures into practice as they participated in simulated sessions of the West Virginia House of Delegates and state Senate. Fulfilling duties of chamber leaders and county representatives, they researched constituent demographics, wrote and researched topics for bills, and argued points and counterpoints. Agency representatives from throughout the state participated in caucuses dealing with children’s health care, entrepreneurship, extractive industry, travel and tourism, drug prevention, education, sustainable energy, and women’s issues.

An overnight trip to West Virginia’s capital city in the final week gave the students an opportunity for experiential learning with tours of the Governor’s Mansion, state capitol building, Clay Center and Cultural Center. It also provided a time for reflection on the previous weeks’ exercises, and celebration of individual and team accomplishments.

Students identified their participation in a mock session in the House chambers as a highlight of the trip.

“It was us, but it seemed like it was so real,” said Ben Pond of Sheffield, England.

College leaders hope that D&E’s initiative will

• Gaining familiarity with a range of issues related to democracy, including government functions, the history and philosophy of democracy, media and democracy, and multiple perspectives on democracy • Strengthening citizenship abilities (such as working as a member of a team); exercising leadership; strengthening research skills; and improving written as well as oral and interpersonal communication skills • Preparing for future civic engagement, both at D&E and in the world beyond.

“We want you to know something,” Roidt told students during orientation in January, “but just as important as knowing, we want you to be able to do something.”

“The experience shaped me to want to become more involved in democracy,” said Jessica Williams, an Elementary Education major from Shenandoah Junction, WV. During the session, which ran January 7 through 25, students were assigned to one of 22 small groups in which members selected leadership and assigned duties.

First-Year Symposium team members, from left, Alex McElroy, Matt Lawrence, Dallas Poyner, Scotty Leach, Haylee Murray, and Katelyn Norton work on their poster project.

Barbara Garvey, West Virginia Delegate Denise Campbell, and West Virginia Commissioner of Agriculture Walt Helmick. Students also watched and discussed popular films with political themes, and created posters reflecting the role democracy plays in society.

provide valuable information for other colleges and universities wishing to strengthen their commitment to civic learning and engagement.

They plan to continue the democracy theme for the 2014 First-Year Symposium.

First Year Symposium

| 19

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To make your gift, please call Wendy Morgan, Director of Alumni Engagement and Support, at (304) 637-1341. Or you can send it in the complimentary envelope insert. Or go online at www.dewv.edu. Either way, you will...

Be that 20 | Davis & Elkins College Forward

with Michael Doig

By Nanci Bross-Fregonara

Get to know…

Assistant Professor of Art, Michael Doig Entering the office of Michael Doig, assistant professor of art, one is immediately struck with the collections of dinosaurs (he has a passion for paleontology) and action heroes scattered all over his shelves and desk. His office, squirreled away in the Art Department of the Myles Center for the Arts, is occupied by a large painting in progress of a man walking in the Appalachian woods, which takes up one entire corner; a couch strewn with clothes, books and paints fills another.

One has the feeling he spends a lot of time down here.

Doig began painting and drawing as a child in Elkins. He received his Bachelor of Fine Arts from West Virginia University and his Master of Fine Arts from the State University of New York at Buffalo. While teaching in Buffalo, he began working on paintings inspired by Appalachia, not knowing that his journey to find employment post-NY would lead him back home.

You were in upstate New York, a very trendy and urban environment, and left that scene for Elkins.

How did that happen? I really had no intention of moving back to Elkins. It was a simple twist of fate. After teaching in Buffalo, I decided I’d had enough and was heading to Tennessee with a stack of resumes. I had heard there was a teaching position at D&E and decided just to stop by on my way south and drop one off, saving the rest for Knoxville. That was more than five years ago.

Deciding to teach is a significant decision for artists.

What do you think is the best part about teaching art? You may think this odd, but I truly believe that art and creativity can help save the world. There have been all these studies and scientific research

that show those who have taken art are happier and more successful. The world is changing at such an incredible pace and the most we can do is teach creativity. I also like working with students and empowering them to see things in other ways. I always tell them the only thing holding us back is not looking enough outside ourselves. It’s important to embrace change, but also keep the things that make us who we are.

You have chosen to use very large canvases for your art, why is that? I believe there is power in largeness. It forces you to confront it. When I was first given an assignment to paint on a 4’ x 4’ canvas I thought to myself, this could be a very large bad painting. But then I liked it. If you are sharing an experience, why not say it large? It gives significance to the subject.

When did you know that art would be a part of your life? I think I have always made art and knew I would be an artist. I remember always having pencils and paper, even when really young. It was my only outlet in school and I used art to express myself. After a while I realized I just couldn’t turn it off. It was a part of me.

What artists do you admire most? I’d have to say I admire people, many of them my friends, who are struggling artists. I like to see what people can do when they really don’t have the resources to make both art and sandwiches. (laughs). As far as the “masters” go, I like the Impressionists and Post-impressionists, John Singer Sargent and even Cubism – styles that are different. I really like Chinese-born American artist Hung Liu, who paints scenes of rural China that are rather like Appalachia – showing glimpses of what life is really like. She uses large canvases and a drippy style. Very powerful.

Since you arrived at D&E, there has been an expansion of the art program, including physical improvements to the art department space and just a feeling of rejuvenation. Where do you see it going? I hope to continue to expand the art program. It would be great to have 20-25 majors in visual arts. I’d like the program to give the students everything you need to succeed in the world: an understanding of what the market is, how to make a name for yourself. And I’d love to see more teachers as well.

There are many students who have never taken an art class, what is the attraction for them? A big part of what I do is working with non-majors and giving them an appreciation of art. I’d love to bring more down here to take even more classes so that they can have a legitimate experience in the arts.

They are often surprised at what they can create.

That’s what I want to share.

If you could have any painting hanging in your living room, what would it be? This may sound funny, but I’ve never had a painting of my own because I’m never able to keep them. I’d love to do that. As far as a famous painting goes, I would hate for others not to see it – I’d probably just donate it to a museum. But cave paintings…. now that would be nice!

Describe your perfect day. (Pauses). That’s a tough one. You don’t often know that a day is perfect until you look at it in retrospect. Some days just turn out to be unexpectedly perfect – you just look back and say, wow, that was a perfect day. If I could plan a perfect day it might be wandering into the woods, getting a painting done and ending with a really good meal. But, a perfect day might just be the perfect confluence of thoughts. You always have to be open to whatever the universe has in store for you.

"You may think this odd, but I truly believe that art and creativity can help save the world."

Two of Michael’s paintings were accepted in state-wide art exhibits. “Winter,” shown above before completion, were displayed as part of “A Sense of Place: The West Virginia Sesquicentennial Artist Invitational” exhibit at the Huntington Museum of Art. Another painting, “Brett Kern/Tyrannosaurs Rex" was accepted for the “Best of West Virginia” show at Tamarack.

Q&A with Michael Doig

| 21

Karen Stirrup, wife of Davis & Elkins College Board of Trustees Chair Paul Stirrup, admires the plaque for the newly dedicated Stirrup Gallery. The facility, located in the Myles Center for the Arts, will serve as home to The Darby Collection. The gallery was named for the Stirrups because of their encouragement and support over the past several years. Photo by Haley Russell

By Mary McMahon For more than seven decades, The Darby Collection has been one of Davis & Elkins College’s best kept secrets. Now, the collection of nearly 10,000 North American treasures is on display for public view in its new permanent home, The Stirrup Gallery of Myles Center for the Arts.

A dedication ceremony for the Collection took place in March and the 2,600-square-foot Gallery was named in honor of Board of Trustees member Paul Stirrup and his wife, Karen, who over the years provided support and encouragement for assembling the collection in one location. Efforts to convert the former music room in the Myles Center into a secure, practical and attractive museum space began in early 2012, with assistance from a team of D&E students and the College maintenance staff.

Mark Lanham, a D&E student and veteran of the United States Marine Corps, was recently named coordinator of The Darby Collection.

The artifacts, representing everyday items used by mankind from the Stone Age through the early 20th century, were donated to the College in 1942 by collector Hosea M. Darby. The Elkins architect, building contractor and businessman had a fascination with the “rare and unusual,” which inspired him to collect the array of items by perusing antique journals and corresponding with dealers and other collectors.

Darby was born in 1866 in Preston County, WV, and moved to Elkins with his wife, Susan, in 1896. Around 1902, Darby’s profitable business enterprises allowed him to build his dream home, a large Victorian-style residence on the northeast corner of Diamond Street and Randolph Avenue.

It was believed that Darby may have envisioned the property as a private museum in which to display his treasured collection. For nine years, 1933 to 1942, 22 | Davis & Elkins College Forward

all four stories were strewn with antiquities and Darby proudly opened his home to the public.

In addition to the collection, Darby’s bequest to D&E included his home and two other residential properties—the still-occupied Darby Apartments on Fourth Street and another in South Elkins, as well as 2,500 acres of coal land in Randolph and Preston counties. Darby’s residence was used for many years as the College president’s home. All of the Darby properties were eventually sold.

The collection, however, remained in the Darby home until the 1960s, when it was moved to the campus. The efforts of numerous volunteers interested in Early American and Native American history and artifacts became essential to preparing the collection for eventual exhibit. For nearly 35 years, beginning in 1969, Elkins resident Dorothy Lutz, now deceased, dedicated countless hours to organizing, researching, registering and cataloguing the artifacts. She sought advice and guidance from museum professionals in Williamsburg, VA, the Smithsonian Institution in Washington, D.C., and other experts regarding exhibit design, interpretation, preservation, appraisals and management.

Gilbert F. “Bud” Rexrode, a retired Elkins pharmacist, was appointed curator of the artifacts in 2007 after volunteering an estimated 2,600 hours to the project. Just prior to the opening of The Stirrup Gallery, Rexrode stepped down from his post. He and his wife, Ann, relocated to South Carolina to live closer to their children.

“Students enrolled in College history and art classes will find valuable resources for study, and our professors teaching in those areas of study are eager to incorporate these resources into the curriculum,” Rexrode says of the value and

"Students enrolled in College history and art classes will find valuable resources for study, and our professors are eager to incorporate these resources into the curriculum."

– Gilbert F. "Bud" Rexrode

potential of the collection.

In the early 1990s, Lutz and Rexrode adopted a system to catalog and number the items according to museum practices. A year later, then-D&E President Dorothy I. MacConkey designated two rooms for exhibition and office space on the third floor of Halliehurst. Soon after, a representative portion of the collection was opened to the public by appointment. As interest grew and the assistance of a full-time keeper became essential, Susan Bunner Mullens, a 1996

1600s to the early 1900s, many are artfully incised (engraved) to reveal bits and pieces of historical data, as well as evidence of a life’s journey and experiences along the way.

Unique to the collection are six-foot long narwhal tusks, stone and clay ceremonial effigies, all-purpose baskets, stone grinding tools, preColumbian spear points, Neolithic stone bowls, magic cult objects, and even a drum fashioned from a turtle shell.

“American Indians were the original ‘green’ people,” Rexrode says. “They didn’t waste anything.”

Davis & Elkins College President Michael Mihalyo, right, thanks Bud Rexrode for his years of service working with The Darby Collection. Photo by Haley Russell D&E graduate, who had worked part-time with Lutz, was appointed interim coordinator, serving from 1999-2002.

While unpacking items for the display, Lutz and Rexroad discovered a trove of archival treasures: decades-worth of Darby’s correspondence with dealers and collectors, including hundreds of letters and other meticulously filed documents reflecting his efforts to build his collection.

Among these was a 1930s letter in which Darby corresponded with a member of the Catawba tribe, Chief Blue, in Rock Hill, SC, and commissioned the chief ’s wife to create original pottery to his specifications.

These made-to-order objects are displayed along with the colorful Indian pottery collection which includes pieces of Mexican origin, dating from 100 BC to 200 AD; the Mississippian culture, which existed in the eastern United States from 900 AD to 1650 AD; and objects of the Southwestern tribes, which date from 1800 AD to 1900 AD. Art, history and function are also evident in Darby’s collection of some 300 Spanish, French, English and American powder horns, considered by experts to be among the top five collections in the country, aside from those displayed at the Smithsonian Institution. Dating from the early

Visitors to the gallery will also find approximately 90 guns dating from the 1600s to the Civil War era, fish oil and grease-burning lamps, battle axes, swords, daggers, spears and knives, war clubs, firearms, old glass bottles, handmade tools, spinning wheels, sausage stuffers, coffee grinders, strings of trade beads, delicately-carved ivory Inuit boat hooks and scrapers, as well as pewter, copper and iron tableware, and cooking utensils.

A fascinating display among items used by the early settlers is a huge, sturdy rope bed dating back to 1795 and acquired

by Darby in Indiana. As was the practice in those days, the bed was strung with rope upon which a “mattress” of straw or leaves was laid. Periodically, the ropes would become stretched as a result of body weight and would then be pulled and tightened to increase firmness and improve comfort. The straw mattress often attracted bugs and insects, thus the origin of the old saying, “Sleep tight and don’t let the bedbugs bite.”

Not all of the items are yet on display, and some are awaiting repair. In the future, an area of the museum will be designated for rotating displays.

Lanham says he wants to “keep it evolving to make it even bigger and better.”

Lanham notes he can accommodate any size group up to 40 people. He’s also willing to incorporate an interactive tour, if requested. He adds: “I’m really glad people are taking an interest and they’re getting something out of it.”

The Stirrup Gallery is open from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday and weekends by appointment. For more information, or to arrange a group tour, please call Lanham at 304-6371980 or email lanhamm@dewv.edu or museums@dewv.edu. There is no charge for admission.

Darby Collection

| 23

COMMENCEMENT

Photo

Album!

Valedictorian Shannon Neuenschwander with her parents, Don and Kaye Neuenshwander of Dalton, Ohio, following Commencement.

'Buck' Smith receives the faculty assembly's gift - a portrait of 'Buck' and Joni, which will hang in Halliehurst - from President of the Faculty Assembly, Dr. Nadeem Khan, and Vice President for Academic Affairs, Dr. Joe Roidt.

Dr. Bill King hoods student James Bohon of Montrose, WV, during Baccalaureate Ceremonies.

Doctor of Letters recipient John Allen Jr. with his family, D&E Trustee Joyce Allen, Grady Allen and John C. Allen.

24 | Davis & Elkins College Forward

President 'Buck' Smith gave the Commencement Address to the College's 119 graduates.

Joni Smith and Ellis Wyatt, Class Salutatorian. Ellis is attending graduate school at West Virginia University this fall.

A proud tradition continues as new graduates are applauded by faculty.

Robin Stillwater receives her pin from Professor of Nursing Threasia Witt. Stillwater is already working as a nurse at Davis Memorial Hospital. She is continuing her studies toward a BA in Religion and Philosophy at D&E this fall.

Commencement Photo Album

| 25

In May, the first four-year class of Highlands Scholars graduated from Davis & Elkins College – the first to benefit from more than $5.4 million awarded through the College’s innovative program that allows area students to attend a private school at nearly the cost of West Virginia public colleges and universities.

I

nitiated with the start of the 2008-2009 academic year, the Highlands Scholars program offers a significant tuition discount to full-time freshman students attending Davis & Elkins College from the seven counties surrounding the campus – Barbour, Pendleton, Pocahontas, Randolph, Tucker, Upshur and Webster. Those who qualify receive $14,000 if choosing to live on campus or $11,000 if choosing to commute. For four years of attendance, the scholarships total $56,000 for students living on campus or $44,000 for those who commute.

“Kids can’t really believe it when they get $56,000 for four years (of college),” says D&E Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer Kevin Wilson. “But we say, ‘we’re not giving you this money, we’re investing in your future.’ It helps them. It helps the community, and it helps their families.”

This approach to funding higher education for students is unique, Wilson says. That commitment to providing affordable education has caught the attention of the national media and one of the nation’s leading philanthropists.

In 2010, Doris Buffett offered to underwrite up to $300,000 in scholarships to students in the Highlands Scholar region. Donations began pouring in from across the globe to help meet the “Buffett Challenge.” In the end, the goal was surpassed.

Since then, enrollment of students in the Highlands Scholar region has skyrocketed.

Scholarship awards for the 2012-2013 academic year total more than $3.5 million.

Applying for a Highlands Scholarship is easy.

There are no interviews and no long, daunting forms. Instead, D&E admission counselors visit schools to present what the program has to offer and give details of qualifications. Students must earn at least a 2.5 GPA upon high school graduation.

“We try to remove all the hurdles,” Wilson says.

“We just ask, ‘how can we help you?’”

That approach has worked. Since its inception, the program has continued to grow from just eight students in the first year to 287 enrolled in the 2012-2013 academic year.

26 | Davis & Elkins College Forward

This fall, more than 100 new Davis & Elkins College Highlands Scholars will join the College community.

Students are recognized each year at their respective High School awards programs, where the D&E Admission office presents a “big check” to each scholarship recipient.

Phylicia Hudok, a junior Chemistry major from Huttonsville, says the educational experience at D&E has proved invaluable.

“I think without the Highlands Scholarship I would not be here. I would not know how amazing a higher education is because I would have been at some state college,” Hudok says.

While the cost savings is a major advantage for students, Fry and White, both D&E athletes, say being close to home offers yet another benefit.

The largest percentage of Highlands Scholars comes from Elkins High School, Wilson says, with $1.5 million in scholarships being awarded to graduates in the last year.

Students agree that the Highlands Scholarship program has made a difference in their access to a high quality education close to home at an affordable price.

“The Highlands Scholarship has made a huge difference,” Judy Kittle, a guidance counselor at EHS, says. “Before it started, a lot of kids couldn’t afford to go to D&E. The kids are lucky to have this scholarship because D&E is such a great school.”

“If it hadn’t been for the Highlands Scholarship, I wouldn’t have been able to come here,” says Maggie Fry, a Marketing major from Elkins. “It’s a fun school, and you get a good education. Plus, you won’t be in debt when you graduate.”

Wilson points out that the affordability of larger, state colleges was previously a deciding factor for students and their parents. However, those institutions weren’t necessarily where students from small high schools were most comfortable.

“These kids are used to a small environment,” Wilson says. “If they go to a bigger school, sometimes they’re overwhelmed. In fact, a lot of kids transfer back from WVU (West Virginia University), and we honor the scholarship for up to one year after they’ve been out of high school.

So they could get the Highlands Scholarship for three years.”

In 2012, nearly half of the graduating class at Tygarts Valley High School who planned to attend college received Highlands Scholarships.

“The Highlands Scholarship has been a tremendous opportunity for our students,” says Steve Wamsley, principal at Tygarts Valley Middle/High School. “Many of them have very few experiences outside of our area that would make them feel comfortable going a long distance from home.

Ethan White, a Marketing major from Buckhannon, agrees, saying his hope to come to D&E only became a reality with the scholarship.

“I had always wanted to go to a smaller school close to home,” he says. “I think it’s a great thing for our area kids because it brings the cost down, and for a lot of kids that’s a big deal. If they can get a state school cost at a private school, it’s kind of a no-brainer.”

Since its inception, the program has continued to grow from just eight students in the first year to 287 enrolled in the 2012-2013 academic year.

“I’m an only child, so my parents and I are really close,” says White, who plays center on the Senator Men’s Basketball Team. “My family comes to all the home games and travels to some of the away games. It’s kind of nice to have that support of my mom and dad around.”

Fry, a midfielder on the Women’s Soccer Team, says she can always count her family members and friends from the community among the fan base at the matches.

Although Fry, White and Hudok’s families live within a few miles of the College, the students elected to live on campus. That’s a decision they all agree has enriched their lives.

“Just the feeling from everybody being there and saying ‘hi’ is an experience I don’t think you can get anywhere else – it’s a closeness,” Hudok says.

That sense of community doesn’t have to end after graduation. Wilson points out that D&E Director of Career Management and Student Employment Lisa Reed helps students get jobs in their hometowns or somewhere nearby.

“A lot of them want to work locally,” Wilson says.

“That builds the local alumni base and those people tend to come to more (campus) events, which fosters that family attitude.”

For more information on the Highlands Scholarship or ways you can help, call the D&E President’s Office at 304-637-1243.

“We also have a large percentage of students who are overwhelmed by any financial hurdle that they feel is placed before them,” Wamsley adds. “For those two reasons, the Highlands Scholarship has been incredibly helpful to us. Our students now not only feel they can attend college, but are able to stay on campus and realize the entire college experience. Thank you Davis & Elkins College.”

Highlands Scholarships Invest in Students' Future

| 27

Careers

Start

Here D&E Career Services and Student Employment

By Linda Howell Skidmore Alumni who haven’t met Lisa Reed should get to know her. As Director of Davis & Elkins College Career Services and Student Employment, she pairs students with alumni in ways that fill both their needs.

Reed came to D&E in 2010 from northeast Ohio where she was a Career Development Instructor and developed an all-encompassing career guidance program for a multi-campus technical school. She holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Management from Robert Morris University in Pittsburgh, PA, and has advanced education in Global Career Development Facilitating through Thomas Edison State University in Trenton, NJ.

“A lot of the internships are very personalized, created just for that student.”

Students who work 120 hours at an internship earn three college credit hours. However, Reed points out that the job has to be “a relevant experience for the student.” To ensure satisfaction for student and employer, Reed provides guidelines and evaluation forms. D&E faculty members also keep in touch with employers.

Internships Lead the Way Reed’s job duties encompass a wide area – networking with employers, organizing internships, arranging for student work study on and off campus, coaching and advising students, and helping prepare resumes. In her words, “anything career related.” Still, she takes the time to remain very detail-oriented for each project, especially when it comes to student internships.

“I try to find the perfect fit for students,” she says.

28 | Davis & Elkins College Forward

“Some [employers] hope the students will come back for another internship,” Reed says. “Others ask if we have more [students] with a specialized interest.”

It’s that on-the-job experience and forming of work-based relationships that Reed says enhances students’ education and gives them a competitive edge.

“Every student should do at least one internship,” she says. “When you consider how competitive the job market is today, you have to better your chances with an internship. That could turn into a reference letter, but ultimately it could turn into a job.”

In Elkins, students have completed internships at the 20th Judicial Circuit Court, Randolph County Probation Office, Citizens Bank of West Virginia, Davis Trust Company, Davis Health System, Randolph County Sheriff ’s Department, and Elkins Police Department, among others.

Shannon “Kerri” Windell meets with Randolph County Prosecuting Attorney Michael Parker.

During her internship she learned all aspects of the legal system.

Networking Opens Doors Another aspect of career preparation that Reed emphasizes is networking, and she suggests students begin the process as early as their sophomore year.

Reed emphasizes that in both programs, it is important that students perform work-related tasks and provide assistance to the employer.

“I always tell students that the old adage of ‘it’s not what you know, but who you know’ is just as important, if not more important, nowadays,” Reed says.

Looking Ahead Within the next three years, Reed hopes to have Career Services in place as a standard part of students’ curriculum.

She recommends LinkedIn and points out that D&E has a group with approximately 380 members – a number that has quadrupled since Reed was appointed to her position.

“I like to groom them early by encouraging them to volunteer or join a club on campus,” Reed says.

“Then they can start building their resumes.”

“I’ve never had alumni turn me down when I’ve asked them to talk to a student or help with getting an employment contact,” she says.

Reed does plenty of her own networking for the College by visiting area businesses and introducing them to what D&E has to offer through student internships. She also has contacts in Washington, D.C., Maryland, Virginia, coastal North Carolina, Orlando, FL, and Pittsburgh.

This summer, she plans to visit businesses and agencies throughout West Virginia.

“It’s relationship building,” Reed says of her visits.

“I want them to feel like I am their friend at D&E.” In April, Reed and Randolph County Development Authority Executive Assistant Kris Wilmoth coordinated the first Randolph County

Currently, that advice and assistance comes only if students choose to visit Reed’s office or if she speaks to one of their classes.

Moises Oseguera, left, talks with Elkins Patrolman M.J. Sigley. Oseguera was the second student to intern at the Elkins Police Department and was encouraged by his supervisors to apply for a police officer position.

Canaan Valley Resort, Davis Memorial Hospital, the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Snowshoe Mountain Resort, The Greenbrier Resort, The Homestead, Valley Supply Company and Weyerhaeuser.

Deemed by Randolph County Development Authority Executive Director Robbie Morris as a “100 percent success,” the event left employers calling for an encore.

“I had so many people asking me when we are going to do this again,” Morris says. “It will absolutely be an annual event. We may even consider one for fall and one for spring because there are a lot of seasonal [jobs].”

David Karson, left, did a supervisory internship with Reliable Roofing, owned

by Davis & Elkins College alumnus Chuck Preusch. Karson created estimates, supervised workers and learned sales techniques.

Job Fair and brought many of those businesses to campus. According to Reed’s records, 60 businesses and governmental agencies from throughout West Virginia and 250 job seekers participated in the event at The McDonnell Center. Among the businesses that provided information and accepted applications were

Student Workers on the Job Students in need of a part-time job can also enlist Reed’s help. She’s recently taken on the duty of overseeing the Work Study and D&E Works programs.

Work Study employment can provide a variety of jobs which don’t necessarily have to coincide with the student’s major, but also don’t offer college credit. Sites are available on and off campus.

The D&E Works program is normally geared for international students, Reed says, explaining that those jobs are all campus-based.

“I think it’s important to reach out and expose the students to these things they need to know to be competitive in the job market,” Reed says.

“Somewhere along the way we may need to make this mandatory.”

Reed encourages students to follow her fouryear plan to lead to improved success in the job market.

• Freshmen should begin assessing their interests and values. They should also look for ways to develop their skills by attending leadership workshops or exploring volunteer opportunities.

• Sophomores can build on their foundations by joining relevant student and professional organizations, learning how to develop a portfolio, and networking with alumni in their chosen career.

• Juniors need to develop networking opportunities and learn more about the jobsearch process or graduate schools.

• Seniors should practice mock interviews, begin searching for a job or applying to graduate schools, and purchase their first professional suit.

Throughout the process, Reed emphasizes that it’s never too early to apply for an internship.

“My goal is to have them so well educated on how to launch their career that by the time they graduate they won’t need me,” Reed says.

How You Can Get Involved If you, or your company, are interested in providing an internship, job shadowing, mentoring or employing a D&E student, contact Reed at 304-637-1313 or reedl@dewv.edu.

Careers Start Here

| 29

Reinventing Business New curriculum, new leadership respond to changes in how business gets done.

By Linda Howell Skidmore and Carol Schuler The Department of Business has long been one of the largest programs at Davis & Elkins College.

Under the leadership of Dr. Gloria M. Payne, the department grew to include timely majors that inspired and prepared students for careers in the ever-changing business world.

Reflecting that legacy, D&E’s business program has undergone recent changes to meet the needs of both today’s business students and also new leadership from Department Chair Dr. Carol Carter. Still actively involved in the life of the College, Dr. Payne serves as Senior Counsel to the President, following her retirement from teaching in 2011.

One of the most noticeable changes to D&E’s business department is the name itself – the Department of Business and Entrepreneurship – which Dr. Carter chose to better describe the vision and direction of D&E’s business program, as well as the College’s new Center for Entrepreneurship she has founded. And D&E students majoring in business are now required to take an entrepreneurship class as part of their core curriculum.

Carter has a strong background in entrepreneurship. In addition to starting three businesses, she served as the Associate Director of the Stephenson Entrepreneurship Institute, the Director of Social Entrepreneurship Initiative, Director of Women in Business, Instructor of Management, and Director of the Entrepreneurship Bootcamp for Veterans with Disabilities while on the faculty of Louisiana State University. She holds a Bachelor of Science in marketing, a Master of Science in marketing and a Ph.D. in human resource education – all from LSU. For D&E students, another change is the number of business majors available. It has increased from five to seven with the addition of Recreation and Tourism, and Finance. At the start of the last academic year, 165 students – including

incoming freshmen – had registered as business majors, Carter notes. Adding an Entrepreneurship requirement will open more doors for graduates.

“We want our students to realize that starting their own business is a valid career path, so we want to provide them with the tools they need,” Carter shares. “Under our management major, we now have a concentration in entrepreneurship. More and more [students] are interested in pursuing that.”

The benefits of entrepreneurship, Carter says, are multi-faceted and include not only the creation of business, but an avenue to raise individuals’ standard of living and boost the economy.

The program emphasizes the full spectrum of academic topics implemented in the business world, and integrates creativity and innovation - both needed to create new products and services. Coursework includes Small Business Management, Social Entrepreneurship, E-Commerce, and Venture Funding.

“One of the things they will have to do is develop a business plan,” Carter says. “Entrepreneurship pulls together everything they’ve learned and shows them how to apply it. Even if they’re not starting a business, this makes them a better employee because they have a better understanding of business.”

The idea to revise the program came about in the spring of 2012 when the seven faculty members shared their vision on the direction business will take in the future. From there, they formed a plan of how to best prepare students to enter the national and international marketplace with a competitive edge.

“We have increased the rigor of the curriculum, challenging students to be more competitive upon graduation,” Carter adds.

Students wishing to declare a business major now have to apply and be accepted into the program.

Their admission hinges on the successful

30 | Davis & Elkins College Forward

completion of Statistics (Math 180) and College Algebra (Math 193). Both courses will provide students with knowledge they will need in the business world or prepare them for graduate school, Carter says.

All students majoring in business also are required to take a Business Ethics class that focuses on discussion and evaluation of corporate culture and values, ethical behavior when dealing with all constituents associated with the business, and the importance of business ethics as it relates to the integrity of the firm. The course requirement was proposed based on recent upgrades in requirements needed to sit for the West Virginia Certified Public Accounting exam.

Faculty members also took a look at the outcomes of the freshman seminar and formulated a way to tie together the department’s curriculum and the goals of the College.

“We’re trying to help them apply the skills they’re learning to real-life situations,” Carter adds. “They’ll be able to communicate and write effectively or even start their own business.”

One major objective in obtaining this goal is to help students understand how certain coursework will be used in their professional careers. During the spring, students applied their classroom experiences to business needs in the area, for example, conducting a business assessment survey in the city of Thomas to determine how business growth can be encouraged.

“I think students learn a lot more when they see a reason for it,” Carter says.

Additional business classes focus on the global marketplace.

“We’ve designed these courses with more emphasis on the international side of business,” adds Carter, explaining that some of the topics will include culture, customs and opportunities that exist abroad.

Mission Accomplished!

Donors Raise $914,000 for New Pool Roof

By Carol Schuler In less than a year, friends and alumni of Davis & Elkins College have again filled a critical need for our students. The Raise the Roof Challenge, launched with a $200,000 challenge from Student Assembly in 2012, was fully funded in August with nearly $914,000 contributed. Thanks to 229 individual donors, our D&E family exceeded expectations.

“The impact goes far beyond mere facilities,” notes President Mihalyo. “With confidence that we would be successful, we hired Nick Smith as our fulltime swim coach a year ago. As coach and member of the Admission staff, Nick went about a national effort to attract talented swimmers who are serious about their studies.

“The results are truly amazing: 15 men and 6 women from Washington, Wyoming, California, Arizona, Texas, Missouri, Florida, Georgia, Virginia, Maryland, Pennsylvania, Ohio and West Virginia.

Every one of them enters with a high school GPA of 3.0 or better, with six at 4.0 or higher. Little wonder that our swimming program will likely continue to rank nationally among the top Division II colleges and universities academically.”

The facility is, of course, transformed. And the structure replaced for generations to come. Serving the community and our campus, the new Senator Natatorium is another success story for D&E.

Raise the Roof | 31

Men's Tennis

The D&E men’s tennis team had a very solid season in 2013.

The Senators finished in 6th place for the first time since being back in action and were just one point away from making the NCAA Regional Tournament. They were also ranked for most of the year in the top 10 of the ITA and NCAA Regional Rankings, finishing the year ranked #9.

Charles Brunel garnered the WVIAC Freshman of the Year Award and the ITA Atlantic Region Freshman of the Year.

He finished #2 in the Region in Singles and #5 in Doubles with Simon Meriau. Senior Agustin Ochoa finished out his career with the ITA Arthur Ashe Leadership & Sportsmanship Award and 3-time ITA Scholar Athlete Award. He also finished #17 for the year in the ITA Atlantic Regional rankings.

Senator Men’s Tennis loses its first 4-year graduating class of seniors. These three players (Agustin Ochoa, Alain Bailey, and Jason Wood) will be missed, but were essential in building the foundation of the program. A great group is returning and new faces will be filling the places of those graduating.

Comments Head Coach Otis Cutshaw: “We look forward to competing in the GMAC Conference and Midwest Region and look to continue our success we have established already.”

Golf

The golf team was very successful during the Spring season as they finished fourth at the NCAA Atlantic/East Super Regional, while Sebastian Bendsen qualified for the 2013 NCAA Division II Men’s Golf Championship.

At the Regional, the Senators took fourth after a three-day total of 904, placing behind champion IUP (891), Wilmington University (896) and Cal (PA) (902).

Bendsen amassed a three-day total of 222, earning him a spot at the NCAA Championship as an individual qualifier.

Chris Young tied for sixth at 224, followed by Phil Rutherford at 226, Cameron Buist at 232, and Steve Whitaker at 263.

Sebastian Bendsen, Cameron Buist, and Christopher Young were named to the 2013 PING All-Atlantic Region team, which features 109 players across eight regions – East, Atlantic, Southeast, South, Midwest, South Central, Central and West.

At the National Championship, Bendsen competed as an individual qualifier and finished 18-over for the tournament.

He started the tournament with a 72 and followed with a 78 on Tuesday and an 81 on Wednesday.

Coach Wally Edgell stated, "Sebastian had a good tournament at the National Championships. As a freshman, he had an excellent season and the experience gained by competing with the Top 20 teams in the country will prove to be invaluable in the future."

Coach Edgell commented, "We had one of the most successful seasons in school history.

We competed in 10 tournaments this year and always finished in the Top 5. We were fortunate enough to finish second six times and won one tournament. We expect to have an outstanding team next year and we appreciate the support we have received."

The golf team was very successful during the Spring season as they finished fourth at the NCAA Atlantic/ East Super Regional.

Baseball

The Senator Baseball program finished the 2013 season with an overall record of 26-20 and 20-13 in the West Virginia Intercollegiate Athletic Conference. The Senators finished third in the South Division and earned a spot in the conference tournament.

Matt Barr and Trevor Dubiel were both named to the Daktronics All Region team for the Atlantic Region. Dubiel recorded a stellar .423 batting average to lead the Senators. He registered 52 hits, including 16 that went for extra bases. Barr was among the leaders for D&E with a .340 batting average. He accounted for 69 total bases and pounded out 53 hits.

Four Senators earned All- Conference honors.

Dubiel was named to the first team, Josh Kehr and Barr were named to the second team and Matt Moceri earned honorable mention.

a solid season and played better as the year progressed. Unfortunately we didn't play our best baseball at the conference tournament. "We have a solid nucleus of experienced players returning, so hopefully that can lead us to chase a championship in year one of the GMAC.”

"I am confident that we will continue to improve and am optimistic about the future, as there is always room for improvement."

Coach Ronnie Palmer stated, “"I thought we had 32 | Davis & Elkins College Forward

– Kimberly Stiles, Head Softball Coach

Softball

The Senator Softball program finished the 2013 season with an overall record of 20-23 and 11-15 in the West Virginia Intercollegiate Athletic Conference. “I am confident that we will continue to improve and am optimistic about the future, as there is always room for improvement,” states Head Softball Coach Kimberly Stiles.

Four team standouts earned AllConference honors, led by first team selection Alanna Jones. Jones was 13-10 in the circle for the Senators with a 2.2 earned run average. Freshman short stop Kayla Whoolery earned second team honors while third baseman Katelyn Norton and outfielder Corinne Carrington received honorable mention accolades. The Senators will return 11 players for the 2013-14 season and add seven new athletes to the team this fall.

FINISH

the Field

By Linda Howell Skidmore

The unity among members of Senator Soccer exists far beyond the team for an individual season. Rather, it is a collective built over the past five decades. That unification was exemplified during the May 17 groundbreaking ceremony for the synthetic turf field that will serve our new teammates for years to come.

As another example of their unity, Senator Soccer alumni came together. Under the leadership of Trustees Bill Nuttall and Hank Steinbrecher, a committee of dedicated soccer alumni agreed to

The occasion came 52 years after the first Senator Soccer team was formed, and it celebrated the leadership and generous gifts that are ushering in a new era in Senator athletics – a state-of-the-art facility for the soccer teams and the College’s newly announced men’s and women’s lacrosse program.

Davis & Elkins College soccer players Alison Bogar and Wyatt Hill turn the first shovels of dirt during the groundbreaking for the Finish the Field project Friday. The students are “instructed” by Executive Director of the Physical Plant Ron Selders, as President ‘Buck’ Smith looks on.

Photo by Sam Santilli

Gary Horvath, a 1962 graduate who now resides at Wintergreen Resort in Virginia, recalled playing in the 1961 season when “the entire team had one dirty, brown ball,” but still produced a winning season despite muddy field conditions and limited equipment and uniforms.

Current Senator Soccer players could identify with Horvath’s recollection. After two years of not being able to play at home due to poor soil conditions on the soccer field, the Administration and Board leadership decided the only satisfactory solution would be to install a synthetic turf that will allow all-season use of the field. The cost for the project came in a just over $600,000, and the Finish the Field campaign was born.

during Homecoming Weekend. Meanwhile, the group of Senator Soccer alumni continues to work diligently to raise the remaining $76,626 needed to meet the goal. An investment in the

help raise the necessary funds. A new friend of the College contributed the lead gift of $250,000.

At the groundbreaking, a $100,000 matching gift was announced.

The field opened for play with the start of the season in late August, and the legacy of Senator Soccer will continue with the field dedication

final phase of the Finish the Field campaign can be made at https://secure.dewv.edu/giveonline, by mail to: Davis & Elkins College, Development Office, 100 Campus Drive, Elkins, WV 26241, or by calling Wendy Morgan at 304-637-1341.

Finish the Field

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REGIONAL & ALUMNI REUNIONS

Photo

Album!

This spring, one of two new alumni chapters in Florida kicked off the year in style. The Suncoast Alumni Chapter enjoyed a picnic and baseball game at the Baltimore Orioles Spring Training Camp on March 10 in Sarasota, FL. Attending the Suncoast Alumni Chapter picnic and baseball game are Rob Beckwith, '67; Kathy Hultquist, '68; Bob, '67, and Ann Baird, '88; Bob, '92, and Amy Chenard; Norm, '67, and Gretchen Pingley, '68; Bob and Dottie, '61, Wamsley, Janis Hanson, '78; Sean Bruce, '06, Jade Smith and Rocky Bruce; Chuck, ’04, and Adelina, '05, Thompson, and baby Maddox; Ed and Linda, '69, Zierold; Fred, '65, and Bonnie, '64, Walker; Dave, '63, and Diane Kurtz; Earl, ’66, and Holly Shaffer; Jon, '68, and Sharyn, '67, Gray.

On March 13, the Orlando Area Alumni Chapter – one of two new alumni chapters – gathered for a wonderful evening at Le Cordon Bleu College of Culinary Arts restaurant, Technique. Pictured are Bill Mather ’70, Cory Dillinger ’11 and Megan Dulik ’11, Linda Keller Zierold ’69, Marquita DeLorme Anderson ’67, Rob Fenton ’83, Wendy Morgan ’12, Richard '60 and Barbara Huggins.

Ohio Regional Alumni Chapter – Columbus, OH found a D&E group enjoying dinner at BD’s Mongolia Grill followed by a Columbus Clippers baseball game on July 26. Attending were Dave and Martha ‘Cookie’ Monroe Mockensturm, ’81; Greg, ’81, and Susie Brown; David Cutlip, ’77, and his wife, Patricia Mayes; Patti Gorman, ’88, Wendy Morgan ,’12, and President Michael Mihalyo.

Georgia Alumni Chapter – On May 18, alumni in the Atlanta, GA, area enjoyed an afternoon of fun and fellowship at the home of Alan, ’64, and Sue Hillick Colussy, ’67. Attending the Georgia Alumni Chapter gathering are incoming D&E freshman Ty-Chon Montemoino and his family; Sue, ’67, and Alan, ’64, Colussy; Kelly, ’87, and Alex, ’88, Edwards; Mike Shue, ’76; Michelle, ’83, and Tim, ’83, Edwards; Al VanWinkle, ’71; Bob, ’59, and Mary Gregory; and Rob Fenton, ’83.

The Baltimore Actors’ Theatre was the place to be for dinner and a performance of Rodgers and Hammerstein’s The Sound of Music for the Maryland Alumni Chapter on April 21, and then on August 18 it was time for a picnic and Baltimore Orioles baseball game at Camden Yards.

Pictured are Michele DeBerry, ’88; Gary and Melanie Meyers Shetter, ’91; Bill ,’73 and Nancy Rath Henderson, ’73; Greg Kiewitt, ’91; Bill Kokie, ’67; George and Ginny Smith Holborow, ’52; Pamela Carter Jones, ’79 and her daughter Briel; Sunceria Walker Lovelace, ’79; Jim Sautter, ’74; Mark White, ’89; Robin White Rybczynski, ’86 and Rusty Lancellotti, Patti and Kevin Holmes, ’81; President Michael Mihalyo; Cary Sponaugle; Wendy Morgan, ’12; and Jeremy Golston, ’04.

34 | Davis & Elkins College Forward

D&E Trustee June Myles hosted two concerts with Jack Gibbons in Redding, CT, in April. A group of alumni and friends joined Jack (seated) for dinner afterward, including (standing) Kathy BarndtMitchell, ’68, Barbara, ’63, and Fred, ’62, Fincken; Janey and Tony Stepanski, and June Myles.

The Indiana Alumni Chapter enjoyed the traveling exhibition of “The Lincolns – 5 Generations of an American Family” at the Indiana State Museum, followed by lunch at the Farmers Market Café and Terrace on August 3. Also joining them for lunch was D&E President Michael Mihalyo, Vice President for Academic Affairs and Professor of Sociology Dr. Joseph Roidt, Professor of Mathematics and Physics, Dr. Brian Moudry and Lindsey Graham, Director of Institutional Research and Instructor of Sociology, who were attending a conference for the Council of Independent Colleges in Indianapolis. Pictured are Mary ‘Mickey’ Owens, ’74; Bill Pilat, ’61; Carole Purvis Alexander, ’54 and her daughter Licia; James Queener, ’90; and Debbie Payne Fragale, ’81.

On July 20, the West Virginia Alumni Chapter held their inaugural event in Charleston, WV at Appalachian Power Park as they enjoyed a WV Power baseball game and picnic.

Attending were Don and Samantha Metheny Smith, '95, and daughters Abigail and Kate; Will Bell, '10; Fred Carter, '95; Bob and Dottie Herring Wamsley, '61; Clark, '05, and Amber Vineyard Evans, '10; Matt, '95, and Sherri Davis, and their children Hannah and Brayden; and Jim, '73, and Jill Wells; Dwain and Wendy Morgan, '12; Cary Sponaugle; Lisa Reed; Jeremy Golston, '04; and D&E President Michael Mihalyo.

Naples, FL snowbirds, Bob, ’67, and Ann, ’88, Baird, Brenda Kidd Hoover, Gary and Ruth Lynn Schoonover, and Dottie, ’61, and Bob Wamsley.

The Alumni Summer Reunion – June 28-30 – included many activities: a digital scavenger hunt, campus beautification projects, a D&E football reunion, hike at Otter Creek, tour of campus, and picnic at Stuart Park with great friends – Lisa Hedrick Senic, '90/'03, Dwain Morgan, Casey Wilkinson Zahn, '81, Jeff Krizan, '73, Susan Rhymer Plantier, '83, Dianne Levering, Bonnie Thompson, '85, Tom Plantier, '83, and Von and Marion Sensenich Clemans, '68.

Regional & Alumni Reunions

| 35

UPCOMING CHAPTER EVENTS

Save the Date!!!

Upcoming Campus Reunions Homecoming – October 18-20, 2013 Davis & Elkins College

D&E Master's Golf Outing and Vacation March 29 - April 1, 2014 Calabash, NC

A Note About Notes...

ALUMNI NOTES

For more information on events in your area, make sure to check the D&E website for these Alumni Chapters and Groups: California Bay Area Alumni Group Carolinas Alumni Chapter Delaware Valley Alumni Chapter Florida - Suncoast Alumni Chapter Florida – Orlando Area Alumni Chapter Indiana Alumni Chapter Maryland Alumni Chapter New York Metro Alumni Chapter Ohio Regional Alumni Chapter Tri-State Alumni Chapter (Western PA, Northern WV and Eastern OH) Virginia Alumni Chapter

Thank you to the many alumni who submit notes for publication in Forward magazine. We enjoy sharing your news, both in these pages and on our website. If you have a note, please complete and return the form below, or email your note to morganw@dewv.edu.

Sending photos? Just mail your prints or disk, or email your photos to our alumni office.

Send all materials to: Davis & Elkins College Alumni Office 100 Campus Drive Elkins, WV 26241

1949 Lois A. Hadfield Knaggs, Plain City, OH, attended Davis & Elkins College for two years – 1946 and 1947 – and completed her degree at Geneva College in New Brighton, PA, in 1949. She married the late Howard R. Knaggs, ’49, in July 1949, after he earned a BA degree in Chemistry.

Howard was employed by Alcoa Aluminum in New Kensington, PA, and later in his career by Stolle Corporation in Sidney, OH, as a chemical engineer.

Lois taught for Sidney Public Schools in Sidney, OH, for many years and is now retired and living near their daughter, Melissa R. Knaggs Becker, in Ohio.

Lois continues to speak frequently and fondly of her time at Davis & Elkins College.

1952 Virginia “Ginny” Smith Holborow and her husband, George, of Kensington, MD, celebrated their 50th wedding anniversary on November 17, 2012. Their daughter, Jeanne, and her husband, Ralph Richter, have blessed them with two grandchildren, Sabrina and Wesley.

or email morganw@dewv.edu.

Please publish this Alumni Note in the Davis & Elkins College Forward magazine in print and online.

Name: Maiden name:

Here is my news:

Photo enclosed?

Class Year: George R. Mackay, ’57, and his wife, Connie, aboard Risky Business. See 1957.

Yes

No

Please update my records: Current Address: Email: Telephone: Cell phone: 36 | Davis & Elkins College Forward

1957 George R. Mackay and his wife, Connie, of Cincinnati, OH, celebrated 55 years of marriage in November 2012. They have been blessed with three children, one boy and two girls. After graduation from D&E and a year in graduate school, George spent two years in the U.S. Army as an Enlisted Scientific Specialist. That was followed by a twoyear training program in Electron Microscopy in the Pathology Department of Johns Hopkins in Baltimore, MD. From 1962-1979, George acted as chief of the Electron Microscopy Laboratory at the National Institute for Occupational Safety & Health in Cincinnati, OH. The following 20 years were spent as a regional vice president for a multi-million dollar midwest corporation engaging in management consulting. George retired in 2000 and enjoys golf, model ship building and sailing. He received his Captain's certificate for navigation in 1992, and since has been on several sailing trips in the Caribbean and Bahamian waters where his wife, daughter and son-in-law have served as his crew.

Michael G. Dakes, Fairfax Station, VA, celebrated his 75th birthday with his granddaughter, Helena, Davis & Elkins College Class of 2029.

Donald E. Hauck and his wife, Mary, hosted a D&E gathering at their home in Seven Lakes, NC, in May. In attendance were Dave Vandenbergh and his wife, Judy, Elkins, WV; Bob and Susie Gore Back, ’61, Charles Town, WV; and Mike Dakes and his wife, Diane, Fairfax Station, VA. All of the men were in the class of 1959 and fraternity brothers in Alpha Sigma Phi.

Leonard “Len” W. and Sandra Jo Moore Rudnick write that they had the nicest afternoon with President ‘Buck’ and Joni Smith while they were in Tucson, AZ, where they reside, and enjoyed getting news from the College “firsthand.” Also, Len surprised Sandy with an engagement ring when they celebrated their 50th wedding anniversary in November.

1965 While enjoying the winter season in Maricopa, AZ, Lee J., and Barbara “Bobbie” J. Hogan Murray, ’68, were surprised with a personal visit from President ‘Buck’ and Joni Smith and their dog, Jack, while they were in Tucson, AZ. 1968 – Celebrating 45th-Year Class Reunion at Homecoming – October 18-20, 2013

Mike Dakes, ’59, and granddaughter, Helena, D&E Class of 2029. See 1959.

1960 Sheldon “Shelly” C., ’60, and Jane Chandler Elias, ’62, Cranbury, NJ, have celebrated 50 years of marriage. They have three children, six grandchildren and just became great-grandparents with the birth of Cadence Jane Williams on April 21, 2013.

1963 – Celebrating 50th-Year Class Reunion at Homecoming – October 18-20, 2013 In October 2012, Dr. Andrew H. Johanson Jr., Ambler, PA, worked on his second Rotaplast mission in Cebu City in the Philippine Islands as a member of a medical mission trip with Rotaplast International. Rotaplast is a non-profit, humanitarian organization that partners with Rotary Clubs and other organizations across the United States, Canada and the mission sites to change and save lives with corrective surgeries for children with cleft lip and palates. Andy’s job is to help the children and their parents stay as relaxed as possible prior to the surgery and in the recovery room. One of the special props Andy works with is “Lamb Chop,” a sheep sock puppet, as it is a great “door opener” with the children. To learn more about Rotaplast International and the many ways you can help, visit www.rotaplast.org.

If you are a mystery lover, you will enjoy two recently published amateur sleuth mysteries by Phyllis F. Morris, North Port, FL. “QATL, a Hattie and Floyd Mystery” is set in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia. The second mystery, “Motive: Heartache, a Hattie and Floyd Mystery,” is set in Wales. A third Hattie and Floyd mystery is in the works. Phyllis has also published a literary novel titled “Mortar and Pestle, a Romance.”

All books are published under the name Phyllis F. Morris, and can be ordered, paperback or Kindle, on Amazon. In all bios that appear on Phyllis’ books, she mentions Davis & Elkins College. As she writes, “If not for D&E, I don’t think I would ever have dared to write anything.”

Celebrating their 50th wedding anniversary are George and Virginia “Ginny” Smith Holborow, ’52.

See 1952.

With more than 39 years of teaching experience, Susan has been at Big Spring Middle School in Newville, PA, for the past 22 years. She currently teaches Art and is the advisor for the National Junior Honor Society and the Memory Book. Susan has also served as a mentor to other teachers and has helped coach middle school field hockey. Susan and her husband, Galen, reside in Shippensburg, PA.

“Shelly,” ’60, and Jane Chandler Elias, ’62. “Look what happens when two people decide to go to D&E, meet, fall in love, get married and 50 years later – a fantastic family!” See 1960.

1972 In November, Susan G. Prutzman Piper, was named Outstanding Teacher at the 26th annual Outstanding Teacher Luncheon sponsored by the Shippensburg University School Study Council.

Recently “engaged,” Len and Sandy Rudnick, ’63.

See 1963.

Alumni Notes

| 37

ALUMNI NOTES

Lee, ’65, and Bobbie Murray, ’68, and President Emeritus ‘Buck’ and Joni Smith and Jack. See 1965.

Debbie Payne Fragale, Zionsville, IN, was recently elected to serve as a new member of the Davis & Elkins College National Alumni Council.

1959 Alpha Sigma Phi brothers – Bob Back, Don Hauck, Dave Vandenbergh and Mike Dakes. See 1959.

In September, Kathleen "Kathy" Brusso Fisher, and her husband, Matthew, celebrated the marriage of their son, John, to his bride, Jeni. Kathy reports a “good time was had by all.” She also reflects, “it seems only a moment ago that I was a student at D&E, so many wonderful memories ... I hope to visit campus again in the near future.” Kathy and Matthew reside in Point Pleasant, PA.

Howard “Craig” Hamilton, Annandale, VA, was recently elected to serve as a new member of the Davis & Elkins College National Alumni Council. born into the Greatest Generation. The story and examples are irrevocably bound together until a moral conclusion is reached, leaving the reader with enduring musing into their own moral responsibility in the workplace and the balanced life.” Jeff devotes all of his time to writing and is managing director of Shelter Rock Grant Writing Associates. “Live···” is available in paperback and as ebook on Amazon.

In April, Elizabeth “Betsy” S. Moskicki, Sweetwater, NJ, was inducted into the Davis & Elkins College Athletic Hall of Fame.

1973 – Celebrating 40th Year Class Reunion at Homecoming – October 18-20, 2013 Jeffrey F. Krizan, Roxbury, CT, has published his first book. “Live···” is a modern novella designed for undergraduate business students seeking to anchor their values as they enter the workplace. Jeff notes: “Live is a journey of events from China to New York in which you will encounter the author’s colorful friends and colleagues. Their actions are used as examples to be juxtaposed against the story of value-based lessons learned by a son from a father

Ella Adlee Phillips, born November 29, 2012. See 1999.

Firefighter Debra A. “Debby” Berdine, ’91. See 1991.

1978 – Celebrating 35th-Year Class Reunion at Homecoming – October 18-20, 2013 Timothy P. Murphy, Jamison, PA, was inducted into the Davis & Elkins College Athletic Hall of Fame in April.

“Live···” by Jeff Krizan, ’73. See 1973.

1981 Laura Constantine, Yorktown Heights, NY, came back to campus in April, and presented “Career Paths in Environmental Science” to students in the Biology and Environmental Science Department.

38 | Davis & Elkins College Forward

1983 – Celebrating 30th-Year Class Reunion at Homecoming – October 18-20, 2013

This spring, Barry Greene, New York, NY, was elected to serve on the Davis & Elkins College National Alumni Council.

C. Joan Parker, Clendenin, WV, was named as the executive director for the West Virginia Ethics Commission in February. Prior to her promotion, she served as the Commission’s general counsel, and has been with the agency since January 2006.

Joan worked with the Connecticut Commission on Human Rights for 11 years and has been an international consultant to Lawyers Without Borders throughout Africa and South America, as well as the United Nations in Turkey. Most recently, Joan taught American jurisprudence and trial advocacy to law students in Moldova for the Leavitt Institute.

1998 – Celebrating 15th-Year Class Reunion at Homecoming – October 18-20, 2013 On June 28, 2012, Sarah A. Nethery Scott and her husband, Matthew, welcomed their first baby boy, James Matthew Scott. They reside in Culpeper, VA. 1999 Eric L. Phillips and his wife, Lara, Romney, WV, are the proud parents of a daughter. Ella Adlee Phillips was born on November 29, 2012.

Erik and Crickitt Gretchen-Faye Appleyard, ’05.

See 2005.

1986 Jason F. and M. Colleen Stevens Sugarman, Bethesda, MD, have two children, Jessica, age 23, and Brian, age 21, who are completing their college degrees in Nursing and English. Colleen is the chief marketing officer for Healthy Directions and Jason is the IT network manager for United Educators.

1987 In April, H. Brandt Widdoes, Marlton, NJ, came back to campus and presented “Career Paths in Environmental Science” to students in the Biology and Environmental Science Department.

1988 – Celebrating 25th-Year Class Reunion at Homecoming – October 18-20, 2013 1989 Robert M. Stewart, Richmond, VA, works at VCU Health System in the Communications Center as a telecom representative.

1991 For the past 21 years, Debra “Debby” A. Harper Berdine, Elkins, WV, has worked full-time as a health and human resource specialist, senior, for the Office of Inspector General, Department of Health and Human Resources. In 2009, Debby completed the training for wildland firefighting and has since fought major wildfires in Utah, California, Arizona, New Mexico, Idaho, Montana, and some in the East. Debby writes, “It is a very rewarding ‘hobby,’

which I couldn't possibly do without the support of my wonderful husband, Ashton, who is also a wildland firefighter, and my two girls, Addison (10) and Eleanore (7).” Debby says that her years at D&E were some of the most memorable of her life, and that she would have never made it without the support and encouraging words from a very special lady, who always believed in her, supported her and made sure she believed in herself ... Dr. Gloria Payne.

2002 Amanda Yeargan Monroe, ’02, Midlothian, VA, and best friend, Larisa Draeger Swartz, ’00, Walnut Creek, CA, are members of the National Alumni Council and look forward to seeing each other at the fall meeting during Homecoming, October 18-20.

Gail M. Rasor and Christopher Graber, Toledo, OH, were married on December 1, 2012.

This spring, Gregory “Greg” D. Kiewitt, Arnold, MD, was elected to serve on the Davis & Elkins College National Alumni Council.

1993 – Celebrating 20th-Year Class Reunion at Homecoming – October 18-20, 2013 Christopher “Chris” C. Ferzoco, Somers Point, NJ, was recently elected to serve as a new member of the Davis & Elkins College National Alumni Council.

Amanda Yeargan Monroe, ’02, Midlothian, VA, and best friend, Larisa Draeger Swartz, ’00, Walnut Creek, CA. See 2002.

2003 – Celebrating 10th-Year Class Reunion at Homecoming – October 18-20, 2013 2005 Crickitt Gretchen-Faye Pollak and Erik Appleyard were married on October 12, 2012, in a horror movie-themed ceremony, at midnight, in the catacombs of Bubes Brewery in Mt. Joy, PA. Crickitt continues in her field of psychology and Erik, a graduate from Kutztown University, works for Pennsylvania Network Channel. Crickitt and Erik met in 2010 and are currently residing in York, PA.

Future D&E student, Class of 2034 – James Matthew Scott. See 1998.

Alumni Notes

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ALUMNI NOTES 2005 Travis and Janelle Adams Storm, Hilliard, OH, are the proud parents of a daughter, Shaye Lori Storm. Shaye was born December 31, 2012.

in the Department of Pharmacology, Physiology, and Toxicology at Marshall University School of Medicine.

2006 Recently elected, Cory Toth, Bethesda, MD, will serve as a new member of the Davis & Elkins College National Alumni Council.

2008 Kathleen E. MacGregor, Ottawa, Canada, graduated with a Doctor of Medicine degree from the University of Ottawa in May 2012.

Jacob Delbert Henry, born April 19, 2013. See 2012.

2009 Tessa Yokum Ware and her husband, Clifton, Bowden, WV, are proud parents of Bricen Ware, born December 31, 2012.

Shaye Lori Storm, daughter of Travis, ’05, and Janelle Adams Storm, ’05. See 2005.

In March, Christopher R. Racine, Charleston, WV, came back to campus and spoke to students in the Biology and Environmental Science Department about his toxicology graduate research

2011 Lyle A. Coutts, Jacksons Gap, AL, is the outdoor education program specialist for Camp ASCCA, Alabama’s Special Camp for Children and Adults.

Camp ASCCA is a nationally recognized leader in therapeutic recreation for children and adults with both physical and intellectual disabilities.

Megan Dulik and Cory Dillinger announce their engagement. Cory is the co-manager of 84 Lumber in Winter Garden, FL, and Megan is a cost

each summer.

"At many of the events, modeling agency scouts would approach Hannah and try to recruit her," Debi Davis says. "She was not very interested until a family friend who was a photographer in New York City came to the house to talk to us about modeling."

Model Hannah Davis (left) is the daughter of proud parents Debi, '76, (right) and Conn, '75.

Hannah was chosen for the 2013 Sports Illustrated Swimsuit issue. Her parents met in Gribble Hall in 1972, and were married after they graduated. A honeymoon trip to the U.S. Virgin Islands resulted in a job offer for Conn Davis, and thus a permanent home for the couple to start their family. According to Debi, Hannah, their youngest daughter, never really aspired to become a model. Instead, her focus was on sports. She excelled in tennis and was a nationally ranked player in middle school and high school. Her matches sent the family to tournaments hosted throughout the United States

The family made a trip to New York City to visit several modeling agencies, and eventually selected IMG as the right fit. Since Hannah was still in high school at the time, the Davises played a big role in helping her make career decisions, such as which job offers to accept. Debi Davis accompanied her daughter to New York for photo shoots.

Although Hannah was in line for several college scholarships, Debi Davis says her daughter opted to move to New York after graduating high school to pursue her modeling career. Hannah was the face of the Ralph Lauren fragrance Ralph Rocks and plays the DirecTV Genie in television commercials.

She has also appeared in campaigns for Tommy Hilfiger, Bobbi Brown, Ralph Blue Label, Rugby and Victoria's Secret.

40 | Davis & Elkins College Forward

The Ware Family – Tessa, ’09, Clifton and son, Bricen. See 2009. accountant for Louis Dreyfus Citrus. They plan to marry next year in Pennsylvania, where they grew up. They currently reside in Orlando, FL. 2012 Amy C. Troastle Henry and her husband, Branson, are the proud parents of a son, Jacob Delbert Henry. Jacob was born April 19, 2013. Amy, Branson and baby Jacob live in Montrose, WV.

Although she has graced the covers of France FHM, Italy D and Mexican Elle, her mother says landing the contract with Sports Illustrated was the one that excited Hannah most.

"She was actually weeping," Debi Davis says, recalling the phone call that at first made her think something terrible had happened. "It took several minutes for Hannah to compose herself, to actually get the words out."

For the photo shoot, Hannah Davis and a crew traveled to Guilin, Guangxi, China. "Hannah has always had great respect for Sports Illustrated because they celebrate real women - healthy beautiful women," Debi Davis says.

The Davises say they hope Hannah's career will be "bright and successful," and they speculate that could involve her interest of going into the fashion design business with a focus on swimsuits and jewelry.

Likewise, the family has received numerous well wishes from their former classmates and professors at D&E, whom they keep in touch with on a regular basis.

IN MEMORIAM

T Alumni

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

1937 Joe E. Bullivant, June 8, 2013 1938 William "Huck" A. Miers, Jr., April 2, 2013 1941 Juanita Pritt Reda, January 14, 2013 1943 Irene Burky Snyder, July 12, 2013 1947 Donald S. FitzGibbon, May 25, 2013 1947 Ruth "Lynn" L. Orr Hilliard, March 23, 2013 1947 Eugene “Pat” R. Hoffman – March 17, 2013 1948 George H. Hull, May 27, 2012 1948 Mary C. Burner Jenkins, February 20, 2013 1948 Betty Smith Rohr, July 2, 2013 1948/Former Trustee

Mohsen "Mo" Ziai, March 27, 2013 1949 Jessie L. Roberson DeMotto,

January 28, 2013 1949 John "Jack" J. Kelly, February 19, 2013 1949 Romaine Repair, April 24, 2013 1950 Joseph E. Crosby, February 9, 2012 1950 Charles I. Duke, July 16, 2013 1950 Barbara E. Phillips Grindle, March 3, 2013 1950 Lorna Jean Gibson Phares, April 17, 2013 1950 Raymond "Lefty" A. Stepaniak,

November 20, 2012 1950 Howard D. Varner, January 2, 2013 1951 Joan Goode Donaldson, April 18, 2013 1951 Thomas L. Elkins, January 7, 2013 1951 Telete Richards Grotefend,

December 20, 2011 1951 Adelbert "Dell" J. Reynolds,

February 24, 2013 1951 Monna Fae Harman Yount,

December 26, 2012 1953 Clifford S. Hellings, August 6, 2012 1954 Dorothy "Dell" L. Hill Eckert, June 2, 2013 1954 Andrew P. Slater, January 20, 2013 1955 Eileen L. Wehrle McCoy, May 12, 2013 1955 Jackson B. Winter, April 1, 2013 1956 Edwin F. Flanagan, December 23, 2012 1957 Brian J. Salerno, Sr., July 15, 2013 1958 Otto J. Augsbach, Jr., December 25, 2012 1958 D. Ronald Glover, December 5, 2012 1958 Larry S. Ingham, March 27, 2013 1958 Buddy D. Vanscoy, May 12, 2013 1959 Robert G. Bentley, April 8, 2012 1959 Rolf T. Hammer, March 7, 2013 1959 Albert E. Thergesen, May 1, 2013 1960 Glen "Pat" P. Henry, October 18, 2008 1961 Kenneth C. Watson, May 8, 2013 1962 RuthAnn Brooks, January 23, 2013 1962 Kenneth O. White, April 6, 2013 1963 Robert S. Emmer, January 11, 2010 1963 James M. Hager, February 25, 2012 1963 George W. Howard, February 10, 1996 1963 Matthew "Bob" R. Moister, Jr.,

January 21, 2013 1964 James M. Hovland, July 18, 2009 1964 Janet Powers Macpherson,

November 5, 2011

1964 Mario H. Toumayan, April 19, 2013 1965 Carol E. Hay Mathieson, May 1, 2013 1969 Terry R. Smith, December 27, 2009 1970 Mary Rodgers Eichhorn, April 7, 2013 1971 Roderica Johns Mills, March 6, 2013 1971 Rosemary Wagner, December 26, 2012 1972 Nicolas S. Pino, November 13, 2008 1973 William "Bill" H. McCoy, April 29, 2013 1976 Ira J. "Peppy" Altieri, January 16, 2013 1976 William "Curtis" C. Betts, April 22, 2012 1978 Pamela J. Bell, September 30, 2012 1978 Richard F. Brake, March 24, 2013 1978 Virginia C. McCauley, February 8, 2013 1980/Former Trustee

Nancy A. Bundra, October 7, 2011 1980 Stephen S. Ormiston, January 29, 2013 1982 Nancy Oleson Martin, January 9, 2013 1983 Robert T. Robl, August 30, 2005 1988 Thomas C. Alessi, June 30, 2013 1998 Perry A. Lanham, Sr., April 18, 2013

FRIENDS & FAMILY

Charles "Gene" E. Boyer, May 21, 2013 Longtime Friend of Augusta Heritage Center Programs Dr. Floyd A. DeNicola, December 4, 2012 Former History Professor, 1948-1953 Sarah V. Fansler Dennison, January 18, 2013 Former Student Carole J. Duran, December 8, 2012 Former Staff Michael J. Elekes, November 26, 2012 Former Student Davis M. Elkins, April 2, 2013 Former Trustee Katherine H. Gates, February 1, 2013 Friend of the College Dorothy McLaughlin Hess, July 16, 2013 D&E College Aid Member Samantha L. Hinkle, November 28, 2012 Former Student Xenada H. Shaffer Holland, June 26, 2013 D&E College Aid Member Dr. J. Davis Illingworth, January 12, 2013 1954 Honorary Degree Richard A. Kittle, Sr., December 22, 2012 Former Student Helen Robinson Painter Mitchell, December 23, 2012 Former Student Robert "Bob" C. Russell, June 2, 2013 Former Student

Dr. Mohsen Ziai Former Trustee

Dr. Mohsen Ziai, magna cum laude graduate of the class of '48 and College trustee from 19841993, died March 27. An Iranian native, Dr. Zaia received his medical degree from Johns Hopkins University medical school in 1952, then completed a fellowship at Boston City Hospital and a research fellowship at Harvard Medical School. He became a leading medical administrator in Iran and dean of the medical faculty at the University of Tehran.

He moved to the United States in 1977 and served as chairman of pediatrics at Rochester General Hospital and professor of pediatrics at the University of Rochester. During the 1980s and 1990s, he was a professor at Georgetown University and chairman of pediatrics at Fairfax Hospital. In 2000, he joined Suburban Hospital in Bethesda.

Dr. Ziai became a U.S. citizen in 1995 and was an honorary fellow of the American Academy of Pediatrics. Professional honors included a Johns Hopkins Medical and Surgical Association award for international medical education.

Davis Elkins Former Trustee

Davis Elkins, the son of the late U.S. Senator Davis Elkins and Marie Reagan Elkins, grandson of Stephen B. Elkins and great-grandson of Henry G. Davis, died April 2, 2013 at his home in Key Biscayne, FL. He served as a member of the College’s Board of Trustees from 1975-1981. He spent most of his early life in Washington, D.C., and, throughout his life, was an active investor in West Virginia land, timber and coal properties as well as commercial real estate in Northern Virginia.

He was the Chairman of the Davis Elkins Charitable Foundation, which aids injured and wounded service men and women and provides scholarships to students interested in engineering, farming and medicine.

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