THE MAGAZINE OF
Volume 66, No. 1
Myles Center for the Arts Reimagined Also in this issue:
Also in this issue:
??? Minnick p.?? and p.8-10 ??? p.?? Remembering the Legacy of Dr. Jean Men’s Golf Makes MEC History p.17
Spring 2021
LETTER from the PRESIDENT Dear D&E Alumni and Friends, For the 117th summer the sun is shining on the hills of the Davis & Elkins College campus, and another academic year has concluded. Excluding 1918-1920 during the Spanish flu, this past year may have been one of the most disruptive and challenging of any within this College’s storied history. While we are not looking entirely into the rearview mirror with this pandemic, there is clearly a visible light at the end of tunnel. With thanks to God, and gratitude to medical science and our health care professionals, the upcoming academic year promises some semblance of a return to normality. Looking through the pages of this edition of FORWARD magazine, the reality of the COVID-19 pandemic is on full display. And yet, the resilience of the Davis & Elkins College community has been like a bright light that has overcome the COVID darkness. While I would not want to repeat the past year for any of us, I am struck by the ability of this campus community to take a proverbial punch and find a way to bounce back stronger than ever. Hasn’t this been the D&E story for decades? During the 20th century and now into the 21st, D&E has endured an economic depression and numerous recessions, wars, natural disasters, financial struggles, an enrollment roller coaster and two pandemics. And yet, the institution named for two national leaders, still stands strong fulfilling our mission to “prepare and inspire students for success and for thoughtful engagement in the world.” There is a Chinese proverb that says, “A gem is not polished without rubbing, nor a person perfected without trials.” When we sent our student body home in March 2020 that was a trial that I never dreamed we would endure as a college. Many more followed over the next 15 months, but the students, faculty and staff of D&E showed a resilience that was born and nurtured by the forefathers and foremothers of this institution. Daily, the campus community inspired me as they put into practice the College’s tagline, Leading the Way, which they did with determination, passion and resiliency. Having struggled together to meet unexpected challenges, we stride into the future having learned lessons born of travail, and with confidence of a resilience tested and proven true. Our new students who step foot on campus in the fall will inherit the mantle passed down by generations that teaches D&E Senators to persevere and always strive for excellence. Dr. Jean Minnick’s tribute in these pages reminds us of the outcomes of a life lived with purpose and passion. The abbreviation of our College’s name to D&E not only stands for Davis & Elkins, but it also stands for “Distinction & Excellence.” As we bounce back from the trials of COVID-19, like Doc Minnick, let us commit and re-double our efforts to provide the best possible educational experience to each student who steps foot onto these hallowed grounds. May this College continue to transform lives for generations to come, as it has done for so many years. May our 118th year be our best yet! With warmest wishes,
Chris A. Wood President FACEBOOK.COM/DAVISANDELKINS
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DAVIS & ELKINS COLLEGE Forward
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THE MAGAZINE OF
Editor: Linda Howell Skidmore Writers: Deanna Blood, Josh Hill, Linda Howell Skidmore, Wendy Morgan and Cathy Nosel. Photographers: Jacob Bice, Andrew Carroll,
Josh Hill, Linda Howell Skidmore, Ryann Moore, Wendy Morgan, Karin Rossario, Sam Santilli and Steve Santilli.
About the Magazine
Forward magazine is published by the Office of Communications & Marketing. To subscribe or to submit your news, please send an email to skidmorel@dewv.edu or write to Linda Howell Skidmore, 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.
Davis & Elkins College Cabinet
Jamie Joss Chris A. Wood Athletic Director President Robert J. Phillips, Ph.D. Jane Corey Director of Provost and Vice President Human Resources for Academic Affairs Scott D. Goddard ’96 Rosemary M. Thomas, Ed.D. Vice President for Vice President for Student Affairs Enrollment Management & Institutional Advancement Robert O. Hardman II Vice President for Business & Administration
Davis & Elkins College Board of Trustees Elected Officers (2020-2021) Mark S. Barber, ‘75 Chair David E. Cutlip, ’77 Vice Chair David H. Morrison, ‘79 Secretary Elaine H. Christ Treasurer
Members
Joyce B. Allen James Bialek, ’74 Peter H. Dougherty, ’75 Robert E. Douglas Nancy Evans-Bennett, ’66 Jennifer Giovannitti Barry A. Greene, ’83 Robert T. Gregory, ’59 William N. Johnston, Ed.D. Bruce Lee Kennedy, II, CFA James S. McDonnell, III John Ochsendorf
Adam J. Ouellette, ’93 Reginald Owens, Sr., ’83 Barbara A. Porter, ’76 Steven S. Savage, ’72 Dr. Robert G. Smith, ’65 Rev. Edward J. Thompson (ex officio) Chris A. Wood (ex officio)
Life Trustees
Karen H. Berner, ’64 Carter Giltinan John H. Harling, ’53 David A. Rutherford Dorothy H. Wamsley
Chair Emeriti
Henry M. Moore June B. Myles Paul S. Stirrup, ’60 L. Newton Thomas Jr. Leonard J. Timms Jr.
Honorary Trustee Emeritus and Staff Emeritus Robin Price, ’73
Davis & Elkins College, in compliance with Titles VI and VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, Title IX of the Educational Amendments of 1972, Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990, and the West Virginia Human Rights Act is an equal opportunity institution that does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, sex, including sexual and gender-based harassment, assault, and violence, religion, ancestry, national origin, age, sexual orientation, disability, veteran status, gender identification, or genetic information or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local law. This policy applies to all terms and conditions of employment, admission to and enrollment with the College, including, but not limited to, recruitment, selection, hiring, placement, transfer, promotion, training, compensation, benefits, discipline, termination, educational policies, admission policies, financial aid, scholarship and loan programs, housing, athletic and other College-administered programs and activities. For inquiries regarding Title IX and/or 504 compliance and/ or the filing of a complaint, contact the College’s Title IX/Section 504 Coordinator using the information below or by filing a report online at http://www.dewv.edu/form/title-ix-incident-report-form. Kate Garlick, Assistant Dean of Students and Title IX/Section 504 Coordinator, Liberal Arts, 1st Floor, 304-637-1241, garlickk@dewv.edu. ©2021 Davis & Elkins College
ON THE COVER
The rotunda serves as the main access point to the newly renovated Myles Center for the Arts. The cupola is topped with a weathervane that replicates the bronze sculpture of two dancers that stands on Myles Plaza. The design of the stone and brick structure echoes that of the entrance to Madden Student Center. News Around Campus 4 Three Ceremonies Celebrate the Resiliency of the Class of 2021 6 Myles Center for the Arts Renovation Reflects the Creative Process 8 Learning to Do Their Best: The Legacy of the Remarkable A. Jean Minnick 11 Long into Their Careers, Two Nurses Reach Unexpected Apex 12 History Lesson: D&E Alumna Was the First 18-YearOld to Register to Vote 12 D&E Responds to Student Requests for More Academic Offerings 13 D&E Welcomes Four New Faculty for Spring Semester 14 Into Retirement: Roy, Schubert, Turner Gave 93 Years to D&E 15 WV Living Highlights Woods 15 D&E is Distinction and Excellence 16 Burke-Ross Honored with Robin Price Award 16 Nathan Sams Selected for Lois Latham Award Sports 17 Davis & Elkins Men’s Golf Finishes a Historic Season to Cherish 18 Teamwork, Flexibility Made for a Successful Athletic Season 18 Hammer Makes Time to Train as a Paralympic Athlete 19 Sports Briefs Giving 21 A Lasting Legacy in Memory of a Remarkable Woman 21 First Lady Invites Alumni, Friends to Light a ‘Spark’ 22 Anonymous Gift Provides for Scholarships 22 New Grant Supports Enhanced Honors Program
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Commencement
Myles Center
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The Legacy of Jean A. Minnick
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It’s Good to be the Champs!
Alumni News 23 Alumni and Friends Plug in! 24 D&E Love Stories 26 Alumni News 34 In Memory 45 Remembering
Spring 2021
Volume 66, No. 1
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NEWS AROUND CAMPUS
Three Ceremonies Celebrate the Resiliency of the Class of 2021 Davis & Elkins College celebrated a milestone within a milestone with three separate Commencement ceremonies for the Class of 2021. The break from tradition of a single ceremony was put into place to ensure the safety of students and their guests during the COVID-19 pandemic.
While students received their diplomas in person, other parts of the ceremonies – including the hoodings which are normally a part of the Baccalaureate Service – were prerecorded and shown on a large screen as the graduates crossed the stage of Harper-McNeeley Auditorium. Award presentations and a special question-and-answer with the graduates was also part of the video presentation. Davis & Elkins President Chris A. Wood served as the keynote speaker for the ceremonies, congratulating the students on the accomplishments they earned through hard work and the dedication of faculty, especially in the face of the COVID-19 pandemic. “Over the past 15 months, I have learned something very important about the Class of 2021,” Wood said. “I have learned of your resilience, and your drive to succeed, and your willingness to do whatever it takes, even in a pandemic, to reach your goals. This is why, I know in my heart, great things await each of you in your lives, and your lives are going to make a positive difference to your families, your communities, and to our world.” Wood told the graduates that the commencement activities are not the culmination of the journey, but rather a milestone along the way.
Karin Rosario walks with purpose on her way to Commencement. 4
DAVIS & ELKINS COLLEGE Forward
“The journey that brought these students to the mountains of Randolph County and to the gem of an institution on the hill continues, and it will lead them to places and experiences that hold great promise,” Wood said. “Like the friendships our students have forged on this campus, there are intriguing, creative and life-loving people waiting to be encountered on the journey as our graduates move on from D&E. They literally have their lives before them, and they are lives filled with opportunity thanks, in no small part, to their years at Davis & Elkins College.” In a pre-recorded address, Elkins Mayor Jerry Marco, a Davis & Elkins graduate from the Class of 1990, congratulated the class for their resiliency, determination, flexibility and creativity in overcoming unprecedented times to achieve their goals. “No other graduating class has had to navigate the uncertainty of a pandemic,” Marco said. “However, I feel this has better prepared you to achieve anything you want in life. No matter what life throws at you in the future, you are prepared to adapt and overcome.” Chairman of the Board of Trustees Mark Barber ’75 also addressed the class and their guests, congratulating them on behalf of the Board of Trustees and sharing his experience as a student. “With the help and support of a wonderfully talented faculty, I got prepared for what was ahead,” Barber said. “To think critically, creatively and independently; to communicate effectively; to act responsibly as a citizen of different communities; how to collaborate and work for a common purpose; and to live a life of perspective and meaning and service.” The group also heard from Salutatorian Geovani Steven Ibarra of Damascus, Maryland, and Valedictorian Samantha Kirk of Harrisville, West Virginia. Ibarra offered his classmates three principles that could help guide them in life. The first, he said, is that knowledge is not always about how much you know, but about how you apply what you know. For the second principle, he encouraged the graduates to give their all to everything they do. Finally, Ibarra said he hopes his classmates never feel successful to the point that pride is blinding. “I hope you never feel successful because if you do, you might stop working,” Ibarra explained. “You might stop trying as hard as you did when what you have was once what you wanted. You’ll stop moving forward. No matter how high we climb, we can always climb higher. We can always push
Preparing to enter one of the Commencement ceremonies are, from left, Provost and Vice President for Academic Affairs Dr. Rob Phillips, Salutatorian Geovani Steven Ibarra, President Chris A. Wood, Valedictorian Samantha Kirk and Chairman of the Board of Trustees Mark Barber.
Marquis Harris, right, explains what he will miss about D&E in a “RealDeal” style video with host Clay Messinger. Videos for each student were played on a large screen as they walked across the stage to receive their diplomas.
further. It doesn’t matter if you sprint, jog, walk or crawl. Just keep moving forward.” Kirk told her classmates that although graduating marks the end of being an undergraduate student at D&E, it doesn’t mean the bonds formed will cease. “When all of us went to film our hooding ceremonies last week, we were asked to answer a question about our time at D&E, and the question, ‘who will you miss the most?’ felt so strange to answer,” Kirk said. “As if I was never going to see the people I found here again, as if I won’t have dinner with my coaches every time I’m even remotely close to Elkins, as if I won’t be emailing my professors for advice, as if my friends from here won’t be in my wedding.” “We know who our people are, whether they were all allowed to be in this room or not,” Kirk said. “And even though I refuse to call this goodbye, I am going to miss not seeing those people, not seeing you all, every day.” Provost and Vice President for Academic Affairs Dr. Rob Phillips announced special honors that were presented to students in prerecorded videos. Award recipients were: Kirk, Mary Mildred Sullivan Award; Douglas Peterson, Algernon Sydney Sullivan Award; Purdum-Goddin Distinguished Graduate Award, Makayla Haddix; Faculty Senior Award, Cody Turner; and Freeman J. Daniels Academic Achievement Award, Kirk.
Graduates are congratulated by 2020-2021 Student Assembly President Elijah Cordle, faculty, staff and friends as they exit Myles Center for the Arts.
Mikayla Ashley, left, and Danielle Godbey recite the Florence Nightingale Pledge during the Nurses’ Pinning Ceremony.
Instructor of Nursing Haley Smoot pins student Andre Ramirez. News Around Campus
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NEWS AROUND CAMPUS
Myles Center for the Arts Renovation Reflects the Creative Process When it comes to the transformation of Myles Center for the Arts and Myles Plaza, Trustee Emerita June Myles likes to tell the story of how it all started with monkeys.
“It is and will be a great space for events for the campus and the community,” Myles said. “When I saw it, I couldn’t get over how big it is. I’m delighted.”
The recently completed $6.7 million renovation, funded through the generosity of Myles, was initially a smaller project intended to create the perfect location for a bronze sculpture of a pair of dancers Myles had commissioned. Her friend and neighbor, James “Jimmy” Grashow, is an artist well know for his cardboard sculptures of monkeys, among other works. When it was discovered that his sculptures could be bronzed, a couple of them took up residence in Myles’ garden in Connecticut.
Demolition of the plaza was important due to its deteriorated condition, Muscara explained, adding that the building lacked a primary entrance and the entry doors were not highly visible.
“I love my monkeys and I love Jimmy’s work. One day I was in his studio and I spotted these dancers – they were 10 feet tall,” Myles explained. “I thought they would be fun out in front of the art center and the plaza was in need of a facelift.” That’s when Myles’ idea began to blossom. From there, she said she can’t explain how the project grew. “It was like when you throw a pebble into a pond and all of a sudden you have all these ever increasingly large concentric circles,” Myles explained. Work commenced with the Mills Group architectural firm to develop a plan and collaborate on a design that would best serve the campus and the greater community, and at the same time manifest a connection to the arts. “The goals for the project grew into creating a showcase for the statue, developing a design for the plaza and building which would be softer and engaging, forming indoor and outdoor gathering spaces which would be connected both physically and visually, and establishing a prominent primary entrance feature for the building from the plaza,” said Mills Group Senior Project Manager Lance Muscara. The result is the addition of the Senate Commons event space equipped with a state-of-the-art audio-visual system that includes five large screens, a media wall and a drop-down projector screen for presentations. The new elevator and balcony bridge make the entire building handicapped accessible at all levels.
“The new site design provides a large amount of planted greenspace to soften the plaza and surrounding area,” Muscara said, adding that the curved slope of the adjacent hillside creates a natural amphitheater. “The entire layout and flow of Myles Plaza comes from music, art and motion,” Myles explained. “Reflection of the creative process was the force behind the design,” Myles said. A work of art as the inspiration for the expansion of a center focused on the arts is quite fitting in the views of students and professors. “Sometimes the role of art gets downplayed,” said Instructor of Digital Media Macy Jackson. “To know that this renovation was inspired by finding a place to display a piece of artwork tells a powerful story.” Jackson teaches courses for the new digital media minor in a remodeled studio equipped with state-of-the-art computers and software, thanks to a gift from friends of the College Doug and Gay Lane.
Members of the Davis & Elkins College community were the first to get a look at Senate Commons in Myles Center for the Arts.
While art classes and studios are located in the lower level of the building, art students have been making use of the entire facility by drawing and documenting art and architecture forms to learn how the two combine for aesthetically pleasing functionality.
Myles Center for the Arts and Myles Plaza were transformed to create a larger indoor space for a variety of activities and an outdoor area that serves as a destination gathering spot. 6
DAVIS & ELKINS COLLEGE Forward
Mr. Senator was among the guests to fill Senate Commons while still maintaining social distance during an open house for prospective students.
The Black Student Union hosted a poetry slam for the campus community in Senate Commons.
“Students have been sketching different parts of the building inside and outside, the landscaping and the architecture and the digital photography students have been photographing the architecture,” said Assistant Professor of Art Kevin “Woody” Woodcock. “On days when I would bring my students outside to sketch the sculpture and we would see other classes outside, it gave me the feeling of this is what it’s like to be in college.”
rigging system, as well a curtain system with false proscenium curtain, legs for the wings and valances. Additional curtains in the house allow the space to be adaptable for a variety of audience sizes, large and small. The project was possible with the generosity of the Lanes.
Students in the Division of Creative Arts put on their spring Art Extravaganza making use of the Senate Commons, Paull Gallery and Harper-McNeeley Auditorium.
Instructor of Theatre and Film Lonnie Martin is very excited about the possibilities created by these renovations and thinks students will see a tremendous benefit with a more professional performance space.
“Harper-McNeeley is much closer now to the type of large venue our students will find themselves “This is a fantastic space for the whole working in once they’re in the College community and the local professional world,” Martin said. “It’s community to come and enjoy all of our extremely versatile and opens up events and activities,” Woodcock said. a lot of possibilities for the type of Renovations to Myles Center for the The expansive Senate Commons allows for multiple small group productions that can be done. We’re Arts and Myles Plaza were completed settings such as Student Ambassadors meeting with prospective very excited to have this space in which to return theatre to D&E this fall.” in January, just in time for students’ students and their families during an open house. return for the spring semester. It’s Although an official grand opening been the center for a variety of activities, ranging from socially distanced or dedication ceremony has yet to take place, a few groups including classes and the annual Writing Showcase to weekend activities such as prospective students and their families have attended events in the karaoke and mini golf. new space. The first social event was the wedding of Randolph County Development Authority Executive Director Robbie Morris and Whitney Harper-McNeeley Auditorium has a new look and feel with renovations Phillips, daughter of D&E Accounts Receivable Clerk Laurie Chestnut. expanding backstage space, installation of a state-of-the-art light and Morris said the couple chose the location for their ceremony because of the beauty of the facility and he expects others will come to know it as a premier site for their events.
Curtains in the house in Harper-McNeeley Auditorium allow the space to be adapted for a variety of audience sizes.
“Myles Center for the Arts is a tremendous asset for the community,” he said. “Elkins is a wonderful place for conferences and conventions and renovations to the Myles Center open up a whole new market that Elkins hasn’t been able to experience which will Students enjoyed some friendly competition be fantastic for the as Myles Center for the Arts was transformed local economy.” into a miniature golf course. News Around Campus
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NEWS AROUND CAMPUS
Learning to Do Their Best:
The Legacy of the Remarkable
A. Jean Minnick Ten young women in plaid skirts ran down the field, hockey sticks in hand and showing no mercy for the small ball they intended to slam into the goal. At the helm was a statuesque Jean Minnick, encouraging them to do their best. It wasn’t only Minnick’s prowess as a coach that left her mark on D&E. As professor of health, sport and movement sciences, she molded and mentored students for successful careers. As a guide and friend, she led them on travels to tropical islands that some never dreamed they would see in person. After full retirement, she invested in the promise of continuing a high-quality education for generations with a $1 million endowment of the A. Jean Minnick Chair in Sport Science. Minnick died February 25, 2021, at age 94. Her former students offered outpourings of praise and genuine thankfulness that they were lucky enough to have a coach, friend and leader whom they simply called “Doc” or “Aunt Jean.”
Field Hockey on the Road to Success It was 1963 and the beginning of what became an astounding 145-21-14 career record over 17 seasons for Minnick as head coach of the women’s field hockey team. The Division I teams recorded 12 undefeated seasons against nationally ranked teams, three Midwest championships, four national qualifiers in Division I and a third-place finish in the Division I National Championships. Minnick coached five All-Midwest players, three All-South players and two All-American players.
Although Minnick wasn’t the architect of the program at D&E, she was the first to put the women into conference play and open a world for female athletes. Judith Eadson ’67, a member of Minnick’s first team, may have been the reason it started. As a freshman, Eadson assumed there was a women’s field hockey team because she saw a picture on a College brochure. On her first day of class, she asked Minnick when practice was scheduled. Unfortunately, there was no practice or team – the picture had been from a campus activity instead of an athletic team. “She (Minnick) noted my profound disappointment and started one,” Eadson remembers. “She found old uniforms somewhere in the gym, organized practices, and most amazing of all, got a schedule of games together, all on the telephone. We lost our first game, but it was our only loss in four years. She was our coach and always our biggest fan.” Minnick was “bitten by the bug” of building better field hockey teams, as Eadson says, and began recruiting to create a competitive Division I team. Among those recruits was Cindy Stinger ’81 who had planned to attend another school. “I will never forget the call I received from Doc after already signing a letter of intent to play field hockey at Penn State,” Stinger said. “She introduced herself and began to highlight my career as a high school field hockey player. I was intrigued when she stated that all her players were from New Jersey. She insisted and stated that D&E was the place for me. She was right.” Stinger, now the manager of alumni relations for the United States Olympic and Paralympic Committee, decided to make the eight-hour trip to Elkins – one she says changed her life and the direction of her life forever. “The decision and choices you make have a lasting effect on your life,” Stinger said. “Doc pulled up to meet me in her chocolate brown Mercedes 45OSL in the parking lot of the Memorial Gymnasium, said hello and then took me up to the new women’s dorm to meet her star player, Pam Boyd, and the other Jersey gals. The rest is history.”
Members of the 1979 field hockey team, which captured the Midwest regional championship and advanced to the AIAW Division I national tournament are, front, Carol Sue Lynch ’80 and Teresa Werner ’80; middle row, head coach Jean Minnick, Sue Lapriore ’83, Carol Kemmerle ’82, Colleen Callahan ’81, Leslie Morgan ’80, Betsy Moscicki ’81, Carmel Shearer ’82, Donna Maiorino ’83, Colleen McGlynn ’81, Norma Wright ’82, Cathy Carney ’83, trainer Trish Darlington; back row, Toni McBride ’82, Carol Raymond ’82, Debbie Flanagan ’83, Kary Koogler ’83, Bonnie Samu ’80, Pam McCauley ’83, Malinda Wright ’81, Stacey Dettmar ’83 and Beth Headley ’82. 8
DAVIS & ELKINS COLLEGE Forward
In an article in the fall 1998 issue of Forward that marked Minnick’s retirement, she summed her philosophy for excellence saying, “I’ve been called an idealist, but I believe that if you settle for second best you will get second best. You must always try to do your best while maintaining high ethical standards. You don’t want to compromise your standards. “Our (field hockey) teams had great success on the field, but more important were the benefits those players derived by learning to always do their best. That lesson carried through after college and they were prepared to do their best in life’s work. That’s what athletics is all about.” Carmel Shearer ’82, a member of the field hockey team throughout all four years at D&E, still has fond, vivid memories of road trips to away matches. Each was accompanied by Minnick’s famous saying: “1 drink - No dessert.” In those days, the team was traveling in two school vans with Minnick and a
Players representing the 36-year history of D&E field hockey team gathered with “Doc” Jean Minnick for a reunion match during Homecoming 2000.
player as the drivers. So, avoiding multiple pit stops or emergency pull-overs was relevant. Later, the team made their way in a mini-van – a purchase Shearer believes resulted from Minnick’s efforts. “It gave us more room and a ride for us to be together as a team,” Shearer said. “We would often get a packed lunch from the cafeteria and find a nice park to eat and stretch our legs on road trips.” The return to campus came with a tradition of blaring horns as the vehicle made the loop and teammates peered out the windows to see whether they made it back in time to catch an evening at The Icehouse. Perhaps one of the most difficult travels came after securing a win in the MidWest Tournament and the team was headed to their first national tournament – at the University of Washington during a snowstorm. Although some plans had to be rearranged, Minnick pulled it off and delivered the team. “On the way home, we had a wonderful lunch on the revolving space needle with my parents, and Doc, always the educator, showed us the fish markets,” Shearer recalls. “Yes, she brought a fresh salmon home.”
Travels Around the Globe Road trips for away play weren’t the only travels Minnick led for students. In 1973, she shared her wanderlust and arranged the first student excursion to
Traveling was a passion for Dr. Jean Minnick. She visited 264 countries, including the Arctic and Antarctica, and was a member of the Circumnavigators Club and the Traveler’s Century Club.
the Caribbean during January term. Deemed the Caribbean Class, the study travel courses included 20 countries in the Caribbean over the years. Trustee and alumnus Jim Bialek ’74 was among the first group to make the trip guided by Minnick. The students visited seven islands in 22 days – January 8-29, 1973. “We were required to keep a daily journal of activities and experiences,” Bialek said. “Dr. Jean would review every couple of days and initial the pages, I’m so glad that after 48 years I still have mine with my gal’s initials. The trip was extremely educational, historical, cultural and mostly a great social experience.”
In January 1995, the Caribbean Class traveled to St. John in the U.S. Virgin Islands. Visiting Cinnamon Bay Campground are, from left, Sharon Wetzel ’95, Brian Steinmiller ’97, Missy Polzer Bishop ’96 and Dr. Jean Minnick.
Accolades of a Tremendous Career Jean Minnick graduated from Marlinton High School in Pocahontas County. She earned her Bachelor of Science degree in physical education and Master of Science degree from West Virginia University. She went on to earn her Ph.D. from New York University and completed post-doctoral studies at the University of Utah, Penn State University and the University of Wisconsin-Madison. Throughout her career, she earned numerous honors and contributed to the betterment of athletics. Among her accolades are: • • • • • • • • • • • • •
Induction into the Davis & Elkins College Athletic Hall of Fame Induction into the West Virginia University College of Physical Activity and Sport Sciences Hall of Fame Lois Latham Award for Teaching Excellence West Virginia Celebrate Women Award West Virginia Association for Health, Physical Education, Recreation and Dance (AHPERD) Honor Award West Virginia AHPERD board of directors Recognition Award from the West Virginia Sports Writers Association Traveler’s Century Club West Virginia College of Health and Physical Education Association, President West Virginia Commissioner for Women’s Sports Midwest Field Hockey Board Division I National Rating Board West Virginia Content Specialization Test Development Committee News Around Campus
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NEWS AROUND CAMPUS Into the Classroom Minnick joined the faculty in 1963 and was later promoted to professor and chair in the Department of Health, Sport, and Movement Sciences. During her tenure, she was instrumental in the enhancement of majors and course offerings, adding exercise science and sports management majors, as well as a minor in athletic training. Dr. Mary Ann DeLuca ’80 who currently holds the A. Jean Minnick Chair in Sport Science said Minnick taught her about the bigger picture of life and the importance of persistence, hard work, timing and patience. “Great leaders place aside pride and prestige and replace this with the sharing of their wisdom. This was a gift of Dr. Minnick,” DeLuca said. “She always encouraged me to start my doctoral program and was so proud of me in this academic journey. She taught each one of her students to work hard, knowing that the hard work would be rewarded in return.” Shearer, now a retired paramedic and firefighter, credits Minnick with pointing her in the direction of her career and making sure she was prepared early on. In Shearer’s sophomore year, the College hired its first professional athletic trainer to fill the role previously held by student-athletes. “I’m sure Doc had some say in this new position and this led me to a new work study position and ultimately onto my professional paramedic and firefighting career,” Shearer said. “Only after graduation did I realize how ahead of her time she was. She mentored and developed innumerable players and leaders throughout her career — her commitment to each of us and our beloved D&E was endless and will continue with her legacy.”
The Lasting Gift After Minnick retired as Professor Emerita in 1998, D&E remained close to her heart and her former students were even closer, often visiting to reminisce and share updates on their life events. Minnick wanted to leave more than memories, though, and with a more tangible gesture endowed the A. Jean Minnick Chair in Sport Science with a $1 million gift. At Minnick’s request, DeLuca was named to hold the chair and the surprise announcement was made at the annual Founders’ Day celebration before the campus community, alumni, trustees and friends.
Sharing in the congratulations of the establishment of the A. Jean Minnick Chair in Sport Science are Dr. A. Jean Minnick, seated; and standing from left, inaugural holder of the A. Jean Minnick Chair in Sport Science Dr. Mary Ann DeLuca, Minnick’s friend Arlena Straw, Vice President for Enrollment Management and Institutional Advancement Dr. Rosemary Thomas and President Chris A. Wood. 10
DAVIS & ELKINS COLLEGE Forward
Davis & Elkins College Professor Emerita Dr. A. Jean Minnick, seated, is honored at the installation ceremony for the A. Jean Minnick Chair in Sport Science. Offering words of praise are, standing from left, D&E Vice President for Academic Affairs Dr. Rob Phillips, Chair of the Department of Sport Science and inaugural holder of the Minnick Chair Dr. Mary Ann DeLuca, D&E President Chris A. Wood and former student-athlete Carmel Shearer.
Nearly four years later, DeLuca says she still gets emotional thinking about stepping off the Harper-McNeeley stage to join Minnick in the audience and thank her. “She said to me, ‘I believe in you Mary Ann and what you are doing for the department,’ ” DeLuca recalls. “After the ceremony, I sat in my office chair by myself and I had tears in my eyes reflecting on what had occurred and how Dr. Minnick’s impactful words resonated with me. “My job will be to continue with Dr. Minnick’s vision for the Sport Science Department and Davis & Elkins College for the future,” DeLuca said. “She taught me that many decisions are not made for the day, but to consider how they would enhance or inspire positiveness for the College in the future.”
A celebration of life and Final Rites for Dr. A. Jean Minnick were conducted on March 6, 2021, in Robbins Memorial Chapel on the Davis & Elkins College campus. Memorabilia, including scrapbooks, photos, trophies, and Minnick’s team jacket and chair were displayed in the Chapel.
Long into Their Careers, Two Nurses Reach Unexpected Apex What could have been a run-of-the-mill wind down to the careers of two nurses turned out to be anything but that. With the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic, any scenario they expected could be prefaced with “and, then.” However, there were no complaints from D&E Campus Nurse Diana Burke-Ross and Randolph-Elkins Health Department Infectious Disease Specialist Bonnie Woodrum ’86. Afterall, preventing disease and treating illness is what they do. It’s their passion. Still, the extra hours and uncertainties the world faced weren’t anywhere close to how they envisioned their work life as they begin to think about retirement. “This is right up my alley,” Woodrum said. “I’m in the business of disease prevention. I’ve actually been planning for things like a pandemic or disaster and doing drills for years.” For more than 20 years, Woodrum and Burke-Ross worked together on a community effort of preventive care – including flu vaccines – for Davis & Elkins College students. Each year they updated a closed Point of Dispensing (POD) plan, everything from logistics to timing of administering a medication in the event of a national health emergency. Every year, it sat on the shelf until they pulled it out again for a review. Of course, came another “and then.” The document became a part of the larger blueprint put together by the D&E COVID Task Force, a group of trustees and campus community members heeding advice from Woodrum. It covered everything from testing for the entire campus to quarantine space for positive cases and precautions to prevent possible exposure to the virus, all in accordance with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
Randolph-Elkins Health Department Infectious Disease Specialist Bonnie Woodrum ’86, left, and D&E Campus Nurse Diana Burke-Ross have worked together for more than 20 years to ensure preventative health care measures were in place for Davis & Elkins College students. Their team effort was also in place at the community COVID-19 vaccine clinic in Elkins.
“We worked out a method for what we would do if we saw an increase in the number of positive cases, how we would protect them from one another and protect the wider community at the same time,” Woodrum explained. “The College is an integral part of the community and it’s important that students
and their parents feel this is a safe place to be.” D&E Student Health Services continued to provide care while following COVID protocols through office visits with Dr. Kim Farry, OBGYN, ’85, Christina Hines, RN, MSN, CNM, and Dr. Farukh Khan, MD. Farry also served on the COVID Task Force providing advice and consultation. Guidelines from the CDC are emphasized on signage, campus monitors and through email messages. Wearing masks is mandatory and Burke-Ross says that’s helped with more than preventing spread of the corona virus. “The instances of flu, allergies and other respiratory illnesses is way down and I think that’s because everyone is wearing masks,” she said. “I know no one likes wearing them, but now you can really see a value of these masks.” When vaccines became available through the West Virginia Department of Education, Burke-Ross, along with Task Force members, employed a version of their POD plan to administer the shots to faculty, staff and some students. Later, when a mass vaccination clinic opened at the Phil Gainer Center in Elkins, Burke-Ross and Woodrum helped there. They, along with D&E nursing faculty, guided student nurses in vaccinating community members. Despite a hectic schedule and the discerning nature of the pandemic, BurkeRoss has still found a few bright points to the turn of events.
Davis & Elkins College student nurses Caitlin Kealley, left, and Kylee Knight prepare to administer COVID-19 vaccines at the Phil Gainer Community Center in Elkins. The students and their classmates gained experience by volunteering at the community clinic.
“Normally I only see students, but with the testing and giving out the vaccines I’ve been able to talk to faculty and staff and that’s been really nice,” she said. “It’s been really interesting, and I’ve learned a lot about viruses and how they’re transmitted from animals to humans. If you asked me if I would do it again, I would say I absolutely would. I wouldn’t have wanted to miss it.” News Around Campus
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NEWS AROUND CAMPUS
History Lesson: D&E Alumna Was the First 18-Year-Old to Register to Vote This year marks the 50th anniversary of the 26th amendment to the U.S. Constitution giving 18-year-olds the right to vote. Alumna Ella Mae Thompson Haddix ’75 played an important role in history as the first 18-year-old to fill out a voter’s registration form.
Until 1971, United States citizens were not eligible to vote until age 21. Yet, 18-year-olds were required to register for selective service and could be drafted into the military. U.S. Sen. Jennings Randolph, D-W.Va., changed that when he wrote the 26th Amendment to the U.S. Constitution that gave 18-year-olds the right to vote. However, his push for the measure wasn’t easy – it spanned nearly three decades and 11 attempts to gain Congressional approval. President Richard M. Nixon signed the amendment into law in July 1971.
actor Lee Dean, who portrays Randolph, to D&E to meet Haddix, a retired Tygarts Valley High School art teacher. The trio, along with D&E President Chis A. Wood traveled to the Randolph County Courthouse for a re-enactment of the historical voter’s registration. Randolph County Clerk Brenda Wiseman was able to locate Haddix’s original registration card. The visit to D&E also included the WV Centurion Chamber of Commerce program that recognized Randolph County businesses that have been operating for 100 years or more. Among those was Davis & Elkins College with a 117-year history.
A freshman art education major at Davis & Elkins College, Haddix was busily putting in her time as a work study student in the Admissions Office when a representative from Randolph’s office called wanting to know if there were any students who would be interested in registering to vote. It wasn’t long before Randolph himself showed up to drive Haddix to the Randolph County Courthouse. Haddix took Randolph up on the offer with a personal reason for securing the right to vote. Her brother, Sgt. Robert Thompson, was drafted into the U.S. Army in 1965. He was killed two years later in Vietnam without ever having the right to vote. “We talked on the way and I told him that I was going to register as a Republican, so if he wanted someone else to register instead that would be fine,” Haddix explained. “But, he said that was OK. He wasn’t concerned about it – he was just concerned with getting me registered.” Randolph held strong ties to D&E for more than 50 years, beginning in 1926 when he was appointed instructor in public speaking and journalism and director of intercollegiate athletics and publicity. He later served as a Trustee and promoted the best interests of the College through his influence in Congress. As part of the celebration commemorating the 50th anniversary of the 26th Amendment, West Virginia Secretary of State Mac Warner brought
Re-enacting Ella Mae Thompson Haddix’s historic 1971 voter’s registration as the first 18-year-old to register to vote in the United States are, from left, Davis & Elkins College President Chris A. Wood, Thompson Haddix with her original registration card, West Virginia Secretary of State Mac Warner, Randolph County Clerk Brenda Wiseman and actor Lee Dean, portraying U.S. Senator Jennings Randolph at the Randolph County Courthouse.
D&E Responds to Student Requests for More Academic Offerings When Davis & Elkins students and those looking to attend the College consider their future careers, one thing is clear – they want to learn everything they can to be well prepared. In response, a new set of academic initiatives was rolled out and more options are on the horizon. Beginning with the start of the 2020-2021 academic year, students could declare a minor in digital media or a major in special education. Both programs were the result of frequent requests from students. “Davis & Elkins College always tries to respond to both requests from our students and signals from prospective employers,” said Provost and Vice President for Academic Affairs Dr. Rob Phillips. “In both of these areas, student interest and market demand are coinciding. We are very confident that we have both the faculty and the facilities to provide a quality education 12
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and help our students achieve professional success.”
Through the generosity of friends of the College Doug and Gay Lane, students enrolled in digital media classes learn in a state-of-the-art Mac computer lab in Myles Center for the Arts. The course work allows students to prepare for careers as a design professional through the study of digital and print design, video production, illustration, animation, visual branding, 3D design, apparel design, geographic information systems, digital storytelling and web page publishing. Just within the first year, students paired with local businesses to create logos and branding and assisted with digital campaigns. The multi-categorical Bachelor of Arts degree program in special education focuses on studies in behavioral disorder, mild impairment and specific cont. pg. 13
D&E Welcomes Four New Faculty for Spring Semester The spring 2021 semester opened with four new faculty members. Joining the ranks are Instructor of Criminology Ronda Engstrom, Instructor of Criminology Dr. Jamie Morgan, Assistant Professor of Nursing Dr. Cheryl Schroeder and Instructor of English Sebastian Williams.
Engstrom has more than 20 years of experience teaching higher education in the United States and abroad. Most recently, she instructed sociology and criminology courses at Indiana University of Pennsylvania in Indiana, Pennsylvania. She also has taught at California University of Pennsylvania, Westmoreland County Community College in Youngwood, Pennsylvania, and Hebei University in Baoding, China. She is currently pursuing her Ph.D. in criminology at Indiana University of Ronda Engstrom Pennsylvania. She holds a Master of Arts degree in sociology from Bowling Green State University in Bowling Green, Ohio, and a Bachelor of Arts in sociology from Millersville University of Pennsylvania where she graduated magna cum laude. Engstrom also has completed additional studies in legal studies administration at California University of Pennsylvania and public administration with an emphasis in human service at Indiana University of Pennsylvania. A native of West Virginia and a first-generation college graduate, Morgan recently returned to the Mountain State after a successful and diverse career holding executive leadership positions in business, education and law in New York, Boston and Florida. Most recently, he worked as the executive director for Legends Group, Inc. in Deerfield Beach, Florida. Previously, Morgan worked as an executive director providing advisory recommendations and supervising the development and implementation of various guidelines and procedures in matters involving Jamie Morgan complex litigation for the 17th Judicial Circuit Court in Fort Lauderdale, Florida. His additional legal experience involved working for Stephen M. Zukoff, Esq. of Miami, the civil attorney for the former Panamanian Dictator Manuel Noriego and other high-profile individuals. He also previously served as an adjunct instructor at D&E.
Morgan earned a Juris Doctorate from the Shepard Broad Law Center at Nova Southeastern University in Fort Lauderdale, Florida, and holds a Bachelor of Arts degree from Marshall University. A veteran of the United States Navy, Schroeder has worked as an educator, nurse manager and nurse in various clinical and nonclinical settings. Most recently she provided clinical instruction at the College of Nursing and Advanced Health Professions at The Chicago School in Dallas, Texas, and served on the faculty at the Dallas Nursing Institute.
She is currently working toward certification in ancient herbal therapies and earned her Doctor of Nursing Practice from Drexel Cheryl Schroeder University in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. She also holds a Bachelor of Science in nursing and a Master of Science in nursing from East Carolina University in Greenville, North Carolina. She graduated from the Registered Nursing Program and the Licensed Practical Nursing Program at Calhoun Community College in Decatur, Alabama, and completed Distance Learning via the U.S. Navy partnership with Drexel University. Williams comes to D&E from Purdue University where he instructed various courses in rhetoric and composition and literature, theory and culture. As a writer, Williams’ work has appeared in several peerreviewed publications including Journal of Popular Culture, Woolf Studies Annual and Journal of Literary and Cultural Disability Studies, among others. He is currently pursuing his Ph.D. in English with a primary focus on literary studies at Purdue University. He also holds a Master of Arts in English and a certificate in women’s, Sebastian Williams gender and sexuality studies from Wright State University in Dayton, Ohio, and a Bachelor of Arts in English from Heidelberg University in Tiffin, Ohio.
academic offerings cont. learning disability. Students may elect to include additional course work in studying autism.
Such an education will enable students to pursue employment in a variety of management, creative and technical fields.
This fall, students can major in product design or select from an array of new minors including art therapy, instructional technology and media production. Product design will replace the current computer science major and will seek to provide students with an education that combines technical knowledge and the opportunity to develop their creative skills.
“We think our new curriculum initiatives provide students with rigorous, multi-disciplinary options that provide them with both exposure to a number of fields and the skills and flexibility necessary to keep up with an ever-changing job market,” Phillips said. News Around Campus
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Into Retirement: Roy, Schubert, Turner Gave 93 Years to D&E
The close of the 2020-2021 academic year brought the beginning of new chapters for three long-time members of the campus community. With a total of 93 years combined service, Professor of Mathematics and Physics Dr. Sharmistha Roy, Director of The Naylor Learning Center and Adjunct Professor in Physical Education Mary Ellen Schubert and Professor of History Dr. David Turner announced their retirements.
Mary Ellen Schubert
Director of The Naylor Learning Center and Adjunct Professor in Physical Education
Dr. Sharmistha Roy
Schubert graduated from D&E in 1977 with a Bachelor of Science degree in physical education and health, K-12. In 2000, she returned to D&E as a learning disabilities instructor. In 2015, she established the Delta Epsilon Chapter of Delta Alpha Pi honor society at D&E to recognize students with disabilities for their academic achievements.
and I look forward to enjoying our time together. Gardening is a hobby of mine; watching my plants grow and produce flowers and vegetables builds my confidence and happiness. To sum it all up, I feel confident and happy when I can watch everything around me survive, thrive and flourish.”
Professor of Mathematics and Physics Roy made her way through the winding mountain roads to Elkins in 1983 when her husband, Shankar Roy, was joining the D&E faculty. Two years later, she too was named to the faculty. Several years into her career she was appointed Interim Vice President for Academic Affairs, then returned to what she loved best – teaching. Throughout her time at D&E, she received multiple honors including the Lois Latham Award for Excellence and the American Council of Learned Societies’ award for “A Program Placing New Emphasis on Teacher Education in Astronomy.” She also was nominated by D&E for the Carnegie Foundation for the Advancement of Teaching Professor of the Year. Q: There’s a well-known story about how you didn’t enjoy traveling to Elkins. Once you arrived at Davis & Elkins College in 1985, what made you stay? A: “The towns people were so welcoming to a foreigner dressed in a sari. Shankar’s colleagues at D&E were extremely hospitable and helpful. So, in 1985 when I was ready to join the job market and there was an opening in the math department, I applied and was selected. In my next 36 years a wonderful sojourn of teaching at D&E followed.” Q: You previously served as interim vice president for academic affairs. What made you want to return to teaching? A: “My tenure in this position was very fulfilling and it challenged me to do the best for the institution. However, my calling to be in a classroom, with a piece of chalk, a blackboard and students wanting to learn is like an addiction. I felt passionate about teaching. So, when the time came to make a choice with continuing to be a full-time VP or a full-time teacher, I chose the latter and have never regretted it.” 14
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Dr. David Turner Professor of History
Q: You have explained that you’re easing into retirement. What does that mean? A: “Easing into retirement has to do with slowly disconnecting myself from the place, the students and the job that I have dedicated a large portion of my life to for 21 years. I don’t think I could abruptly walk away from what I love to do; whether it be teaching or encouraging or helping a student find themselves and believe in their capabilities. Honestly, I believe my life here at D&E has been a calling or a vocation if you want to call it that. Several years ago, I had a parent say those same words to me and the other day President Wood made a similar comment. So, when I say I am easing into retirement, it’s about letting go, reflecting and preparing to change the direction on my new life’s path.” Q: Your students often say you make them feel confident and happy. What makes you feel confident and happy? A: “I feel a sense of accomplishment that I have completed a chapter in my life and along the way have helped and supported many students and families that have crossed my path. My happiness is determined by where I go, who I meet, what I accomplish and what I grow. I love to travel which I plan on doing, specifically to Australia, where my youngest daughter lives. The rest of my family live closer and I plan on spending time with them, especially my grandson. I get a lot of encouragement and confidence from my husband
Turner came to D&E in 1985. One year later, he was named the Chair of the Department of History, Political Science and Sociology. For 10 years, Turner held the Thomas Richard Ross Endowed Chair in History & the Humanities. He’s been honored with the Sears Award for Teaching Excellence and Campus Leadership, and Lois Latham Award for Teaching Excellence. An author, Turner wrote D&E’s “The Centennial History,” and his work has been published in the journal “Middle East International and Michigan Historical Review,” and newspapers in North Carolina and West Virginia. Q: You have a long tenure of teaching history. What mark would you like to leave on the history of Davis & Elkins College? A: “I hope I have improved upon the already distinguished history department and made the College a more appealing place for a future generation of students.” Q: Students have often remarked on your singing and how it makes class interesting. What are some of your favorite songs? A: “‘Tippecanoe and Tyler Too’ was one I used to sing when I thought class was dragging. It’s a campaign song that explains some of the context of the information in class. A couple others are ‘Who Shall Rule this American Nation’ and ‘Get on the Raft with Taft.’ They all were a way of pointing out what I was saying. If the students remembered these, then I must have been on the right track.”
WV Living Highlights Woods
The following appeared in the spring 2021 issue of WV Living magazine and is reprinted with permission. When Huntington natives Chris and Lisa Messinger Wood moved with their two daughters to North Carolina in 2006 for his new career in higher education administration, he already had a couple decades’ background as a United Methodist pastor and as director of Mission West Virginia. Messinger Wood pursued her vocation in elementary regular and special education in North Carolina, and then in Delaware when his work took them there. But they missed their West Virginia home. So when the presidency at Davis & Elkins College came open in 2016, they jumped at it. “We knew the school well and loved that it’s a church-related school, and it was back here among the roots we know so well,” Wood says. “Also, my background is in college fundraising, and the College was in the middle of a $100 million capital campaign. It was an opportunity I could not pass up.” The couple relished their new life as D&E’s president and first lady. And Messinger Wood joined the board of Elkins Main Street, where she soon came to appreciate the tight interdependence between the College and the community. When the directorship of the Elkins–Randolph County Chamber of Commerce opened up in 2018, she applied with enthusiasm and was hired. Just before Messinger Wood came on at the Chamber, the community had embarked on a study of Quint Studer’s book Building a Vibrant Community. The Chamber, on her watch, distributed so many copies that Studer conducted a workshop in Elkins in March 2020. His insights are serving as the foundation for an energizing community dialogue, Messinger Wood says, with 10 task forces shaping the ideas into concrete projects. Collaboration runs deep these days in Elkins and Randolph County, and town–gown relations are at a high.
You’ve been busy! Tell us what’s happened at D&E in your first four-plus years. CW The capital campaign raised $101.4 million, and the college was able to retire all of its debt. That’s critical for sustaining the future of the institution. Thanks to donors, we’ve done some new construction, including a $6.7 million addition to our arts center. And we’ve added new programs and new athletic teams—all to create the strongest possible experience for students.
Chris Wood, as president of Davis & Elkins College, and Lisa Messinger Wood, as executive director of the Elkins–Randolph County Chamber of Commerce, are leveraging the natural synergies between a college and its community to make both stronger.
What is the focus at the Chamber? LMW Randolph County offers a beautiful playground for tourists and guests, and we also want it to be a place where our residents can live and work and, really, stay here. I hate hearing about young people who leave because they think they can have better lives somewhere else. We’ve lived in other places—the things that are here are equally wonderful. That’s why the Chamber has embraced the movement to become a vibrant community. CW When Quint was here, he was able to say from an outside perspective, “I hope everybody here realizes the resources you already have.” He talked about our strong health care system, the college environment, tourism—we just have to embrace all of that and build on it. As we come out of the pandemic, that conversation is going to drive the economic vitality for the region.
What are your goals for D&E? CW Private higher education is highly competitive, so not only financial stability but enrollment stability is important. I want D&E to continue to be known as a place for quality academics and a transformational educational experience. And I want Elkins and Randolph County to be as strong and vibrant as they can be, because that’s good for D&E and recruitment.
What are you looking forward to? LMW Elkins is one of the Mon Forest Towns so, working together with the Mon National Forest, with Davis Health System, with the hardwood industry and all of the business community—and with the College—I think we’re just on the precipice of some exciting things.
D&E is Distinction and Excellence
Throughout the 2020-2021 academic year, Davis & Elkins College was recognized for its distinction and excellence in various categories by some of the top higher education research and ranking organizations in the nation. Here’s a look at how we have scored:
Forbes – Top 15 percent in “College Financial Grades 2021”
PLEXUSS No. 3 in West Virginia – Social Sciences No. 4 in West Virginia – Natural Sciences No. 4 in West Virginia – Environmental Studies
WalletHub – Best Values
24/7 Wall St. – Most Selective Colleges of Distinction U.S. News & World Report No. 24 Best Value Schools No. 43 Regional Colleges South No. 76 Top Performer on Social Mobility News Around Campus
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News Around Campus
Burke-Ross Honored with Robin Price Award A small staging area adorned with flowers and balloons was set up on Halliehurst Porch as faculty and staff gathered to hear the surprise announcement of the 2021 Robin Price Award for Staff Excellence. Among the group was the recipient, Campus Nurse Diana Burke-Ross, who had no idea she was the honoree.
“It was truly a surprise,” Burke-Ross said. “I was in a vaccine clinic and someone came up and told us to come down to the patio because they were giving out the Robin Price Award.” The Robin Price Award for Staff Excellence is presented annually to an outstanding staff member who epitomizes distinction and excellence and who makes a real difference in the lives of students, faculty and staff. It was established in honor of Robin Galford Price on her retirement from the College following a 46-year career. Burke-Ross joined the D&E community as campus nurse in 1999, providing care for students. In the 2020-2021 academic year, she served on the COVID-19 Task Force to help ensure a safe learning and living environment and established COVID-19 testing sites and vaccine clinics on campus. “Over the course of those 21 years, she has nurtured and loved – sometimes tough loved – all who pass through her door,” said D&E President Chris A. Wood “She takes an interest in the lives of her co-workers and students. She is positive, kind, calm and funny in the most chaotic of situations. Particularly over the past year, she has provided superb medical guidance to the campus community in the most difficult of situations.”
Burke-Ross credited other members of the Task Force in helping to make the processes of testing and vaccine clinics operate smoothly. “I had a lot of help from so many people Davis & Elkins College Campus Nurse – the Task Force, Diana Burke-Ross, center, receives the annual Robin Price Award for Staff Lisa Senic, Rosemary Excellence from President Chris A. Wood Thomas and Beth and a congratulations from Robin Price. King in particular,” she said. “COVID, though an unexpected global disaster, did breathe life into my position of Campus Nurse. It presented challenges and hurdles that created an opportunity to interact with people on campus and in the community that I normally wouldn’t have been in contact with. Friendships were strengthened and new friendships created.” Burke-Ross earned a Bachelor of Science degree in forestry and parks and recreation management from West Virginia University. She returned to school and earned an associate of science degree in nursing from the University of the Virgin Islands in St. Croix. She has worked as an assistant principal, high school science teacher and registered nurse.
Nathan Sams Selected for Lois Latham Award Davis & Elkins College Assistant Professor of Mathematics and Institutional Researcher Nathan Sams was a little surprised to be called out of his classroom by President Chris A. Wood. He was even more surprised to find out the reason – he was awarded the College’s Lois Latham Award for Teaching Excellence. The presentation took place outside of Eshleman Science Center where Sams’ wife, daughter and mother in-law, along with D&E faculty, staff and administrators, were waiting for the announcement.
Sams joined the Davis & Elkins College faculty in 2012 as an instructor in the Department of Mathematics, Computer Science and Physics. He also has taught at various colleges throughout West Virginia. Sams holds a Bachelor of Arts in chemistry, a Bachelor of Arts in mathematics and a Master of Science in mathematics, all from West Virginia University.
“A significant difference between Davis & Elkins College and a larger university, whether public or private, is our emphasis on teaching,” said President Chris A. Wood. “The Lois Latham Award for Teaching Excellence marks the recipient as one of distinguished intellectual development, possessing a love and enthusiasm for scholarship, whose calling is the personal development of others.” Nominations for the annual award are submitted by faculty, staff and students and the recipient is selected by the Executive Committee of the Faculty Assembly. “It is especially gratifying to be honored with the Lois Latham award during the COVID-19 pandemic when the D&E community has strived to be flexible in providing all of us with safe and supportive learning environments as we continue to serve our mission to prepare and inspire students for success and for thoughtful engagement in the world,” Sams said. “The award ceremony today came as a total surprise to me. I am thankful for my family, for my colleagues, and for the students who have worked so hard this year.” 16
DAVIS & ELKINS COLLEGE Forward
Davis & Elkins College Assistant Professor of Mathematics and Institutional Researcher Nathan Sams, center, was presented with the College’s top educator honor, the Lois Latham Award for Teaching Excellence. D&E President Chris A. Wood, left, presented the award. Among those attending the ceremony were D&E Provost and Vice President for Academic Affairs Dr. Rob Phillips, right, Sams’ daughter Willow Cronin Sams and his wife Callie Cronin Sams.
BANNER TEXT
Davis & Elkins Men’s Golf Finishes a Historic Season to Cherish Members of the Davis & Elkins men’s golf team huddled around their phones, waiting for the rest of the line-up to finish out the final round of stroke play at the 2021 NCAA DII Men’s Golf National Championships at a sun-soaked PGA National in Palm Beach Gardens. One of the just 16 teams earning an automatic bid to the national tournament, the Senators were hoping to defy the odds even more by finishing among the top eight and moving onto the national quarter-finals. Advancing to the NCAA Atlantic/East Super Regional two weeks prior, Davis & Elkins finished third overall to clinch its spot to nationals in Florida along with Gannon, St. Thomas Aquinas and Fayetteville State. The Senators, which held steady just outside the cut line on day two with a solid team score of 310, battled a stiff wind and put themselves in a position to advance into the medal match play round. D&E saw the best the country had to offer in men’s golf, playing in a pairing with ultimate national champion Arkansas Tech, ranked fourth nationally, before ending round three of stroke play with another top-10 program in Central Missouri. As golfers finished up the most difficult stretch of the course, uncertainty was high, with several teams closing out their rounds. High winds, tricky pin placements and a demanding back nine that included “The Bear Trap” at PGA National gave D&E the break it was looking for, pushing the group to sixth in the final team standings. From the time the sophomore crew of Sean Addie, Jack Coleman, Jack HarlenRobertson, Jordan Hyland, Evan Lewis and the coaching staff stepped into the airport at Pittsburgh International dawning full suits, the Senators were all business. Already making history by just competing in the NCAA Tournament, Davis & Elkins took it a step further, pushing the program, the Mountain East Conference and Atlantic Region to new heights by becoming the first MEC golf program to qualify for the medal match play portion of the tournament. “It’s been an incredible season for our program despite the external setbacks we faced as an athletic department due to the pandemic,” head coach J.D. Lamm said.
In national quarter-finals of match play, the Senators went up against national power West Florida, which entered the tournament as the top-ranked team in the nation and third seed following 54 holes. D&E gave the Argonaut’s all they could handle in a reformatted scoring round that pitted each player’s 18-hole score against his opponents. Teeing off on the 10th hole, Davis & Elkins went back and forth with UWF before the experienced Argonauts pulled ahead down the stretch. Coleman won his match by two strokes and Addie tied with his opponent in a 3-1-1 setback. Years from now, when the collection of talent from all corners of the globe reconvene to swap stories and share memories, moments from their first NCAA Tournament will be sure to provide plenty of accomplishments to look back on. Hyland carded an even-par 72 in the final round of stroke play, while Harlen-Robertson stepped up in round two with a 75. Lewis opened the tournament with a three-over 75, showcasing the Senators’ depth across their starting lineup. Addie ended stroke play with rounds of 78 and 77, while Coleman provided steady rounds of 79, 78 and 81. A record-setting and memorable campaign ended with a win in the Crofton Invitational, the program’s first MEC championship, all-conference honors for the entire Senator starting line-up and MEC Coach of the Year accolades for Lamm. While the 2020-2021 season had its fair share of marquee moments, it’s tough not to think of what the future holds for the Senators. While the group will fly back home for the summer, it won’t be long before they return to the bucolic hills of Elkins. “I’m so proud of the boys and eternally grateful for the help (assistant coach) Alasdair Forsythe provided this year,” Lamm said. “It’s pretty cool what these sophomores have accomplished and it’s even cooler to think about what they’ll be able to do over the next couple of years.”
Photo above: Davis & Elkins prepares to depart from Pittsburgh International Airport for the 2021 NCAA DII Men’s Golf Championships held at PGA National in Palm Beach Gardens. From left are Jack Coleman of Milton Keynes, England; Evan Lewis of Bromsgrove, England; Jack Harlen-Robertson of New South Wales, Australia; Sean Addie of Prestwick, Scotland; Jordan Hyland of Belfast, Northern Ireland; assistant coach Alasdair Forsythe and head coach J.D. Lamm. Athletics
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Teamwork, Flexibility Made for a Successful Athletic Season Relying on strong leadership and the expertise of the athletic training staff and campus task force, Davis & Elkins athletics completed a unique spring 2021 semester of competition that looked much different than any semester previous. Adapting to stringent COVID-19 protocols, the Senators and Mountain East Conference pushed back the start date for fall and winter sports, with every sport competing in some capacity during the spring semester. The athletic season began on January 7 with a home basketball doubleheader and concluded on May 20 when the men’s golf team finished up their run at nationals. In that four-month span, all 24 athletic programs competed apart from indoor track & field, with the program moving right from a condensed cross country slate to the outdoor track season. “Facility scheduling presented many challenges, but fortunately we had a reduced number of competitions within the seasons,” Director of Athletics Jamie Joss said, explaining that each sport was allowed to only compete within the conference this year. “Coordinating practice and
competitions caused adjustments of coaches in reducing practice lengths to be able to get all teams time at their respective facilities.”
While all student-athletes underwent regular COVID testing, those participating in “high-risk” sports as designated by the NCAA were tested up to three times a week to ensure everyone was safe and ready to participate in games and tournaments. Staffing for home athletic events presented additional challenges as the College was not able to utilize community members who had previously assisted in various capacities. Instead, the game operations staff consisted of student workers and student-athletes, who worked around their practice and game schedules. Additional challenges arose with spacing and locker room availability for both home and visiting teams. With multiple events taking place simultaneously and the need for social distancing and reduced interaction between teams, coaches allowed used of their own locker rooms for other sports and teams, providing a safe space for opposing schools.
Hammer Makes Time to Train as a Paralympic Athlete
“We as administrators had the added responsibility of sanitizing locker room spaces and facilities before and after use, and sometimes between games,” Joss said. With a limited availability of drivers who met COVID safety guidelines, transportation presented yet another challenge for the Senators. Administration got creative at one point, having the same driver take two teams to different locations. Overall, the athletic department at Davis & Elkins had to be agile and flexible when it came to working with the schedules of opposing teams that had to cancel or postpone games due to COVID cases. “I am very proud of our student-athletes and coaches for being very responsible in the spring semester as we had only one pause in activities the entire semester and very limited number of cases,” said Joss. “Davis & Elkins was ultimately able to overcome what was thought to be an impossible situation, it took teamwork and flexibility from everyone, but we pulled out a successful season.”
Chris Hammer took the reins of the Davis & Elkins women’s triathlon program back in 2018 as the first coach in program history, wasting little time bringing the Senators into national prominence. While his coaching successes are well documented, Hammer is a father of two daughters and has a doctorate in sport psychology from the University of Utah.
don’t stop there, however, as he is also working to become a top-flight paralympic athlete. Born with one hand due to a congenital condition, Hammer never let his impairment impact his ability to compete in athletics growing up and into college.
country and track teams where he earned AllAmerican honors in both sports. However, it was at a track invitational in Seattle where Hammer was approached by someone who told him about para-sports.
“Growing up, I only ever competed in regular, able-bodied sports such as soccer, baseball, basketball and ice hockey,” Hammer said.
Serving roles as a father, husband and college coach fill up Hammer’s daily schedule. His duties
As a student at Grand Valley State University, a DII school in Michigan, he joined the cross
“I actually didn’t even know para-sports were a thing,” Hammer said. “I always just considered myself an athlete and rarely gave any thought as to how my impairment influenced my athletics.”
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The conversation got him thinking. After college, Hammer joined the U.S. Paralympics Track & Field Team, where he was able to qualify for the London 2012 Paralympic Games in the 1,500-meters and the marathon. In 2013, he decided to try out a new sport: triathlon. Despite not having a training background in swimming or biking, two of the three elements of a triathlon race, he felt his longdistance running success would translate. Since then, he has no regrets in his decision to branch out into triathlon. Competing on the USA Paratriathlon National Team, Hammer was a bronze medalist at the ITU Paratriathlon World Championships in 2014, 2017 and 2019. He also competed as a Paralympian in the last two Olympics, held in London in 2012 and Rio in 2016, and has 21 ITU Paratriathlon international event podium finishes in 29 total races (including nine first-place finishes). “I have met amazing people and developed life-long friendships,” Hammer explained. “It has granted me knowledge and experiences that make me a better coach.” Hammer guided the Senators to an excellent 2019 season, which saw Natalia Hidalgo
Volleyball Shows Steady Progress in Willis’ First Season David & Elkins had an exciting 2020-21 season under first-year head coach Jordan Willis, going 9-3 overall in a condensed campaign with an undefeated home record. Davis & Elkins, which ended the season one game shy of the conference championship game, received two First Team All-MEC selections and added another to the Second Team. Juniors Macie Magallon and Brilane Manchego were named First Team AllMEC selections and sophomore Molly Jandris landed on the Second Team for the Senators.
Martinez capture the individual Division II crown at the National Championships and finish third overall among all competitors, on his way to the USA Triathlon NCAA DII Coach of the Year award. This year, Hammer trained for the 2021 Tokyo Olympics, a feat he would have never considered 15 years ago, especially while holding a full-time coaching job. “There is just never enough time in the day to get to everything I want done,” Hammer said. “It’s important to me that my family and my D&E athletes always come first. I get in the training that I can, but I always feel like I should be doing more. “I think being a coach is very helpful in my preparation for Tokyo … it is so refreshing and motivating to be around young student-athletes daily,” Hammer said. “They keep me grounded and make me smile on a daily basis.” Outside of his family and student-athletes, Hammer’s personal coach, Wes Johnson, is his biggest influence in the sport of triathlon.
Sports Briefs
Six of the Senators nine wins came via sweep, including the regular season finale and MEC Quarterfinal round against nearby West Virginia Wesleyan. Magallon ranked ninth nationally in kills/set (4.52) and points/set (5.06) while Manchego was 26th in DII with 10.24 assists/set.
Arnaud Earns National Runner of the Week Twice for D&E Cross Country Davis & Elkins sophomore Emeric Arnaud earned U.S. Track & Field and Cross Country Coaches Association (USTFCCCA) National Runner of the Week honors twice this season. Arnaud captured the individual crown the Mountain East Conference (MEC) XC Championships in Wheeling, cruising through the 8K course in 25:51.87 while helping the Davis & Elkins men’s team to a runner-up finish.
Chris Hammer competes in the 2012 Paralympics in Rio.
“He is one of the most dedicated coaches I have ever met. He is also a friend and a mentor,” Hammer explained. “His coaching of me has a direct impact on my coaching of the D&E triathletes, as major parts of his coaching philosophy and training periodization preferences have become my own.” Davis & Elkins competed in an abbreviated 2021 season this spring, heading to Florida for a pair of races before wrapping up the year in North Carolina.
Arnaud, who was named the National Runner of the Week following the season opener, became the first men’s cross country conference champion since 1993. The native of Annecy Le Vieux, France, picked up MEC Runner of the Year accolades and capped the brief spring cross country season with first-place showings in both races on March 5 and March 20.
Blood Named NCATA Specialist of the Week Davis & Elkins senior Deanna Blood was named the National Collegiate Acrobatics & Tumbling Association’s specialist of the week following the season-opening competition against Glenville
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State College. Blood, a native of Sarasota, Fla., helped D&E to an 8.55 out of a possible 9.10 in the duo tumbling pass, before returning later in the event to score a 9.65 out of a possible 9.85 in her individual tumbling pass, the aerial pass. Blood returned the following week to score another impressive 9.55 out of 9.85 at the competition against West Liberty University. Blood currently is a part of a program high in the open pyramid (9.9/10) and has helped break 12 program records in this 2021 season.
MEC Recognizes Rolle, Walton
Davis & Elkins men’s basketball had two players receive recognition from the Mountain East Conference (MEC). Sam Rolle IV was named the league’s Freshman of the Year and junior Breland Walton picked up Second Team all-conference laurels. Rolle, a native of Riviera Beach, Florida, earned the honor after ranking among the conference leaders in several categories this season. He led the MEC in assists this season with 7.23, and his 18.9 points per game ranked 13th in the conference and first among freshmen in the league. He also managed 1.92 steals per game – tops among freshmen and fourth in the MEC. The precocious guard ranks second in the nation in assists/game and finished the year with 10 or more assists three times. Walton was also among the top newcomers in the league as a junior, averaging a doubledouble to end the season with 21.5 points/game and 10.8 rebounds/game. The Beckley, W.Va., native posted nine doubledoubles and poured in a career-high 33 points against West Virginia Wesleyan College. Walton was fifth in the MEC in scoring average and second in rebounding average. He played 20
DAVIS & ELKINS COLLEGE Forward
and started in all 15 games for the Senators, while Rolle saw action in 14 contests with 13 starts.
Wojtaszek Makes D&E Wrestling History Davis & Elkins junior Kyle Wojtaszek made history for Senator wrestling, becoming the first individual to win a bout at the NCAA National Championships with his upset 8-1 decision in the opening round. Davis & Elkins competed at the NCAA National Tournament for the first time in program history after last year’s event was halted suddenly. Additionally, sophomore Craig Cook and senior Noah Tarr competed at the national tournament at 149 and 165 pounds, respectively.
Men’s Soccer: New Look Senators Raise the Bar in 2021 With a long history of tradition and excellence, Davis & Elkins men’s soccer set a high standard in their eventual return to competition during the spring of 2021. The Senators, under the direction of first year head coach Dean Johnson, came within one game of the MEC Championship before finishing with a 7-2 record. Capping the regular season with five consecutive wins, the Senators elevated up to ninth in the US Soccer Coaches Top 25 Poll. Eight Senators earned all-conference recognition, which included three First Team honorees. Gianluca Fiorini, Martin Lago and David Jara earned All-MEC First Team accolades for the spring 2021 season as Fiorini and Lago earned an additional spot on the league’s All-Freshman team.
Jeremy Coste, Kenshiro Yamaguchi, Daniel Cerezo and Anderson Marroquin picked up Second Team All-MEC honors for the Senators, which capped the spring season with a 7-2 mark and an appearance in the conference semifinals. Davide Materazzi rounded out the all-conference laurels for D&E, landing on the Honorable Mention team following his first season.
Outdoor Track & Field: Record Number of All-Region Honors Provide Successful Bookend for Senators Davis & Elkins outdoor track & field posted strong showings at the 2021 MEC Outdoor Championships, ending the year with a programrecord 10 all-region awards from the United States Track & Field and Cross Country Coaches Association (USTFCCCA). Nokia Masengu, named the MEC Freshman of the Year, nabbed all-region awards in the 100, 200, 400 and 4x400 relay. Masengu earned the conference title in the 200-meter dash in his first full season competing in track. Benjamin Banda, Tijmen Bouw, Matthew Chapman and Sterling StCyr also notched all-region awards for the Senators. For the women, senior standout Samantha Kirk received all-region status in the 400m hurdles after ending her career with the conference crown in the event, extending her unbeaten streak against DII competition that dated back to the 2018 campaign.
GIVING
A Lasting Legacy in Memory of a Remarkable Woman We all have people in our lives who make such an impact that when they are gone, they leave a place in our hearts that cannot be filled. Such is the case with Dr. Carol Carney who died of COVID-19 related illness last year. Dr. Carney was an Assistant Professor of English at Claremont McKenna College (CMC) in Claremont, California, and served on the Davis & Elkins Board of Trustees from 2001-2005. Her son, Andrew, is a 2003 alumnus of D&E. Carol was beloved by her family, friends and students for her nurturing nature, kindness and generosity. It was in honor of this loving teacher that one of her former students decided to create an endowed scholarship at Davis & Elkins College. Although preferring to be anonymous, he kindly shared his memories of their special friendship. “When I first came to CMC from China as an international student, I felt quite homesick,” he writes. “She would send me See’s Candies anonymously and the mysterious note only said it comes from my ‘American Mom’. ” During his time as a student at CMC, Dr. Carney invited him to family dinners and holidays and in time became his American family. The relationship didn’t end when he graduated. In true “mom” fashion, she cared for his children as if they were her own family. She would offer advice when they were ill, made sure they informed her when returning home safely from traveling and most importantly, shared her own childhood stories, especially those from summer camp.
From left are Phillip Carney, Dr. Carol Carney and Davis & Elkins College alumnus Andrew Carney ’03.
The Dr. Carol Carney Memorial Scholarship for English and Hospitality Management at Davis & Elkins College was fully endowed through a $100,000 gift made in her memory. This is a prime example of how the kindness of one teacher served as a shining example for a student whose generous gift will have an impact on numerous students far into the future. That is a lasting legacy for a truly remarkable “mom.”
“She is the perfect mom and role model as a kind and caring person,” he writes. “Any financial donation I give pales in comparison to the way Professor Carney has helped so many students.”
First Lady Invites Alumni, Friends to Light a ‘Spark’ The act of giving is taking on a new form that will keep the Davis & Elkins College experience moving forward for generations. SPARK – Senators Promoting Admission Recruitment & Knowledge – gives students, alumni and parents a chance to support the College by referring a student they think would benefit from the family orientated atmosphere and caring environment.
Alumna and Assistant Director of Upward Bound Katy Dillon ’03 spends a good amount of time with area youth as instructor of the West Virginia Highland Dancers. She gets to know them personally and learns about their hopes for the future. More than once she initiated a spark when she thought one of her dancers would be a perfect fit to continue their education at D&E.
Initiated by First Lady Lisa Wood, SPARK offers benefits to both the new students and the person who recommends them. New students who are referred and enroll will receive a $1,000 scholarship named in honor of the person who set them on the path to a D&E education.
“I knew they would really thrive here,” Dillon said. “Since it’s a small school, it’s easier to get involved in other activities and take on leadership roles. Plus, as an alumna I know the professors really do care about their students.”
“I truly believe in a D&E education,” Wood said. “It’s a small college with a big heart, and the alumni and friends of D&E know it, too. So, let’s not keep it a secret. I invite everyone who knows how a D&E education can transform an individual’s life to light a ‘spark’ by referring a potential student. That suggestion may lead to an exciting college experience.”
Student referrals can be submitted on our website at www.dewv.edu/spark/ or by calling our Director of Alumni Relations Wendy Morgan at 304637-1341. Lisa Wood’s video explaining the program can be viewed here https://youtu.be/bdmupdBrvck
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GIVING
Anonymous Gift Provides for Scholarships When Davis & Elkins College receives a gift from any donor, the result is always a deep-felt gratitude and humbleness. One particular gift this year brought the same sentiment along with forthcoming joy from students who will benefit.
When an alumna from the 1970s recently received an inheritance from her father after his very meaningful life and successful career, she unselfishly decided to share a significant portion with others. Although she wishes to remain anonymous, she wants her legacy to continue at Davis & Elkins College and help other students enjoy the same transformational experience she had throughout her college career.
She asked that the gift of $600,000 be used where it would have the greatest impact. President Chris A. Wood directed most of the funds toward scholarships for deserving students. “The colorful Prime Minister of Great Britain Winston Churchill once said, ‘You make a living by what you get. You make a life by what you give,’” Wood said. “How blessed D&E is for this gift and this giver. She is dedicated to the welfare of others, and in the process is making a life by what she gives.” The students who receive the scholarship gifts will never know the name of the giver, yet they will know someone cared enough to enhance their quality of life by providing support for their transformative education.
New Grant Supports Enhanced Honors Program The Honors Program at D&E, now in its second year, has recently expanded, thanks to a Network for Vocation in Undergraduate Education (NetVUE) Vocation Across the Academy grant. Administered by the Council of Independent Colleges, funding is provided by the Lily Foundation. Dr. Hillary Wehe, assistant professor of psychology, prepared and submitted the grant proposal with help from Tina Vial, assistant director of institutional advancement; foundation and church relations. Dr. Wehe serves as the program coordinator with collaboration from Career Services, Academic Affairs, Student Life and Alumni Relations. The program provides enhanced vocational exploration for academically exceptional students. The NetVUE grant provides a program expansion that includes student scholarships, retreats and learning events for the students, vocation evaluations, faculty workshops and an on-campus lecture series. In addition, those enrolled benefit from community and professional engagement in various forms. Seminar courses, service learning and guest speakers provide opportunities to further develop critical thinking and communication skills. Faculty and peer mentors, along with immersive learning
events and leadership opportunities, are key components of the program to complement classroom instruction. The $25,000 grant supports the program for one year and then stipulates matching gifts are required for the second year in order to receive grant funds again for a third year. With a strong belief in the opportunities the Honors Program provides to students, Davis & Elkins College Trustee Joyce Butler-McKee Allen recently made a gift in support of the matching grant.
“Davis & Elkins College is known for the individualized attention students receive,” Allen said. “The Honors Program provides students with the opportunity to develop critical and creative thinking skills and to reach beyond typical classroom expectations. I’ve chosen to support the Honors Program matching grant to ensure these unique experiences can continue to be provided to students who have chosen to challenge themselves academically.” Thanks to the contribution from Allen, along with other generous gifts, the $25,000 match has been raised and the program is fully funded for the second year.
Senior Makayla Haddix (left) and sophomore Madison Michels (right) received $1,000 academic scholarships in recognition of their efforts in the College’s Honors Program. The awards were presented by Assistant Professor of Psychology Dr. Hillary Wehe who serves as director of the program. 22
DAVIS & ELKINS COLLEGE Forward
“I have been able to witness students in the Honors Program grow as individuals and become closer to one another,” Wehe said. “This funding will allow them the opportunity to experience many new things together, support faculty through course development and advising, promote student research, and many other exciting opportunities. I am very grateful to those who contributed to the matching funds so we can continue the enhanced Honors Program at D&E.”
ALUMNI NEWS
Alumni and Friends Plug in!
Although we were unable to have in-person events for alumni and friends on campus and in the different regions, resented ical event p tr a e th m a D&E Senators found a way to stay connected this past year. And what a time we have had … . re n Program ever” livest was a “first llege Stage and Scree h Dramatists Next up, it o C wit is & Elkins special arrangement by the Dav y b d te n se s pre “Proof ” wa c., New York. ope Roy; e, In ic tre major H an, Kyia a rv e th r io Play Se n talents of se psychology; freshm atured the c The play fe o, a junior majoring in t Jason Young, artisti is g a rt a sw st T e u is Alexx r; and g eatre majo mpany. ssity McGill, a th Vintage Theatre Co said, “Nece e 2 ’0 Th f in o r rt a to M direc m Lonnie socially eatre & Fil r a safe and unity to Th fo f d o e r e to n c e Instru opport tion. Th created an er of inven ltiis the moth tive environment has xperience in live mu e a n re o distanced c nts some real handse d u ” . st r st a u c o d e a giv r bro duction fo camera pro
In October, Professor of English Dr. Bill King hosted the 22nd annual D&E Writers’ Series with his good friend Karen Salyer McElmurray, an award-winning fiction and creative nonfiction writer. This series took place over two days, featuring a fiction writing workshop and readings with McElmurray from her new novel, “Wanting Radiance.”
In January, we were cooking with D&E’s First Lady Lisa Wood as she invited us, virtually, into her kitchen at Hearthstone and prepared a family favorite recipe – Lemon Garlic Chicken. You can watch the video here: https://youtu.be/COQ6SA0ZIMg
On April 1st we enjoyed “Throwback Thursday” for a virtual Happy Hour hosted by the Events Committee and other members of the National Alumni Council. It was a great evening to grab a favorite beverage, catch up on life and remember the good ‘ole days at D&E.
On Earth Day, April 22, we kicked off the first presentation of D&E’s Top Hat Series! December was a time of celebrating holiday traditions and memories with alumni and friends around the world. From California to Maine, Great Britain to Macedonia, it was two nights of good times and great memories as we shared with others our family traditions from the comfort of our homes.
“How to Plan a Successful Garden” was presented by Dr. Crystal Krause, associate professor of biology and environmental science. Dr. Krause shared the importance of pollinators, location and other helpful hints for us to grow a successful garden. You can watch the video here https://youtu.be/ZnJZUUAIUXs Stay tuned for more presentations with the Top Hat Series, as we continue to learn and seek knowledge from D&E professors and special speakers.
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We Found Love at D&E!!!
In February 2020, on the D&E Facebook page we asked our D&E sweethearts to submit a photo. The response was tremendous as we collected them throughout the year. And in February 2021, President Chris A. Wood shared a special “Reflecting Along the Journey” dedicated to all Davis & Elkins College sweethearts. “Over the 117-year history of this College, countless students have discovered their soulmates on these hallowed grounds, and it continues today,” President Wood wrote in his weekly message. Here is a small sampling of some of our D&E sweethearts, representing thousands of other D&E couples whose love story began at a small college in the mountains of Randolph County. Congratulations to all in finding your “happily-ever-after.”
Brian ’90 and Tracy Cremeans Anderson ’91
Carlos ’90 and Bea Soto Ayala ’91
Neal ’01 and Amanda Chambers Baker ’03
Pete ’69 and Nancy Morgan Brown ’66
Chuck ’91 and Jenny Rexrode Bushovisky ’91
Craig ’73 and Joanne Myers Allsopp ’72
Frank ’14 and Halen Lockhead Cottrill ’14
Matt Summers ’07 and Nicki Hinkle ’03
Norman ’53 and AJ Daetwyler Lunde ’55
Frank Miller ’73 and Sally McCauley ’75
Vince ’91 and Sandra Smith Rooney ’91
Ethan ’12 and Lindsey Wurts Selleck ’09
Brett ’18 and Elise Cardot Metheny ’17
David ’71 and Linda Schacht Coombs ’71
Donald ’00 and Saira Khan Cooper ’01
Neal ’00 and Nicole Isenhart Cooper ’01
Brian ’91 and Linda Voyt DeBease ’90
Cory ’11 and Megan Dulik Dillinger ’11
John ’88 and Krista Prussak Doran ’87
Matt ’98 and Katie Breslin Duffus ’97
Sandy ’88 and Kelly O’Donnell Edwards ’87
Caleb ’19 and Falicity Wallace Enriquez ’19
Paul ’78 and Nancy Cook Estler ’77
Hasika Wijegunawardana ’15 and Taylor Fealy ’16
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James ’89 and Heather Ulrich Fritz ’91
Gary ’90 and Krysten Welke Gregg ’91
Al ’72 and Beth Bachand Grimm ’72
Bryan ’14 and Heather Wilson Harper ’14
Bill ’75 and Cindy Kretsinger Harrison ’76
Bruce ’72 and Sheryl Harman Hartley ’72
Charlie ’75 and Suzi “Froggy” Hallock Hehn ’75
Bob ’69 and Linda Gedge Heinzerling ’69
Knight ’08 and Rachelle Sprenkle ’06
Wes ’17 and Bethany Fulk Hendrix ’17
Jacob ’17 and Trisha Higgins Henry ’16
Mark ’87 and Patti Bennett Hepler ’85
Dennis ’94 and Ginny Fistick Hupp ’96
Andrew ’93 and Melissa Urban Keech ’91
Neil ’92 and Melodie Porch Keenan ’92
Bill ’73 and Nancy Hays McCoy ’75
Don “Flamer” ’73 and Becky Leo McMahaon ’72
Tom ’72 and Sandy Young McMurray ’72
Rosie McTaggart ’19 and J.P. Boggess ’19
Allen ’01 and Irene Rader Melson ’02
Bill ’72 and Becky Haddox Miller ’75
Dan ’75 and Peggy Gatewood Moats ’75
Logan ’16 and Molly Vance Mongold ’15
Bill ’88 and Mary Beth Kenney Nicodemus ’89
Brian ’96 and Karen Lackey Ours ’95
Scott ’87 and Evelyn Carr Piechocki ’87
Bruce ’81 and Elena Joyce Pike ’81
Norm ’67 and Gretchen Jester Pingley ’68
Sam ’71 and Susan Evert Polino ’70
Joshua ’05 and Tiffany Porter Price ’05
John ’94 and Amy Lowther Przybylinski ’94
Kane Logue ’15 and Melissa Pusanik ’16
Ben ’01 and Tamara Pugh Reif ’99
Doug ’75 and Sandy Miller Schwartz ’75
David ’86 and Elizabeth Alessandro Shamble ’87
Rich ’93 and Hillary Cederberg Shryock ’93
Adam ’01 and Megan Armstrong Smith ’03
Scotty ’72 and Anita Norton Smyth ’69
Travis ’05 and Janelle Adams Storm ’05
Sean ’03 and Mandi Helms Sullivan ’01
Sabastian ’19 and Katelynn Hanek Swiger ’16
Andrew ’12 and Ashley Dove Taylor ’15
Chuck ’04 and Adelina Abreu ’05
Frank ’94 and Amy Brown Weaver ’94
Chris ’95 and Jennifer Shaw White ’98
Gary ’80 and Casey Wilkinson Zahn ’81
Love Stories
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ALUMNI NEWS
1947 Beth Guye Kittle, Elkins, W.Va., published two volumes of poetry: “The Sanctioned Fruit” in 1998 and “A Widow’s Lament” in 2014.
1955
1959
Tish Davis McKenzie, Greensboro, N.C., thoroughly enjoyed her 87-year adventure on this earth and was a delight to all who knew her. As a child, Tish had a gift for the spoken word and public speaking, winning national and regional speech contests. She pursued higher education at D&E, and it quickly became one of her favorite places on earth. She was drawn to the stage and breathed life into lead roles in “The Philadelphia Story,” “Glass Menagerie” and “The Heiress.” It was also on the D&E stage that Tish would meet her leading man for life, John McKenzie ’55, as they were cast as Eliza and Alfred Doolittle in “Pygmalion.” For 63 years, Tish and John held each other close with love, respect and laughter, and inspired their children to find that same sort of happiness. They shared their love of West Virginia and D&E with their children, daughter Tara McKenzie Sandercock ’80 and her husband, Steve Sandercock ’82, Greensboro, N.C.; sons, Shawn McKenzie, ’84, Stevenson, Md., Scot McKenzie ’96, Mount Rainier, Md., and Mark Skye McKenzie, Los Angeles, Calif.; and cousin, Bryan LaFollette ’19, Elkins, W.Va. Scot writes, “The foundation of my parents’ connection with each other, certainly the setting and circumstances in which they met and fell in love, iconic chapters in the mythology of our family, flowed from their experiences at D&E and
The late John McKenzie and Tish Davis McKenzie – a legacy of love. See 1955.
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brought them great joy.” On April 2, 2021, sadly, Tish passed away. The McKenzie family invites all who knew and loved Tish and John to consider making a gift in their memory to the D&E College Theatre Program.
DAVIS & ELKINS COLLEGE Forward
On October 10, 2020, Dick and Kay Woodward Royster ’62, Williamsburg, Va., celebrated their 61st wedding anniversary. Sadly, Dick passed away on February 18, 2021. William H. Sudbrink, Lompoc, Calif., a lifetime coin collector, was recently interviewed for an article published in The Numismatist magazine titled “Bill Sudbrink: The Thrill of the Hunt Drives this Cosmopolitan Collector.” Bill’s love of coin collecting began as a child when, on a rainy day, his mother let him “play” with her jar of old Indian Head cents. He started sorting the cents by date and realized some were more worn than others, and a numismatist was born. Over the years, Bill has collected many coins from all over, and has served as a volunteer curatorial assistant for the American Numismatic Society. Several of Bill’s coins have been donated to D&E and are on display in the Howard-Sudbrink Collection of The Stirrup Gallery.
1961 Gary Horvath, Nellysford, Va., shares that 2021 is the 60th anniversary of the first soccer team at D&E. Gary and Willard “Bill” McQuary were the co-captains. In this tribute, Gary honors the teammates who played on the first soccer team: Robert Grote ’65, George Scott ’65, Jim Bushyeager ’65, Dennis Bye ’65, Jim Fishel ’64, Bob Maitan ’65, David Clapp ’65, Jim Douglas ’64, Floyd Back ’65, John Creaturo ’65 and Stoddard Best ’65. And, remembers teammates who were on the first soccer team who have passed away: James Nunn ’67, Eric Sennhenn ’65, Saeed Alavi-Naini ’65, Farid Shahid Noorai ’65, Bob McWilliams ’65, Duncan McGill ’65, Dave Vivian ’65, Joe Seid ’65 and Ray Luce ’65. On October 18, 1961, D&E won the first intercollegiate soccer game in the College’s history, defeating Wesleyan
2-0 on the old athletic field where Robbins Memorial Chapel now stands. William W. “Bill” Ward and his wife, Carol, Hamilton, N.J., celebrated their 60th wedding anniversary on February 11. They have three children, eight grandchildren and three greatgrandchildren. Bill was a police lieutenant and is now enjoying his retirement.
1964 Karen Harmeier Berner, Washington Crossing, Pa., is the proud grandmother of Benjamin and Cody. Benjamin is in his second year at Penn Technical Institute and Cody will graduate from Hopewell Valley Regional High School in June.
1965 H. Thomas “Tom” Mullis and his wife, Diane, are enjoying retirement on their farm in Staffordsville, Giles County, Va. Prior to 2020, they always looked forward to meeting with David Kirk ’64, Roanoke, Va., and Curt and Gail Hagerman McKee ’67, Pilot, Va., for lunch. They now see each other via Zoom.
1966 Gary T. “Tim” Swift and his wife, Suzy, celebrated their 56th wedding anniversary in August, and a move to a new home in Henrico, Va. They are delighted with their new community and share hope that 2021 will bring health and happiness to all.
Gary “Tim” ’66 and Suzy Swift. See 1966.
1968 Virginia “Ginny” Howard Bryant, Okeechobee, Fla., and her daughter, Melissa, are both part of the quilt ministry of First Baptist
Ginny Howard Bryant ’68 and her long arm quilting machine. See 1968
Church. They make quilts for Hospice, the Real Life Children’s Ranch and for women at the Lighthouse Refuge, as well as for police squad cars to give to children involved in traumatic experiences. Ginny also has traveled to Haiti with More 2 Life to teach the women there how to sew and said it was a very rewarding experience. About 98% of the quilts Ginny makes are for ministry of some type, and she is glad her daughter is following in her footsteps. Fred and Patricia “Pat” Taggart Konhaus ’69, Cross Roads, Pa., are very proud of their son, Tim, and daughter, Heather Konhaus ’96, Berlin, Pa. And, during D&E’s 2021 Commencement ceremony celebrated the graduation of their grandson, Aiden Konhaus. Aiden, Tim’s son, was selected to design the 2021 Graduating Class Commemorative Medal. He is the third generation in the Konhaus family to graduate from D&E.
The legacy continues with three generations of D&E graduates in The Konhaus Family. See 1968.
Atkinson, and his wife, Eva, Dover, Del.; and Bill ’70, and Beth Mitchell Nuttall, Chattanooga, Tenn. They all had a great time!
1972 John Stibravy, Denville, N.J., has written a new book. “The Last Pretty Lake in New Jersey: Cedar Lake” represents John’s memories of the lake and the people as he came to know and love the area in 1954 as a young boy. The stories of the people are presented in a satirical and sometimes biting style, about fishing trips, holidays, lake history and family relationships. John writes that much of the small town and lake life of the 1950s and 1960s remain today, as he invites us to take a walk back through time. John’s book is now available on Amazon.com.
In his retirement, William L. “Bill” Turner Jr., Arlington, Va., works part time as an assistant registrar with the Arlington County (Virginia) Office of Voter Registration and Electoral Board. During a visit to the Arlington Courthouse Starbucks, which is in the same building, Bill had a friendly conversation with Scott Dielman ’12, Alexandria, Va., and soon discovered their D&E connection. Scott is the manager for that Starbucks location and, on their behalf, has generously donated coffee and snacks to Bill’s team of election officers at the precinct on Election Day. Bill and Scott have enjoyed getting to know each other as fellow alumni and reminiscing about D&E and Elkins over the years. Scott shared, “Elkins certainly has a way of bringing people together,” and Bill remarked,
1969 Lawrence P. “Larry” Johnson and his wife, Helen, have adopted a nomadic lifestyle migrating between their home on the island of Maui, Hawaii, and their homes near Pinehurst, N.C., and southeast Pennsylvania. They have three children and seven grandchildren. “Aloha to all friends and D&E classmates!”
1971 Hank Steinbrecher and his wife, Ruth Anne, hosted a small reunion with wonderful D&E friends at their home in Tucson, Ariz. Those attending were Nils Heinke ’73, Elkins, W.Va.; William “Scotty” ’72, and Anita Norton Smyth ’69, Bristol, Conn.; Pat Massa, and his wife, Donna, Moneta, Va.; Lewis “Lew”
Great friends! Nils Heinke ’73; Anita Norton Smyth ’69 and Scotty Smyth ’72; Donna and Pat Massa ’71; Lew ’71 and Eva Atkinson; Beth Mitchell Nuttall ’71 and Bill Nuttall ’70; with Ruth Anne and Hank Steinbrecher ’71. See 1971.
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ALUMNI NEWS “You just never know where one D&E alum might turn up and meet another … perhaps at your local Starbucks.”
1973
Jeff Krizan, Cross Junction, Va., has penned another inspirational fiction novel titled “Keyser: The Friendliest City in the USA.” It is a fictionalized account from stories and anecdotes related to the author over the course of four years. The story follows the character Pete Gallagher who finds that his future can only be realized by taking matters into his own hands. Along the way, he will disrupt two dysfunctional families, affect dozens of lives, and send shock waves through his hometown. From his Christian upbringing, Pete fully understands that his actions are not consistent with all that he was taught. Is unconditional love enough to overcome unspoken secrets? Can he prove
everyone wrong? In the end, it is really about love, unconditional love, and you can decide if Keyser, or any other city or town in the USA should be making the claim of “Friendliest City in the USA.” Jeff ’s book is available on Amazon.com.
1974 In June 2019, John R. Wenzel retired from Tecolote Research, after 13-plus years, providing budget and integrated program management support to NOAA at the joint program office of NOAA and NASA for the JPSS weather satellite program. Prior to that, John worked almost 15 years with other contractors providing earned value management support to SDIO, BMDO and MDA (Missile Defense Agency). After 42 years in Germantown, Md., John and his wife, Marjorie, moved to Frederick, Md., to be closer to their six grandchildren – five boys and one girl. The oldest is 9 and the youngest is 2.
1975 In January and again in March, Mark Barber, Bonita Springs, Fla., organized Zoom chats with some of his Tau Kappa Epsilon brothers from 1974-1977. They had a great time getting reacquainted and catching up on life. Zoom is a great way to stay in touch and they look forward to reuniting on campus later this year.
Jeff Krizan ’73, author of “Keyser: The Friendliest City in the USA.” See 1973.
Judy Snatchko Cornman and her husband, Russell, share they have achieved their retirement goal of moving close to their family and are now living in the Philadelphia area of Willow Grove, Pa.
A ZOOM room full of Tau Kappa Epsilon brothers. See 1975. 28
DAVIS & ELKINS COLLEGE Forward
Elizabeth “Liz” Clements. See 1978.
1978 Elizabeth E. “Liz” Clements graduated from D&E with a major in environmental water quality studies. After college, Liz lived in Colorado, New York and several places in Maine, working for several companies and institutions, including Measured Progress Educational Testing, Phillips Exeter Academy and Unity College. She had a lifelong love of animals and being outdoors, where she especially loved the ocean and the New England shore. Liz was devoted to her family and remained close with many of her D&E
friends and classmates. Sadly, Liz passed away on February 16, 2020. Richard A. “Doc” Daugherty’s entire career has been in banking. Following graduation from D&E, Doc started in the accounting office at Liberty Bank, later earning promotion to controller and supervised the accounting and computer departments. In 1987, he accepted a position with Chessie Federal Credit Union as supervisor for their accounting and computer departments as they made the transition from manual reports to computer-generated reports. In 1990, Doc was promoted to vice president and in 1991, he was promoted to president/CEO. Through the years, Chessie Federal Credit Union grew and expanded. Doc said, “Looking back over my time with Chessie and thinking about everything we have accomplished, it was my employees, board of directors and supervisory committee that made it all happen. In every organization, in order to be great and successful, you need dedicated people willing to work and be able to adapt to changes.” He shared it was his honor and privilege of
working with the best team any president/ CEO could ask for. Doc lives in Ridgeley, W.Va., and is now enjoying retirement.
1981 William “Bill” Anderson, Lynchburg, Va., shares that his son, Curt Anderson, continues to work as a contemporary Christian artist and worship leader. Curt has recorded two albums, “Every Moment” and “Every Moment Vol. II,” which include the singles “Keep Me Falling” and “Love Like You Love.” And, Curt also recently finished filming his pilot TV show, “The Adventure: Lifechanging Travel with Curt Anderson.” To see more, check out Curt’s music videos on YouTube and his website at https://curtandersonmusic.com.
1983 In November 2016, Douglas K. Chappel, retired after 32 years in the industrial pipe, valve and fitting wholesale distribution business, where he served as a purchasing agent, warehouse manager and did inside sales for four different distributors. After living in Pittsburgh, Pa., for
many years, Doug is now enjoying retirement in Tionesta, Pa. He helps care for his mother and is often found hiking forest service roads, old logging roads, railroad grades, trails, creeks and valleys of the Allegheny National Forest. Doug shares, “Looking at a topographic map and planning a walk never grows old.”
1984 Mary Forcier, Hamden, Conn., is the owner and baker at Canary’s Cookies & More. Using only real ingredients and a lot of love, Mary uses her Grammy’s recipes with her own special touch. Plus, they just added a wonderful line of scones with the brand name Scone Home. For more information, check out her website, canaryscookies.com and sconehome.com, or send an email to canaryscookies@gmail.com.
1985 Mark ’87, and Patti Bennett Hepler, Elkins, W.Va., are the proud grandparents of sweet baby boy, Haven Jeffrey Bauer Teter. Haven was born on April 16. Patti and Mark share, “The life of grandparents is the best!”
Patti Bennett Hepler Finds Her Niche in New Career If you transpose a couple letters in Patti Bennett Hepler’s last name, you could come up with Patti “Helper.” Ironically, that typo would fit in line with her aspirations and her new career – owner and therapist at Mountain Aire Massage. The 1985 Davis & Elkins College graduate with degrees in fashion merchandising, business and journalism, spent her work life assisting others – in retail and in small local government. Yet she had a desire to take that attribute to a more personal level. “I always liked massage and in the back of my mind I said, ‘if the opportunity ever comes along, I will go to massage school,’” Hepler explained. “I like helping people and this is a way to help people in the physical sense.” In early 2020, she enrolled in Clarksburg Beauty Academy and School of Massage Therapy. Then, two things happened that could have derailed Hepler’s plans. Her father suffered a stroke and a short time later the pandemic struck. Always taking the positive approach, Hepler used her newly acquired skills to help her dad rehabilitate.
“He has slowly been my catalyst,” she said. Although her studies took eight months instead of the normal six months to complete due to COVID restrictions on the clinical element, Hepler didn’t mind the delay. It gave her more time to refine plans for opening her business.
Patti Bennett Hepler ’85 is putting her newly
acquired skills to work as therapist and owner of What she didn’t expect was how Mountain Aire Massage. The business has three quickly her business would soar. studio locations as well as mobile equipment. With three studios – the WV Autism Center in Elkins, the HisAs her new career takes shape, Hepler toric Circleville High School in Circleville stays centered on the foundation of her and is a newly contracted therapist with D&E education and incorporates her Harman Cottages in Petersburg, plus the experiences into her business. She hopes ability to go mobile – Hepler is hands others who are thinking of switching on six days a week to accommodate her careers or those who are forced to because of the pandemic can use their D&E backclients’ schedules. Each can get a personground to fulfill a new passion. alized treatment, whether it’s a Swedish or deep tissue massage while incorporating “This is absolutely my niche,” Hepler modalities of cupping, cold laser light, said. “At the end of the day I feel like I’ve infrared heat, trigger point/impact, hot contributed something, that I’ve helped stones and more. somebody. That’s my goal – to be helpful.”
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ALUMNI NEWS that integrates the areas of science, technology, engineering and mathematics, helping students develop key skills that include problem solving and creativity. Congratulations Michele!
1990 Jerry A. Marco Jr. recently retired, after more than 28 years of service, from the FBI. Jerry plans to use his experience and the skills honed during his career with the FBI as he now settles into his new position as mayor of the city of Elkins. Congratulations Jerry!
Patti Bennett Hepler ’85 and grandson Haven Jeffrey Bauer Teter. See 1985.
1988 Michele DeBerry, Chestnut Hill Cove, Md., was awarded the Maryland Association of Science Teachers (MAST) Outstanding Elementary Educator of the Year Award for 2020. This award was given to Michele for the work she does with project based learning for pre-K to 5th grade STEM classrooms, coordination of after school STEM clubs and school wide STEM days, managing a Department of Defense Grant to support the STEM initiatives, and for writing curriculum for Anne Arundel County Public Schools Triple E (Enhancing Elementary Education) program, for which she is an instructor. STEM is an approach to learning and development
Susie Jackson Mullens, Charleston, W.Va., program coordinator for the West Virginia Collegiate Recovery Network, has been named the national Collegiate Recovery Advocate of the Year, an honor organized by the Association of Recovery in Higher Education. Susie is a licensed psychologist, licensed professional counselor, certified advanced alcohol and drug counselor, and a master addiction counselor and supervisor, and has worked in the mental health and substance use disorder field for more than 29 years. An employee of Marshall University Research Corporation, Susie works to expand recovery efforts on seven campuses in southern West Virginia, including Marshall University. Dr. Matthew Christiansen, director of West Virginia’s Office of Drug Control Policy, said, “I can think of no one more deserving of this award than Susie Mullens. She is a tireless advocate for recovery and has helped countless West Virginians in their journey to long term recovery.” Susie also hosts a show on the WV Library Commission Network called “Solutions, Service and Serenity,” which helps raise awareness for recovery programs across West Virginia.
Newly elected City of Elkins mayor Jerry Marco Jr. ’90 and former City of Elkins mayor Van Broughton. See 1990. 30
DAVIS & ELKINS COLLEGE Forward
1993 Scott Sanders, Joppa, Md., and his father, Harry Sanders, are celebrating 26 years working together at Long & Foster Real Estate, Inc. They have a strong passion for the local lifestyle and a heritage that runs deep in their community. Congratulations!
2003 Elizabeth “Libby” Nolle, Mount Nebo, W.Va., is the executive chef at Whistle Punk Grill & Taphouse in Richwood, W.Va., and was recently selected Best Chef by readers of WV Living Magazine. She credits D&E and her mentor Chef Mel for piquing her interest
Elizabeth “Libby” Nolle ’03 selected as WV Living Magazine’s Best Chef. See 2003.
What a team! Scott Sanders ’93 and his father Harry. See 1993.
McCumbers is Living the Dream in the World of Gaming
Alex McCumbers ’14 was just another guy into gaming – OK, really into gaming – until he turned his penchant into a career. Now on the other side of the screen, he’s the man who doles out the inside news, checks in with players to get their takes and helps others aspiring to make gaming their day job. Officially, McCumbers is the community manager at Supercolony Inc., a company that develops mobile games including Catopia: Rush. His duties cover a lot of territory – press releases, social media, writing character descriptions and working with artists to localize content for their comics. “It’s almost a dream job,” McCumbers said, adding that he’s set his sights on moving to the next level of gaming with hopes of working in the creative process. After earning his degree in English, McCumbers’ career in gaming didn’t come straight out of the box. He spent a few years toying with his options – working as a production assistant at WDTV in Clarksburg and in the radio news business in Alaska. On the side, he wrote gaming reviews for various publications and digital media. He and fellow alumnus Zach Snyder ’13 own Forever Classic Games, a media outlet that focuses on the academic pursuit of video games. in cooking, where she made her first pot of potato soup as she studied hospitality and management. Libby shared, “My time at D&E was awesome. Being in a small school really helps people live up to their full potential. It’s a learning environment that cultivates more growth.”
Alex McCumbers ’14 and his friend Joe Siemsen visit the National Video Game Museum in Frisco, Texas.
“I took all the things I learned from my other jobs and put that in my back pocket in case I needed them,” McCumbers explained. Those skills have come in handy. A move to Texas helped him connect with a friend of a friend who happened to own a gaming company and needed someone to do some writing and social media production. By nature of the business, remote work is fairly common. So, when McCumbers made another move – this time to Minneapolis – he took his job with him. “Gaming is a multifaceted career opportunity,” McCumbers said. “It involves marketing, music and art, and it’s really fun. Work on what makes you happy, that’s the way I’ve been living.”
2005
2013
On March 30, A.J. and Kristi Price Ward, along with big brother, Bryce, welcomed baby girl Alyssa Faith Ward. Mike ’75, and Robin Galford Price ’73, Elkins, W.Va., are the proud grandparents of Alyssa and Bryce. The Ward family lives in Scott Depot, W.Va.
On October 23, 2020, Brittany Anderson and Bryant Hines ’15 were married in Leesburg, Va. Celebrating with the happy couple were D&E friends, Cameron Martin ’13, Bassett, Va.; Brandon Hamons ’18, Marlinton, W.Va.; Evan ’11 and Ashley Uberty Gazza ’11, Spencerport, N.Y.; Corey ’13 and Callie Updike McWilliams ’14, Waynesboro, Va.;
2006 “As soon as I saw you, I knew a grand adventure was about to happen.” Samuel J. Calvert and his wife, Katie, Charleston, W.Va., are over the moon in love with their little boy, Russell Jay Calvert. Baby Russ was born on January 11. Congratulations!
2008
A.J., Kristi ’05 and Bryce welcome Alyssa Faith Ward. See 2005.
Katherine “Alex” Harris Robbins is a member of the Pain Management Center at Davis Medical Center in Elkins, W.Va. After earning her A.S. in nursing from D&E, Alex completed her Master of Science in nursing and is now working toward a Doctor of Nursing Practice. She and her family live in Belington, W.Va., where they love spending time together and being outdoors with the family horses.
Future D&E baseball player – Russell Jay Calvert, son of Sam ’06 and Katie Calvert. See 2006. Alumni News
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ALUMNI NEWS AND NOTES worked as an activities director of a nursing home affiliated with War Memorial Hospital and was recognized by WV Living Healthy as a 2021 Heath Care Hero. Kelsey and Paul live in Berkeley Springs, W.Va. Mark Lanham, Elkins, W.Va., had his first article published in the March issue of The Numismatist. “Bridge Across the Danube,” is about Emperor Trajan, ruler of the Roman Empire from A.D. 98 to 117, known for expanding the borders of the Roman Empire and his architectural accomplishments.
2015 Steven P. and Danielle Bible Sponaugle ’13, are the proud parents of Ryder, Charlie and brand-new baby boy Chase, born April 26. The happy family lives in Parsons, W.Va., where Danielle is the assistant city administrator/finance director. Steve finished his
Katherine “Alex” Harris Robbins. See 2008.
Heather Zapf ’12, Herndon, Va.; Carrie Brown-Hardy ’12, Madison, Va.; Brandi Brown ’13, Allison Park, Va.; and Jeb Early ’11, Bealeton, Va. Bryant and Brittany live in Fairfax, Va. Bryant is a GPS technician and works on multiple road construction projects in northern Virginia, and Brittany is completing her residency to be a licensed professional counselor working with adults with serious mental illness.
2014 Congratulations to Kelsey Hall and Paul Young ’09! On October 10, 2020, they were married in Fishers, W.Va., at the Misty Mountain Event Barn. It was a great day as they celebrated with D&E friends, Joel Turley ’09, Pittsburgh, Pa.; Hardie Smith ’12, Towson, Md.; Demir Dogrul ’10, Fairfax, Va.; Matt Pollack ’12, Midlothian,
It’s wedding bells for Bryant ’15 and Brittany Anderson Hines ’13. See 2013.
Va.; Charlie Wells ’08, Fort Johnson, N.Y; Samantha Bundock Shaffer ’16, Beverly, W.Va.; Bill Young, ’09, Norwich, Vt.; Katie Tipton LaValla ’09 and Nathan LaValla ’08, Pittsburgh, Pa.; Preston Fitzgerald ’09, Oak Island, N.C.; Adam Brenner ’12, Morgantown, W.Va.; Kevin Kilgore ’86, Elkins, W.Va.; Benjamin Roberts ’06, Elkins, W.Va.; and Tim Powell ’10, Monroe, Ohio, who also officiated. Paul is employed at Amazon and Kelsey is a personal trainer and team lead fitness group instructor at Valley Health Physical Rehabilitation and Fitness Center. During COVID-19 lockdown, Kelsey
A monarch butterfly at the home of Rachel Hamm ’15, tagged and ready to be released. See 2015.
The Hall-Young Wedding! L-R - Joel Turley; Hardie Smith; Demir Dogrul; Matt Pollack; Charlie Wells; Groom, Paul Young and Bride, Kelsey Hall Young; Samantha Bundock Shaffer; Bill Young; Katie Tipton LaValla and Nathan LaValla; Preston Fitzgerald; Adam Brenner; Kevin Kilgore; Tim Powell; and Benjamin Roberts. See 2014. 32
DAVIS & ELKINS COLLEGE Forward
Master of Science in nursing in November 2020 and is now a family nurse practitioner. Congratulations! Rachel A. Hamm, Centreville, Va., made the most of her time at home this fall as she became the “mother” to about 60 monarch chrysalises. Her home is now an official Monarch Waystation, providing milkweeds, nectar sources and shelter needed to sustain monarch butterflies as they migrate through North America. Rachel writes, “It was fun, but a lot of work as each butterfly is registered and fed before they are released.” Once they arrive in Mexico, Rachel will get notification they have arrived.
2016 Ty-Chon Montemoino and his wife, Cailynn, are the proud parents of Antonio James “AJ” Montemoino. AJ was born on October 31, 2020, weighing 7 pounds, 4 ounces and measuring 20 inches. Ty, Cailynn and AJ live in Virginia Beach, Va.
Congratulations to Dakota Sisk ’17, Mary Jane “MJ” Braham ’17, Dylan Stansberry ’18 and Mark Cordle ’17. See 2017.
2017 During WVU’s 2020-2021 Commencement ceremonies, Mary Jane “MJ” Braham, Independence, W.Va.; Mark Cordle, Fayetteville, W.Va.; and Dakota Sisk, New Haven, W.Va., graduated from the School of Pharmacy, and Dylan Stansberry ’18, Williamstown, W.Va. graduated from the School of Physical Therapy. Velma Ragsdale is loving life in Dallas, Texas. She works for a catering company, The Festive Kitchen, as an administrative assistant/assistant account manager.
It’s a boy! Antonio James Montemoino. See 2016.
They met at D&E in 2014 as students, and on October 15, 2020, Elise Cardot and Brett Metheny ’18, were married in Beverly, W.Va. Elise is the granddaughter of the late Martha “Mardi” Quick Cardot ’62. The happy couple now live in Richmond, Va. Matthew Zorn graduated from Louisiana State University with a Master of Fine Arts in 2020 and is now a first-year resident artist in the ceramics program at Brockway Center for Arts and Technology in Brockway, Pa. Matt has taught introlevel college courses and enjoys working with high school students. Matt lives in Brockway, Pa.
Congratulations Brett ’18 and Elise Cardot Metheny ’17! See 2017.
2018 Simon Hestad is enjoying life in Oslo, Norway with his new baby girl, Tara. Tara was born on October 12, 2020. In Fall 2020, Mads F. Kaiser graduated with honors from Regis University in Denver, Colo., with a Master of Science in marketing. Mads now resides in Mason, Ohio.
2020 Matt Zorn ’17, resident artist at Brockway Center for Arts and Technology. See 2017.
Following graduation from D&E, Rhetta Persinger, Jonesborough, Tenn., was hired as a first-grade teacher at Boones Creek Elementary School in Johnson City, Tenn.
Simon Hestad ’18 and baby girl Tara. See 2018. Alumni News
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IN MEMORY The 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. 1942 Betty J. Boyles Monroe, September 13, 2020
ALUMNI
1956 Roy E. Gilmer, December 8, 2020
1974 Rosanne Calanni Aikens, April 16, 2021
1957 Mary L. Bliss Rhodes, June 12, 2019
1974 Michael J. Morrison, December 30, 2020
1947 Nancy Armentrout Lang, October 8, 2020
1957 Richard W. “Dick” Shaw, December 29, 2020
1975 Eric F. deGruyter, January 30, 2021
1947 Charles Rymniak, Date Unknown
1958 Shirley Martin Lugar, February 19, 2021
1948 Roy E. Cool, January 21, 2021
1958 Eileen L. Wilson, November 29, 2016
1978 Elizabeth E. “Liz” Clements, February 16, 2020
1948 Sherwood F. Smith, February 8, 2021
1959 Dick M. Royster, February 18, 2021
1980 Steven E. Leitzel, March 11, 2021
1949 Theresa J. Gainer Martin, January 28, 2021
1959 James R. “Jim” Thornhill, April 2, 2021
1981 Allen B. “Buss” Roy, January 19, 2021
1949 Donald R. Meierdiercks, February 1, 2021
1959 Mary C. Wilmoth, February 17, 2013
1949 Bruce C. Mero, December 22, 2011
1960 Charles L. “Chuck” Clark, November 5, 2020
1982 Cheryl L. Romesburg Jordan, March 14, 2021
1944 Jearline Heltzel Hatch, October 25, 2020
1950 Walter H. Hasbrouck, August 20, 2020
1976 Ruth Eakin Cobb, February 17, 2021
1983 Jeanne E. Heermance, October 20, 2020
1960 Ronald L. Cross, December 21, 2020
1983 Paul J. Tripoli, August 17, 2019
1960 Carson W. Markley, October 26, 2020
1988 Loretta A. “Lori” King, March 23, 2021
1951 Charles C. Christian Jr., February 22, 2021
1961 George R. Heavner, October 1, 2020
1951 Donald R. Clevenger, March 20, 2021
1962 Charles W. “Chuck” Phares Jr., November 5, 2020
1988 Karen L. Carey Youngberg, November 2020
1950 Charles D. “Denny” Mays, December 20, 2020
1951 Robert E. Kother, March 19, 2021 1951 Ernest J. Ritenhouse, December 10, 2020 1951 Keith C. Weese, September 19, 2020 1953 Margaret E. “Ibbie” Long Daniels, December 12, 2020 1953 Bette L. Rowe Lowery, November 15, 2020
1963 Phillip “Phil” Bussey, February 9, 2021 1963 William R. Jones, April 13, 2021 1963 Robert M. Wood, January 15, 2021 1964 Virginia M. Howell Davis, December 25, 2020
1989 Luciano X. Cappazolli, April 20, 2003 1990 Christy L. Bennett Clendenen, February 27, 2021 1993 Kelly I. Smith Stemple, March 5, 2021 1995 James W. “Jim” Heck, October 25, 2020 1995 David L. Henderson Sr., March 11, 2021
1965 Donald B. Deacon, December 1, 2020
1995 Rebecca L. Knight, December 6, 2020
1965 Samuel E. Glover, December 31, 2020
1997 Karen Johns Goodall, April 23, 2021
1965 Ruth “Barbette” Clement Schafer, May 7, 2020
1998 Mary Ann Dean Hefner, November 11, 2020
1967 George R. Scott, April 16, 2021
1998 Jack R. Summerfield, October 4, 2020
1955 Elaine R. Bell Markley, June 10, 2014
1969 Lance R. Pledger, November 8, 2020
2002 Jeffrey D. Shirk, December 6, 2020
1955 Patricia A. “Tish” Davis McKenzie, April 2, 2021
1970 Howard G. “Guy” Howell, March 18, 2021
2012 Robert “Bobby” Dalton, November 3, 2020
1971 Jeffry A. Mulrain, April 20, 1996
2012 Hillary L. Sparks, April 29, 2021
1972 Ernest A. Huttell, October 4, 2020
2020 Christian E. Arrell, December 27, 2020
1953 Norman A. Lunde, March 26, 2021 1954 Betty J. “Jean” Johnston Hinkle, December 21, 2020 1955 Anna Jean “AJ” Daetwyler Lunde, January 10, 2021
1956 Branem J. “Jeff ” Coberly Jr., November 2, 2020
1973 Donald C. “Flamer” McMahon, May 5, 2021
FRIENDS & FAMILY Janice C. Wilmoth Bennett, September 4, 2020 Former Student
Laurie Wolfe Murray, December 9, 2020 Friend of the College
Bernard Cyrus, October 19, 2020 Friend of Augusta
Ronald R. Phillips, April 23, 2021 Former Student
Thomas M. “Tommy” Doig, October 27, 2020 Former Student
Shawn M. Price, November 15, 2020 Former Longtime Employee in Dining Services
Karl Hermann, September 20, 2020 Former Soccer Coach, 1961-1963
Eugenia E. Rolland Sullivan, October 19, 2020 Former Student
Franklin R. “Randy” Kyle, April 17, 2021 Friend of the College
Doris J. Williams, February 21, 2021 Friend and Volunteer with Augusta
To include the passing of alumni, friend of the College or former employee in the next edition of Forward, please call Director of Alumni Engagement and Support Wendy Morgan at 304-637-1314 or email her at morganw@dewv.edu 34
DAVIS & ELKINS COLLEGE Forward
REMEMBERING
Dr. A. Jean “Doc” Minnick
Dr. Charles P. Cullop
Professor Emerita Dr. Anna Jean Minnick, age 94, a resident of Elkins, departed this life Thursday, February 25, 2021, at her home and under the care of Mountain Hospice. She was born Thursday, May 20, 1926, at Saint Marys, West Virginia, a daughter of the late Lowell Valentine and Lenore Jane McCoy Minnick. Surviving are one niece, Crista Ellena and husband, Greg, and their son, Justin of Gainesville, Florida. Preceding her in death is one sister, Mary Lou Melton. Minnick graduated from Marlinton High School in Pocahontas County, West Virginia. She earned her Bachelor of Science degree in physical education from West Virginia University School of Physical Education in 1949 and her Master of Science degree from WVU in 1964. She earned her Ph.D. from New York University in 1970. She completed post-doctoral studies at the University of Utah, Penn State University and the University of Wisconsin-Madison. Minnick served as professor and chair in the Department of Health, Sport, and Movement Sciences at Davis & Elkins College from 1963 to 1998. She retired as professor emerita. In September 2017, Dr. Minnick endowed the A. Jean Minnick Chair in Sport Science at Davis & Elkins College. She coached Division I field hockey for 17 years, with an overall record of 145-21-14, including 12 undefeated regular seasons, three Midwest championships and placed third in the Division I National Championships. Minnick served as the West Virginia Commissioner for Women’s Sports, member of the Midwest Field Hockey Board, and member of the Division I National Rating Board. Minnick served 10 years on the West Virginia AHPERD Board of Directors, where she held several offices. She served as president of the West Virginia College of Health and Physical Education Association and was active in the AAUW, Alpha Delta Kappa, AAUP and the National Association of Physical Education in Higher Education. Minnick is included in Who’s Who in American Education and Who’s Who in America. Awards include the Davis & Elkins College Award for Teaching Excellence, the Davis & Elkins College Athletic Hall of Fame in 1990, the West Virginia University Athletic Hall of Fame in 2011, the West Virginia Content Specialization Test Development Committee, the West Virginia Celebrate Women Award and the West Virginia AHPERD Honor Award. She was an avid traveler. She belonged to the Circumnavigators Club. Entry into this organization is proof that you have circumnavigated the globe at least once. She also belonged to the Traveler’s Century Club, in which you have to prove you have been in at least 100 countries. At the time she no longer traveled, she had visited 264 different countries, including the Arctic and Antarctica.
Former Assistant Professor and Dean of Students Dr. Charles P. Cullop, a former Davis & Elkins College assistant professor, dean of students and department chair, passed away on April 13, 2021, at age 94. He joined the faculty as assistant professor of history and political science in 1960. In addition to teaching, he served as Dean of Students from 1961-1963 and as chairperson of the Department of History and Political Science from 1966-1968. He attained academic tenure and promotion to full professor. Cullop served in the Virginia State Guard and later in the United States Army during and after World War II. He was a cum laude graduate of Emory and Henry College. He began intermittent graduate study at the University of Virginia in 1952 and ultimately earned M.A. Ed, M. A., and Ph.D. degrees by 1962. Dr. Cullop also engaged in post-doctoral study at Harvard University while on sabbatical leave during the summer in 1966 and 1967.
Donell Ridgway Lee McCoy ’85 Former Assistant Director of Admissions Donell Ridgway Lee McCoy, a Davis & Elkins College alumnae and former assistant director of admissions, passed away at her home in Parsons, West Virginia, on March 5, 2021, at age 79. McCoy earned a bachelor’s degree in business with a minor in psychology from D&E in 1985. She held several positions in the Office of Admissions, including assistant director of admissions, from 1978 until her retirement in 2007. She was a member of West Virginia Watercolorist Society and Seneca Trail Art Guild of Elkins and was very active in the Tucker County Arts Spring. Remembering
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