CONTENTS T M of E |
16
COVER STORY
THE WOW FACTOR BY KEREN RIVAS ’04
Schar Center, the new convocation center that opens this fall, signals a new era for the campus.
24 THE FOUNDATION OF A DREAM BY OWEN COVINGTON
How Surya Shahi ’18 seeks to make education accessible to students in his native Nepal.
26 AGENTS OF CHANGE BY ALEXA BOSCHINI ’10
Elon is consistently ranked as a top producer of Fulbright students who teach, study or conduct research abroad after graduation.
31
FROM THE ARCHIVES
A COLLEGE SUMMER RESORT BY NOAH ZAISER ’20
Almost 100 years ago, West Dormitory opened its doors to visitors from near and far who were looking for a quiet, peaceful place to spend their summer.
32 A GROWING CAMPUS From residential and dining halls to versatile recreational and academic spaces, this fall marks the opening of several new facilities on the Elon campus.
2 Under the Oaks 11 Long Live Elon 14 Phoenix Sports II of
34 Point of View 35 Alumni Action 39 Class Notes
I AM ELON BY KIM WALKER
Although Jonathan Martinez ’20 is clearly a dedicated student—he went to the beach for spring break but spent the majority of his vacation studying in his hotel room for an organic chemistry exam—he balances it with a playful side. He jokingly invents vocabulary while playing word games with his friends, and he jumped around until he joyously collapsed in his family’s kitchen after learning he was accepted to Elon’s Honors Fellows program. An exercise science major preparing for a career in medicine, Jonathan says being an Honors Fellow offers a range of great opportunities. It’s helping to fund his study abroad course in New Zealand next Winter Term and it has provided a supportive cohort. “You create close-knit relationships that are much wider than just majors. It’s a competitive community but a reliable community; you have someone to rely on when the going gets tough, and the going definitely gets tough.”
Jonathan is also a Lumen Scholar, working with Assistant Professor of Exercise Science Matt Wittstein. In high school, Jonathan began focusing on physical fitness and nutrition and quickly saw positive results in his own health. Now a budding scholar, he’s researching “cross education,” which occurs when the benefits of training one side of the body are passed to the opposing side that is not being trained. He and Wittstein are using EEG data to monitor brain activity during training, then analyzing the results over time. Jonathan says the results could be applicable in physical therapy and rehabilitation. Beyond leading him to pursue a career in medicine, he says fitness still offers both physical and mental benefits. “I love weight training, and the gym is usually where I go when I’m not studying. It’s a way to challenge myself outside of academics and it gives me space to think.” Jonathan is Elon. Visit elon.edu/magazine to see more stories that are part of our “I Am Elon” series. I
UNDER THE OAKS
▶ from the PRESIDENT
The strength of Elon’s strategic planning
W
hen i visited with alumni and others in the Elon community during my first few months as president, many would ask what things had changed since I had been away or what surprised me the most when I returned. Because I had worked with President Emeritus Leo M. Lambert on the university’s strategic plan, The Elon Commitment (now in its ninth year), I was very much aware and impressed by the progress achieved during my time away.
facebook.com/ElonConnieBook twitter.com/ElonConnieBook
2 of
At its core, strategic planning is about a community’s vision. When we began planning for the Elon Commitment, we imagined Elon in 2020, articulated a guidebook for ourselves and began to align our resources and priorities to that end. While unanticipated opportunities and challenges will always provide some adjustments, the plan keeps us all focused on moving the vision forward. In this issue of the magazine you will read about some of that vision becoming a reality, such as the opening of Schar Center, the new convocation center we imagined more than a decade ago. When I first toured it with Director of Athletics Dave Blank, I walked into the arena and took a deep breath, turned and smiled at Dave and said, “New day. It’s a new day at Elon.” I was struck by the magnitude of what this facility means to our future as a university and the community financial support that made it possible. I had a similar realization as I visited with enthusiastic alumni in Atlanta, Charlotte and Raleigh at Evening for Elon events. These remarkable professionals talked about the importance of Elon in their lives, the common bonds that an education focused on global understanding, service and personal leadership were providing them in their workplace and communities, and, most importantly, their continuing relationships with faculty, staff and friends from Elon. The strategic plan’s focus on building better support for our alumni and alumni engagement is being realized in cities across the United States and beyond.
Then there is the transformation of the residential campus experience. As I was walking across campus one afternoon, I came up behind two students walking out of Duke Building and headed toward the Global Neighborhood, one of our newer residential areas. They had just finished a math class where a statistical formula had been introduced. One student was asking the other if he understood the concept. As the two continued walking, one explained the mathematical probability using basketball. I couldn’t help but smile. There it was, a moment between two students we had hoped for when we launched the initiative to link courses to residential halls. We wanted to create an intellectually engaged environment that makes it easier for conversations to continue beyond the classroom. Speaking of Duke Building, many alumni will remember when the career services office was tucked away there and rarely utilized by students. Today, the sophisticated professional development and career planning program imagined a decade ago serves a steady stream of students in a remarkable facility in Moseley Center. Just last year, Elon’s Student Professional Development Center staff earned a No. 13 national ranking by Princeton Review. Progress—the strength of the Elon community to imagine our future and then to build it. That’s what impressed me when I returned to campus. I am excited and grateful to return and be a part of our future. Connie Ledoux Book President
UNDER THE OAKS
{ About 240 students presented their research at this year’s Spring Undergraduate Research Forum. }
We wanted to create an intellectually engaged environment that makes it easier for conversations to continue beyond the classroom.”
SURF CELEBRATES 25th ANNIVERSARY
O
n a Friday afternoon in 1993, Professor of English Kathy Lyday and then-Dean of Sciences and Mathematics Roz Reichard held an event in Carlton Building designed to give students in the Honors Program the opportunity to present research before going to graduate school. They called it Student Undergraduate Research Forum, and 19 students and 13 faculty members from seven departments took part in it. The forum, which later changed its name to Spring Undergraduate Research Forum, became an annual event that marked its 25th anniversary in April. The daylong celebration draws students and faculty from across the university as presenters and brings together a broad swath of the campus community to learn about the work of their peers and professors. At this year’s event in the Great Hall, a slideshow of photos from across the 25 years of SURF flashed on the video boards while students offered insights into everything from typography to choreography, psychology to microbiology and everything in between. In all, about 240 students showcased their undergraduate projects. Along with the students, faculty members delivered explanations of their own research as part of two poster sessions held during the event. This year saw students from Walter M. Williams High School in Burlington, North Carolina, participating in SURF—a first. The students were able to work with Associate Professor of Mathematics Chad Awtrey, who is also associate director of undergraduate research, with the support of a grant from the Mathematical Association of America. The research partnership comes thanks in part to Robin French ’15, a teacher at Williams who worked with Awtrey during her time at Elon. “As a high-impact practice, undergraduate research enhances the student experience in many ways,” said Provost Steven House, including increased understanding of the field/discipline, development of critical thinking and problem-solving skills, and fostering a passion for curiosity. Of at least equal importance are the relationships that develop among students and faculty while conducting undergraduate research, he added, noting that these close relationships “are an integral component of the Elon experience.”
3
UNDER THE OAKS
The Magazine of Elon | . , . The Magazine of Elon is published quarterly for alumni, parents and friends by the Office of University Communications. © , Elon University EDITOR
Keren Rivas ’ DESIGNERS
Garry Graham Bob Nutt Billie Wagner PHOTOGRAPHY
Kim Walker E D I T O R I A L S TA F F
Alexa Boschini ’ Owen Covington Roselee Papandrea Taylor CONTRIBUTORS
Belk Library Archives and Special Collections Sarah Collins ’ Oliver Fischer ’ Tyler Seibring ’ Noah Zaiser ’ V I C E P R E S I D E N T, U N I V E R S I T Y C O M M U N I C AT I O N S
Daniel J. Anderson EDITORIAL OFFICES
The Magazine of Elon Campus Box Elon, NC - () - elon.edu/magazine BOARD OF TRUSTEES, CHAIR
Edward W. Doherty ’ Saddle River, New Jersey ELON ALUMNI BOARD, PRESIDENT
Michelle Wideman Snavely ’ Boulder, Colorado YO U N G A LU M N I C O U N C I L , P R E S I D E N T
Webb Bond ’ St. Petersburg, Florida PAR E NT S CO U N C I L , CO PR E S I D E NT S
Paul & Mindee Blanco ’ Fairfield, Connecticut SC H O O L O F L AW ADV I SO RY B OAR D, C H AI R
David Gergen Cambridge, Massachusetts MARTHA AND SPENCER LOVE SCHOOL OF BUSINESS BOARD OF ADVISORS, CHAIR
Patricia Chadwick ’ Old Greenwich, Connecticut PHOENIX CLUB ADVISORY BOARD, CHAIR
Mike Cross Burlington, North Carolina
4 of
Presidential Inauguration: Celebrating Elon’s mission
W
ith all the appropriate pomp and circumstance, Elon’s presidential inauguration in October is being planned as an enjoyable community celebration that honors the university’s values, history and traditions. President Connie Ledoux Book began service on March 1 and trustees formed a 23-member committee to plan an inauguration befitting the university’s first leadership transition in 20 years. “Our goal has been to plan inauguration events that welcome everyone and highlight Elon’s mission of transforming mind, body and spirit,” said trustee Ed Moriarty p’15, p’18, who is co-chairing the committee along with Lisa Keegan, assistant vice president and dean of admissions. “We want all members of the Elon community to take part and appreciate this special milestone in our history.” The main inauguration ceremony at 3 p.m. on Thursday, Oct. 18 in the new Schar Center will serve as Elon’s traditional fall convocation. It will feature a “Long Maroon Line” of alumni representing Elon graduating classes, along with a procession of Elon faculty and academic delegates from other colleges and universities. President Book will deliver an inauguration address before an investiture ceremony by Elon University Board of Trustees Chair Ed Doherty p’07. The ceremony will end with a recessional to the music of “The Firebird” by Igor Stravinsky, leading to a campus-wide celebration at the Global Neighborhood’s Great Hall and surrounding plaza. Other Inauguration Week events will include the following: Inauguration College Coffee Tuesday, Oct. 16, 9:40 a.m., Phi Beta Kappa Plaza A special College Coffee will include an Honoring President Book Drive that will raise funds for Elon and provide books for Alamance-Burlington public school libraries. Contributions will also be accepted online and at Saturday’s football game. Numen Lumen Thursday, Oct. 18, 9:40 a.m., Numen Lumen Pavilion Elon’s weekly spiritual gathering, Numen Lumen, will hold a special inauguration week observance. Campus Tours Thursday, Oct. 18, 9 a.m.-noon, Inman Admissions Welcome Center Delegates, visitors and members of the Elon Alumni Long Maroon Line are invited to join student guides in walking tours of Elon’s inspiring environment for learning, regularly cited as one of the nation’s finest college campuses.
Elon Talks: Faculty voices Friday, Oct. 19, 2:30 p.m., Great Hall of the Global Commons Building These TED talk-style presentations will feature the innovative scholarship of four award-winning faculty members. Student Showcase Friday, Oct. 19, 7:30 p.m., Whitley Auditorium Elon celebrates its past, present and future with a program featuring talented student and alumni. Elon Football vs. University of Richmond Saturday, Oct. 20, 1:30 p.m., Rhodes Stadium President Book will join football head coach Curt Cignetti and the team in the traditional Phoenix Walk to the stadium. Pregame and halftime ceremonies will include special tributes to Book. Student Inaugural Ball Saturday, Oct. 20, 8–11 p.m., Moseley Center Elon students will enjoy an evening of music, dancing, food stations and more on the first floor of Moseley Center. Learn more about the week’s activities at elon.edu/inauguration.
UNDER THE OAKS
NEW YOUTH TRUSTEE NAMED Caroline Dean ’18 began a two-year term on Elon’s board of trustees June 1.
T
he Elon University Board of Trustees has elected Caroline Dean ’18 to a two-year term as a youth trustee. Dean, a native of Morganton, North Carolina, graduated with a degree in psychology and a minor in neuroscience. She has been accepted as one of the 15 inaugural members of the Master of Arts in Higher Education program at Elon, which began in August. An Elon Honors Fellow, Dean conducted undergraduate research under the guidance of psychology professor Maureen Vandermaas-Peeler through the SURE Scholar, Wise Scholar and Rawls Scholar programs. She was involved with the Kernodle Center for Service Learning and Community Engagement, Residence Life and Elon Volunteers!; served as a teaching assistant for Elon 101; and was a member of Elon’s basketball pep band. Outside of Elon, she was an intern with the Carolina Refugee and Resettlement Agency, assisting with the Central American Minor Program, and served as
an emergency medical technician in Burke and Alamance counties. In addition, Dean was a member of the Presidential Student Leadership Advisory Council and served as a student representative on the Presidential Search Committee.
Students begin year of service
S
ix members of the Class of 2018 committed to a year of service in health, wellness and education in Alamance County, North Carolina, in partnership with several local organizations. Jared Bishop (Healthy Alamance), Sally Gordon (Alamance Health Department), Kacie Lynch (Impact Alamance) and Kelsey Warren (Alamance Regional Medical Center) will serve as Elon-Alamance Health Partners Fellows with a focus on the health and wellbeing of Alamance County residents. Daniela Cerón and Bernadette Cooper will serve as Kenan Community Impact Fellows working with local students through Alamance Achieves, a nonprofit focused on furthering educational success. Both Elon and its community partners view the programs as successes as they help prepare new Elon { From left: Jared Bishop ’18, Bernadette Cooper ’18, Daniela Cerón ’18, Kelsey Warren ’18, Kacie Lynch ’18 & Sally Gordon ’18. } graduates for careers in public health and education while providing needed resources for community organizations. During a recent signing ceremopact on the lives of the participants and on the broader community has ny to welcome the new fellows, Elon Provost Steven House and Alamance been outstanding. “We dreamed of the work you were going to do and Regional Medical Center President Preston Hammock recounted how you’ve far exceeded what we dreamed of,” House said. the idea for the Elon-Alamance Health Partners and Kenan Community This is the fourth cohort for both initiatives that fall under the Impact service-year programs originated in 2013. Both said the imumbrella of Elon’s service-year programs. 5
UNDER THE OAKS
“In your lives there are going to be those right in front of you that deserve your attention. If you embrace the compassion to ask how you can make their lives better, the way others have done for you, you’ll discover a world that changes you.” —Jeffrey Pugh, the Maude Sharpe Powell Professor of Religious Studies and Distinguished University Professor, during his May 18 Baccalaureate message.
“Your very happiness in life will be determined not by how far or how fast you rose, but by how you helped others to rise. How many times in your life will your encouragement enable the resurrection of the spirit of a fellow human being? How many lives of other people will rise because of what you did or what you said? These are some of the important questions I hope you will forever cast into the deep.” —President Emeritus Leo M. Lambert to the Class of 2018 during his May 19 Commencement address.
{ Mike LaPlaca, Casey Hayes & Deidra Smith } Associate Professor of Communications Anthony Hatcher has written a book, “Religion and Media in America.” Published by Lexington Books, the book explores how Christianity both adapts to and is affected by new media forms. It focuses primarily on three areas: civil religion, religion and entertainment and sacred and profane media. Six Elon university employees were recognized for their contributions to the university as part of a May 25 awards program. Amy Woods, campus visit coordinator, was named Professional Hourly Staff Member of the Year; Maggie Mullikin, coordinator of graduate outreach and special programs, was named Administrative Staff Member of the Year; and Nicki Elliott, distribution services associate, was named Physical Plant Staff Member of the Year. Also, Casey Hayes, student information systems specialist, received the Phoenix Innovation Award, while Deidra Smith, associate director of alumni engagement, received the 6 of
{ Amy Woods, Maggie Mullikin & Nicki Elliott }
Phoenix Rising Award and Mike LaPlaca, assistant sports turf manager, received the Phoenix Community Engagement Award. Associate Professor of Communications Derek Lackaff will spend next academic year teaching in Norway as part of a Fulbright U.S. Scholar Program award. Lackaff, who teaches in Elon’s Master of Arts in Interactive Media Program and is also associate director for the Center for the Advancement of Teaching and Learning, will join the Department of Information Science and Media Studies (InfoMedia) at the University of Bergen as the university launches new academic programs in interactive media.
UNDER THE OAKS
As chair of Elon’s Department of Accounting and founding faculty adviser for Elon’s chapter of Beta Alpha Psi, the international honor organization for financial information students and professionals, Linda Poulson is one of the greatest cheerleaders for accounting majors. Passionate about teaching, the associate professor was named the Outstanding Educator of the Year by the North Carolina Association of Certified Public Accountants in 2015 and received the Love School of Business Dean’s Awards for Excellence in Teaching (2012) and Service (2006).
Linda Poulson
W
BY RYAN W. HERRING ’16
Ryan W. Herring ’16 is an assurance associate with Smith Leonard Accountants & Consultants in North Carolina. During his time at Elon, he was president of Beta Alpha Psi and received the Martha and Spencer Love School of Business Academic Excellence Award in Accounting his senior year.
hen I think about Dr. Linda Poulson, the words “great professor” come to mind. But this only describes her occupation and fails to portray her impact on the Elon community. Besides having an aptitude for encouraging a true learning process in the accounting department, “mentor” better describes her passion and role at Elon. My first encounter with Dr. Poulson in an intermediate accounting class was a different experience as a transfer accounting student from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. Compared to a professor who teaches in a large lecture hall, Dr. Poulson facilitated discussions in the classroom with ease and was willing to further explain concepts after class. She also often taught concepts outside the scope of the textbook. But her passion for accounting was not the only distinguishing factor. Aside from her “$600 formula,” which I still use today when analyzing account activity, her recommended strategy that helped me pass the CPA exam and her encouragement to take a leadership role on campus, Dr. Poulson provided meaningful advice that I will always keep as a burgeoning professional. One such piece of advice came during class. Early in the semester, Dr. Poulson wrote an insightful, yet simple, phrase on the board: “Familiarity and Knowledge.” She went on to explain the difference and value of true understanding compared to familiarity. Although this quote related to class material, I apply it in my career every day as I attempt to learn, and fully understand, new information. Then there were our casual conversations. Dr. Poulson used to tell me “luck” was the point where opportunity meets preparedness. As a student, this instilled in me the importance of being prepared for any situation in life. Of course one has to act upon that opportunity, which leads me to another lesson I learned from Dr. Poulson: “No decision is fatal.” Understanding that decisions are not necessarily made for life is crucial for a college student about to launch a professional career. Dr. Poulson encouraged me and others to never let the fear of making the wrong decision prevent us from making any decision. I’m grateful to Dr. Poulson for this and many other lessons I’ve been able to use as a young CPA. But above all, I’m grateful for the meaningful relationship I developed with Dr. Poulson—she even attended my wedding. I know there are countless students who share my experience and many more who have yet to learn from this truly amazing mentor. 7
UNDER THE OAKS A record 11 Elon students and alumni were awarded Fulbright grants this spring to teach English or conduct research. Isabelle “Izzy” Fagen ’18, Megan Graves ’18, Bryanna Schoenblatt ’18 and Melody Titus ’18 will spend a year teaching English in Spain, while Madeline “Maddy” Wetterhall ’18 will teach English in Germany. In addition, Brianna Birchett ’17 (India), Anya Fredsell ’18 (India), Samantha Friedman ’18 (United Kingdom) and Sarah Holdren ’18 (Finland) will study and conduct research abroad with the support of Fulbright awards. Claire “Robin” Gottlieb ’16 and Samantha Perry ’18 were awarded Fulbright teaching assistantships to teach English in India and Morocco, respectively, but declined the awards to pursue other opportunities.
Strategic communications majors Gabrielle Beamon ’19, Ozelle Bower ’19, Anissa Cooper ’19 and Janay Tyson ’19 were named recipients of The LAGRANT Foundation scholarships, which support ethnic minority communications students. They were among 60 undergraduate students nationwide to receive the highly selective scholarships. Each recipient receives $2,000, as well as a trip to New York City or San Francisco where they will participate in career-building activities. Elon and the University of Southern California tied for the most number of scholarship recipients at the undergraduate level in 2018.
ternational studies double major received a $3,000 summer grant, along with a $500 scholarship for the fall 2018 semester. Mancuso completed a summer internship with Atlanta Media Pros, a full-service video production company in Marietta, Georgia.
Alex Mancuso ’19 was selected for the Scripps Howard Foundation’s 2018 Internship and Scholarship Program. The cinema and television arts and in-
Elon Law students and faculty attended a United Nations summit of higher education institutions in June. The second-year Elon Law students
taking part in the #JoinTogether Conference, which discussed refugee and migrant issues, included Darrell Alexander Jr., Gia Henry, Maryam Khan, Olivia Matte and Tracy Preville. Assistant Professor Heather Scavone, director of Elon Law’s Humanitarian Immigration Law Clinic, was a panelist at the conference. { Olivia Ryan’18 }
Olivia Ryan ’18 is the recipient of a 2018 Coro Fellowship in Public Affairs. The policy studies major is spending nine months with government, corporate and nonprofit organizations in New York City after being selected as one of 12 recipients of the national fellowship program that cultivates young leaders. Once Ryan completes her fellowship, she plans to attend graduate school to pursue degrees in journalism and law.
COR 348 Life Stories BY TYLER SEIBRING ’19
E
ach of us has a unique story. But articulating one’s own story—what defines us, what makes us who we are—can be more difficult than it sounds. Luckily for Elon students, they have COR 348 Life Stories, a course designed to help them examine their journey by piecing together the important events of their life into a greater narrative. The course, taught by Associate Professor of Mathematics Alan Russell, stresses the importance of exploring one’s past and identifying the transformative ability of an Elon education in order to see the possibilities for their future. Russell doesn’t expect students to be perfect, but they must be open to exploring their lives. The course is intended to help students understand the importance of balance within their lives while creating a product accessible to audiences of a variety of ages. Typically taken their final year, students begin by studying personality trait systems to note the complexities within themselves and the other people in their lives. After that, students study different avenues of thought to facilitate introspection and discussion. “Depending on the individual makeup of each student cohort, we visit various psychological, religious and philosophical themes of the heroic journey,” Russell says, referring to the tool often used to shape the plot of the main character in a story. “My main goal is to have a strong, varied toolkit to meet each student where they are, equip them to help each other through peer review and ride along with each student as they explore the themes they feel called to investigate during the class.”
8 of
Russell notes that each student has faced different challenges that create a unique experience in the classroom. “Students may all seem the same on the surface, but underneath lies a different set of struggles for each,” he says. “They let me into these struggles at the same time they are working on writing their way through these portions of their life stories.” Since the course is heavily tailored to each student, the class finds that the questions asked throughout the semester don’t have one right answer. Students realize they are the experts on the subject: themselves. The course allows students to sift through their own difficulties while producing something that allows other people, as well as themselves, to understand and appreciate the essence of life. The work created in “Life Stories” often tells of trials overcome in the life of its writer. Through reading the stories, “you gain an entirely new respect for the caliber, quality and strength of the students we have at Elon,” Russell says. ABOUT THE PROFESSOR Alan Russell joined Elon’s Department of Mathematics and Statistics in 1997. An associate director of the Center for the Advancement of Teaching and Learning, his research and publications focus on teaching and learning strategies using multiple software applications as well as origami manipulatives in the mathematics and statistics classrooms. RECOMMENDED MATERIALS • “Your Mythic Journey” by Sam Keen • “A River Runs Through It” movie (1992)
WHITTINGTON HONORED BY NATIONAL ORGANIZATION
SCHAR CENTER Schar Center, Elon’s new 5,100-seat convocation center, opens this fall. With 160,000 square feet of space, the facility is the largest on campus—two and a half times the size of Alumni Gymnasium and twice the size of the Koury Business Center. You can read more about it on page 16, but here are some interesting facts.
4,300
POUNDS
G
erald O. Whittington, who has led Elon University’s business, finance and technology operations for the past 26 years, has been honored with the 2018 Distinguished Business Officer Award by the National Association of College and University Business Officers (NACUBO). The organization’s most prestigious award recognizes Whittington’s outstanding contributions to business and financial management in higher education. In a career that spans more than four decades, Whittington has built a reputation as a wise, innovative and ethical professional. He has been one of the chief architects in Elon’s rise to national prominence, managing growth of the institution’s annual operating budget from $38 million to more than $260 million and building the endowment from $18 million to more than $257 million. During his tenure, the university’s enrollment has more than doubled to 6,800 while the size of campus facilities has more than quadrupled. “We are so proud that Gerald Whittington has received this national recognition from NACUBO, and now everyone knows what we have known for decades,” said Elon University President Connie Ledoux Book. “Gerald is a unique individual, with a brilliant financial mind, a creative interest that spans the operations of the entire university and an overriding passion for the success of students. Elon would not be what
it is today without the superb work of our good friend and colleague, Gerald.” Whittington’s portfolio of responsibilities includes business, financial operations and internal audit; facilities construction, management and sustainability; administrative and auxiliary services; technology; human resources; and campus safety and police. He has conceived and led financial strategies that fueled four successive Elon strategic plans, moving the university to the upper echelon of college rankings while maintaining a best-value tuition position and an enviable record of operational efficiency. “The strong and collaborative partnerships between Gerald and three presidents and two long-serving provosts during his 26 years at Elon is unequalled in higher education,” said President Emeritus Leo M. Lambert. “A long list of students, staff and faculty spanning generations has been fortunate to benefit from the professionalism, character and tutelage of Gerald Whittington. I cannot think of another CFO more worthy of celebration.” Founded in 1962, NACUBO is a nonprofit professional organization representing chief administrative and financial officers at more than 1,900 colleges and universities across the country. Whittington is the first private university business officer from North Carolina to receive the Distinguished Business Officer Award.
The total weight of the new bronze phoenix statute that welcomes visitors to the arena. Weighing about 900 pounds, the phoenix rises from a 3,400-pound concrete column that resembles a twist of flames.
14.5x60
FEET
The size of the arena’s two end-wall LED video displays, each with 10-millimeter line spacing to show crisp, clear images. The screens are the largest indoor wall displays in an arena in the Carolinas.
17,134
The total number of wooden planks that were used to build both the main court and the two practice courts in the arena, which will serve as the home of the basketball and volleyball programs.
P
550
The number of new parking spaces added as part of the project. In addition, the nearby Hunt Softball Field offers 266 parking spaces, providing plenty of space for visitors.
Source: Office of Planning, Design & Construction Management
9
UNDER THE OAKS
FALL
Anita Hill to visit Elon in January
G
WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 12
Kristen Green, “A Family, a Virginia Town, a Civil Rights Battle” Elon Common Reading Lecture
Green shines a light on the inequalities that have long existed in the U.S. education system and encourages us to address the issue head on.
THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 13
Alan Dershowitz, “Global Perspectives on Justice and Civil Liberties”
Distinguished Leadership Lecture Series presented by the Joseph M. Bryan Foundation | Elon University Speaker Series One of the most visible legal commentators in American media, Dershowitz will offer reflections on current events and emerging issues affecting civil rights.
THURSDAY, OCTOBER 18
Elon University Fall Convocation and Inauguration of President Connie Ledoux Book
Elon University Speaker Series
Book, who began her service as president on March 1, will offer an inaugural address during the formal ceremony in Elon’s new Schar Center.
THURSDAY-SATURDAY, OCTOBER 25–27 THURSDAY-SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 1–3
Department of Performing Arts presents “Sweeney Todd: The Demon Barber of Fleet Street” A haunting, heart-stopping tale of culinary crime and chilling, dark humor.
10 of
roundbreaking attorney and civil rights advocate Anita Hill will speak at Elon on Jan. 10 as part of the annual Martin Luther King Jr. observances. Hill’s testimony during the U.S. Supreme Court confirmation hearings for Clarence Thomas in 1991 sparked a national conversation about sexual harassment. Today she works toward increasing parity and protection for women and minorities. Joining leading executives in the entertainment industry, she heads the Hollywood Commission on Sexual Harassment and Advancing Equality in the Workplace that is examining the pattern of sexual abuse in Hollywood. Hill notes that the commission is the next step in a “long-overdue journey to adopt best practices and create institutional change that fosters a culture of respect and dignity throughout the industry.”
A graduate of Yale Law School, Hill worked for the U.S. Education Department and Equal Opportunity Commission and in 1989 became the first African-American to be tenured at the University of Oklahoma College of Law. She is now University Professor of Social Policy, Law and Women’s, Gender and Sexuality Studies at Brandeis University in Waltham, Massachusetts. Her commentary has been published in numerous publications and she has appeared on national television programs including “Good Morning America,” “Meet the Press,” “The Today Show” and “Larry King Live.” Tickets will be available Nov. 26 at the Center for the Arts Box Office. For more information, call (336) 278-5610.
ELON SPORT HALL OF FAME INDUCTEES ANNOUNCED
Three outstanding athletes are being inducted in the Elon Sports Hall of Fame in September. Men’s tennis standout Damon Gooch ’, football All-American Terrell Hudgins ’ and men’s golfer Jimmy Lytle ’ have been selected as the 48th class of the Elon University Sports Hall of Fame. A two-time team captain, Gooch was a four-year letter winner for the men’s tennis program from 2005 to 2009. He earned three team MVP honors and holds the program’s NCAA Division I record with 64 career dual singles wins. He received many accolades during his time at Elon, including being named the 2009 recipient of the Stein H. Basnight Award as the most outstanding male athlete. He competed that year in NCAA Tournament play in both singles and doubles and ranked nationally 72nd and 38th, respectively. Hudgins was a four-year letter winner for the football squad from 2006 to 2009. One of the greatest players to ever play at the NCAA FCS level, Hudgins was the first receiver in Division I history to post four 1,000-yard receiving seasons as he set 10 NCAA records. He was
named first-team All-Southern Conference three times and a second-team All-American by the Associated Press twice during his Elon career. In his senior campaign, Hudgins helped Elon to its first FCS Playoff appearance and finished as the runner-up for the Walter Payton Award. Hudgins was the 2010 recipient of Elon’s Stein H. Basnight Award as the department’s top male athlete. Lytle was a four-year letter winner for the men’s golf team from 2004 to 2008. The fourtime team MVP won one medalist honor as Elon captured one tournament crown in his first season. In his final year at Elon, Lytle set a program record with eight top-10 individual finishes. His play earned him an individual spot in the NCAA West Regional, the first for the program at the Division I level. His career 1.89 vs. par currently is the record for the program at the Division I level. Gooch, Hudgins and Lytle will be inducted in a ceremony on Sept. 8.
LONG LIVE ELON
A lifelong commitment BY JALEH HAGIGH AND MADISON TAYLOR
E
lon alumnus, trustee and parent Christopher P. Martin ’78 p’13 from Tinton Falls, New Jersey, has made an estate gift valued at more than $3 million that will provide funding for scholarships and other key university priorities in the future. Martin said he was proud to place Elon in his estate and help his university remain strong for generations to come. It is a commitment shared by his wife, Nicolette Martin p’13, and their son, Nick Martin ’13, of Howell, New Jersey. “I’m so proud of the way Elon has evolved and elevated itself, and I thought this was the right way to give back to an institution I feel strongly about,” Martin said. “Our students are involved from Wall Street to the Peace Corps and they are adding value to our world. I agree that the world needs Elon graduates.” One of New Jersey’s most prominent banking executives, Martin serves as chairman, president and chief executive officer of Provident Financial Services, Inc., and The Provident Bank. With his estate gift, Martin has contributed $4.7 million to the university, placing him among Elon’s most generous benefactors. “Elon is grateful to Chris Martin for his generosity and outstanding leadership. He demonstrates the values that we seek to instill in every Elon graduate,” said Elon President Connie Ledoux Book. “Chris, along with Nicolette and Nick, are true champions for Elon. We are forever indebted to them for helping propel Elon to new levels of national distinction.” Martin said establishing an endowment through his estate was the right move financially and philanthrop-
{ A rendering of The Inn at Elon. }
{ Christopher ’78 & Nicolette Martin P’13 with son Nick Martin ’13 & his fiancée, Carlie Schuttinger } ically for his family. The estate gift, currently valued at approximately $3.6 million, will support Elon’s highest priorities. The philanthropic spirit of the Martin family can be felt across Elon’s campus. Their lead gifts have supported the following institutional priorities: The Inn at Elon: A $500,000 commitment from the Martin family will support construction of a three-story, 80-room inn that will meet the long-standing need for on-campus lodging for thousands of alumni, parents and prospective students and their families who visit Elon each year. The inn, to be located next to the Ernest A. Koury, Sr. Business Center, will be an endowment-owned asset of the university whose revenue beyond operating costs will support scholarships. The facility is scheduled to open in fall 2019. Martin Alumni Center: The Martins contributed $400,000 to establish a home base for Elon alumni returning to campus for Homecoming and other events. The MAC, which opened in 2013, features spacious reception areas, porches and terraces to welcome alumni back to campus. Martin Family Scholarship: In 2010 the couple established the scholarship with a $100,000 gift to assist students with financial need, and in 2017 contributed a generous matching gift to help make Elon Day a success. A first-generation college student, Martin wanted to show his appreciation for the financial assistance he received 11
LONG LIVE ELON to attend Elon. “I know how tough it is to get out of school and have that debt. It’s intimidating,” Martin said. “Elon students have done phenomenal things, and the more we can help these students, the better society will be.” Martin has served as a member and past president of the Elon Alumni Board and served on the presidential search committee. In 2012 he was named Elon’s Distinguished Alumnus of the Year for his professional achievement, community service and contributions to the university, including regularly opening the doors of his company to Elon students and alumni seeking internships and jobs. He was elected to Elon’s board of trustees in 2013.
{ Patricia Caler P’15, Katie Caler ’15 & Jay Caler P’15 }
Calers endow global engagement scholarship
Elon parents Jay and Patricia Caler p’15 of Denver, North Carolina, have made a $100,000 estate gift to endow a global engagement scholarship and help provide the same transformative experience their daughter, Katie ’15, enjoyed as an Elon student. The Caler Family Global Engagement Scholarship will help students with financial need participate in one of the university’s study abroad or Study USA programs, which are among Elon’s high-impact learning opportunities. Preference for the scholarship will be given to students studying in the School of Communications, where Katie earned her degree. “We hope this scholarship benefits an Elon student who may be the first person in their family to attend college or who has never been outside the country and that it allows them to broaden their horizons,” Jay Caler said. “We hope these experiences stay with students for the rest of their lives.” In addition to their estate gift, the Calers have made a $25,000 commitment to enable scholarship funds to be awarded 12 of
immediately and allow the couple to see the impact of their gift. The Calers visited close to 40 countries during their respective 20-year careers in the Navy. Both retired as commanders, with Jay working in communications operations and policy and antisubmarine warfare, while Pat served in recruiting and intelligence roles. “Study abroad is important for every generation to experience,” Pat Caler said. “Many Americans don’t have the experience of dealing with other cultures or an appreciation for how lucky they are to live in the United States.”
devoted benefactors for Elon, making numerous gifts to support scholarships, athletics, the Koury Business Center, Belk Library, the School of Law, Schar Center, Rhodes Stadium and the creation of the Chandler Family Professional Sales Center. Chandler is the chairman of Chandler Concrete Co., which is based in Burlington. The company operates plants in North Carolina, Tennessee and Virginia. He was honored with Elon’s Frank S. Holt Jr. Business Leadership Award in 2001.
Chandlers make Inn at Elon gift
Trustee Thomas E. Chandler and wife Lynn of Burlington, North Carolina, continue their longtime and generous support for Elon with a major gift toward construction of The Inn at Elon. In recognition of the gift, a suite will be named The Thomas E. and Lynn B. Chandler Suite. Chandler, a member of the board of trustees since 1999, said the inn will “really benefit the university.” “I think with the inn being on campus, next to the Koury Business Center, it will provide that niche that we were missing. I think it’s a great concept,” Chandler says. “It will be a first-class facility not only for people to stay but for events on campus because there will be a room that will be used for banquets, meetings and other university events.” Chandler said he is particularly pleased with the idea that the inn will be an asset of the university endowment with revenues going toward scholarships. “It will benefit the university in a number of ways and I think the income provided by the inn will help our students. That’s a win-win for the university as well as the students.” The Chandlers are among the most
{ Lynn B. & Thomas E. Chandler }
{ Paul & Mindee Blanco P’19 with children Jennee ’19, Paul and Sydnee. }
Blancos support Inn at Elon
When Elon parents Paul and Mindee Blanco p’19 of Fairfield, Connecticut, first heard an official proposal about The Inn at Elon during a Parents Council meeting they turned to each other and said, “We should do this.” The Blancos, who will chair the Parents Council in 2018–19, followed the presentation with a major gift toward the project. In recognition of their generosity, a space within the facility will be named the Blanco Family Fitness Center. The inn proposal appealed to the family on several levels. “I thought the visual, the way it’s going to look and the concept were appealing. I thought it was a great idea for the community,” Paul Blanco said. Mindee Blanco agreed. “We always love supporting Elon, but we want to do it to benefit students and that just clinched it for us.” Paul Blanco is founder and CEO of Barnum Financial Group in Shelton, Connecticut, one of the industry’s most successful financial planning firms. Mindee Blanco is the chief operating officer of Barnum Financial Group. They have a strong history of philanthropic support and have provided gifts to Elon’s greatest needs and the Phoenix Club.
LONG LIVE ELON
▶ MAKING A DIFFERENCE
The gift of memories BY ALEX SAYLOR ’16
{ Anne Casey ’87 P’21 is honoring her Elon memories through philanthropy. }
E
lon had always been the first choice for Anne Casey ’87 p’21. Her aunt, Linda Hand ’73, and uncle, Bill Frank ’68, had provided an introduction at a young age. In first grade, the Wilmington, Delaware, native’s first encounter with the school came when she witnessed Hand graduate in Burlington’s Walter M. Williams High School football stadium. Even before her visit, Casey remembers being captivated by her aunt’s stories of Elon. “I would always enjoy her coming home on break and hearing about how much she loved Elon and her involvement in Greek life,” says Casey. “As a young kid, I looked up to the whole experience she had.” These memories continued to play a crucial role during her college search, as she had several appealing options for school that were closer to home. But eager to fulfill her childhood dreams, Casey chose to continue her family’s legacy at Elon and forge her own personal journey. During her time at Elon, Casey was active and engaged, joining Phi Mu and working in the McEwen Dining Hall, president’s office and Student Calling Program. She credits Phi Mu with giving her enduring friendships and involving her deeply within the campus community. She also credits two president’s office staff members, Jo Watts Williams ’55 and Nan Perkins p’88, with leaving lasting impressions. “They were my first exposure to smart and successful
The 1889 Society recognizes Elon’s most loyal donors who have given annually for two or more consecutive fiscal years. For more information, please visit elon.edu/1889Society.
females in professional leadership roles who led by example,” Casey says. “Whether they realized it at the time or not, they were teaching me things.” Casey describes her Elon experience as a “gift.” From her parents’ financial assistance to the incredible bond shared with her Phi Mu sisters, Casey has learned that the support of others has a lasting impact. “Part of my responsibilities were to coordinate ‘thank you’ letters from students to alumni for their scholarship donations,” says Casey, referencing her time in the president’s office. “I had a small academic scholarship and wrote my own letter as well. Now I give back to the Phoenix Club and receive the same letters back from the players, which makes it that much more special.” Another motivation for giving back is to support student access to study abroad, which Casey says her family was not able to afford when she was at Elon. Noting Elon’s 79 percent undergraduate study abroad participation rate, Casey reiterates these experiences can be life-changing. Her loyalty to Elon is recognized through her membership in the 1889 Society, which honors Elon donors who support the university every year. Maintaining her involvement in Elon has come naturally for Casey, who has served as a class reunion and Elon Day volunteer. Recently she joined the Elon Alumni Board, which engages with the Office of Alumni Engagement and senior administrators to represent the alumni body to the university. Each of these roles exemplifies Casey’s belief in Elon’s mission and the power of leadership by example. Just as she was drawn to Elon by her aunt’s stories, Casey has passed the inspiration to her daughter, Elizabeth Casey ’21. “She attended Homecoming and saw me reconnect with my Phi Mu sisters and other Greek friends, and it was like a light bulb went on,” says Casey. “These were the same kind of memories I was inspired by and now I’m able to share that with her.” 13
PHOENIX SPORTS
▶ elonphoenix.com
BUILDING STRONGER CONNECTIONS
A
BY OLIVER FISCHER ’19
nyone walking through Mooney and Duke buildings on a recent spring evening would have come across Elon basketball players working with school-age children from the surrounding community to help them polish their skills. But these student-athletes weren’t offering advice on dribbling or driving to the basket, but rather on reading, math and succeeding in school. The student-athletes were volunteering with Elon’s “It Takes a Village” Project, assisting children with their English literacy and proficiency. “We have basketball players, we have Business Fellows, we have members of Elon faculty and staff, we have Elon students from many different disciplines across campus,” project coordinator Madelyn Pastrana says of the volunteers who take part in the tutoring service program. Men’s basketball head coach Matt Matheny says players enjoy working with the children. “A lot of our guys gravitate to getting to know these kids and to really having an impact on their lives,” he says. “They get the opportunity to think of someone other than themselves. Our players hear this a lot—when you help somebody you help yourself.” Forward Tyler Seibring ’19 agrees. He enjoys getting to know the students as well as other volunteers from across campus.
{ Members of the men’s basketball team help students in the “It Takes a Village” Project select a book to add to their personal libraries. }
14 of
“This is just a few of us trying to reach out in a different way outside of basketball and through education, which is really the most important thing,” he says. Forward Anna Popovic ’21 says seeing the children improve is one of the things she enjoys the most. “I see them become more knowledgeable or be able to answer questions more quickly,” she says. Her teammate, Lexi Mercer ’20, decided to volunteer because it allows her to do something outside of the sport. “I think it’s important we give back to the community that gives us so much,” Mercer says. “At the end of the day, school is very important and it comes before basketball.” Women’s basketball head coach Charlotte Smith agrees. “I think it’s important for us to identify the deficiencies within our community and try to make a difference,” she says. The players don’t just tutor, Smith adds. They forge a bond with the children, too. That connection was palpable during a recent book-buying event at Barnes & Noble in which the student-athletes helped the young students select a book to add to their personal libraries. “They thought it was just about teaching young people how to read, but they walk away from the program having built relationships with those young people,” Smith says. “I think the children of the Village Project had just as much an impact on the players as the players had on them.” Along with helping students improve their literacy skills, the Village Project connects Elon students to the surrounding areas. It also helps parents and their children in different ways. “My little kid, she was shy, but with this program, she started to get into kindergarten and it helps a lot to build more confidence,” Cesar Maya says. His son, Juan, shares the positive experience of his sister. He says his English skills have improved thanks to the Village Project. “It helped me a lot when it comes to literacy skills,” Juan says, “and like my dad said, with confidence as well.”
“They thought it was just about teaching young people how to read, but they walk away from the program having built relationships.”
PHOENIX SPORTS
▶ elonphoenix.com
FIVE THINGS TO KNOW ABOUT WARREN MESSER ’19
BY NOAH ZAISER ’20
Warren Messer ’19 has made a name for himself on Elon’s campus as a linebacker since he began his college football career three years ago. A lifelong athlete from Garner, North Carolina, Warren has proven to be a progressing force on the field leading into his senior year. He earned All-America honors from STATS FCS and Phil Steele following his junior campaign, finishing 10th in the voting for the 2017 Buck Buchanan Award and closing the season ranked 25th nationally in tackles per game. He was selected Team MVP for 2017–18 and is Elon’s first CAA Football first-team all-conference performer. He spoke with The Magazine of Elon about his athletic and personal passions. He’s a handyman. Warren is skilled at building and repairing many things, and describes himself as a “handyman.” His most memorable project is a small house he and others built in his community, which included wiring electricity throughout. Routinely one to help others, Warren finds using his ability to benefit others as the best fit for his time.
He follows a pregame ritual. Before any game, Warren sticks to a routine warm-up code. Opting for a cold shower, the activity keeps him alert. He makes sure to listen to his favorite artists when getting ready for game time to focus on his goals. “I do it to relate back to my childhood so that I have a clear understanding of where I’m from and where I am now,” he says.
He knows what his future holds. Warren’s dream is to play professionally, but his upcoming path is already made up in his mind. “I want to give back to the community, helping young kids from unstable homes and backgrounds,” he says. A believer in speaking things into existence, Warren wants to lead youth by example.
LeBron James is his inspiration. Warren learns from leaders of success, and strives every day to be like LeBron, he says, with the two sharing similar upbringing stories. “I just have a lot of respect for him,” he adds.
He has more than 20 tattoos. The etchings all over Warren’s body are more than just artistic expressions. Each of his tattoos has an important meaning behind it, with his favorite being the Bible verse Philippians 4:13 on his chest. “It gives me the strength to be successful,” he says.
15
COVER STORY
SCHAR CENTER, THE NEW CONVOCATION CENTER THAT OPENS
L
BY KEREN RIVAS ’04
ong before the first excavator broke ground on the 20 acres across the road from Rhodes Stadium to make way for Schar Center, there was a desire to create a new space on campus where the community could come together. In fact, it can be said the foundation for the 160,000-square-foot facility was laid in 2010, when university officials included the construction of a convocation center as part of the Elon Commitment, the strategic plan that was to guide the growth of the institution for the next 10 years.
Elon’s NCAA Division I athletics programs were becoming increasingly successful and the 1950s-era Alumni Gymnasium was no longer adequate to support the size and stature of a university with more than 6,700 students. “As we looked at the needs of this growing campus, it was clear we needed a large gathering space that would support not only the expansion of athletics but also convocations, speakers and other major campus events,” says President Connie Ledoux Book, who at the time coordinated the two-year process of developing the strategic plan under the guidance of then-President Leo M. Lambert. “To see that vision fulfilled in Schar Center is a testament to the strength of this community and the beginning of a new chapter in the history of Elon.” 16 of
THIS FALL, SIGNALS A NEW ERA FOR THE CAMPUS.
17
ndeed, when Schar Center opens this fall, the university will be adding a facility like no other on campus, not only in size—it’s more than twice the size of Alumni Gym— but in its wow factor. “When you stand on the floor and look up, you really feel it,” says Director of Athletics Dave Blank. “I’ve given dozens of tours and there is always awe. There’s a lot of wow factor.”
* * * Named for Elon parents Dwight and Martha Schar p’16 p’19, who contributed $9 million to the project and were among 21 donors who made leadership gifts, the facility serves as the new home for the Phoenix basketball and volleyball programs. “Dwight and Martha Schar are strong believers in education and Elon’s mission,” President Book says. “We are grateful for their generous investment, which will be a transformational facility for the university and benefit generations of students.” The arena consist of three levels. The event level contains the arena court, two full-size practice courts, team locker rooms, coaches’ and officials’ locker rooms, weight and training facilities and other staff offices. The concourse level includes a spacious entry atrium, a large hospitality/special events room complete with flexible seating, two concession stations (one on each side), plenty of restrooms and ticketing and lounge areas, as well as administrative offices and other support spaces. The suite level houses a club area overlooking the arena, coaches’ offices for the three varsity sports and support spaces. The project also adds 550 new parking spaces, which, in addition to the existing 266 spaces in the adjacent Hunt Softball lot, offer plenty of room for visitors. More importantly, Schar Center provides flexible
{ Crafted by Burlington native Ed Walker of Carolina Bronze Sculpture in Seagrove, the sculpture features a bronze phoenix rising from a concrete column that resembles a twist of flames.}
18 of
spaces for athletic and academic events to take place under the same roof, which has been a key feature of the facility from its inception. “We are happy to play a transformative { Martha and Dwight Schar P’16 P’19 } role in building Elon’s long-term future with this project and helping create a first-class facility where the campus community and region can experience Elon Phoenix sporting events, convocations, concerts, speakers and much more,” say Dwight and Martha Schar. While the design is generally based on the Jack Stephens Center at the University of Arkansas at Little Rock that opened in 2005, Schar Center is uniquely Elon. As visitors approach the building, they are welcomed by a sculpture of a bronze phoenix rising from a concrete column of fire. When they enter the facility at the concourse level, they immediately get a feel for the size of the arena but also a sense of community. “It’s a very cozy building,” says University Architect and Director of Planning, Design and Construction Management Brad Moore. “Even though it is two and half times the size of Alumni Gym, it still has a comfortable community feel when you walk into it. There are still ways to be close to one another.” That desire to be community-focused guided many of the decisions during the building process. For instance, instead of having 12 different suite boxes for 10-12 people each, Elon decided to have one large open suite with a seating capacity of 120. As visitors venture into the concourse they encounter the Varney Boys wall, a tribute to lifelong friendships and relationships formed on campus by a group of Elon athletes who played football under legendary coach Harry E. “Sid” Varney between 1953 and 1959. The group returns to campus every Homecoming to celebrate the bond that carried them from the classroom and the field to meaningful lives after college. One of the Varney Boys, Furman Moseley ’56, and his wife, Susan, donated the funds to secure the land where Schar Center now stands. The display, Moore says, sends a strong message about the spirit of the place—a place that builds upon the best of Elon’s past to create a brighter future.
THE WOW FACTOR
“WHEN YOU STAND ON THE FLOOR AND LOOK UP, YOU REALLY FEEL IT. I’VE GIVEN DOZENS OF TOURS AND THERE IS ALWAYS AWE. THERE’S A LOT OF WOW FACTOR.” —DIRECTOR OF ATHLETICS DAVE BLANK
* * * { The concourse level includes a spacious entry atrium that gives visitors a feel for the size of the arena as soon as they walk through the glass doors. }
For athletics, having two practice courts within the arena makes a big difference. Moore says this was done to allow all three teams to practice or play at the same time without having to use other resources on campus. “It’s a win-win for a lot of teams,” Blank says of having everything in one location, adding that the additional space helps decongest traffic at Alumni Field House and other facilities on campus. For instance, the men’s basketball team dressing room has been located in Alumni Gym, but to lift weights, players had to go to Alumni Field House. And if another team was using the court, players had to practice at the Phoenix Activities & Recreation Center in Danieley Center. Schar Center puts the locker rooms beside the training room and
the practice courts, giving teams more flexibility to move between the spaces but without having to leave the facility. “I look forward to day-to-day convenience,” says men’s basketball head coach Matt Matheny. “I will be able to see a student-athlete work out and practice in the same facility.” Athletics moved into the building over the summer and the impact has been immediate, particularly when it comes to recruiting. Two recruits who toured the facility in June verbally committed to Elon shortly after, volleyball head coach Mary Tendler says, and she expects others to do the same. Moore can see how that initial amazement transforms into a commitment. “Besides the initial jaw-dropping moment, as coaches walk recruits to the facility, they can see displays featuring former athletes who have gone on to play professionally,” he says. “They might start thinking, ‘Wow, I want my face on that wall, too.’” 19
{ Right: Schar Center includes two practice courts, giving teams more flexibility to move between the spaces within the facility. Opposite page: Inside one of the locker rooms. }
{ All 5,100-plus seats in the arena are theater-style seats, which, coupled with the fact that there is no obstructed views, guarantees no bad seat in the house. }
20 of
THE WOW FACTOR
“WE THINK OF OURSELVES AS A COMMUNITY, SO HAVING FACILITIES THAT HELP US COME TOGETHER IS IMPORTANT. IT PRESENTS AN EXCITING OPPORTUNITY FOR STUDENTS, A PLACE TO DEVELOP A SENSE OF BELONGING.” —JON DOOLEY, VICE PRESIDENT FOR STUDENT LIFE
F
or women’s basketball head coach Charlotte Smith, Schar Center adds another reason for her players to be proud of being a Phoenix. “When you think about this facility in comparison with a lot of facilities all over the country, it’s top notch,” she says. “It’s a first-class facility for our players to compete in. Bringing recruits during official visits, even when it was under construction, they were very impressed. The first word that comes out of their mouths is, ‘Wow.’” She is looking forward to 2020, when Elon will host the Colonial Athletic Association Women’s Basketball Championship in Schar Center. “There is nothing greater than to win a championship in your own floor,” she says. “In 2020 hopefully we can protect our turf and bring home another championship.” Since the center will be used to host speakers and other academic events, in addition to sporting events, every detail was carefully considered to ensure the venue served truly as a multipurpose facility. For instance, instead of using the Phoenix logo throughout, the monogram “E,” Elon’s unifying mark, was used to signify the synergy of both athletics and academics. There is also very limited advertisement throughout the facility. Even the massive LED video boards at each end zone—the largest indoor wall displays in an arena in the Carolinas—have minimum built-in ads so they can easily be used during nonathletic events. On the technology side, Schar’s state-of-the-art video control room will serve as the central hub for all other nearby sporting facilities, meaning video feeds from other sports will be centrally managed there. Students in the School of Communications will be able to use the room through the Maroon Sports program, which will give them
another experience that better prepares them for professional broadcast careers. Another feature that distinguishes this facility is its seating. While other similar arenas offer different types of seats depending on the section, Elon decided to do theater-style seats for all 5,100-plus seats available. Not only are the spacious seats comfortable but also provide easier access for visitors with disabilities. Jon Dooley, vice president for student life, says the focus on this project has been on how to best utilize it as a community resource, a gathering space that is different from the other spaces on campus. “[Schar Center] enhances a sense of community, a sense of pride,” he says. “We think of ourselves as a community, so having facilities that help us come together is important. It presents an exciting opportunity for students, a place to develop a sense of belonging.”
* * * Input from students and other members of the Elon community has been important throughout the process, Blank says. He and his staff conducted many surveys to get a sense of the expectations associated with the arena and how these fit with the purpose and mission of the facility: to serve as a venue for large gatherings and sporting events and occasionally for other non-Elon events that align with the university’s educational mission. Dooley served on an advisory committee, which also included student representatives, that came up with recommendations for policies and procedures as well as proposed events to be held in the facility. Blank envisions many non-sporting events taking place in Schar Center—from research presentations as part of the Spring Undergraduate Research Forum and New Student Orientation sessions and job fairs, to hosting major speakers and performances open to the public. More importantly, he hopes the facility creates a unique fan and user experience. “I want people to come and have dinner here before an event and make a family outing out of it,” he says. And while there is much pride in the final product, there is always room for enhancements. Blank and his staff will spend the first year evaluating the facility to determine what works and what doesn’t to come up with an improvement plan moving forward. “We want flexibility to get it right,” Blank says. “This is not the final piece of the puzzle but it’s a big one for the university. For the athletes, it’s a cornerstone for what we are doing. It says something about 21
WHAT’S NEXT: ALUMNI GYMNASIUM
S
ince it opened its doors for the first time in 1949, Alumni Gymnasium has witnessed some of Elon’s greatest moments spanning five presidents—from welcoming national and international speakers and hosting graduation ceremonies to holding impromptu gatherings in times of celebration and grief and serving as backdrop for ultimate athletic triumphs. And while beginning this fall Schar Center will be the site for these sorts of events moving forward, Alumni Gym will remain an important space for students on campus. Jon Dooley, vice president for student life, says scheduling for Alumni Gym will be handled by Campus Recreation and Wellness, which creates new opportunities for intramural and campus events. For instance, outdoor concerts or sporting events sponsored
22 of
by the Student Government Association will now be able to be held indoors. Annual events like Elonthon will still take place at the facility, he says. The legacy of a facility that has held so many important events in Elon’s history cannot be understated, says George Troxler, university historian and former dean of cultural and special programs. After all, it was there Elon hosted then-U.S. Vice President Lyndon Johnson in 1962, President Jimmy Carter in 1989 and President George H.W. Bush in 2001, as well as a host of other impressive speakers such as Desmond Tutu, Colin Powell, Jane Goodall and the late Maya Angelou. “It was very much at the center of things,” Troxler says. “It was the site for every graduation since it was built until 1987, when we went outside for the first time.” The building’s greatest legacy, he adds, will be in the countless memories students formed while attending events there.
THE WOW FACTOR
{ Above: The Varney Boys wall is a tribute to lifelong friendships and relationships formed on campus. Below: The spacious Gill Room hospitality suite offers flexible seating. Left: The rotunda student-athletes encounter as they head to their locker rooms. }
the intent of the university and will have an overarching effect on all areas of the university.” Tendler agrees. Her team will be the first to play in Schar Center—they face North Carolina A&T on Aug. 28—and the players are excited and proud of the opportunity. “They want to win the first match in Schar Center. It’s very important to them,” she says. “Not only are our student-athletes going to work hard and win championships in this facility, they are going to get their diplomas from President Book in the same building. They’ll walk on the stage where they’ve been putting so much time and effort. That’s special.” Other events being planned for the new arena this fall include the inauguration of President Book on Oct. 18, the Harlem Globetrotters show on Nov. 1, the women’s basketball game against the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill on Nov. 6 and the men’s basketball season opener against the UNC Tar Heels on Nov. 9. Beyond the convenience it provides athletics, Matheny is confident Schar Center will positively impact the university in countless ways. “Behind the success of any major endeavor at Elon is the fact we strive for excellence,” he says, “and Schar Center is a remarkable example of striving to excellence. It will hold so many great memories for the next several decades. It’ll be very special for Elon and for the Alamance County community in general.” President Book certainly hopes so. As the reputation of the university increases, Schar Center will play a crucial role to attract speakers and performers who can raise Elon’s standing in the region. “Having a facility of this size and quality will put Elon on the map as a place that can host important events for the region and the state,” she says. “It marks a new era at Elon.”
THANK YOU
Thanks to the many donors who, along with Elon parents Dwight and Martha Schar p’16 p’19, made Schar Center possible. The following donors have spaces named in their honor in recognition for their philanthropic support: • Howard F. ’63 and Beverly Frye ’66 Arner (student-athlete entryway rotunda) • Reid T. and Suzanne C. Campbell P’12 P’19 (men’s basketball assistant coach office) • Thomas E. and Lynn B. Chandler • Chip and Meg Clark (men’s basketball assistant coach office) • Michael S. and Mary Ellen Cross (officials’ locker room) • Joan Summers ’52 and James A. ’50 Drummond (entrance plaza) • Wesley R. and Cathy S. Elingburg (communications suite and press room) • Ken and Malinda Gill (hospitality suite) • Sam Hunt, Vicky Hunt and Sam Hunt IV (parking lot) • Jennings family (video board) • Richard S. ’87 and Laurie L. Johnson P’17 (men’s basketball conference room) • Koury family (practice facility) • John C. and Emily R. McDonald (administration suite) • Mark A. and Kelly S. McDonald (administration suite) • Furman ‘56 and Susan Moseley • C. Ashton Newhall ’98 (video board) • Zachary ’05 and Britten Ginsburg ’06 Pund (women’s basketball assistant coach office) • Jerry and Jeanne Robertson P’89 GP’17 (court) • Michael and Angela Simon P’17 (women’s basketball conference room) • Grayson ’79 and Connie Whitt P’08 P’09 (men’s basketball assistant coach office)
23
The foundation
of a dream
How Surya Shahi ’18 seeks to make education accessible to students in his native Nepal.
I BY OWEN COVINGTON
24 of
t was summer 2017 and Surya Shahi ’18 had returned to his native Nepal, traveling to the village in the Humla district where he grew up. A recipient of Elon’s Leadership Prize, Shahi was there to further his research into the myriad issues keeping higher education out of reach for so many young people in the district, one of Nepal’s poorest areas. Throughout his time there, Shahi kept hearing the same question from residents, neighbors and community leaders: “Since you’re in America, are you going to be able to help us?” Every time he heard it, he felt devastated. “My response was that I am trying to understand better what is happening here, and in the future, I hope I can make changes in the community,” Shahi says. “We travel around the world and we learn so much, and with that knowl-
edge, we can inform ourselves and see what we can do as leaders. I think it’s time for the youth to take charge and lead the way.” Shahi has indeed taken charge and is carving out a path for those in Humla to better access the opportunity that comes with a quality education. This spring, Shahi learned he was one of three nationally selected to receive the competitive and prestigious Samuel Huntington Public Service Award. The $15,000 stipend will support the work of the nonprofit he created during his time at Elon, the Sapura Dream Foundation, which is named for one of his younger sisters and is now focused on building a new school in Humla. “I would love for this to be a model for the government to look at and say, ‘this is exactly what we need to do,’” Shahi says.
“I wanted to get really involved in the community. It has changed me and it has molded me into the person I am today, and has made me passionate about education and change.”
{ Surya Shahi ’18, far right, conducting ethnographic research in his native Nepal. }
Shahi, who graduated in May with degrees in acting and international studies, says it was always his dream to come to the United States to receive an education, a dream made possible by the support of his godparents, Julia Alden and Giovanni Doenichini, who live in London and Italy. He was drawn to Elon because of its renowned acting program, and its size. “I didn’t want to be a number,” Shahi says. “I wanted to get really involved in the community. It has changed me and it has molded me into the person I am today, and has made me passionate about education and change.” When his sister was accepted into college in Nepal and found she would be unable to pursue a degree because of economic and societal challenges, Shahi put that passion to work by organizing an effort to raise the money his sister would need to attend school. That effort would become the Sapura Dream Foundation, which takes its name from his nickname for his sister, and would expand to address the factors that were excluding so many of the youth in Humla not just from higher education, but from quality education in general. Those factors include politics, infrastructure, gender, caste, disability and socioeconomic status. Shahi used the undergraduate research experience offered by Elon’s Leadership Prize to drill down into many of those root causes keeping quality education out of reach for so many in Nepal. “The kids who understand what it means to live in poverty, if they make it out, they are the ones most likely to come
back and make change in their communities,” he says. Shahi’s mentor for his Leadership Prize work, Assistant Professor of Anthropology Mussa Idris, describes Shahi as a role model of a young leader and an innovative social entrepreneur. “Shahi has a clear sense of purpose in uplifting his siblings and disadvantaged youth in his community through leadership and education,” Idris says. “Based on his ethnographic research and lived experience, Shahi understands very well the root causes of poverty and barriers to quality education in his native Humla, Nepal. He is a strong advocate of the transformative quality of education for all.” Shahi also credits Amy Allocco, associate professor of religious studies, and Brian Pennington, professor of religious studies, for helping him develop the skills he needs as a researcher and supporting him in his work. Learning from them how to conduct an ethnographic study “really showed me how powerful it can be to share people’s stories, and find the data to connect them,” Shahi says. During his trips back to Humla, Shahi talked with politicians, Ministry of Education officials, district education officers, parents, teachers, students and nongovernment organizations. His research in Nepal has helped formulate the work going forward for the Sapura Dream Foundation, which expects to open five classrooms in a new school by this time next year and to have completed the school by the end of 2019 or early 2020. He expects it to begin serving 100 local students in its first year, students who haven’t had access to quality education. Along with being honored with the Samuel Huntington Public Service Award, Shahi has received a $7,000 grant from the nonprofit Rural Empowerment and Development Initiative that is working to improve education in Humla. “I want to make sure that the community is involved in the building of the school,” he says. Beyond building the school, Shahi and his foundation are working with partners to develop plans to make the new school sustainable over the long term. Mountaineering is a major draw in Nepal, home to Mount Everest and eight of the world’s highest peaks, and Shahi believes he can tap into that appeal by marketing Humla as a trekking destination, with the school benefiting from trekking tourism in the area. “The people of Humla are poor, but they are resourceful,” Shahi says.
25
Agents of Change
Elon is consistently ranked as a top producer of Fulbright students who teach, study or conduct research abroad after graduation. BY ALEXA BOSCHINI ’10
W “The experiences Elon promotes are exactly what Fulbright is looking for—leaders who are invested in global citizenship. Fulbright is looking for self-starters and go-getters, and Elon attracts and breeds those students.” OMOLAYO OJO ’15, FULBRIGHT ENGLISH TEACHING ASSISTANTSHIP RECIPIENT
26 of
hen Jenna Mason ’16 first arrived in Thung Saliam, a small village in rural Thailand about seven hours north of Bangkok, she barely spoke her students’ language. Plunged into a completely different culture more than 8,000 miles from home, she found common ground through her camera. Mason, a Fulbright grant recipient, was one of the first Americans to live in Thung Saliam, and the first native English speaker many of her students had ever met. But the relationship she forged with them through photography pierced the language barrier. They loved having their photos taken, and interacting with Mason and her camera became a shared visual form of communication. “It was three or four months in before the kids really started responding, and the camera was probably the biggest influencer,” Mason says. During her time teaching conversational English in Thailand, Mason not only bonded with her students but with the whole community. She dined with them (the kids particularly enjoyed watching her try spicy local fare). She learned Thai from her neighbors and fellow teachers. She participated in ceremonies celebrating the life of King Bhumibol Adulyadej, Thailand’s longest-serving monarch who died shortly after Mason arrived in the country. Just as she shared her culture with her Thai community, she carried their traditions with her when she returned to the United States. Mason was no stranger to global education while at Elon, where she was a Periclean Scholar and majored in special education and middle level
education. She spent a Winter Term in Costa Rica; a summer in Salamanca, Spain; and a summer interning in the United Kingdom. But after graduation, she wanted a more immersive experience abroad. Living and working in a new country for a year, she says, was the most humbling experience of her life. “Those experiences at Elon made me realize that I was only getting a taste of places and cultures, and in order to really immerse, I needed to live somewhere for a longer period,” Mason says. “Fulbright is such a strong and sustainable program, so that became the way that I could fulfill that mission.” Mason is one of 48 Elon students to be awarded grants from the Fulbright U.S. Student Program since 2007. Since its inception, the Fulbright Program has provided more than 380,000 participants—chosen for their academic merit and leadership potential—with the opportunity to study, teach English or conduct research abroad. More than 1,900 U.S. students, artists and young professionals in more than 100 different fields of study are offered Fulbright Program grants annually. For four consecutive years, the U.S. Department of State’s Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs has recognized Elon as a top producer of Fulbright recipients. Janet Myers, professor of English and director of national and international fellowships, says Elon students’ unique qualifications make them an exceptional fit for the Fulbright program. “Oftentimes it’s things they’ve already done at Elon that will make them competitive,” Myers says. “One of the major questions on the application is, ‘Is your project feasible?’ The Elon Experiences give students the
{ Opposite page: Jenna Mason ’16 poses with students in Thung Saliam, Thailand. Left: Jenna with her host family and her high school students. }
tools they need to achieve that. Leadership, research, community service, study abroad, internships—those experiences we emphasize dovetail really nicely with what the fellowships are looking for. I think that’s crucial to the success of Elon students.”
GROWING SUCCESS The Fulbright Program was established under legislation introduced by the late U.S. Sen. J. William Fulbright of Arkansas in 1946 to exchange ideas and find solutions to shared international concerns. Funded through an annual appropriation made by Congress to the Department of State, the program now operates in more than 140 countries around the world. In addition to its student program, Fulbright awards grants to U.S. scholars, teachers and faculty to conduct research and teach overseas. Some 4,000 new foreign Fulbright students and scholars also come to the United States annually to study for graduate degrees, conduct research and teach foreign languages. “One of the first things I tell students when I’m describing the Fulbright Program is its mission to promote mutual understanding between citizens of the U.S. and citizens of other countries,” says Sarah Lentz Krech ’13, associate director of national and international fellowships. “It’s the flagship international exchange program, the first of its kind. It was founded shortly after World War II with excess money from leftover war funds. Its mission is really powerful, and that’s where its prestige comes from.” Elon’s involvement in the Fulbright U.S. Student Program is more recent, but success came quickly. The university began keeping records about its Fulbright recipients in 2007, when Jennifer Romano ’07 received an English teaching assistantship in Argentina. After just a couple of years, the number of Elon students and alumni awarded grants annually steadily rose. Elon’s fellowships initiative grew from the Honors Program when Myers was that program’s associate director. As the initiative evolved into the National & International Fellowships Office, Elon began recruiting students to apply for Fulbright grants. Initially only a handful of students applied each year, but as Elon’s
representation in the Fulbright Program grew, so did its applicant pool. Today, about 20–30 Elon students apply for Fulbright grants annually. “Students who are a great fit demonstrate their authentic appreciation for other cultures,” Krech says. “If they can leverage their studies abroad or maybe cross-cultural experiences within the United States, then that’s often what makes for a good Fulbright application.” Though the latest crop of finalists are just beginning their Fulbright experience, the application process for next year’s recipients has already begun. For Elon students, that process begins in the spring of junior year. Alumni can also apply through Elon as long as they don’t have a doctoral degree, which falls under a different Fulbright program. Applicants can only submit for one grant in one country each cycle, so determining the right fit is critical. “Fulbright is a bit of a different beast because you’re applying just to one country and for one type of grant. You’re only competing with the people in that pool,” Myers says. “It really is geared toward whether you are well-suited to this specific niche. Sometimes students will discover they already have everything they need to do that project.” The rigorous application process includes developing a research, study or teaching project; writing application essays and engaging in feedback sessions through the Fellowships Office; and completing an on-campus or Skype interview with Elon’s Fulbright Campus Committee, which includes 18 faculty and staff members. Fulbright’s National Screening Committee recommends semifinalists, who are then evaluated by a Fulbright panel in their chosen country. Finalists spend nine to 12 months abroad completing their project. A record 11 Elon students and alumni were awarded grants in spring 2018. The resources the Fellowships Office provides are key to Elon’s growth in the Fulbright Program. “Dr. Myers was instrumental in helping me turn my seed of an idea for a project into a really strong proposal,” says Chris Jarrett ’11, who completed research in Ecuador through a Fulbright grant. “That kind of support does not necessarily exist in other places.”
27
“[Fulbright] can open doors and give you experiences that will serve you in anything you might want to do afterward. Imagine Fulbright being one stepping stone toward lots of possible opportunities.”
ELON FULBRIGHTS
CHRIS JARRETT ’11, FULBRIGHT STUDY/ RESEARCH GRANT RECIPIENT GUATEMALA
TRANSFORMATIONAL EXPERIENCES Jarrett’s project stemmed directly from his undergraduate research at Elon. The international studies and Spanish major received the Lumen Prize, Elon’s top award for undergraduate research and creative achievement, and conducted research in the Amazonian region { Chris Jarrett ’11 } of Ecuador. He secured an internship there the following summer working with an organization that sold products made from guayusa, a caffeinated holly leaf native to the Amazon rainforest, to the U.S. Though its commercial use is relatively new, guayusa has been a significant part of rituals in the region for centuries. Jarrett interviewed indigenous Kichwa people in Ecuador about how guayusa has been traditionally understood and valued in the community, with the goal of preserving knowledge about this cultural practice. He continued the work through his Fulbright grant and ultimately compiled the narratives into a book written in Kichwa, Spanish and English. He is now conducting longterm field work in Ecuador as a doctoral candidate at the University of Texas at San Antonio. For that work he received a National Science Foundation grant and a Fulbright-Hays grant, which supports research and training with a focus on non-Western foreign languages and area studies. “I tried to structure my first Fulbright project in a way that would fit the mission of the program, which is to emphasize or promote intercultural exchange and understanding,” Jarrett says.
28 of
“The cultural adjustment and the linguistic ECUADOR adjustment were challenges, but it was a very enriching experience that laid the foundation for everything I’m doing now. And I built relationships with people that I still work with today, so that’s been special.” In addition to study and research ARGENTINA grants, many Elon Fulbright applicants pursue English teaching assistantships. Global study was familiar territory for Omolayo Ojo ’15, who moved to the U.S. from Nigeria with her family at age 7. At Elon, the international studies major, Periclean Scholar and Honors Fellow spent a Winter Term in Ghana and conducted research in Senegal and New York for her Lumen Prize project. But teaching English in France through her Fulbright grant was a completely different experience that broadened her worldview. “In Senegal, I had the structure of the study abroad program. In France, I was just kind of thrown in,” Ojo says. “Fulbright helps you out with information you might need, but finding an apartment, opening a bank { Omolayo Ojo ’15 } account, etc., you had to do on your own and in French. My French classes at Elon and my study abroad
AGENTS of CHANGE
FINLAND UNITED KINGDOM GERMANY FRANCE SPAIN
BULGARIA SOUTH KOREA JAPAN
BAHRAIN
TAIWAN INDIA THAILAND
SRI LANKA MALAYSIA INDONESIA
experience certainly helped me.” Ojo chose France for her Fulbright experience SOUTH AFRICA because she wanted to improve her French and continue studying migration outside the confines of a research project. She worked as an English teacher’s aide 20 hours a week at a multicultural school where many of her students were first- or second-generation immigrants, and in her spare time volunteered at two immigration and refugee organizations. Her work in and out of the classroom allowed her to explore what immigration looks like in different countries on a personal level, and allowed her to be an ambassador for American culture as well. “Without the steps I took at Elon, not only would I not have known I wanted a more international career, but I don’t think I would have been a strong candidate for Fulbright,” Ojo says. “The experiences Elon promotes are exactly what Fulbright is looking for—leaders who are invested in global citizenship. Fulbright is looking for self-starters and go-getters, and Elon attracts and breeds those students.” BOTSWANA
Steven Armendariz ’17, a political science and international studies double major, Isabella Cannon Leadership Fellow and Odyssey Program { Steven Armendariz ’17 } Scholar, studied abroad twice at Elon, once during Winter Term and one Semester at Sea. But it was his work with the “It Take a Village” Project, a children’s literacy program, that motivated him to apply for a Fulbright teaching assistantship grant in Spain. “While working with the Village Project, I realized the passion I hold for teaching, specifically English as a second language,” Armendariz says. “I also participated in a service learning program in Nicaragua, where serendipitously I taught at a local primary school. The experience was a crucial foundation for discovering my passion for teaching and working with local communities domestically and abroad.” Armendariz began his Fulbright experience as an assistant teacher at a secondary school in Madrid. During the fall and winter semesters he taught his own course, Global Classroom, in which he used Model United Nations programming to teach his students about international diplomacy. His class was one
29
AGENTS of CHANGE
from more than 80 schools that came together for a simulated U.N. discussion about human rights and the World Bank. Armendariz says it was rewarding to watch his students develop a passion for international relations and put their knowledge into action at the same time he was expanding his own percep{ Steven Armendariz ’17, second from right } tion of the world. He interviewed local residents for an independent project about the diversity of Madrid, learned more about the workings of the European Union and witnessed a major current event unfold firsthand: Catalonia’s movement to seek independence from Spain. “I would recommend other Elon students and alumni apply if they want to push themselves to a new challenging experience that will allow them to grow personally and professionally,” Armendariz says. “They will have the ability to impact a local community while gaining new life lessons and values they can bring back to the United States, and they can teach the people they encounter abroad about United States culture. It is an opportunity to truly become a global agent of change.”
STRONG FOUNDATIONS In addition to Elon’s emphasis on experiential learning, Myers cites the close mentoring relationships between students and faculty or staff members as a crucial part of students’ success in the Fulbright program. Myers, Krech and the rest of Elon’s Fulbright Campus Committee mentor students throughout the application process, and students must obtain three letters of recommendation from professors, employers or internship supervisors. “Those carry a lot of weight in reassuring the selection committee that the project is feasible and that this student can indeed spend nine to 12 months carrying it out and adapting to another country,” Krech says. “The mentoring is really special here at Elon.” Mason credits her Periclean Scholars mentor, Senior Lecturer in Spanish and Assistant Director of Project Pericles April Post, with teaching her not what to think but how to think about the world and her role in it. Mason says Post was the greatest influence in her decision to apply for a Fulbright grant. “April supported my goals wholeheartedly, and I’m not sure I would have had the faith in myself to apply for it if it hadn’t been for her encouragement,” she says. Armendariz and Ojo both count Jean Rattigan-Rohr, professor of education, executive director of community partnerships and director of the Center for Access and Success, as an important mentor during their time at Elon. Rattigan-Rohr says she isn’t surprised Armendariz, Ojo and many other Elon students have
30 of
been so successful in the Fulbright program. “Both Omolayo and Steven were great fits for Fulbright because of who they are,” she says. “They’re both very caring, passionate young people who are able to clearly articulate a vision for how they want to operate in the world as they strive toward improving the lives of others. I would call them servant leaders in the true sense.” That attitude coupled with the support of the Fellowships Office and Elon’s commitment to experiential learning have allowed the Fulbright program to flourish. Myers views Elon’s growth in the program as a ripple effect. As students see more and more of their peers securing Fulbright grants, their confidence in their own ability to succeed in the program grows. A wall in Powell Building features photos of Elon’s most recent Fulbright recipients, providing a visual representation of students’ achievement in the program that prospective applicants see as soon as they walk into the Fellowships Office. “I think a big factor is students seeing that other students get Fulbrights,” Myers says. “Fulbright is perceived to be very prestigious, so it takes some students actually winning and coming back and talking about their experiences for other students to actually say, ‘Maybe I could do the Fulbright Program.’” Though Elon students have traditionally been drawn to the English teaching assistantship grants, Myers says interest in and acceptance to the study/research programs is on the rise. Fulbright recipients find value in the work opportunities and intercultural experiences the program offers regardless of discipline or post-graduate plans. Mason transferred the skills and values she garnered from the Fulbright Program to Greenwich, Connecticut, where she teaches students with language-based learning disabilities at Eagle Hill School and hopes to pursue a master’s degree in speech pathology. Ojo went to Nigeria for a year and a half and worked through the country’s National Youth Service Corps before returning to the U.S. as a digital marketing consultant. Jarrett is exploring opportunities in Ecuador and the U.S. as he finishes his dissertation, and Armendariz hopes to continue teaching in Madrid. Whatever one’s long-term goals, Jarrett says the Fulbright Program is a powerful way to learn about the world and give back to the global community. “You shouldn’t think about it only if you want to work abroad or in academia,” Jarrett says. “It can open doors and give you experiences that will serve you in anything you might want to do afterward. Imagine Fulbright being one stepping stone toward lots of possible opportunities.”
From the ARCHIVES
A College summer resort Almost 100 years ago, West Dormitory opened its doors to visitors from near and far who were looking for a quiet, peaceful place to spend their summer. BY NOAH ZAISER ’20
F
office and long-distance or well over a century, West Dormitory has housed thousands of telephone connection, Elon female students on its second and two livery stables and third floors. But nearly 100 good roads to the sursummers ago, the rounding community dormitory opened its of Burlington and the doors to the public as areas of Greensboro and a resort for local and Raleigh within an hour’s visiting families. drive, if visitors preferred Erected in 1903 and automobiles to the train. completed in 1906, the With all these onbuilding was originally and-off campus amenireferred to as “the New ties, a summer in West Young Ladies’ Dorwas touted as a desirable mitory and Boarding destination, particularly Hall.” Besides rooms for for those seeking to rest students, the building and recuperate from included music parlors, any illness. “Those who classrooms and rooms wish an ideal place free for female faculty and from all excitement staff on the first floor. could do no better than According to a note in to spend their vacation The Christian Sun newshere,” read a June 23, paper, just two years after 1909 note in The Chrisopening, Mr. and Mrs. tian Sun. “Plenty of good W.F. Jones were responsipure well water, fresh ble for opening up West vegetables, cool, clean, for summer boarders airy rooms, and every in 1909, with Mrs. Jones surrounding that could in charge of the board{ According to ads, visitors could stay at West Dormitory for as little as $1.25 a day from June 10 tend to coax one to health and ing house for the entire through Aug. 17 in 1909. West was touted as “an ideal place free from all excitement.” } vigor.” Indeed, a newspaper note summer. The previous year, that appeared in August of the same year alludes to the latter. It Mrs. Jones had served as the supervisor of Elon’s East Dormitory, talks of John L. Lawrence of Mineral Wells, Texas, whose wife and which housed men after West opened. three children had been staying at West since June visiting family According to ads from 1909, visitors could stay at West for in the area, including Elon professor W.P. Lawrence. “Members $1.25 a day, $5 per week or $15 per month from June 10 through of his family who have been in delicate health have improved Aug. 17. Conveniently located near the Mill Point train station, the rapidly since coming to this place,” the newspaper said. “Next brick building boasted “complete rest and quiet, the finest pure, summer there will likely be a great many visitors at the College cold water,” as well as “lawn tennis, croquet, baseball, ‘marbles,’ summer resort.” ‘horse shoes’ and ‘mumble-peg’” as attractive features. For dining In late August, West ceased to be a summer resort, and a new options, the structure offered “fresh milk and butter from the gymnasium floor was installed “for the physical culture and gymCollege dairy, and fresh vegetables from the College gardens.” Of nasium exercises of the young ladies.” It’s not clear why the buildcourse, the main draw of West was that it was a new building on ing was used as a resort for only one summer, though it continued an impressive 25-acre campus in the early 20th century. Nearby boarding professors and friends of the college for years to come. buildings such as the library, reading rooms and a myriad of Whatever the case, West’s place as one of Elon’s oldest and most activities added life to the 20-year-old Elon College. At the time, noteworthy places of attraction included access to a telegraph cherished buildings is well secured in school history. 31
A GROWING CAMPUS From residential and dining halls to versatile recreational and academic spaces, this fall marks the opening of several new facilities on the Elon campus. SCHAR CENTER Elon’s new 5,100-seat convocation center will serve as the home for Phoenix basketball and volleyball programs and provide a venue for major campus events, such as convocations, concerts, graduation ceremonies and other activities. Read more about Schar Center on page 16.
MCEWEN DINING HALL EXPANSION This major two-story expansion of the original 1956 building includes three retail dining establishments along with an inviting indoor dining atrium and an outdoor patio. The main floor meal plan stations will include Knead, a sandwich and pastry option; Home & Away, with home-style food offerings; and Greens & Grains, a soup and salad bar. Retail options will include Pei Wei, an Asian-inspired casual restaurant; and Village Juice Company, offering smoothies, salads, sandwiches and more. McEwen is expected to re-open by mid-fall.
32 of
RICHARD W. SANKEY HALL This new academic building is a three-story building with flexible classrooms and collaboration spaces that will be used by students in all majors. It will be the home of cross-disciplinary centers of the Martha and Spencer Love School of Business, including the Doherty Center for Creativity, Innovation and Entrepreneurship and the Chandler Family Professional Sales Center. The building will also include design thinking and financial education centers. A dedication is scheduled for Nov. 2.
EAST NEIGHBORHOOD This new residential neighborhood will house more than 300 students. There are three three-story buildings, with lounges and community kitchens on every floor. The neighborhood will house mostly firstyear students, and there will be several living-learning communities with a theme of civic engagement and social innovation as well as first-year foundation courses linked with students living in these halls. A new tennis clubhouse is adjacent to the residence halls and will support the Phoenix men’s and women’s Division I tennis programs.
KOENIGSBERGER LEARNING CENTER In a major expansion of Carol Grotnes Belk Library, the new two-story, 11,000-square-foot KLC will bring together three student support programs: academic advising, learning assistance (formerly the tutoring program) and disabilities resources. The center will promote powerful synergies among these academic programs and the many resources in the library. The building will be dedicated Sept. 28.
SOUTH CAMPUS RECREATION CENTER The existing South Campus Gym has more than doubled in size with the addition of a new facility that includes a multi-purpose court for basketball and other sports. This facility will provide indoor activity space next to the South Campus playing fields and Worsley Golf Training Center.
33
POINT of VIEW
An odyssey to understanding BY KEN HASSELL
R
etirement, for me, is not simply the push of freedom from the constraints of employment, but rather the pull of social justice and activism on one’s own terms. It is a commencement for and to possibilities. My life has been lived as an outlier, an almost other who never really fit in with what was expected. Life as a misfit is not necessarily a bad thing; it is just difficult finding spaces where you might belong and be effective. It was through social activism and working alongside lowwage laborers of variant ethnicities, races, genders and disabilities that proved to be my profound and lasting education toward a more open and inclusive approach to life. These experiences were also the impetus for my 35 years as a documentary photographer/ethnographer and educator. Community work in the coal fields of Appalachia and the classroom were sites of disruption of norms and profound insights throughout my career. As my retirement grew closer, a kind of poetic synthesis happened that seemed to make sense of my seemingly inchoate life. My love of photography was unrequited and proved inadequate for a deeper understanding of society and the vast realms of power and knowledge. I decided to delve more deeply into these areas by creating new courses on visual culture and the construction of identity along the way. For some 10 years, I taught an ethnographically-based study abroad course in London where students constructed films and books about their conversations with people in traditionally migrant communities. This led me to an intellectually and experientially vivacious retirement research project in far West London. I am now listening to and working with South Asian and Somali women in the diasporic community of Southall, sometimes designated as “little Punjab.” It’s in one of the most diverse boroughs in the most diverse city in the world. What is referred to as the “afterlife of the Empire” has brought many people from the former colonies to Britain and, especially, the metropole London. Some are refugees, others have migrated due to the pull of employment opportunities and all are seeking a better life. My research examines how Somali and South Asian women achieve, express and maintain agency and justice within
34 of
what can be a traditional and even fundamentalist migrant context. While Southall exists as a highly intricate sociopolitical place, women’s daily practices can be under the insistent pressure of sexist othering, which creates a highly gendered subset within the larger ethnic group. A salient facet of the complexity of diaspora, and the one that this research focuses on, is that despite (or because of) resolute sexism, a significant number of women work daily in the avant-garde of effecting inward and outward change. They create spaces that invite disruption of norms, the performance of alterity and diverse narratives. It is without question the most challenging, complex, multifaceted endeavor of my life at a time when age is supposed to dictate “slowing down.” This project is intended to help understand the lives of marginalized women of color as well as critically deepen my own understanding of white masculinism. My academic “home” has drastically changed from the visual world and art. In fact, the School of Geography at Queen Mary University of London has offered me a title, working space and access to faculty and students to facilitate the exchange of ideas. In pursuing this research and sustaining my integrity, finding a place for rigorous conversations and critique is imperative. The backbone of the project will be a scholarly book that will include multiple voices and critical perspectives on how the Somali and South Asian women understand themselves within their adopted British communities. In addition, I will be mentoring a group of young Somali and South Asian women attending a Southall secondary school to create a film and book about their presence and aspirations that will be widely disseminated as teaching/ learning materials about young women in diaspora. We will also collaborate with an Indian filmmaker who has funding to produce and distribute films about diversity within the borough. At once, the project seems so distant from my past and yet it embodies a distinct continuum of that past. The process of the research and my own curiosity have put me in touch with community activists, academics, politicians, artists and citizens who are remarkable in their resolve to make the lives of migrants, refugees, women and the marginalized better and more just. It is my resolve, too, to attempt to contribute something to that wellbeing. Ken Hassell retired from Elon in 2014 after 23 years of teaching in the Department of Art and Art History. Now a professor emeritus, his ongoing research focuses on a wide range of contemporary theories and practices including postcolonialism, poststructuralism, feminisms, queerness, power and knowledge, human geographies and affect theory.
ALUMNI ACTION
Making Elon a PRIORITY Dear Elon Alumni,
O
ne of the most exciting things about starting my term as president of the Elon Alumni Board is the impact I can make in this role to strengthen our Elon community. As a mother with four young children and a demanding job as a vice president of sales, days are crazy and to-do lists are a necessity. I prioritize Elon in my life because it has shaped so much of who I am today, and I want to ensure generations to come are afforded the same opportunity. As a board, we are starting this term with great momentum. We recently endowed an Elon Alumni Board Scholarship that focuses on supporting Elon legacies and honoring our commitment to ensure others have the same opportunities we were so lucky to receive. We are also focused on finding multiple ways alumni can give back based on their stage in life. We are all busy, so we want to provide multiple options for engagement and ask that you make at least one a priority. Here are simple ways for you to get involved that have a major impact:
Partner: Attend an Elon event in your area or on campus. Regional alumni chapter events, Evenings for Elon and Homecoming are all great opportunities to reconnect. Advocate: Get involved as a volunteer for Elon. See a full list of opportunities at elon.edu/alumni. Investor: Make an annual gift that’s meaningful to you. You can support student scholarships, which fall under Elon’s greatest needs, or any part of campus that made an impact on you. Lastly, I want to offer heartfelt thanks to Chris Bell ’92, outgoing president of the Elon Alumni Board, and Kyriakos Pagonis ’99, president-elect. I also appreciate the dedicated work of Kelly O’Dare Provenzano ’92, Brian Scales ’96 and Katie Zach Fitts ’04 who will each lead a board committee this upcoming year. As I start this presidency, I’m grateful to be surrounded by such amazing people who share the same love, passion and commitment to Elon. Michelle Wideman Snavely ’00 President, Elon Alumni Board
Here’s looking at you, alumni
{ Christina Peterson ’10, Larry F. Hodges ’74, President Connie Ledoux Book & Phillip “Andy” Ellen ’92. }
A
lumni representing various disciplines were recognized in the spring for their contributions to their professions, communities and alma mater. The School of Communications presented Colleen Penhall ’98, vice president for corporate social responsibility at Lowe’s, with the Outstanding Alumna Award. Meanwhile Elon College, the College of Arts and Sciences awarded three Distinguished Alumni Awards to:
{ Dean Paul Parsons & Colleen Penhall ’98 }
Larry F. Hodges ’74, professor in the Human-Centered Computing Division of the School of Computing at Clemson University (Natural, Mathematical & Computing Sciences) Christina Peterson ’10, senior account manager with Telecom at Google (Arts & Humanities) Phillip “Andy” Ellen ’92, president and general counsel for the North Carolina Retail Merchants Association (Social Sciences) 35
ALUMNI ACTION
10th ANNUAL E
ach fall alumni chapters hold events as part of the Welcome to the City series. Hosted in a fun spot in your city, these events connect our newest graduates and recently relocated alumni to the thriving Elon network in their cities, and kick off the year of chapter events for all of our alumni. If you are new to one of the 38 areas where we have alumni chapters, this is the perfect opportunity to get to know others in your city, meet chapter leaders and learn more about Elon programming in your new home. More information about dates and locations for the entire event series, as well as other regional programs, can be found at elon.edu/alumni. We hope to see you at the events in your area!
charlotte
36 of
los angeles
baltimore
ALUMNI ACTION
Welcome to the alumni family, Class of 2018!
Y
our Elon experience didn’t end at graduation. Now that you are an alum, Elon will continue to serve you in many ways—through job opportunities from fellow alumni, chapter events in your area, Homecoming and professional development opportunities. Help Elon keep you informed and involved by updating your information. Visit elon.edu/alumniupdate to ensure you receive information that is relevant to you.
•
The New York alumni chapter hosted its annual Professional Development Day on June 26, a celebration of networking, skill-building and engagement. The chapter shared alumni and resource spotlights on social media throughout the day and hosted an evening event at PS450. The nearly 70 alumni in attendance heard from Molly Hilboldt ’09, the manager of on-air talent and production planning for the CBS Sports Network. •
The Seattle alumni chapter served its local community June 16 by packaging meals at Food Lifeline, a nonprofit that provides daily meals in the western Washington region. A team of four Elon graduates helped prepare 1,800 meals that were distributed to community members in need.
•
On June 13, the D.C. alumni chapter welcomed Elon student interns working in the Washington, D.C., area to an annual summer social. The student interns enjoyed networking with alumni and meeting fellow interns living in D.C. for the summer. “It was awesome to see how many bright young Elon students are here interning in our nation’s capital, representing a large number of industries and very reputable companies,” said Kristin Ruffe ’15, the D.C. chapter president. “It makes me proud to don my Elon swag around the city.”
LET’S GO ELON !
It’s football season. Get your gear on and head to one of these events to cheer on the Phoenix: • SEPT. 1 – University of South Florida • SEPT. 15 – William & Mary • SEPT. 22 – Charleston Southern
• OCT. 6 – James Madison University • OCT. 13 – University of Delaware • NOV. 17 – University of Maine
Watch for emails this fall with additional details. 37
ALUMNI ACTION
See you at HOMECOMING
ELO N
18 20
5K brick run/walk: Start your Saturday with a run or Come back to Elon Nov. 2–4 and add a new walk with family and friends along Elon’s brick pathways. chapter to your Elon story. Celebrate old Game day experience: Get energized at our All friendships, discover new adventures and Alumni Tailgate Village before cheering on the Phoenix as create new memories that will last a lifetime. we take on the Rhode Island Rams at 1:30 p.m. in Rhodes Stadium. The festivities will kick off with an awards Homecoming concert: Dance the night away at ceremony Friday morning to honor this this Saturday event. Check your email in September for an announcement on the artist. year’s Distinguished Alumni Award recipiReunion and affinity events and more! ents—David Stevens ’81, Carter Smith ’92, Jill Rose ’00, Angie Walton ’10 and Tony Registration opens in early Weaver ’16—followed by the Rock September. For more details, the Block Party for the entire visit elon.edu/homecoming. family, complete with live C O E M M And don’t forget to share IN G HO music, games, food trucks your own memories and fireworks. Other on social media using activities include: #ElonHome. WHERE OUR STORY CONTINUES
SUPPORT YOUR ALMA MATER Celebrate Elon’s 130th anniversary! Make a gift to the program or area that means the most to you and receive a 2019 commemorative calendar. Be on the lookout for more details coming this fall. elon.edu/calendargift 38 of
CLASS NOTES
63|
REUNION Members
76|
of the Class of 1963 will reunite on campus at Elon’s Homecoming on Nov. 2–4 to celebrate their 55th reunion with other Golden Alumni. Classmates Thomas “Tom” Crandall, Jerry Drake and Linda “Lucy” Clark Kelley look forward to seeing you at this significant reunion. If you have any questions, please contact reunions@elon.edu.
After 42 years of leading one of Virginia’s most successful band programs, Ricky Allgood retired this spring from Bluestone High School as music teacher and Baron Marching Band director. He was the third band director in school history and led the program to numerous awards. Ricky also directed the Bluestone Middle School band and concert bands at both schools. He will continue performing at Memorial Day ceremonies and other events in the South Boston area in retirement.
68|
REUNION Committee co-chairs Carol Lupinacci Brown and Ken Hollingsworth along with committee members Francine Gifford Deir, Nancy McNair Dinicola, Larry Mabe, Betsy Dearborn Miller, Dale Morrison, CeCe Cobo Powell, Lyn Sturkey Seymour and Ron Tugwell encourage all classmates
to attend the 50th class reunion during Homecoming, Nov. 2–4. Members of the class will receive their Golden Alumni Medallions at the reunion lunch and Class of 1968 induction on Friday, Nov. 2. If you have any questions, please contact reunions@elon.edu.
73| Did you know? Your graduating class now has a Facebook group. Go to Facebook.com and search for your class using “Elon Class of __________.” Join the new group to stay in touch with classmates and keep updated on class news. And don’t forget to follow Elon Alumni for all things Elon!
REUNION The Class of
1973 will be celebrating its 45th reunion at Elon’s Homecoming, Nov. 2–4. Reunion committee chair Barry Baker and committee members Kathy Croye Arnett, Terry Harker, Dan Hoopes, Tesa Ranney Jones, Kathy Streeter Morgan and Steve Patterson look forward to seeing the rest of the class back on campus to help celebrate this special weekend. If you have any questions, please contact reunions@elon.edu. • Tesa Jones has been touring the midAtlantic area during the past several
months promoting her latest novel, “Reflection of Memories.” During a recent signing in Winston-Salem, N.C., she was happy to run into several alumni, including Harold Smith ’71, Anne Sprinkle Bell ’72, Kathy Croye Arnett, Carolyn DeLuca Hughes, Jane Kiger Ridge, Emily Graham Grogan ’74 and Tommy Joyce ’74. Tesa lives in Mooresville.
74|
In December Bryant Ford Jr. received his Doctor of Education degree in education leadership from Wingate University. A retired math teacher, he recently published an article in the North Carolina Council of Teachers of Mathematics’ journal. He lives in Mount Gilead.
78|
REUNION Join the Class
of 1978’s 40th reunion committee chair Tim Moore and committee members Bernard Carr, Jim Ellis, Chris Jernigan, Gwen Crawford Manning, Linda Nelms Minnix and Lee Steele back on campus Nov. 2–4 to help celebrate your class reunion ALUMNI ALBUM
during Homecoming. Be sure to make plans now to attend. If you have any questions, please contact reunions@elon.edu.
83|
REUNION Join the Class
of 1983’s 35th reunion committee co-chairs Mark James, Colleen O’Brien and Lisa Johnston Smithdeal and committee members Ellen Holland Nicholson, Michael Romesburg, Steve Vargas and Cabell Young on Nov. 2–4 to participate in class reunion activities and reminisce about the great times that were spent at Elon. The committee is looking forward to catching up with classmates during Homecoming weekend. If you have any questions, please contact reunions@elon.edu.
86|
Kathy Bangley was
named Public Servant of the Year by the Lake Wales Chamber of Commerce in Florida. She is director of planning and development for the city. Her husband, John ’84, is a cast member at Disney World. They live in Winter Haven.
88|
REUNION Time to
celebrate 1988’s 30th reunion with committee co-chairs John Bradsher and Marleen Jansen and committee members Wes Durham, Jenny Frick Kammerer, Victoria Ward Shelton, Crystal Morrison Taylor, Laura Perkins Tripp and Kerry Doyle White. They hope their classmates make plans to head back to campus Nov. 2–4 to help celebrate this exciting milestone with them. If you have any questions, please contact reunions@elon.edu.
Tesa Jones ’73, center, & friends
Robert Criste ’89
89|
Robert Criste has been
promoted to vice president of sales for Lonza Water 39
CLASS NOTES Care, a division of Lonza, a Swissbased company. He is responsible for all North America, Caribbean and South/Central America sales. He lives in Atlanta with wife Lesa.
93|
REUNION Exciting
plans are underway for the Class of 1993’s 25th reunion during Homecoming, Nov. 2-4. Reunion committee chair Charmin Britt Lee and members Matt Bollinger, Dan Bowers, Tiffany Luther Bowers, Samantha Colbert Greenfield, JJ Stubblefield May, Kelly McKeone and Dan Ridley hope to see all their classmates on campus to mark this special
milestone. For more information, please contact reunions@elon.edu. • Jack Duval has launched Bantam Inc., a new startup registered investment advisory firm focused on spreading fiduciary investment management and helping to systematically lower management fees. Jack lives in New York City with wife Meghan.
95|
Priscilla Awkard has been
named assistant vice president of teller centers for Coastal Credit Union in North Carolina. In her new role, she oversees the credit union’s teller centers in Raleigh and Durham
and works to ensure members get fast and accurate transactions. She has 23 years of financial experience and held roles at three regional banks before joining Coastal in 2011. • Terri Fletcher was awarded the Teacher of the Year award at The Academy at Smith, a North Carolina high school that is part of Guilford County Schools where she teaches English. She lives in Greensboro, N.C.
96|
Doc Siddall, who is
celebrating 20 years with Honey Farms, recently started working for The Lake 940 WGFP AM radio as an on-air personality. He lives in Webster, Mass.
THE POWER OF REPUTATION Mike Mooney ’93, who learned the significance of reputation through a storied career alongside nascar racecar drivers, has published his first book. BY SARAH COLLINS ’18
“How much is your reputation worth? Try to put a dollar value on it.” This is the first question Elon alumnus Mike Mooney ’93 asks students, executives and successful athletes to consider when they evaluate the worth of personal reputation. A consultant with more than two decades of experience in reputation and crisis management, Mooney published his first book, “Reputation Shift – Five High Performance Truths for Success,” for those looking to better understand, build and leverage their own reputations. Mooney’s work is the culmination of 25 years spent in the world of motorsports communications and marketing. During that time, he helped lead the transition and launch of the NASCAR Nextel Cup Series in 2004 as director of marketing communications for Sprint Nextel and created dynamic sponsorship platforms for brands like Walmart, Tylenol, Lowe’s and Sunoco as vice president of The Marketing Arm, a marketing and promotion agency. He continued to focus on brand building for four competitive NASCAR teams as senior vice president for Roush Fenway Racing. “My career has centered on building and protecting brands and I’ve seen the impact, both good and bad, of reputations, particularly for athletes, executives and professional drivers. The reality is that people typically don’t think about the value of their reputation until they’ve paid a price,” he says. “This book is about shifting perspective and getting people to proactively think ahead in how they manage this natural asset.” Available through Amazon, Barnes & Noble and Mooney’s personal website, the book offers five strategies that encourage readers to value reputation in their everyday lives. For example, Mooney draws on a racing analogy to implore readers to identify their own personal blind spots. He asks readers to consider their “spotters”—the people who are looking out for them and can identify unseen weaknesses. He also articulates the importance of visualizing a “personal instant replay” before making decisions. He asks readers to evaluate how a decision will look from different perspectives in their lives to help them course correct and anticipate varying outcomes. The book also features action-oriented questions at the end of 40 of
{ Mike Mooney ’93, author of “Reputation Shift” } each chapter for readers to reflect upon and consider application for their own lives. “This is not just a ‘turn the page’ type of book,” says Mooney. “It incorporates reflective questions as well as stories from personal experiences in my career, from crises around driver deaths to athletes shooting off their mouths. This book will provide readers with a roadmap for strengthening and protecting their reputation in this world of instant information sharing.” At Elon, Mooney majored in corporate communications and minored in business. He intended to major in business until his junior year, when he experienced a change of heart after he came in contact with a public relations firm during an internship. With a newfound interest in communications, Mooney returned to campus and enrolled in several public speaking and writing courses. He was guided by the direction of his academic adviser, Assistant Professor of Communications Gerald Gibson, to whom he is thankful to this day. “Gibson has a very special place in my heart,” he says. “He really helped me as I was figuring out what I wanted to do in communications.” He was also heavily involved in Elon’s Student Government Association during his time as a student, having served in multiple positions including vice president and president. “It was those experiences with students, administrators, faculty and advisers that shaped my love for communications, connecting people and creating solutions for challenges, as well as a lifelong love for Elon,” he says. Mooney currently lives in Huntersville, North Carolina, with his wife, Krista Horton Mooney ’94, and their three children, Alexa, Blair and Brooke. For more information about Mooney and his book, visit mikemooney.com.
CLASS NOTES
98|
REUNION It’s time for
the Class of 1998’s 20th reunion. Make plans now to mark this milestone with reunion committee members Chad Bebout, Regina Booker, Tanya Brown, Jennifer McCumber Curtin, Wendi Johnson DeForest, Allison Hart, Thomas Hart, Arna Majcher and Anita Triggs at Homecoming, Nov. 2–4. For more information, contact reunions@elon.edu. • Melissa Rutt Szabo was promoted to director of operations at Lower Alsace Ambulance Association in Pennsylvania. She received her nursing degree from Western Governors University in March. In addition to providing emergency care to patients on the ambulance, Melissa runs the scheduling, payroll and other day-to-day operations of the ambulance squad. She lives in Blandon, with husband Brian.
00|
Scott McCrary received
an Emmy Award for his contributions to a special 2017 TV report, “WUSA 9 Special: A Marine’s Mysterious Death.” He was recognized at the 60th National Capital Chesapeake Bay Emmy Award Ceremony in June. The chapter is responsible for awarding Emmy Awards to those who work in the TV industry in Maryland, Virginia and the District of Columbia. Scott is a senior producer for WUSA 9, the CBS affiliate in Washington, D.C.
01|
Karalyn McPhie and Justin
Taylor were married 12/30/17 in San Diego, where they live. Alumni in attendance included Bethany Carter and Nikki Oldfield. Karalyn is a banquet captain with Omni Hotel.
02|
Sarah Notch was appointed
director of special education and student services with the San Bruno Park School District in California. An educator with 16 years of experience, Sarah has successfully transformed intervention initiatives in her previous assignments and has been credited with leading one of the top 1 percent innovative and effective special education services department in the state of California. She and husband Ryan ’03 live in the San Francisco Bay area with their two sons.
03|
REUNION The Class
of 2003’s 15th reunion committee, which includes Katie Gosselin Brenna, Katie Wicke
LaPlante, Katie Iwancio Lovin, Anne Machowski, Joy Ross, Katie Townsend and Nicole Wright, would like to
invite all classmates to come back Nov. 2–4 for Elon’s Homecoming. For more information, contact reunions@elon.edu. • Ryan Buckley was promoted to senior writer/ producer for CNN’s Erin Burnett OutFront. He oversees editorial direction of each show’s lead story. He lives in New York City. • Jenny Flaherty and Matthew Flaherty welcomed son Jasper Brooks on 6/30/17. He joins older brother Dylan. The family lives in Brooklyn, New York.
04|
Lillian Ciany Apple was awarded the Daisy Barron Leland Teaching Excellence Award for the 2017–18 year at Ashley Hall, a private school in Charleston, S.C. The award is given to a teacher in recognition for teaching excellence in mathematics, science or use of technology in the classroom. Lillian is a physics high school teacher. She lives in Mount Pleasant with husband Mark Apple. • Jonathan Lindberg {MBA ’18} earned his MBA this spring from Elon University as part of the inaugural cohort to enter the program at Elon’s RTP campus. He works in finance at BioDelivery Sciences International. He and wife Sarah King Lindberg ’02 live in Raleigh, N.C.
05|
Ryan Andrew Newson has
published a second book, “Inhabiting the World: Identity, Politics and Theology in Radical Baptist Perspective.” In the book, which was published by Mercer University Press, Ryan unpacks the contours of a Christian identity centered around listening and explores and expands the work of theologian James Wm. McClendon Jr. Ryan is an assistant professor of theology and ethics at Campbell University. • Alexandra Razgha and Nigel Pillay welcomed daughter Lorelai Brielle on 10/29/17. Alexandra is an assistant principal at St. Johns County School District in Florida. The family lives in St. Augustine.
06| 07|
Charitable Gift Annuities CAN PROVIDE INCOME FOR LIFE
a charitable gift annuity of $10,000 or more to Elon will guarantee a fixed income for the rest of your life. With market interest rates near historic lows, a gift annuity is an attractive way to increase your income and make a gift to Elon at the same time. You will receive immediate tax benefits and can defer capital gains. The payment rate of a charitable gift annuity depends on your age at the time of the gift—the older you are, the higher the rate.
NEW RATES ONE BENEFICIARY
TWO BENEFICIARIES
AGE
ANNUIT Y R ATE
AGE
ANNUIT Y R ATE
60
4.7%
60/65
4.3%
65
5.1%
67/67
4.7%
70
5.6%
71/73
5.2%
Annuity rates are subject to change. The annuity rate remains fixed once your gift is made.
To explore a gift annuity for you, your spouse or a family member, visit ELONLEGACY.ORG. Talk with us today about how you may benefit from a life income gift to Elon and other gift planning opportunities. please contact: Carolyn DeFrancesco, Director of Planned Giving 336-278-7454 ■ cdefrancesco@elon.edu ■ elonlegacy.org.
Anthony Catalano and
Lauren Catalano welcomed son Luca Anthony on 9/29/17. The family lives in Atlanta. Justin Mann and Ginny Mann welcomed son
Theodore “Theo” Caldwell on 4/19/18. Justin is an attorney with Alston & Bird LLP. The family lives in Arlington, Va.
{ The Homecoming court from 1966. }
41
CLASS NOTES
Set on a TRAIL BY OLIVER FISCHER ’19
W
hen Nick Dioguardi ’10 was 4, he visited Shenandoah National Park in Virginia with his family. He remembers receiving his junior ranger certification from a park ranger then, a moment his mother captured in a photograph. That moment planted a seed in Dioguardi that blossomed in 2014 when he was sworn in as a North Carolina State Park ranger. The picture of his 4-year-old self signing his ranger badge at Shenandoah all those years ago now adorns Dioguardi’s desk at William B. Umstead State Park in Raleigh. It’s a testament to his dedication and passion for conservation, which he was able to explore fully during his time at Elon. “He is a great example of identifying a career goal and working toward it,” says Elon’s Director of Sustainability Elaine Durr of Dioguardi, who worked in the Physical Plant and Office of Sustainability as a student. “He truly worked his way up to get to his ultimate goal of becoming a park ranger.” An environmental studies major, Dioguardi completed basic law enforcement training as part of his park ranger preparation. That’s because being a park ranger in North Carolina means more than just knowing about the environment and biological life in the area. Rangers have similar powers to those of police officers, which means they are able to enforce the law within the state park system, an aspect of the job that is sometimes overlooked by applicants. “It scares a lot of people away because they want to be outside doing nature hikes but at the same time, you have to become a sworn law enforcement officer for the state of North Carolina,” Dioguardi says. “In my time at Elon, I was educated about that concept. You would have to be up for that part of the job as well. In the back of my head I knew that if I was going to do this, I would have to be a cop essentially.” There was never a doubt in Dioguardi’s mind about becoming a park ranger. “Protecting the natural places in North Carolina is so important to me that even if I had a second thought, it didn’t make a difference,” he says. Outside of enforcing the law, park rangers frequently interact with the community. Dioguardi regularly works with people and his arts and science education helps him do a better job. “In general, the varied course
42 of
{ As a North Carolina state park ranger, Nick Dioguardi ’10 is a certified environmental educator. } load at Elon was a great preparation for this job,” he says. It not only taught him biology and chemistry, but it also prepared him to work well with others and be a good communicator. Like all North Carolina state park rangers, Dioguardi is a certified environmental educator. He teaches children and adults about local wildlife, including wild edible plants, local trees and renewable energy. The latter has been a passion for Dioguardi since his days at Elon, where he was the first student to assist Durr with the annual carbon footprint calculations for the university. He and another student created the first curriculum for Eco-Reps and often visited Elon 101 classes to explain to students how to be as sustainable as possible and reduce their carbon footprint. Dioguardi has not lost this passion for sustainability since becoming a park ranger. “I’ve always been a proponent of renewable energy and that carried on through to this job,” he says. He is leading the efforts to raise money to install solar panels in the park’s visitor center. He hopes the panels will help to power the facility and educate children about renewable energy and its advantages over traditional energy sources. He’s thankful to Elon for molding him and shaping him along the way and wants to pass on the guidance he received to inspire others to make a difference. “If I can educate the mind of one young child who can go on in the future to get an engineering degree and change the world or make a new discovery, then I’ve more than done my job here at the park,” he says.
08|
REUNION Join the Class of
2008’s 10th reunion chair
Andy Fox and committee members Roy Belk, Will Black, Webb Bond, Evan Broderick, Bernie Coston, Bryan Donald, Ashley Gardiner, Sarah Gottfried, Lauren Kelly Griffith, Lizzy Guterma, Kim Poe Leighty, Liz Palka Minukas, Anne Carroll Ratcliffe, Ashleigh Weathers and Donna Webber Wilkinson on Nov. 2–4 to
participate in class reunion activities during Elon’s Homecoming. For more information, contact reunions@elon.edu. • Laura Eastes Akers was awarded first place in general news reporting and business reporting by the Society of Professional Journalists’ Oklahoma chapter. She served as a news writer for Oklahoma Gazette, a weekly newspaper serving the Oklahoma City metro area. She received a master’s degree in nonprofit leadership from Oklahoma City University in July. She lives in Oklahoma City • Calley Grace and Cody Lev were married 5/11/18. Calley is senior developmental editor for Elsevier. They live in Philadelphia. • Dwayne Waite Jr. and Mackenzie Waite welcomed daughter Esther Leigh on 5/3/18. Dwayne is a marketing associate at Schell Games. The family lives in Pittsburgh.
09|
Patrick Brooks and Megan Wodzisz Brooks welcomed
son Bennett Weaver on 3/27/18. Patrick is a certified public accountant with The Whalen Company. The family lives in Cambridge, Md.
10|
Martha Browning and James Robert Midgette were married 4/21/18. Alumni in attendance included Graham Rountree ’09, Molly Killorin Basile, Grace Trilling Rountree, Taylor Brown Thomas, Rachel Zeilinger and Buddy Christovao ’12. Martha is a fundraising program specialist with the WakeMed Health & Hospital Foundation and James is director of finance for Pentair. They live in Raleigh, N.C. • Jonathan Michael and Jenna Farley Michael ’11 welcomed daughter Sophie Louise on 3/14/18. She joins older sister Emily. The family lives in Charlotte, N.C.
11|
Kaitlyn Fay Koch and Eric Koch welcomed daughter Quentin Lydia on 4/8/18.
CLASS NOTES The family lives in Halfmoon, New York. • Manisha P. Patel {Law} was named the 2018 Young Alumna of the Year by Elon Law’s Women’s Law Association. Manisha joined Ward Black Law in 2013 and has been involved with the Piedmont Triad Women Attorneys, a local chapter of the North Carolina Association of Women Attorneys, since 2015. She lives in Greensboro.
12|
Amy Salek and Jay Struck were married 11/4/17 surrounded by many of their Elon friends. They live in Charlotte, N.C. • Brian Zaldivar has joined the board of directors for Trailnet, a nonprofit organization that brings
St. Louis city officials and residents together to make walking and biking better for everyone. Brian, a corporate attorney with Danna McKitrick, P.C., assists clients with strategic planning, business formation and matters related to closely-held companies in mergers, acquisitions and restructurings.
13|
REUNION Class of 2013’s
fifth reunion committee members Cody Benoit, Leigh Burgess, Caitlin Clarke, Genevieve D’Cruz, Alison Deatsch, Whitley Dozier, Kirsten Ferreria Flowers, Michael Gaytan, Nathaniel Hodges, Jill Hollis, Lindsay Kimble, Lizzy Larson, Matt Lewis, Shelby McKay,
Trey Newstedt, Mark Rehbein, Andrew Robson, Gabby Szewcow, Tricia Teter and committee chair Cat Valero encourage the entire class to
return for Elon’s Homecoming, Nov. 2–4. For more information, contact reunions@elon.edu.
14|
Gerald Walden {MBA} was
recognized as one of the “50 Most Influential African Americans in the Piedmont Triad” by North Carolina’s Black Business Ink magazine. In its first year, the award recognized community and business leaders in Guilford and Forsyth counties. Gerald is an assistant general counsel for The Fresh Market, Inc.
15|
Christine Corson was promoted to vice president of procurement and sourcing recruitment at DJS Global. She first joined the company three years ago as a recruitment consultant but became a principal consultant for the procurement and sourcing team within her first 18 months. She was later promoted to managing principal consultant. Christine is based in New York. • Grace Rubright, a fifth grade teacher at Woodley Hills Elementary School, was named the Fairfax County (Va.) Public Schools’ Outstanding New Elementary Teacher of the Year
ALUMNI ALBUM
Jack Duval ’93
Priscilla Awkard ’95
Terri Fletcher ’95
Sarah Notch ’02
Jenny Flaherty ’03, Matthew Flaherty & sons Jasper Brooks & Dylan
Karalyn McPhie Taylor ’01 & friends
Jonathan Lindberg ’04 G’18
TURN YOURSELF IN!
elon.edu/classnotes Ryan Andrew Newson ’05
Alexandra Razgha ’05, Nigel Pillay & children Chael Blaze & Lorelai Brielle 43
CLASS NOTES
Through the eyes of another Blake Thompson ’13 is empowering young people in the classroom. BY TYLER SEIBRING ’19
U
ntil the lion learns to write, every story will glorify the hunter. Blake Thompson ’13 has used this African proverb as a guiding principle since joining Teach for America after graduating from Elon with a degree in human service studies in 2013. After spending three years with the nonprofit teaching students in Marion, Alabama, one of the centers for the civil rights movement, the former Phoenix football linebacker took a position at New Orleans’ Livingston Collegiate Academy, one of six secondary charter schools in Louisiana aiming to prepare all students for college success. By then he had earned a master’s degree in secondary social studies from Samford University. He describes Livingston as “truly a professional learning community.” It’s there Thompson’s passion was unleashed after he was assigned to teach a global justice class. As part of the { Blake Thompson ’13 } course, Thompson explores the duality of “hunters” (oppressors) and “lions” (oppressed) and how we interact with one another throughout issues in the 20th century. He believes the key to fighting against oppression is to arm young people with knowledge and an understanding of the truths hidden within history. “We have faced enough as black people,” he says, “and I want to ensure that the kids I teach are equipped with the knowledge, fortitude and attitude to ensure their fight against a system largely rigged against them.” Before coming to Elon, Thompson never thought of being a teacher. But after taking classes that dealt with social advocacy and cultural competence, he started to learn not to take things at face value but rather to use someone else’s perspective to inform his own worldview.
44 of
He was vocal on campus against racial discrimination issues and organized protests and events to bring awareness and make the Elon campus a safer space for students of color. These experiences inspired him to help future generations make a better world for themselves and their peers, something that guides what he does to this day in the classroom. Through his involvement with football— he served as defensive coordinator and head coach at Marion and was named head coach at Livingston in 2016—he found a way to pursue another passion. “As soon as I knew that I wanted to be a teacher, I instantly knew that coaching would be an essential part of my happiness and duty,” Thompson says, adding he was fortunate to learn from great coaches and compete against some of the best athletes in the country during his time at Elon. Thompson’s role as a teacher allows him to help his students to reach their full potential. Everything he does is for his students. “The only reason I think of myself as a good teacher is because I want to give the kids in front of me the best that is out there,” he says. He wants to make sure his students get opportunities they don’t even know exist. “They deserve an education that rivals, if not tops, anyone else’s in this country, regardless of their skin color or zip code.” As a college graduate, Thompson says he has a responsibility to share with others the knowledge he acquired through the many opportunities he was afforded in and out of the classroom and the field. He will forever be thankful to Teach for America for helping him solidify the path he is on. “TFA gave me an opportunity to become the person I wanted to be: one who influenced young people of color positively, but truthfully, to see how our world works,” he says.
for Region 3. She lives in Alexandria. • Zora Stephenson and Kevin Blake, who both played basketball at Elon, were married 4/7/18 at Brier Creek Country Club in Raleigh, N.C., surrounded by many of their Elon friends and former teammates and coaches. They live in Denver. • Jasmine Turner was a member of the NBC12 TV news team that won an Emmy Award for Best Weekend Newscast for its coverage of the 2017 violent protests in Charlottesville that made national headlines. She was recognized at the 60th National Capital Chesapeake Bay Emmy Award Ceremony in June. The chapter is responsible for awarding Emmy Awards to those whose work in the television industry in Maryland, Virginia and the District of Columbia. Jasmine is a reporter for the NBC affiliate serving Richmond and southern Virginia. • Matthew Zimpelman and Kerry Kurkjian were married 3/10/18 in Cincinnati. Father Gerry Waterman, the former associate chaplain for Catholic life at Elon, presided over the Mass. Alumni in attendance included Christopher Sainz ’12, Beka Bischoff ’13, Meg TaylorD’Ambrosio ’13, Katherine Wise ’13, Nicole Manning ’14, Alexandra Solhjou ’14, Stuart Chamberlin, Tim Gillman, Conner Goldstein, Anna Kuertz, Brad McVicker, Marissa Moody, Mackenzie Roberts, Dan Sablik, Richard Segal, Grant Stimmel, Kevin Smeaton and Lauren Orr ’16.
16|
Danielle Paige Williams has published a collection of poems, “The Art in Knowing Me.” The book, which is available on Amazon.com, explores the thrills of love, the highs and lows of life and the challenges of new beginnings and growth. Danielle lives in Washington, D.C. • Kristen DeMaria and John Zimmer ’17 were married 4/7/18 in Apex, N.C. Alumni in attendance included Kerianne Doran, Samantha Horowitz, Katie Kelly, Daniel Kirk, Megan Kirschling, Matthew Krause, Meredith Stutz, Rachel Yates, Garcian d’Cruz ’17, Timothy Kitslaar ’17 and Bryan Anderson ’18. Kristen is a communications specialist with Red Hat and John is a software engineer at Fidelity Investments. They live in Durham.
17|
Ryder Bowline, an account executive with the minorleague ice hockey team Charlotte Checkers, was named Eastern Conference Rookie of the Year in ticket sales by the American Hockey League. He lives in Charlotte,
CLASS NOTES N.C. • Danielle Fowler completed her master’s program in human development and psychology at Harvard Graduate School of Education in May. She serves as a counselor at The Manville School, a therapeutic school for children with psychological disorders in Boston that is part of Judge Baker Children’s Center.
18|
18|
COMMENCEMENT 2018 was the perfect backdrop for a family reunion of sorts for the DeFina family as it provided an opportunity for several members of the family who are also Elon alumni to return to campus. Coming together to celebrate the graduation of Jenna DeFina ’18 with parents Josephine DeFina P’18 and Joseph DeFina P’18 were Christine DeFina McDonough ’11 and husband Jordan McDonough ’11, Lauren DeFina ’13 and Samantha DeFina ’20.
REUNION The Class of 2018
will be celebrating Reunion Zero this year during Homecoming. Return to campus Nov. 2–4 and join your classmates for this milestone reunion. For more information, contact the Office of Annual Giving at reunions@elon.edu.
ALUMNI ALBUM
Anthony Catalano ’06, Lauren Catalano & son Luca Anthony
Jonathan Michael ’10, Jenna Farley Michael ’11 & daughters Emily & Sophie Louise
Dwayne Waite Jr. ’08 & daughter Esther Leigh
Martha Browning Midgette ’10 & James Robert Midgette
Patrick Brooks ’09, Megan Wodzisz Brooks ’09 & son Bennett Weaver
Kaitlyn Fay Koch ’11, Eric Koch & daughter Quentin Lydia 45
CLASS NOTES ALUMNI ALBUM
Manisha P. Patel G’11
Amy Salek Struck ’12, Jay Struck ’12 & friends
Zora Stephenson Blake ’15, Kevin Blake ’15 & friends
Brian Zaldivar ’12
Christine Corson ’15
Grace Rubright ’15, center
BY TYLER SEIBRING ’19
The movie industry might seem vast, but for two Elon graduates, it has gotten a little bit smaller. Paige Hullett ’16 and John Henry Ward ’17 have both been cast in Karen Maine’s “ Yes, God, Yes.” “It did feel like a small world situation,” says Hullett, in reference to being cast with an Elon alumnus, “but with Elon’s training and education, I wasn’t too terribly surprised.” A strategic communications graduate with a passion for acting, Hullett’s journey after graduation led her to Atlanta. Determined to get her foot in the door as an actor, she took classes and also found a coach, Sara Mornell, who helped her with acting and prepared her for the industry. Armed with this newfound knowledge, Hullett was able to book her first lead role in a feature in “Burnt Offering” just a few months before landing the part for “Yes, God, Yes.” The movie, starring Natalia Dyer of “Stranger Things” and Timothy Simons of “Veep,” is the feature adaptation of Maine’s short film by the same name and explores teenage angst. Ward, a music theatre graduate, also went to Atlanta after graduation. He originally planned to move to New York but his plans changed after being cast in a short film, “The Boogeywoman.” The movie was filmed in October in Chattanooga, Tennessee, so he was able to stay in Atlanta, his hometown, until the end of filming. That’s when he found out about the part for “Yes, God, Yes.” After submitting and taping for the role—with the help of Hullett and the acting studio Catapult Acting Studios—Ward landed the part. Due to their different majors, Hullett and Ward did not run into each other often at Elon, but each was happy to see a familiar 46 of
{ Paige Hullett ’16 & John Henry Ward ‘17 } face during the process. “I specifically remember thinking that he would be a great fit for the part,” Hullett recalls. “When I saw his name on the call sheet, it was an exciting feeling.” Having just started his professional acting career, Ward is aware of the power of connections. “You find these connections with people on set that you would never expect,” he says. Both Ward and Hullett are excited for the next steps in their journey as they begin to focus on “Yes, God, Yes,” which is expected to be released in 2019. “It’s really nice to finally put everything I learned at Elon into practice,” says Ward, who will be in the musical “The View Upstairs” at Atlanta’s Out Front Theatre Company in the fall. “This isn’t really the path I thought I would have after school, but I have really enjoyed it.” Hullett, who is represented by Privilege Talent, now finds herself on a different side of the industry as she gives writing a try. All of her experiences in Atlanta, she says, have helped her to prepare for various opportunities, including her latest movie role. “Director Karen Maine is fantastic,” Hullett says, “and working with a female director alongside two female producers (Katie Cordeal and Colleen Hammond) is also really special.”
CLASS NOTES
IN MEMORIAM Frances Frazier Taylor ’42,
Laurens, S.C., 5/1/18.
Minnie Frances Riddick Nash ’50,
Lydia Anne Freeze Spitler ’64,
Jack R. Byrd ’51, Suffolk, Va., 4/17/18.
Carrollton, Va., 4/19/18.
Virginia “Ginny” Latta Brown ’52,
Michael Wilson ’70,
John W. Hurst ’53, Ashville, N.C., 4/13/18.
Steven Ward Hogan ’73, Burlington, N.C., 4/12/18.
Retha Morris Norman ’55,
Melvin Lee Pearce ’74,
Homer Hobgood ’56, Jacksonville, N.C., 4/19/18.
Salisbury, N.C., 2/8/18.
Odell Luther Welborn ’57,
Stella M. Crutchfield ’94,
James Edward “Jimmy” Jones ’58,
Trevoris Antoine Newton ’97,
High Point, N.C., 4/4/18.
Roxboro, N.C., 2/22/18.
Raleigh, N.C., 1/10/18.
Greenville, N.C., 5/10/18. Reidsville, N.C., 4/25/18. Mary Brown Wood ’59,
Burlington, N.C., 4/15/18.
Clara S. Phillips ’61,
St. Augustine, Fla., 4/28/18.
James S. Denton ’73, a key voice in advancing democracies
Doris Fulcher Fitzgerald ’62,
Waynesville, N.C., 5/4/17.
in former Soviet-bloc countries, passed away 6/18/18. James served as Elon’s Student Government Association president and arranged to have his father, former U.S. Sen. and U.S. Navy Adm. James Denton, give a dramatic Founders Day address at Elon following his release as the first American prisoner of war to return from Hanoi during Operation Homecoming in 1973. James was executive director of Freedom House and president of the National Forum Foundation and the director of the World Affairs Institute in Washington, D.C.
Sanford, N.C., 4/15/18.
Ann Jennings Montney ’65,
Burlington, N.C., 4/14/18.
The Rev. William “Bill” G. Long, who served at Elon
from 1974–91 in various roles including dean of student affairs, director of foundations, government and church relations, director of alumni/parent relations, and faculty member in political science, died 6/14/18.
Winston-Salem, N.C., 4/28/18.
Curtis Anderson Rich ’78,
Greensboro, N.C., 5/5/18. Martha Hill, who held various positions during her 39 years at Elon, died 7/5/18. She joined Elon in 1974 and served as administrative assistant to the provost, program assistant in communications and program assistant and box office manager for cultural and special programs before retiring in 2013.
Greenville, S.C., 4/25/18.
Keith David Ripperton ’03,
Davidson, N.C., 4/4/18.
Brittany Allison Woodard ’13,
New York City, 4/5/18.
Matthew Zimpelman ’15, Kerry Kurkjian Zimpelman ’15 & friends
Kristen DeMaria Zimmer ’16 & John Zimmer ’17
Danielle Paige Williams ’16
www.elon.edu/c lassnotes
ALUMNI ALBUM
TU R N YOURSELF IN!
Help us keep you in touch with your Elon classmates.
Danielle Fowler ’17 47
A MEMORABLE
COMMENCEMENT WEEK Despite having to hold two separate undergraduate ceremonies in Alumni Gymnasium due to rain, Elon’s 128th Commencement season proved to be special for members of the Class of 2018 and their families. Here are some images from the week that saw more than 1,400 students recieving undergraduate degrees plus 25 students receiving master’s degrees in interactive media and 52 students receiving master’s degrees in business administration and management.
Office of Alumni Engagement PO Box 398 Elon, NC 27244
Nonprofit Org US Postage Paid Elon, NC Permit No.
Toll Free: (877) 784-3566 elon.edu/alumni
{ Introducing Elon Double Take, a new composite portrait series highlighting members of the Elon community on social media. Our first personality in the series is Sheena Mookerji ’, a psychology major who is researching early childhood development through storytelling this summer with Professor of Psychology Maureen Vandermaas-Peeler. Amid her summer academic work, Sheena spent some time in India visiting a wide collection of her extended family. You can find—and follow—the series on Instagram and Facebook using ElonDoubleTake as we continue to add portraits to the series. }