GUILFORD COLLEGE
MAGAZINE
August 2020 | www.guilford.edu
Courage and Community Guilford’s Response to COVID-19
Friends, THE 2019-20 ACADEMIC AND FISCAL YEAR at Guilford College was remarkable in so many ways, as is reported in this issue of Guilford College Magazine. It is safe to say that the College we love dearly has experienced a year like no other and we will be working diligently in the new fiscal year to sustain Guilford for the long term. Beginning last August, we enjoyed successes in the academic realm built on well-laid plans and the incredible work of our faculty over the past few years. Principally, we launched our innovative experiential PRESIDENT JANE FERNANDES WITH STUDENTS DURING THE CL AS S OF 2020 WELCOME WEEK. / PHOTO BY JENNA SCHAD
initiative The Guilford Edge, which gained great traction with a large class of students entering as first years, as well as upper class students. Along with our returning students, they experienced a completely
MESSAGE FROM THE PRESIDENT
refreshed curriculum and academic calendar that included intensive opportunities in the 3-week term that opened fall semester. In that term many students studied abroad, and collaboration among faculty across departments enriched the learning experience. While adjustments to the new approach were significant, enthusiasm was building as we moved from fall to spring semester. We made great progress in our efforts to support our students in the academic journey and postcollege planning. Our Guilford Guides, the group of professional advisors established a year earlier, built good relationships with many students. This contributed to an excellent rate of student retention between the prior and current school years and the semesters this year. In October, we launched our Volunteer Program as part of our updated alumni engagement efforts. Over the next six months nearly 200 alumni, parents and friends enrolled as volunteers, with the requisite orientation and follow up, and they supported students in their career considerations through one-on-one conversations as well as panel discussions. Advancement partners with Guided Discovery in matching alumni with students.
This was also a year in which we experienced an eight percent increase in enrollment of our first-year class compared to the previous year, while many other colleges reported enrollment declines! And, we witnessed yet another year of increased philanthropic support of the College by our alumnae/i, parents and benefactors, resulting in nearly $8.4 million — 30 percent more than the fiscal year goal — for key priorities including scholarships, programs, facilities and faculty development. Unfortunately, expenses associated with the unanticipated COVID-19 pandemic compounded our financial position in the first year of delivering a new strategic initiative. Enrollment of first year students was indeed higher compared to the previous year — a very commendable eight percent, whereas enrollment of first year students nationally was down by an average of 10 percent. Similarly, our
IN THIS ISSUE
August 2020 On the Cover OVER THE SPRING SEMESTER, STUDENTS HAD TO ADJUST TO A NEW NORMAL OF VIRTUAL LE ARNING. THE Y SHOWED TREMENDOUS RESILIENCE AND FINISHED THEIR SCHOOL YEAR STRONG.
4
Student Achievement
5
Faculty Excellence
6
College Successes
8
Athletics Report
11
Our Year in Review
12
Profiles in Courage
20
Annual Development Report
24
Awesome Alumni
28
Community Notes
30
Remembering Guilfordians
32
The Impact of Philanthropy
retention of current students saw an increase. Nonetheless, our enrollment projections were higher than actual figures and as a result, our finances were shaky going into the crisis caused by the pandemic. In response, we instituted a spending freeze and enacted staffing decisions that have affected our College and members of our community in ways that are very painful and difficult. This is not the first time Guilford has experienced tough times and tight finances in its 183 years, or even in the past generation. However, the College is resilient and strong, and we will work very hard to emerge as a more vibrant institution, enlisting the support and encouragement of our alumni, parents and friends. I am confident that better days are ahead.
Jane K. Fernandes President
Guilford College Magazine is published by the Office of Advancement. The views expressed within these pages do not necessarily reflect the opinions of the College. Guilford College does not discriminate on the basis of sex/gender, age, race, color, creed, religion, national origin, sexual orientation, gender identity, disability, genetic information, military status, veteran status or any other protected category under applicable local, state or federal law, ordinance or regulation. For our complete statement, please visit www.guilford.edu/nondiscrimination. W W W. G U I L F O R D . E D U | 1
MANAGING EDITOR Rachel Young, Assistant Director of Advancement Communications COPY EDITOR Lauren Eberle CONTENT ADVISERS Ty Buckner, Associate Vice President for Alumni & Constituent Relations Abby Langston, Director of Marketing Ara Serjoie, Vice President for Advancement CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Karen Alley Sommer Fanney ‘18 Emily Hedrick ‘70 Hailey Hendrix, Assistant Director of Alumni & Parent Volunteer Engagement Nicolle Holcomb, Assistant Sports Information Director Joseph Patterson ‘20, Writing Intern Brian Schuh ‘02 DESIGN Chris Ferguson PHOTOGRAPHY Michael Crouch ‘10 ‘12, Associate Director of Communications & Marketing (Design) Jenna Schad FUNDRAISING TEAM Ara Serjoie, Vice President for Advancement Jarrett Stull, Associate Vice President for Philanthropy Kellie Dentler, Director of Annual Giving Emma Ross ‘18, Annual Giving Specialist Pete Worcester, Director of Development for Major Gifts FINANCE Scott Crabbs, Accounting Manager
PAGE 22 Tell Us Your Guilford Story! As we plan future issues of Guilford College Magazine, as well as our twice-monthly electronic newsletter, the Gazette, we invite alumni, parents and friends to share your Guilford story. We welcome your story ideas and are interested in identifying potential writers and photographers. If you have ideas about the following, let us know: • Stories that portray the impact and character of Guilford College
CONTACT US Office of Advancement Hendricks Hall Guilford College 5800 West Friendly Avenue, Greensboro, NC 27410 P / 336.316.2240 magazine@guilford.edu
• Celebrations of alumni achievements • Experiences that promote pride, volunteerism and engagement with the College • Photography that illustrates the Guilford experience Submit your ideas to magazine@guilford.edu. If you are interested in writing or contributing photography for the magazine or Gazette, please share a little about your writing and/ or photography experience and include relevant work samples.
FOLLOW US ON SOCIAL MEDIA! facebook.com/guilfordalumni instagram.com/guilfordalum twitter.com/guilford_alum linkedin.com/school/guilford-college-alumni
We appreciate all ideas that are contributed and will respond to inquiries as soon as we can.
Colonial Consulting is honored to serve as Guilford College’s investment consultant and is proud of the progress that has been made in growing and diversifying the College’s ’’s endowment portfolio.
810 7th Ave, 32nd Floor New York, NY 10019 www.colonialconsulting.com W W W. G U I L F O R D . E D U | 3
HIGHLIGHTS
STUDENT ACHIEVEMENTS MORE ACHIEVEMENTS • The Environmental and Sustainability Studies Department named Sonya Brunk ’21 as the Environmental Studies
BERENICE FUENTES-JUÁREZ '20
PHOTO BY JENNA SCHAD
Berenice, a Public Health and Biology double major with a Spanish minor, was awarded the 2019 Community Impact Student Award for outstanding leadership and service by the N.C. Campus Compact, a statewide network of colleges and universities committed to community engagement.
Distinguished Scholar for spring 2020.
• Three Guilford Accounting students received scholarships for their outstanding success in their journey to becoming CPAs: Juan Vigoya-Astroz ’21 and Robb Stowe ’20 received
JEREMY BROWN '20
the 2020 N.C. CPA Foundation
Jeremy, a Biology major, received two
Scholarship and Calyn Davis ’21 received the 2019 James
prestigious grants for his thesis research
McCoy Scholarship
on the “Combined ultrasonic/antibiotic treatment for removal of complex biofilms
• Four Guilfordians were
for medical implant plastics.” The first
recently awarded scholarships
grant was awarded by the N.C. Independent
from the Hispanic League, a
Colleges and Universities Undergraduate
nonprofit organization that
Research Program and the second by the N.C.
fosters diversity, facilitates education for Hispanic
Academy of Sciences for their Yarborough
students and raises awareness
Undergraduate Research Grant.
by serving as a liaison between
A team from Guilford College presented their unique collaborative teaching, learning, research and digital humanities experience in the fall 2018 course “REL 288: Defense Against the Dark Arts” at the 2019 Bucknell Digital Scholarship Conference
communities. Biological Specialization major Carlos Bonilla, International Relations major Miguel Angel Perez Montero ’22, Education Studies major Michel Perez
in Lewisburg, Pa. The presenters were Jed
Montero ’21 and Accounting
Edwards ’20, Chloe Wells ’20 and Tierney
major Carlos Romero ’23 were
Steelberg, Digital Pedagogy & Scholarship
all recognized.
Technologist. 4 | W W W. G U I L F O R D . E D U
the non-Hispanic and Hispanic
FACULTY EXCELLENCE MORE EXCELLENCE
D I YA A B D O
the Brown University
Tenured and Promoted to Associate Professor:
Swearer Center for Public
• Chafic Bou-Saba,
Service awarded Diya Abdo,
Associate Professor of
Associate Professor of
Computing Technology and
English in the Department of
Information Systems
English and Creative Writing,
• Krista Craven,
as the 2019 recipient of the
Associate Professor of
Thomas Ehrlich Civically
Justice and Policy Studies
• Campus Compact and
Engaged Faculty Award,
• Holly Peterson, Associate
which recognizes faculty for
Professor of Geology
their exemplary engaged
book of poetry, God had a body.
scholarship, teaching
• Chairperson of the
and research. • H. Curt ’56 and Patricia S. ’57 Hege Professor of History Timothy Kircher received a research fellowship at the Freie Universität of Berlin for summer 2020.
• Rachel Riskind, Associate Professor of Psychology
Department of Peace and
• Karen Spira,
Conflict Studies and Assistant
Associate Professor of
Professor Zulfiya Tursunova
Foreign Languages
chaired a panel on “Re-
• Christine Stracey
imagining peace and justice
Richard, Associate
through accountability,
Professor of Biology
of Geology and Sustainable
transnational activism,
Food Systems Marlene
sanctuary movements
McCauley.
and decentralizing power”
Francesco Petrarch, whose
• Richie Zweigenhaft
at the 2019 Peace and
life and work helped redefine
(above), Dana Professor of
the importance of classical
Psychology, published his
learning in European society.
first memoir, Geezerball:
Canada.
Promoted to Professor:
North Carolina Basketball at
• Associate Professor of Sport
• Don Smith,
its Eldest (Sort of a Memoir).
Studies Brenda Swearingin
Professor of Physics
published in the same book
• Associate Professor of
took a “dip of faith” and made
• Michele Malotky,
by the Friends Association of
English and Creative Writing
the 12-mile swim around
Professor of Biology
Higher Education. Featured
Mylène Dressler and Visiting
in the latest volume of
Assistant Professor of English
Quakers, Creation Care, and
and Creative Writing Jennie
Sustainability are Associate
Malboeuf were awarded a
Professor of Physics
2019-20 Artists Fellowship
Donald Smith, Professor of
from the N.C. Arts Council.
Channel Crossing.
Chemistry Gail Webster,
Mylène published the second
• Dave Dobson, Professor
Charles A. Dana Professor of
book from her The Last Ghost
of Geology, published his
• Diya Abdo,
English Jim Hood, Kyle Dell,
series: I See You So Close and
first novel, Flames over
Professor of English
and Charles A. Dana Professor
Jennie published her first
Frosthelm.
He studied and presented research on the work of the Renaissance humanist
• Five Guilford College faculty members were
Justice Studies Association conference in Winnipeg,
Charleston, S.C. The 12-mile swim in the Charleston waters was an initial test toward her ultimate goal of completing the English
• Robin Vest, Associate Professor of Theatre Studies
• Wendy Looker, Professor of Music
• Craig Eilbacher, Professor of Sports Medicine
• Maria Bobroff, Professor of Foreign Languages
W W W. G U I L F O R D . E D U | 5
HIGHLIGHTS
COLLEGE SUCCESSES • The Education Studies Department celebrated a 100 percent pass rate for students taking the edTPA, a required, performance-based, subject-specific assessment used to measure and support the skills and knowledge that all teachers need in the classroom. • Guilford College joined more than 110 colleges and universities from across the country in signing an amicus brief supporting the continued existence of Optional Practical Training and the STEM OPT expansion. • The Office of Global and Off-Campus • Guilford College was named one of
• Hege Library and Learning
five institutions in the Greensboro
Technologies was awarded a Library
area to participate in Partnerships for
Services and Technology grant from the
Listening and Action by Communities
federal Institute of Museum and Library
and Educators. The initiative is a
Services for $48,158 to advance the
Bringing Theory to Practice project
Mobile Edge, an initiative reimagining
that’s being supported by a two-year,
and expanding digital media services
$800,000 grant from the Andrew W.
for enhanced mobility.
Mellon Foundation to the Association of
• The College’s Marketing Department
American Colleges and Universities.
work from the Collegiate Advertising
student newspaper, received seven
Awards.
“Small Campus” awards from the N.C.
• Guilford was recognized this year
Statewide College Media Awards.
Association of International Educators Institutional Excellence in International Education Award, and University Magazine recently named Guilford College second in the nation as one of the Best Colleges for Study Abroad.
won five accolades for exceptional 2019
• The Guilfordian, Guilford College’s
College Media Association at the 2019
Initiatives was awarded the 2020 N.C.
in six categories by the 35th annual Educational Advertising Awards, presented by Higher Education Marketing Report, the nation’s leading marketing publication for highereducation professionals.
6 | W W W. G U I L F O R D . E D U
• Guilford College ranked fourth in
• Guilford received four 2020 District III
the Food Organics category and 16th
CASE Awards.
in the Per Capita Classic in the 2020
• The Edward M. Armfield Sr. Foundation
RecycleMania competition.
of Greensboro awarded the College
• The Bonner Center for Community
an $800,000 grant in support of
Service and Learning Mobile Oasis
improvements to the Hege-Cox Art
program received $50,000 in funding
Building and for the implementation of
from the Veggie Van project through the
the Guilford Edge.
University of Buffalo.
MAKE A DIFFERENCE. EVERY GIFT. EVERY YEAR. Lloyd Spruill ‘70 gives to Guilford for a number of reasons, but the most important reason of all is that she wants future generations of Guilfordians to continue to have just as impactful an experience as she did. "We learned compassion for others, how to practice social justice, how to be open and inclusive of others who are unlike ourselves and how to follow our inner light." This year, her gift is even more special, because she is able to come together with the Class of 1970 to honor their experience.
“Guilford prepared me for graduate school, taught me leadership skills used to start my own business, and most importantly, Guilford led both my husband and me to adopt values that have made us the adults we are today. ” LLOYD SPRUILL ´70
Whichever Annual Fund you support, your dollars directly support the operations of Guilford College and support its students. You can make your gift even more significant when you give in honor of a loved one, faculty or staff, or your class.
Join alumni like Lloyd and her husband Joe in making your gift to Guilford today at www.giving.guilford.edu.
ATHLETICS REPORT
GUILFORD’S “CRADLE OF COACHES” Guilford College has consistently set up its students for success after graduation. Over the years, several Guilford studentathletes have enjoyed coaching careers at various levels from youth sports to high school and all the way to the pros. Two success stories from the “Cradle of Coaches” include women’s basketball standout Ann Ferguson ’10 and football player John Lilly ’90. Both used their time at Guilford and the connections they made as springboards into the world of coaching. Ann and John fondly remember their Guilford days and spoke about memories, how they got started in coaching and the role of philanthropy in their time as student-athletes and coaches.
Ann Ferguson ’10
I talk to Joclyn Terry ‘10,
Ann was a four-year starter
Jasmine Wood ’10 multiple
for the Quakers’ basketball
times a week. Tracey Croner
team and was chosen for
’09 surprised me last year
the 2010 Women's Basketball Coaches'
Alexa Williams ‘10 and
at a Thomasville game, where she showed me
Association's
support as I
'So You
was getting
Want To
started
Be A Coach' Program. After Guilford, she went on to coach basketball at
coaching in North Carolina. Other teammates helped me when I reached out to
NCAA Division II-member
them about moving back. At
University of Arkansas-
Guilford, it was encouraging
Fort Smith (UAFS) and
to be surrounded by people
several Arkansas high
who also wanted to be great.
schools before returning to
Our love for each other as
North Carolina in 2018 as
teammates was my biggest
Girls’ Basketball Coach at
encouragement because we
Thomasville High School.
knew we would always be
Since then, Ann has been
there for each other.
named Conference Coach of the Year twice and selected
Who were some of your
as an Assistant Coach for
coaching mentors?
the 2020 McDonald’s All
My high school coach, Fred
American Game.
Sauro, who was selected to be the Head Coach of the 2020
Who were some of the
McDonald’s All American
Guilford people who
East Team, has been a huge
inspired you the most?
mentor to me. He has an
I was, and still am, really
incredible basketball mind
close with my teammates.
and has always been there
8 | W W W. G U I L F O R D . E D U
with advice or knowledge
was blessed to play for Coach
whenever I need it. My
John Lilly ’90
elementary and junior high
John Lilly ’90 played
coach, Ed Davis, was the
quarterback, wide receiver
wins, I probably remember
first person who gave me the
and special teams for the
more about practices and
chance to coach alongside
Quakers’ football team.
the camaraderie with my
him. I’ve adopted a lot of
After graduation, he worked
teammates.
how Coach Sauro and Coach
coaching positions at the high
Davis did things because
school, college and professional
not only have they had a lot
levels for nearly three decades.
of success, but they’ve also
His stops included Northwest Guilford
the learning and growth of their students.
changed a lot of lives in a
High School, Florida State University, the
As a History major, two of the professors I
positive manner.
University of Georgia, the Los Angeles
remember fondly are Adrienne Israel and
Rams, the University of Tennessee and
Alexander Stoesen.
Coach Flamini at Guilford
Charles Forbes, and though we had some good memorable
I found Guilford’s professors to be outstanding and genuinely concerned and helpful regarding
was instrumental in me
the Cleveland Browns. In February 2020,
getting started in the
he was named the Tight Ends Coach at the
How has philanthropy impacted
profession, and has been
University of North Carolina (UNC).
your experience? This type of generosity keeps all of the
there for me ever since. She’s helped me out a lot with not
What inspired your return to college and
departments operating at their highest
just Xs and Os, but also the
the North Carolina job?
level, which in turn provides every student
bigger ideas of the game. Last
The game of football has been so good
and athlete with the requisite tools to be
but not least, Louis Whorton,
to me in too many ways to explain and I
as successful as possible in their chosen
who has since retired from
love coaching it. Some of my most special
field of study and activities at every college
UAFS, was just incredible
memories stem from meeting a young man
and university.
with how he managed his
and his family when he is a high school
teams and the success he
student-athlete, watching him grow
had. He’s responsible for a
through college as a person and player,
lot of the ways that I coach
and eventually see him launch his own
my teams now, and is always
professional career, whether as an athlete
there when I need anything.
or in some other area. Being able to be a part of that journey for a young man is
How has philanthropy
probably the most rewarding part of what
impacted your experience?
we are blessed to be able to do as coaches.
Part of the reason I was able
UNC is a top-tier educational institution
to go to Guilford was due to
that I’ve always had a ton of respect and
people who donated to its
admiration for. In this profession you are
scholarship funds, and I’ve
always eager to be in situations where you
been fortunate as a Coach
can work with and for good people. I felt
to have some very generous
certain my family would enjoy the area and
givers associated with my
state as a whole.
programs. This assistance allows me to connect with
What do you recall of your time
players. Eating a meal
at Guilford?
together or celebrating
I have great memories of my time at
them...those are the times
Guilford and thanks to the Internet and
when players can see that it’s
social media, I always keep up with the
bigger than basketball.
accomplishments of the sports teams. I W W W. G U I L F O R D . E D U | 9
ATHLETICS REPORT
NEWS & NOTES 2020 Spring Seasons Shortened Due to COVID-19
2020 Senior StudentAthletes Ready for Success After Graduation Several student-athlete members of
Guilford’s athletics department had its 2020 spring seasons cut short due to
Guilford’s Class of 2020 are headed to
the COVID-19 pandemic, which shut down competition not only at colleges
exciting post-graduate opportunities.
and universities around the country, but also in professional sports leagues
• Kylee Crook ’19 (pictured below) of
worldwide. The NCAA announced the cancellation of all winter and spring
the women’s volleyball team will
championship events in mid-March. With many schools, including Guilford,
pursue a Master of Divinity at Wake
transitioning to online learning for the rest of the spring semester, the decision
Forest University.
was made to cancel the remainder of the 2020 spring seasons. The NCAA ruled
• Zach Evens ’20 of the men’s golf
spring sport student-athletes will be granted an additional season of eligibility
team started full-time work
due to the cancellations.
this summer with Morningstar Investment Research in Chicago.
Abigail Horchar ’20 Named 2020 ODAC/Virginia Farm Bureau Insurance Women’s Lacrosse Scholar-Athlete of the Year Guilford’s Abigail Horchar ’20 earned the 2020 Old Dominion Athletic
• Enrique Gudino ’20 of the men’s soccer team accepted a position as an Investment Consulting Analyst at Mercer Financial Services in its Chicago office. • The baseball team’s Logan Shortt ’20
Conference (ODAC)/Virginia Farm Bureau Insurance Scholar-Athlete of the
starts work on his Master’s degree
Year Award for women’s lacrosse. The senior chemistry major boasted a 3.92
in Management from Wake Forest
grade point average, was a three-time Academic All-ODAC selection, and was
University.
named to both the Guilford Student-Athlete Honor Roll and dean's list six
• Delaney Taylor ’20 of the women’s
times. The Honors Program student received Guilford's 2019 Charles A. Dana
tennis team will graduate from
Scholarship for academic excellence and leadership potential, and the 2019
Guilford in December and enlist as
Ljung Scholarship for excellence and service in chemistry. On the field, Horchar
an officer in the United States Army.
was a midfield mainstay for the Quakers, appearing in all 55 games (39 starts)
• Miracle Walters ’20 of the women’s
in four seasons. She notched 65 goals and 25 assists for 90 career points, which
basketball team starts a Master
ranks 25th in school history.
of Science through N.C. State and UNC’s joint department of
James Mishoe ’21 Named To PING Division III All-America First Team Guilford golfer James Mishoe ’21 earned First Team PING NCAA Division III All-America recognition from the Golf Coaches Association of America (GCAA). The award was the third All-America nod of his career as he was also a firstteam selection in 2019 and second-team pick in 2018. He became Guilford's sixth three-time All-American in program history and the first since former teammate Josh Hill ’19. A three-time PING All-South honoree and the 2018-19 ODAC Golfer of the Year, James helped coach Adam Crawford’s Quakers to an 11th-place ranking in the final 2020 Golfstat.com Division III Top 25 and the Bushnell/Golfweek Coaches’ polls.
1 0 | W W W. G U I L F O R D . E D U
Biomedical Engineering.
OUR YEAR IN REVIEW For Guilford College, the 2019-20 academic year has been one of changes, challenges and triumphs. While the COVID-19 pandemic brought unprecedented disruptions to the spring semester, Guilfordians stood strong amidst uncertainty. Despite the challenges, we celebrate the many wonderful things Guilford College accomplished over the school year.
In the 2019–20 academic year, Guilford College achieved: 3,646 gifts totaling more than
8,403,000
$
8% increase in fall enrollment
2,306
Bryan Series subscribers and Legacy Society members
630 benefactors giving more than
$
252,000
on Day for Guilford, the largest in the College's history
229
seniors participated in 2020 Virtual Commencement
Almost
200
registered volunteers in the alumnae/i and parents Volunteer Program
316
students awarded endowed scholarships
16,000 pounds of food grown at the Guilford Farm
PROFILES IN COURAGE
ADJUSTING TO A NEW REALITY The Resilience and Courage of Guilford Students BY K AREN ALLEY
LELE GRAVES ’20
Spring break 2020 started out like most: Students packed a duffle bag of clothes and headed to their parents’ home, a friend’s house or a vacation destination for a few days off from school. That’s when they got the message that due to the emerging COVID-19 pandemic, spring break would be extended another week. Shortly thereafter came the news that classes were transitioning to online, and students wouldn’t be coming back to campus. While it was a stressful time for everyone, the impact on the senior class was great. They ended up missing out on a traditional commencement, graduation parties, art shows and thesis presentations. Fortunately, Guilford College students are resilient, and professors, administrators and staff were there to adapt to new options and provide support where needed.
Richmond, Va. MAJORS: Art, Psychology About Lele >> As a senior Art major, Lele was looking forward to her upcoming art show. “It’s the most celebrated thing of your major, and I’d been planning mine for a year,” Lele says. When she got the news that students wouldn’t be going back to class, she was devastated. “I was working on life-size monotype prints and had almost $200 worth of paper I’d cut up and put in a printing press. All I had to do was put it together in a collage, but I couldn’t even get to the studio,” Lele says. She and other Art students had to do an about-face to finish their work, and Lele taught herself Photoshop to create artwork digitally. “Being able to continue to make art helped me cope, and all of the professors were so supportive.” Lele also had a mandatory thesis class for the 3-week course period, where students learned about applying for grants, making art for businesses, filing income taxes and other important career information. “We learned a lot of practical things, but more than anything it was good to have each other for emotional support,” Lele says. Lele is looking forward to a career helping children and families, but she hopes to still take part in a senior art show in some form. “A lot of us had to change up our projects for the pandemic, so it would be really interesting to get a PHOTO BY ERIN K YLE ’19
1 2 | W W W. G U I L F O R D . E D U
chance to see everyone’s work,” she says.
ANDREW MUNSTER ’20 Winston-Salem, N.C. MAJOR: Philosophy
NATALIE CONRAD ’20 Greensboro, N.C. MAJORS: Health Science, Biology
About Andrew >> Like many of his fellow students, Andrew’s biggest challenge during the pandemic was completing his
About Natalie >> Natalie was looking forward to making the
academic requirements in a
most of the culmination of her softball career. “It took me some
totally new work space.
time to adjust, mentally, that I wasn’t going to class or practice,
“Our professors were very
and that my senior season had been cut short,” Natalie says.
understanding and gave us the
“I’m just grateful for our coaches — they were there for us 110
option of working for credit/no credit, which took a lot of the
percent to answer all our questions and provide support.”
pressure off,” he says. Andrew, who has been accepted into
She started going to work with her father at ProTech Carpet
Cleveland State University’s law program, was able to finish
Care, and also spent this time at home studying for the
his classes, help his siblings with their school work and even
nursing school entrance exam and planning her upcoming
deliver groceries to a grandfather recovering from surgery.
wedding to Nick Warden ’19. “I’ve come to realize there’s so
Despite the disappointment of missing graduation, he
much more to life than playing a sport, and I’m really looking
says his parents helped him realize he has big things to look
forward to the future.”
forward to. “I’m excited about what the future will bring.”
TENAJA HENSON ’20 Greensboro, N.C. MAJOR: Community and Justice Studies MINOR: Religious Studies About Tenaja >> “It’s been a weird moment of transitioning out of college life but not going back home to our parents,” says Tenaja, who was living in an off-campus apartment when the pandemic began. So while their living space didn’t change, resources did. “I had been on a meal plan, so now I needed to figure out how much I needed to spend on groceries and find the funds to pay for that and other expenses,” Tenaja recalls. “You don’t realize how much you depend on the support systems of college until they’re gone.” Tenaja tapped into the emergency fund set up by Guilford benefactors for help, and also continued to work as a facilitator for nonprofit organizations, albeit in a digital manner. This spring also reinforced Tenaja’s future plans. “I wanted a career where I could...create a support system or a vision for communities that are underserved, and this pandemic is showing us where that is very quickly.” W W W. G U I L F O R D . E D U | 1 3
PROFILES IN COURAGE LIZZY KAPUSCINSKI ’20
STAYING CONNECTED:
Student Body President Brings People Together Virtually “ONE OF THE THINGS that is special about Guilford College is the community we enjoy here as students,” says Lizzy Kapuscinski ’20, a History and Political Science double major who was elected Student Body President her senior year. “Not only are you close with your roommates or people in your major, but as a senior class we all have a bond.”
“I wanted to aid in the
communication between students and administration, and I felt like student government was the place to do that.” — Lizzy Kapuscinski ’20
was still there, and as Student Body President she created a platform on Instagram to bring students together. “It really started because students had so many questions about what was going on,” Lizzy says. “They asked me because they knew in my role as Student Body President I had access to administration and the Dean of Students.” Lizzy fielded questions about what
Lizzy’s pride in Guilford College and
would happen as courses moved online,
the community it builds encouraged her to lead tour guides in Admissions and
and I felt like student government was
when students could return to get their
get involved in campus leadership. “It
the place to do that,” Lizzy says.
belongings and what was going on with
provided a way for me to share what’s
When the pandemic hit and students
commencement. “After the first onslaught
great about Guilford with other people,”
weren’t able to come back to campus, at
of questions, it turned into more of
Lizzy says. In the spring of 2019 Lizzy
first it felt like the communication and
a forum for people to find out what
was asked to join a leadership coalition
community building that comes from
others were doing in their classes, share
of students, administrators, faculty and
it was stripped away. “Guilford’s a place
resources and just vent. It turned into
staff to work on easing the transition
where you walk across the quad or go
more of an emotional check, which I think
to the new academic calendar and
to a meal in the dining hall and have
we all needed,” Lizzy says. “It was really
promoting the culture of Guilford College.
conversations with people, and we no
rewarding to see the Guilford community
longer had that,” Lizzy says. Even though
still interacting with each other and
I wanted to aid in the communication
the face-to-face interaction was gone,
providing support and encouragement.”
between students and administration,
Lizzy knew the sense of community
“That experience helped me realize
14 | W W W. G U I L F O R D . E D U
— K. Alley
PROFILES IN COURAGE ANTOINE WILLIAMS
TRANSITIONING THE THESIS:
Guilford is Preparing Artists of the Future B Y S O M M E R FA N N E Y ’ 1 8
IN MID-MARCH, plans for 2020’s Art Thesis Exhibition were heavily underway in Assistant Professor of Art Antoine Williams’ senior art class, cotaught by curator Terry Hammond. But amidst the growing threat of COVID-19, students who left for spring break were soon told not to return to campus. Antoine’s students were scattered from their studio, their printmaking blocks, their throwing wheels and other supplies needed for their work, and it was soon clear that the Thesis Exhibition couldn’t happen. “That threw them for a loop because this one thing you’ve been working on for a fourth of your career in college is
PHOTO BY JENNA SCHAD
not going to happen,” says Antoine, who
“You can work a 9 to 5 and be a practicing artist — it doesn't have to happen in the first year.”
noticed that this period where students were suddenly without the school’s resources was similar to the moment
— Antoine Williams, Assistant Professor of Art
they’d normally face as new graduates. “We decided to help students focus on transitioning from the thesis to their
letting them know [that] you can work
professional practice,” he says. “I told
Students rounded out the studio
them to find whatever resources they
thesis class with a 3-week course also
a 9 to 5 and be a practicing artist — it
had around them. Not everyone had a
co-taught by Terry, which equipped
doesn’t have to happen in the first year.
wheel to throw clay. I had one student
them with practical knowledge like how
[We’ve done] one, three and five-year goal
making six-foot oil paintings, but they
to write grant proposals, compensate
setting. So just making it, acclimating it
can’t do that in a small apartment...We
yourself fairly, navigate graduate school
to the realities that they may face when
had conversations on how to shift their
and more.
they get out of school” is a big part of the
practice.” Instead of the exhibition, students
But COVID-19 has made the future of these artists uncertain, as many
class, Antoine explains. Sophie McDowell ’20, a printmaker,
uploaded videos of themselves displaying
galleries and exhibitions are now closed
says the class has been rewarding
and discussing their work to simulate an
and students are unsure where to find a
during uncertainty. “I’m grateful to have
“artist talk.” Faculty gathered over Zoom
foothold for their professional career.
had Antoine as a professor; he’s been
to discuss and critique these talks.
“It’s worse because of COVID, but we’re
really supportive of all of us.” W W W. G U I L F O R D . E D U | 1 5
PROFILES IN COURAGE STEVE MENCARINI
SUSTAINING COMMUNITY:
Keeping Guilford Safe and Sound PHOTO BY JENNA SCHAD
B Y J O S E P H PAT T E R S O N ’ 2 0
THE SENTIMENT IS MOR E TRUE now than ever: Guilford is not only a place, but a people. As the planet reels from the current pandemic, our community is tasked with finding new ways to be
“Relationships help sustain
us during this time, and creating these virtual communities is so important.” — Steve Mencarini, Dean of Students
be much more intentional.” Since the closing of campus, Steve has worked to interact with students in other ways: he’s hosted several Q&A webinars and routinely sends out video updates to the student body. “Relationships help sustain us during this time, and creating these virtual
together. Much of this responsibility
communities is so important.”
falls on Dean of Students Steve Mencarini, who has been working non-
worked alongside him. “No one could
stop to keep Guilford safe and sound.
Steve’s efforts have been felt across
have predicted the impact that the
the student populace, and Guilford
“The average day is a whole bunch of
Coronavirus would have on our day-to-
Student Body Association President
problem-solving,” says Steve. “The work
day life, and Steve somehow navigated
Lizzy Kapuscinski ‘20 is especially
varies tremendously and the to-do list
these waters flawlessly and with a deep
appreciative. “Steve’s been an amazing
is forever long, but we’re always making
compassion for all involved.”
resource for students,” she says. “He
sure that we’re doing the best we can to address student needs.” Before campus closed, Steve served
Steve says he eagerly awaits the
responds quickly to any question or
students’ return. “The campus has such
concern a student has, and he’s remained
a different feel, like the heartbeat of
calm throughout this entire chaos.” Although seemingly scattered, the
in the Guilford College COVID-19
it isn’t really here.” He jokes about the
task force, which worked to keep our
possibility of tumbleweed rolling across
Guilford community remains vibrant
community safe. “Steve’s leadership
the Quad.
because of the work of people like Steve.
on the COVID-19 task force was
“I miss the days that I could walk into
“Stressful times cause us to do things
exemplary,” said Director of Alumni &
the dining hall and randomly check in
differently,” he says. “And that’s where
Parent Engagement Betsy Seaton, who
with somebody,” he said. “Now it has to
our community values are shown.”
1 6 | W W W. G U I L F O R D . E D U
PROFILES IN COURAGE ANNE GLENN
BIOCHEMISTRY ONLINE:
“Hands On” Virtual Learning “I WAS SUPPOSED TO BE in Madrid right now,” says Professor of Chemistry Anne Glenn. She was planning to take a group of students to Spain to shadow physicians during the spring 3-week term. Instead, Anne is currently teaching a course on the principles of biochemistry, and despite the transition to online learning, has had great success in her virtual classroom. When Guilford first made the transition, Anne had two labs left for her 12-week organic chemistry class. One was an activity that was easily done online, and the other was more handson. “Rob Whitnell, my husband who’s also in the Chemistry department, took a video of me doing the lab,” she says. “I
“We use the ‘breakout
posted the video and had students take notes in their lab notebook as if they
room’ feature in Zoom, in which students can work together and use various online tools.”
were doing the experiment themselves.” This summer, however, some Chemistry classes are using lab kits — students will receive the materials they need and will do labs in their home. “It’s not our first choice, but it’s the best given the
— Anne Glenn, Professor of Chemistry
situation,” says Anne. Without in-person labs, the College had an excess of personal protective equipment and Anne felt that it could be
Although there have been a few
put to good use. “So I said, ‘maybe we can
both among her colleagues and in her
do something with all the gloves that
classroom. “We do a lot of collaborative
drawbacks, Anne says a lot of what
aren’t being used,’ and everyone agreed.”
learning in the Chemistry department,”
they've done in Chemistry has been
Anne then organized the donation of
she said. “In the classroom I would have
synchronous. Still, she misses her
around 7,000 gloves to local medical
students working in teams, and they’d
students. “I’m really looking forward to
facilities. “It wasn’t just me, it was a
report back. Now, we use the ‘breakout
not talking on screens. It doesn’t matter
College effort and I just happened to say
room’ feature in Zoom, in which students
how many cool Zoom backgrounds I
it first.”
can work together and use various
have, I’d rather see my students.”
Collaboration is important to Anne,
online tools.”
— J. Patterson W W W. G U I L F O R D . E D U | 1 7
PROFILES IN COURAGE DR. LIZ BALTARO ’03 / EXEL ESTRADA ’21
STUDENT HAS UP CLOSE EXPERIENCE DURING EARLY DAYS OF COVID-19 PANDEMIC BY BRIAN SCHUH ’02
ON THE EVENING OF March 11, Dr. Liz Baltaro ’03 reviewed her clinic schedule for the next day and wasn’t concerned about any patients presenting with COVID-19. What did catch her attention was a memo to healthcare providers from the North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services outlining new testing guidance for the rapidly emerging disease. “Previously someone needed to have traveled to a high-risk area for COVID-19 and to present with symptoms to be considered for testing,” Liz says. “The guidelines then changed to only require symptoms, including cough, fever and shortness of breath, for testing.” Liz set out early the next morning to her clinic with Exel Estrada ’21, who was along to shadow the Family Medicine Physician as he aspires to study medicine. Liz serves as Medical Director for two primary care clinics that are a part of Granville Health System based in Oxford, N.C. Both clinics are rural health centers (RHCs), which allow for special Medicaid reimbursement in medically underserved areas. The shadow day quickly shifted when their second patient, a woman experiencing homelessness, unexpectedly came into the clinic. Liz says, “She presented with all of the symptoms needed for testing, and suddenly that’s when the reality of COVID-19 became apparent.” Liz and Exel quickly donned personal 1 8 | W W W. G U I L F O R D . E D U
protective equipment while attending to the patient. An ambulance then transferred the patient to the hospital where she was admitted to the intensive care unit and diagnosed
Emergency Fund a Blessing for Students in Need B Y E M I LY H E D R I C K ' 7 0
with pneumonia. “I was quite concerned about what would happen to the patient as she appeared quite ill,” Exel recalls. “But I was also impressed by how professional Dr. Baltaro was and how she kept her focus on the patient during that encounter, even though there was much concern in the clinic. She showed me how a healthcare provider has to hold oneself in situations that are hard and unpredictable ” For Liz, staying focused is natural. “A lot of people tell me I’m very grounded. I attribute that to my Quaker roots,” Liz says. “I feel like I can always center myself despite challenges to that with being a physician and a mother of three.” That encounter with her first person under investigation (PUI) for COVID-19 spurred Liz to rapidly prepare her clinics. “I barely slept over the course of the next five days, working hard on protocols and preparedness,” Liz says. As COVID-19 has settled onto the landscape, Liz reports challenges still facing physicians. But she did impress one future physician with her skills. “She’s definitely a great teacher and really took her time to explain things to me and her patients,” Exel says. Although it was not quite the shadow experience Liz envisioned for Exel, she says he remained professional, calm and collected, too. “He still says he wants to be a physician — even after seeing primary care amidst chaos — and that is a very
In addition to closing campus and shifting classes online, the COVID-19 pandemic has impacted Guilford’s student body in serious and unexpected ways. Responding to these needs, in late March the College created a new Guilford Emergency Fund to give members of the community a way to help. Students were informed of the fund March 25. By June, more than 250 requests had been received, according to Dean of Students Steve Mencarini. With the campus shut down, students lost housing in campus residence halls and jobs critical to meeting their daily living expenses. Some found themselves stranded with no means to return home. Other immediate needs included technology for online learning, books for current classes, medical bills and medications, car repair and other similar emergencies. As of May 31, Guilford College benefactors, alumnae/i and friends have donated more than $77,000 in cash and inkind gifts to support this effort. “The Guilford Emergency Fund is a powerful manifestation of the Guilford community’s love toward our current students,” Steve observes. In a community rooted in the Quaker ideals of stewardship, Guilford has practiced philanthropic tenets throughout its history. The outpouring of gifts during this latest challenge is gratifying but not unusual. “My father was a generous man and I learned a lot from him about the importance of helping others,” says one Emergency Fund donor who asked to remain anonymous. “My daughter’s years at Guilford College have brought a strong attachment with the school for both of us. Guilford is a unique environment that does not discriminate, and its student body comprises a much broader diversity than other colleges and universities in our area. When I heard there were students in need still on campus after
the shut-down, I felt compelled to help.” Christian R., a student who received a grant from the new fund, described it as “nothing less than a blessing for me. Being out of work and having bills is beyond stressful, and receiving this Emergency Fund has not only helped me pay my bills, but also helps my family as well. I am forever grateful. Thank you!” Adds Tenaja H., another recipient, “The Emergency Fund has helped me get essentials that I need during this time. I live off campus and was used to buying groceries in small amounts. However, that is no longer an option and I was really afraid I would run out of money in the first week or two of not having meals or access to the Quaker Cupboard. The fund helped me plan and make sure I’m eating and taking care of myself.” Donations continue to come in, reports Ara Serjoie, Vice President for Advancement. In-kind donations such as gift cards, non-perishable food items, airline miles, laptops and temporary housing are also welcomed. All Guilford College full- and part-time students experiencing a financial hardship are eligible to apply. Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis until all funds are depleted. “We’re committed to supporting our students in every possible way throughout the duration of this crisis,” Ara adds. “This is not the time to slow our efforts to raise money. In fact, it’s more critical than it ever has been to garner as much support as we can from our alumni and friends.” Expressing his deep gratitude for the response so far, he encourages alumni and friends to continue their support not only to provide for students made vulnerable by the pandemic, but for whatever the future holds for the College. To that end, he points out that Loyalty Fund gifts are more important than ever. The Coronavirus may still impose social distancing on us, but Guilfordians’ generosity and strong sense of community thrive.
promising sign,” Liz says. W W W. G U I L F O R D . E D U | 1 9
GUILFORD DEVELOPMENT
GUILFORD’S ENDOWMENT IS HARD AT WORK Endowment funds are vital to the support of scholarships, professorships, the library and other academic programs and operations. The purpose of the endowment is to financially sustain the mission and work of Guilford College. The principal of an endowment is kept intact and only the annual earnings, typically income and a portion of the capital growth, are used to fund current needs. Guilford has established its endowment so that we can continue to carry on our important work in the years to come. The College’s Board of Trustees develops a spending policy that balances the current needs of the College with the prudence of saving for the future. The policy defines how spendable income is calculated for the College’s overall endowment portfolio.
ENDOWMENT PORTFOLIO MARKET VALUE & INVESTMENT RETURN
100M
85.9
82.2 80M
60M
61.2
70.7
72.5
71.9
2013
2014
2015
75.6
72.9
62.9 57.8
40M
20M
0
2010
2011
2012
2016
2017
2018
2019
Is an Endowment Gift right for you? It is easier than you may have imagined to make a significant contribution to our Endowment Fund. To learn more about how you can make a significant gift to endow the future of Guilford College, please contact Ara Serjoie, Vice President for Advancement, at serjoiea@guilford.edu or 336.316.2320.
2 0 | W W W. G U I L F O R D . E D U
PHOTO BY JENNA SCHAD
Market value amounts (in millions) include market return, gifts received, payout and fees.
INSPIRING GIFTS FOR COLLEGE AND STUDENT SUCCESS Every year, generous members of the Guilford community come forward to make a gift to the College. When thinking about investing in Guilford, our benefactors are motivated by a number of aspects: Some make a gift in honor or memory of a loved one who was impacted by Guilford; others desire to give back in honor of their own experience. The power of these gifts impacts the lives of Guilfordians everyday.
ANNE ROLLINS WATSON ’58 and DALE L. WATSON ’58 FOOD & FAITH SCHOLARSHIP Anne and Dale met in Guilford’s choir and went on to graduate together. The couple has since established the Anne Rollins Watson and Dale L. Watson Food & Faith Scholarship in memory of Anne's parents, Bascom and Dovie Rollins, and her sister, Ruth Rollins Hodgin ’59. Coming from family backgrounds of subsistence farming, Quaker ministry and an emphasis on education, the couple’s scholarship supports students who have a strong sense of D A L E A N D A N N E AT T H E I R H O M E I N R E D D E E R , A L B E R TA .
connection between sustainable food and religion.
KARL J. ALTPETER ’00 ENDOWMENT Karl Altpeter found a home at Guilford College, and hosting his own music program at WQFS brought him a special kind of joy. “WQFS meant so much to him, and we knew that we had to give back. Guilford was such a gift to our son, and the wisdom, relationships and friends that sprang forth from that connection were life-long and life-affirming,” shared Karl’s parents, Franz and Karen Altpeter. Karl passed away in January 2017. The Karl J. Altpeter ’00 Endowment provides unrestricted support for WQFS, including equipment repair, professional development and enhancement of the radio station. Their gift honors the many friendships made during Karl’s time on campus, and the impact Guilford made on his life. Read more about these major gifts online at giving.guilford.edu.
K A R L P I C T U R E D W I T H F O R M E R P R E S I D E N T D O N M C N E M A R AT C O M M E N C E M E N T. S T U D E N T S T R A D I T I O N A L LY P U T C L O T H E S P I N S O N D O N 'S G O W N . W W W. G U I L F O R D . E D U | 2 1
GUILFORD DEVELOPMENT
THANK YOU FOR YOUR GENEROSITY EVERYTHING THAT GUILFOR D COLLEGE does is enhanced by the incredible generosity of alumni, parents, corporations, foundations, faculty, staff and benefactors who invest in Guilford every year. The College is grateful to our loyal supporters who have made a difference in the lives of our students. It is our honor to recognize those who have made contributions to Guilford College in 2019. To view the full honor roll of donors, please visit www.giving. guilford.edu/honorroll2019.
Macon Society Donors The Macon Society recognizes those who have donated $1,000,000 and up in total giving to date. • Advocare of Bradenton, LLC • Anonymous 2
• H. Curt Sr. ’56 and Patricia Shields ’57 Hege
• Edward M. Armfield Sr. Foundation
• William R. Kenan, Jr. Charitable Trust
• Edward J. (d) and Vivien K. (d) Bauman
• Kresge Foundation
• Corella and Bertram F. Bonner Foundation, Inc.
• Gail McMichael Lane
• Joseph M. Bryan Jr. ’60
• Seth C. ’40 (d) and Hazel Monsees ’41 (d) Macon
• Anonymous 1
• Joseph M. Bryan Foundation • Malcolm O. ’50 (d) and Jeanne Van Leer ’48 (d) Campbell
• Lilly Endowment, Inc.
• Frank Alexander Masters ’42 (d)
• Daniel D. and Beth Mosca • M. Janette Soles ’87 (d) and Steven W. Nelson • North Carolina GlaxoSmithKline Foundation • North Carolina Independent Colleges and Universities • James S. ’38 (d) and Catherine (d) Parsons
• Dalton L. Sr. (d) and Dorothy ’37 (d) McMichael
• Philip Shore (d)
• Dalton L. Jr. and Susan McMichael
• Dewey L. Jr. ’58 and Barbara Trogdon
• Stanley (d) and Dorothy (d) Frank
• Dorothy Louise McMichael Miracle (d)
• Freeman Foundation
• Flavel McMichael and John Godfrey
• Frank Erwin ’34 (d) and Ava Roberts ’33 (d) Werner
• W. Groome Jr. ’60 and Ann C. Fulton
• The McMichael Family Foundation
• Lettie Pate Whitehead Foundation
• Christina B. Gidynski ’54 (d)
• Christopher K. Mirabelli and Catherine Heller
• William L. Yates ’53 (d)
• Community Foundation of Greater Greensboro
• James C. Green (d)
• William R. Soles Jr. ’81 and Eileen Soles
(d) signifies deceased
Despite our best efforts, errors sometimes occur. If your name was inadvertently omitted, included or contains misspellings or other errors, please let us know by contacting advancement@guilford.edu or 336.316.2321.
2 2 | W W W. G U I L F O R D . E D U
INSPIRING AND TRANSFORMATIVE The world needs Guilfordians and our alumni, parents, friends and benefactors are helping make it possible. The College community sends a big “thank you” to everyone who has contributed to our fundraising success. The loyal support is helping the College succeed at preparing the next generation of Guilfordians.
GIFTS AND PLEDGES 2015–16
$2,806.925
2016–17
$2,872,177
2017–18
$4,824,456
2018–19
$6,475,102
2019-20
$8,403,098
ALLOCATION OF GIFTS (Fiscal Year 2020)
Unrestricted $1,386,746.01 Athletics $150,228.42
$8,403,098.39 Total
Guilford Edge $453,412.50 Scholarships $511,351.77 Program Support $747,050.75 Endowments $4,248,183.94 Facilities $906,125.00
W W W. G U I L F O R D . E D U | 2 3
AWESOME ALUMNI
PIONEER VOLUNTEER WHEN GUILFOR D L AUNCHED a
that impacted children and do
children in Rockingham County under
new volunteer program in October of
something that made a positive
the age of 5 are substantially met.
2019, Heather Adams ‘98 was one of the
impact on the world. I don’t think I
first to respond to the call for alumni
thought far beyond [that] yet...I didn’t
work, “That [first five years] set
volunteers.
have knowledge of how a nonprofit is
children up for the next phases in their
structured and how a board of directors
life...There is incredibly important
of Alumni and Parent Volunteer
operates. I think I more so had values
research around the science of brain
Engagement, describes Heather as
that were important to me.”
development now, and that is really
Hailey Hendrix, Assistant Director
“willing to help in every single capacity ...Whenever we have asked her to fill any volunteer position she has answered with an enthusiastic and resounding yes. She loves Guilford and is eager to help in any way she can.” Heather first rekindled a love for partaking in Guilford’s student development several years back as a representative for the Rockingham County Partnership for Children at one of the spring career fairs. “When you step back on campus,” recounts Heather, “it’s that Guilford feeling...that magical feeling that it had when you were a student comes back. It’s a very warm and inviting environment, and it was a
“When I graduated, I wanted
to do something that impacted children and do something that made a positive impact on the world. I don’t think I thought far beyond [that] yet...I didn’t have knowledge of how a nonprofit is structured and how a board of directors operates. I think I more so had values that were important to me.” — Heather Adams ’98
really big reminder of how much my
driving the work we do. Children are like sponges and their brains are developing rapidly. We are working to ensure they are surrounded by highquality early childhood experiences.” The Blue Ridge Institute is an almost entirely volunteer-run leadership development organization that holds a conference each July in the mountains of North Carolina for nonprofit executives across the nation. “Our goal is to help develop, support and strengthen leaders. I find this work really invigorating and inspiring. Supporting strong leadership is critical to social change,” she explains. Both organizations have in common the purposes of growth, development and excellence — values Heather connects with. These are also values
Guilford experience shaped my career
that stand behind Guilford’s new
and my life.” She continued to return each
Heather says of the Partnership’s
These values and a desire to pursue
Volunteer Program. Since she signed up to help with
year to the spring career fair,
positive impacts on children and the
enjoying speaking with students
world are evident in Heather’s work at
the program last October, Heather
about work in the nonprofit sector.
the Rockingham County Partnership
has been a Social Media Ambassador
And since Heather is Executive
for Children as well as the Blue Ridge
for Advancement and has helped as
Director of the Rockingham County
Institute.
a Giving Day Ambassador, helping
Partnership for Children, and in a two-
The Rockingham County Partnership
encourage her classmates to give for
year tenure as President of the Blue
for Children provides funds, assistance
Day for Guilford (April 1st). She has
Ridge Institute — both nonprofits —
and programming for partners in the
also connected via informational
Heather has learned plenty that she
business of child care throughout the
interview with one student curious
can pass on to students.
county, as well as support to families
to learn about life and work in the
with young children. The group is
nonprofit world.
“When I graduated,” recounts Heather, “I wanted to do something 24 | W W W. G U I L F O R D . E D U
dedicated to making sure all needs of
“It’s exciting to talk to someone who
is young and energized and has big goals about what they want to do with their life,” says Heather. “Also, a lot of things she was wondering and was concerned about [were the same that I experienced] when I was getting ready to graduate. “I think there’s also a piece of self-reflection in recognizing I was a Guilford student and now I have further experience in the working world and perspective to offer her. I thought that was quite nice. And quite honestly I was thinking I wish there was someone who had talked to me when I was graduating. So there’s a lot of good structure around the Guided Discovery process.” The Volunteer Program is currently in need of alumni panelists for enrollment events for this fall, and
HEATHER ADAMS ’98
is always welcoming of help from alumni in any capacity. Please go to giving.guilford.edu/ volunteer to fill out an application and learn more. You can also contact Hailey Hendrix, Assistant Director of Alumni & Parent Volunteer Engagement, at hhendrix@guilford.edu with questions.
W W W. G U I L F O R D . E D U | 2 5
AWESOME ALUMNI
JON BOSTOCK ’99 SPOKE TO STUDENTS ABOUT HIS CAREER AS CO-FOUNDER A N D C EO O F T R U M A N 'S .
VIRTUAL CLASSES BREED NEW VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIES WHEN DECIDING WHAT HER 3-week
Jon Bostock ‘99. Jon has had an incredible
his father Mike Reiney and virtually
Business Ethics course was going to look
career as Co-founder and CEO of
interviewed his father for the class.
like, Professor Betty Kane always knew
Truman’s, a revolutionary cleaning supply
Until 2016 Mike was a Vice President
that she wanted to include alumni. Once it
company that focuses on sustainability.
at Qualitest Pharmaceuticals. Since
Following Jon was Chidi Akwari ‘02
the pharmaceutical industry is so often
to go virtual due to COVID-19, though,
(above left). Chidi is local to Greensboro
villainized, his voice was appreciated in
alumni involvement became an even
and is the owner of Akwari & Co. LLC,
a business ethics classroom setting.
more crucial part of Betty’s classroom
a premier real estate company. Chidi’s
structure. The repetition that sometimes
presentation was fascinating not only
College volunteers have stepped up in
comes with all virtual learning was aided
because of his massive success, but also
a big way, making sure students are
by real life career journeys from Guilford
in the way he showed that not all career
still hearing from diverse groups of
alumni and past parents.
journeys look the same.
people and virtual classrooms are just as
was decided Guilford College would have
Starting off the guest speakers was 2 6 | W W W. G U I L F O R D . E D U
Lastly, Michael Reiney ‘17 joined
During this challenging time, Guilford
engaging as in-person lectures.
Class of 2000 to Raise Money in Honor of Fellow Graduates THE CLASS OF 2000 will celebrate 20 years as alumni and no one seems to know where the time has gone — especially Sarah Donnelly ‘00. During her time at Guilford, she made many lifelong connections and has remained particularly close with a group of about 25 Guilfordians who call themselves the “HeHos” and the “Wee-hos.” These nicknames stem from Tom Robbin’s book Even Cowgirls Get the Blues, where the answer to the question “What is the meaning of life?” is “Hehe, Hoho, and Haha.” Sadly, they lost one of their HeHos, Josh Feldstein ’00, when he passed away last year. His death was felt very deeply by his fellow Guilfordians. This year, the Class of 2000, in recognition of their graduation anniversary, have decided to raise money for Guilford College’s General Scholarships in honor of Josh and other beloved members of their class who have passed away. “I just want to see everyone again,” Sarah says. “Life is short but the bonds we created at Guilford will last forever.”
Be the wellspring of
new possibilities
We keep adding amenities and opportunities to our dynamic, active community. Come and see them for yourself! Enjoy our raised-bed garden and get in touch with nature.
State-of-the-art theatre
Bistro & renovated dining room
Woodworking shop & art studios
336.545.5400 • Well-Spring.org • Greensboro, NC
Lounge & bar
COMMUNITY NOTES
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’70s
David Wells ’74, a veteran
Ginger Gaffney ’84 published
by the National Association
Michael, a world-renowned
character actor, was cast as
her first book, which was
of Basketball Coaches after
organist, presently serves
the night janitor in a recent
reviewed in a recent issue
guiding his team to a national
as an Associate Minister of
Geico commercial. David
of The New York Times. Half
championship this season.
Music at Friendship Missionary
has lived and acted in Los Angeles
Broke: A Memoir documents
for 35 years and is known for his
her time as a horse trainer
varied and eccentric characters,
for the troubled horses at
having appeared in more than 50
an alternative prison ranch
films and 100-plus t.v. episodes.
in New Mexico, a facility run
David is also a film and theater
entirely by the prisoners. The
producer and an acting teacher.
book is available from W.W.
’90s
promoted to Partner by Turlington and Company, a certified public
Baptist Church in Fayetteville, N.C., where the happy couple resides. Christopher Behm ’95
accountants multi-office
was named to the 2020 Super
accounting firm with offices in
Lawyers list. The Super
Norton & Company.
Lexington and Winston-Salem.
Lawyers list, a publication of
Senior Vice President,
Mike Apple ’85, Coach of
Linda (Bryant) Gramby ’94
Private Client Advisor at
the Sandhills Community
Virginia Commonwealth
College basketball team, was
Lisa M. Streat ’82 is
’80s
Scott Biesecker ’91 was
Bank. She had been with First
selected as the 2020 NABC
Tennessee/Capital Bank.
Division III Coach of the Year
Gina Franco ’11
is a local Greensboro mural artist. Gina studied Business Management and Human Resources, but while at Guilford College, she took an art class and fell in love. Her work can be seen all around the Triad in places such as the Interactive Resource Center in Greensboro, Battleground Avenue, Crafted the Art of the Taco and Bearded Goat bar. Her work has also been featured in Florida, Colorado, Atlanta, Charlotte, Raleigh and High Point Furniture Market. In May, Gina created a mural at Fred Astaire Dance Studios in Greensboro in honor of the Class of 2020. “This mural is dedicated to my niece and all of the 2020 graduates,” Gina says. “Your future is bright.”
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was married on February 1, 2020. She is currently employed as a Freight Specialist at Fort Bragg, N.C. Her husband,
Thomson Reuters, is a rating service of lawyers across the nation. Christopher has been a Partner with Block, Crouch, Keeter, Behm & Sayed in Wilmington, N.C., since
2005 and practices with the
CORONOVIRUS NOTES
focus in civil, commercial, construction, homeowners
Over the past few months,
association, trust and estates,
Guilfordians near and far have been
real estate, products liability
affected by the COVID-19 pandemic. Despite these challenges, our
and personal injury matters
alumni family continues on with
in federal and state courts.
what they do best: stepping up and being a voice (or helping hand) for
Tommy Taylor ’97 was
good in the world.
announced as the new CEO of the United Way of the Cape
• Eve Kalins ’07
Fear Area. Tommy's career
is working hard at the San
includes working at the Food
Francisco food bank.
Bank of Central and Eastern
• Deena Zeina Zaru ’10
NC for six years. After
is writing important stories
tripling food distribution
for ABC News, such as “'Mass
and doubling revenues, he
evictions' on the horizon as US
went on to accept the role of
confronts coronavirus housing
Vice President of Community
crisis: Advocates.”
Impact at the United Way of
• Yazmin Garcia-Rico ’11
the Cape Fear Area.
and Katrina Jackson ’05 have
Nina Oliver ’01 is
’00s
been volunteering at the
leading the COVID-19
weekly mass food distribution
response in Rowan
in Burlington for people who
County as the Rowan
have lost their jobs or are
County Public Health
struggling. Yazmin and her
Director.
husband are also running for N.C. General Assembly.
Rhett Bonner ’10 will
’10s
begin a new era for West Stokes as he replaces long-time Boys’ Basketball Coach Dan Spainhour at the helm of the program. The school board voted Rhett in as the third coach since the school opened in 1999-00.
Zach Daw ’11 graduated from the University of Nebraska-Omaha as a member of the College of Business Administration's MBA Class of 2020. Josie Williams ’16
is the new Executive Director of the Greensboro Housing Coalition.
• Bri Goodison ’13 is a medical student who is volunteering at a clinic in Tucson, Ariz.
• Hannah Swenson ’11 and Lauren Schloss ’12 have
Andy Eversole ’02
, a banjo musician, posted "Quarantine With You" in response to the Coronavirus outbreak. “I think the song is resonating because it reminds us of the human element in all of this. In the midst of all the masks, hand-washing and social distancing, there’s still this human urge to connect with and love each other," says Andy of his instant YouTube hit song. Since its posting, the song has been viewed more than 50,000 times, and has been covered in the Miami Herald, Charlotte Observer and WFMY News2. Andy calls himself an international “banjo ambassador” with Banjo Earth, a 5-year-old music and video project that sees him traveling the world “in search of the folk music of past, present and future, creating cross-cultural music collaborations.”
been working on mutual aid efforts in Mexico City, providing groceries and other support for those who lost their jobs. cdmxayudamutua.org
• Laura Boswell ’12 has been playing private virtual concerts through Music for Quarantine.
• The grandmother of a former Guilfordian is an anonymous donor and has sewn more than 200 masks and other things for health care workers.
W W W. G U I L F O R D . E D U | 2 9
IN MEMORIAM
REMEMBERING GUILFORDIANS These members of the Guilford College community passed in early 2020. A full list of obituaries is available on the Community Notes page at www.giving.guilford.edu.
C. Dilworth Pierson ’66 “C.D.” died Jan. 23 in Wilmington, Del. C.D. was a lifelong member of the Religious Society of Friends and Welcome Society of Pennsylvania and a leader within the Quaker community. He served as the Executive Director of the Friends Center Corporation in Philadelphia for 32 years. A lover of traveling, gardening, reading, classical music and genealogy, he especially enjoyed playing croquet. C.D. was a graduate of George School and is survived by his wife, Georgia Boines Pierson. Together, the couple has provided for a gift in support of the Hege Library upon Georgia’s passing.
Washington Zebedee Walusala Rakama ’64 Washington was Guilford College’s first graduate of African descent and was recruited along with his fellow Kenyan Ayub Watakila ’65 in spring 1962 to enroll at the College. They joined James McCorkle ’66, a local African American on campus that fall. “To attend college in another country, particularly in the South during a turbulent period in Guilford and the United States’ history, would have taken a lot of courage,” 3 0 | W W W. G U I L F O R D . E D U
said President Jane Fernandes. After graduating with a degree in Economics, Washington earned a Master’s degree at UNCG. In his career he was Deputy Permanent Secretary in the Government of Kenya as well as Town Clerk of Kakamega, Nanyuki and Kitale. At his death on March 29, he was the patron of Banyala ba Ndombi in the Luhya Council of Elders.
J. Binford Farlow ’50 “Bin” was a leader in the Quaker community, an ardent supporter of Friends Center and former College staff member. He grew up in nearby Randolph County and was married for 69 years to Jewell Beeson, a Guilford classmate. Bin earned an Economics degree and played on basketball teams with JapaneseAmericans admitted during the internment period around World War II. He and Jewell were founding members of Jamestown Friends Meeting, and he was clerk of North Carolina Yearly Meeting and Friends United Meeting. His skills as a builder and craftsman were applied on construction-focused mission trips and Habitat projects. Along with Judy Harvey, he helped found Friends Center and he and Jewell established an endowed fund for Quaker education and seminar support. He died March 25.
Charlie Harrison ’71 Charlie parlayed his Guilford student experience into a career of college and professional basketball coaching. He earned a Biology degree and served as the Quakers’ manager and student athletic trainer for teams coached by Jerry Steele in the late ’70s that included stars like Bob Kauffman ’68 and M.L. Carr ’73. Charlie was an Assistant Coach at Indiana, Clemson, Oklahoma and Iowa State, and an acting Head Coach at New Mexico. He was Head Coach at East Carolina University from 1982-87, following Dave Odom ’65. He coached professionally with the NBA’s Buffalo Braves and in Switzerland. Following his coaching career, Charlie founded an environmental services company that he owned and operated for 13 years. Guilford inducted him into its Athletics Hall of Fame in 2011. He died April 13.
Secure Your Future by Making a Gift
CHARITABLE GIFT ANNUITY $100,000 | One-Life
Receive Fixed Payments for Life If you are concerned about your financial security given the ups and downs of the stock market, you may want to consider making a gift to fund a charitable gift annuity. You might be surprised by the benefits. You can exchange your low-performing stock, CDs or cash for guaranteed, lifetime fixed payments. If you make a gift of an appreciated asset, you will not have to pay capital gains when you fund the annuity. You may also benefit from a tax deduction this year and a portion of your payments could be tax-free. Plus, you are making a gift to Guilford College! You may designate how your gift is used to impact students. To learn more and receive a personalized Charitable Gift Annuity illustration, contact Ara Serjoie, Vice President for Advancement at serjoiea@guilford.edu or 336.316.2320.
Fixed Annual Age Payment Rate Annuity Deduction 70 4.7% $4,700 $37,648
75
5.4%
$5,400 $43,459
80 6.5%
$6,500 $47,831
85
$7,600 $54,526
7.6%
Charitable Gift Annuities may be funded with a minimum gift of $25,000. Rates as of July 2020.
THE IMPACT OF PHILANTHROPY
Grateful Son Continues Mom’s Legacy BY PETE WORCESTER
WHEN THEY WER E MAR RIED, Audrie Gardam Ulmer ’41 told her husband Walter they would have a son and name him Richard, after Richard the Lionheart, a king of England in the 12th century. He would be born on her birthday, and they would raise him to be a leader. Rich Ulmer made his mother proud, both in achieving her personal goals and in living a life dedicated to God, providing welfare and comfort for his
A B O V E : A U D R I E G A R D A M '41 A N D WA LT E R U L M E R O N T H E I R 5 0 T H W E D D I N G A N N I V E R S A R Y. L E F T: R I C H U L M E R W I T H H I S M O T H E R A U D R I E .
family. In his successful pharmaceutical career, Rich helped develop multibillion dollar businesses over 27 years
From that day, Rich and Bev
for Allergan. For the past 25 years, he
generously contributed to The Ulmer
has been CEO of Invitro International,
Family Scholarship to support students
a technology-driven provider of non-
the way his mom always did. They wish
animal testing technologies for eye and
to provide students with an opportunity
skin irritancy/corrosiveness.
to experience a life-changing liberal arts
Rich grew up in the suburbs of
education built on values of purpose,
Philadelphia with his mother, father
goal-setting, love, loyalty and a diversity
and sister and attended Friends Central
of opinion, all of which Guilford embraces
School in Wynnewood, Pa., for 12 years
and Rich firmly believes in.
in the 1940s and 1950s. The Ulmers lived
Describing himself as “fair, one who
a modest life in multiple apartments,
believes in hard work and making a
and his mom would say “don’t worry …
contribution to something of value,”
we always have a home,” and it was filled
Rich says “the word ‘quit’ is not in my
with love and happy memories. Audrie held a key administrative
discouraged by failure.” Rich and Bev’s love and loyalty for
vocabulary.” He believes in the power of education, as well as the relationship-
position at Friends’ Central for more
Guilford was borne out of Audrie’s life
building and critical thinking it
than two decades, and raised Rich as a
and college experience. Little did Rich
fosters. Ultimatley, he wishes to
“Quaker kid,” based on values of fairness
know of the depth of her relationship
share his spiritual, educational and
and integrity that he honors to this
with Guilford until the latter years of
career fortunes to make liberal arts
day. His fondness for Friends’ Central
her life. Without his awareness, she had
experiences affordable, and, he says,
led Rich and Bev, his beloved late wife,
gifted much of her savings to Guilford
“this is why I want to help Guilford.”
to gift The Ulmer Family Light Lab in
through The Ulmer Family Scholarship.
2016, a makerspace educational facility
Rich’s learning of the scholarship
To learn more about establishing an
dedicated to spurring creativity and
“meant the world to me” and was one of
endowment or making a gift to an existing
innovative thinking for elementary
his life’s most defining moments after
endowment, contact Ara Serjoie,
students. “At an early age, they learn
she passed away on her 81st birthday
Vice President for Advancement, at
to work in teams and not ever be
(his 58th birthday as well).
serjoiea@guilford.edu or 336.316.2320.
3 2 | W W W. G U I L F O R D . E D U
YOU HAVE AN OPPORTUNITY TO MAKE AN IMPACT Did you know that students with the greatest need experience, on average, a $5,500 gap in funding their education each year after their financial aid package is applied? More than 170 firstyears this past fiscal year experienced a gap in funding their education. Alumni and friends of the College like M.L. and Sylvia Carr ‘73 are coming together to financially cover that gap for a student by supporting the Gap Scholarship Program. The Gap Scholarship Program will ensure students have the financial support they need to stay in college all four years.
If you are interested in supporting one of these Gap Scholarships for next fiscal year, contact Ara Serjoie, Vice President for Advancement, at serjoiea@guilford.edu or 336.316.2320.
“We chose to support a Gap Scholarship because we want to build the bridge between incredible students and a world-class education. No student should miss the chance to further their education because of their financial situation.” M.L. and SYLVIA CARR ´73
www.guilford.edu 5800 West Friendly Avenue Greensboro, NC 27410
The season opens with three great programs to be delivered to subscribers and Legacy Society members on an online platform for viewing in the comfort of your home.
2020-21 SEASON All events at 7:30 p.m.
We are excited about our upcoming season and the variety of opportunities for sharing great speakers on important topics online and in person.
New subscriptions available in August 2020. www.bryanseries.guilford.edu
HARRISON HICKMAN
PENIEL JOSEPH
JOHN AVLON & MARGARET HOOVER with MARK UPDEGROVE
Political Consultant and Pollster
Author and Scholar
Commentators and Historian
OCT. 20, 2020 (Virtual) NOV. 12, 2020 (Virtual)
SEP. 17, 2020 (Virtual) The Sword and the Shield: North Carolina’s Role in a Pivotal Election Year
The Revolutionary Lives of Malcolm X and Martin Luther King Jr.
Analyzing the Election from Both Sides of the Aisle
These five great programs are scheduled to be presented at the Steven Tanger Center for the Performing Arts, with livestream opportunities.
IAN BREMMER
SALLY FIELD
PAUL NICKLEN
THERESA MAY
COLSON WHITEHEAD
Global Business and Politics Expert
Academy Award Winning Actress
Renowned Photographer
Former UK Prime Minister
JAN. 14, 2021
FEB. 2, 2021
FEB. 16, 2021
MAR. 18, 2021
Pulitzer Prize Winning Author
Superpower: Three Choices for America’s Role in the World
Portraying Amazing Women in a Storied Acting Career
Into the Icy Realms: A Photographer’s View
A Global Perspective for Extraordinary Times
APR. 12, 2021 Revisiting the Underground Railroad
